Astypalea

Astypalea, also known as the “Butterfly of the Aegean” due to its unique shape, is an island that balances between Cycladic aesthetics and Dodecanese charm. With an authentic character, simple beauty, and effortless elegance, it is ideal for those seeking romantic, alternative vacations infused with history and culture.

By Air

Astypalea’s National Airport is the island’s main air gateway, serving domestic flights. It connects Astypalea with Athens, Leros, Kos, and Rhodes with regular schedules year-round. The flight from Athens takes approximately 60 minutes, offering a quick and comfortable alternative to ferry travel. The airport is located about 10 km from Chora and is easily accessible by road.

Plan your trip easily and efficiently – contact us to book your flight tickets to Astypalea!

By Ferry

Astypalea is connected by ferry to Piraeus with regular routes, especially during the summer season. The journey lasts about 7 to 10 hours depending on the stops. Ferries arrive at Agios Andreas port, which is 6 km from Chora.

Book your ferry tickets to Astypalea from Piraeus at Ferrytips!

Chora

Built amphitheatrically on a rocky hill, Chora is one of the most stunning towns in the Aegean. White houses with blue shutters unfold around the impressive Venetian Querini Castle, standing proudly since the 15th century. Within its narrow streets, you’ll find eight restored windmills, a square with cafés and traditional bakeries, and at the foot of the castle, the iconic whitewashed church of Panagia Portaitissa, an 18th-century architectural gem with baroque influences and a blue dome.

Maltezana

On the eastern side of the island, the peaceful village of Maltezana (or Analipsi) blends serenity with historical interest. Once a pirate port, now a quiet resort, it offers a family-friendly atmosphere and access to rare sights like the Roman baths of Talara, featuring impressive mosaics depicting the zodiac and the four seasons. Astypalea’s airport is also located here.

Astypalea’s compact size makes it easy to explore. A bus network connects Chora with main beaches and villages, while car, motorbike, or bicycle rental offers greater freedom. The narrow lanes and picturesque alleys of Chora are perfect for walking, and remote beaches can be reached by small boats. Alternatively, taxis are available for private transport.

Astypalea offers more than just beautiful beaches, it unveils cinematic landscapes and unspoiled nature. Whether you seek well-equipped shores or secluded coves, the island caters to every kind of traveler.

Kaminakia

Perhaps the most beautiful beach on the island, Kaminakia combines natural peace with comfort. It features a large sandy beach with tamarisk trees offering shade, sunbeds, and a taverna with local delicacies. The turquoise waters are clean and deep, ideal for swimming. Access is by dirt road (drive carefully) or boat from Pera Gialos.

Vatses

A large, pebbled beach overlooking the Castle and Chora from afar, Vatses is perfect for adventurers. The deep, crystal-clear waters and a few sunbeds enhance its wild beauty. From here, you can also access the mystical Negro Cave via a hiking trail.

Livadi

Close to Chora, Livadi is the island’s liveliest beach. Organized with cafés and tavernas, it’s ideal for families. Stay until sunset to see the lights of Astypalea Town reflected in the sea.

Tzanakia

Tzanakia is one of Astypalea’s most secluded and unique beaches, known as a favorite for naturists and nature lovers. Hidden behind rocks and invisible from the main road, it’s accessible via a dirt path and a short 300-meter trail. It consists of four small coves, two easily reachable and two accessible by swimming or climbing. With no tourist infrastructure, just large pebbles, clean deep waters, and serenity, the beach offers stunning views of the Astypalea Castle.

Steno – The "Butterfly" From Above

Here, the landscape is truly breathtaking: a narrow strip of land connects the two “wings” of the island, creating a double-sided beach with shallow turquoise waters. Steno is ideal for children and offers basic amenities like sunbeds, tamarisk shade, and a canteen. Due to its beauty and easy access, it’s one of the most popular and photographed beaches on the island.

Astypalea offers more than just beaches. Visitors are immersed in the timeless charm of the Aegean - Venetian castles, Byzantine churches, ancient baths, climbing fields, and art festivals. Your journey is not just about places but about unforgettable experiences.

The Castle

Towering above Chora is the imposing Venetian Castle, built by the Querini family in the 15th century. Constructed from local stone, it is a symbol of island identity. Inside, you’ll find two iconic churches—Saint George and Panagia tou Kastrou—with simple Cycladic architecture and subtle Venetian details. The view over the Aegean and nearby islets is unforgettable.

Panagia Portaitissa

At the foot of the castle, the church of Panagia Portaitissa (1762) is a masterpiece. With its three- storey bell tower, blue dome, baroque iconostasis, and ornate ceramic decorations, it blends Aegean and neoclassical architecture. Every August 15, it hosts the island’s most significant religious festival.

Archaeological Museum

Located in Pera Gialos, the museum displays artifacts from prehistory to the Roman era. Highlights include Mycenaean pottery from Armenochori’s tholos tombs, inscriptions, and daily life objects that reveal the island’s historical depth.

Negrou Cave

Near Vatses beach, Negro’s Cave fascinates with its stalactites and stalagmites. Its name is said to derive from an African pirate, adding mystery to the experience. Access is via hike or boat from Pera Gialos.

Astypalea Festival

Summer in Astypalea means culture. The annual festival hosts concerts, theatrical plays, film screenings, and artistic events that highlight the island as a cultural destination.

Climbing at Ftera

Astypalea is an unexpected climbing paradise. In the area of Ftera, two separate crags and 20 individual routes of varying difficulty, the distinctive terrain of the island is a magnet for beginners and experienced climbers.