Astypalea In Greece: The Ultimate Guide
When we started putting up photos of our trip to Astypalea in Greece we genuinely got begged to take them down. For anyone who has been here, it’s become a private gem of a holiday destination and no one wants to share it!
Luckily, Astypalea in Greece is just about hard enough to get to (and by that we mean it’s slightly off the usual tourist path) that we think it will stay quiet and secluded for a good while yet!
If you’re searching for somewhere that will have people asking ‘Where did you go again!?’ then Astypalea is top of the list. They’ll also be green with envy when you share your holiday snaps, and wishing they hadn’t booked their yearly trip to Santorini!
Find out why Astypalea in Greece should be your number one holiday choice this year. Looking for more quiet Greek islands? Head here.
Why Visit Astypalea in Greece?
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Astypalea is arguably one of the most beautiful Greek islands of the Dodecanese. This small, butterfly-like shaped island has escaped the crowds of tourists that head to similar islands each year, so it’s likely you’ll find private beaches and have some of the key attractions all to yourself.
Astypalea in Greece belongs to the Dodecanese islands, but it has Cycladic architecture (think gorgeous white washed houses and painted cobblestones). The Venetian Castle on the top of a hill and the beautiful windmills are just two of the traditional Greek scenes you can expect when you visit Astypalea.
The beaches are just as stunning as the main town, and you might even be lucky enough to find a cove all to yourself. Read on to find out more!
How To Get To Astypalea In Greece
By Ferry
There is a regular ferry connection between Astypalea and Piraeus port in Athens, so the ferry is probably the easiest and cheapest way to reach Astypalea. It’s quite a long trip, around 9 hours with stops at other islands along the way, but in our opinion, the ferry rides are almost as fun as the arrival! Consider doing a Greek island hopping trip and include Astypalea.
The ferry from Piraeus to Astypalea runs roughly three times a week, but you can also reach Astypalea from Naxos, Amorgos, Paros, Donoussa, Rhodes, and Tilos. It fits in perfectly with any Greek island hopping trip in the Cyclades!
The easiest way to book ferry tickets for all your Greek island hopping adventures is through Direct Ferries. They will compare the best prices and ferry times across all the different Greek ferry companies and routes making booking a whole lot simpler!
Flights to Astypalea
Astypalaia Island National Airport only operates during summer and receives domestic flights from Athens International Airport. If you only have limited time in Greece then flying is your best option, as the flight will only take 50 minutes compared to the 9-hour ferry ride!
We use Skyscanner to book all our flights, as they find the best deals and times for you.
How To Get Around Astypalea
The easiest way to sightsee around Astypalea is by car or jeep, both of which are widely available here. We even saw quite a few electric cars with charging stations around Astypalea which is quite unusual on the Greek islands. To book your car rental head here, and your car will be delivered straight to your hotel or bnb!
If you don’t fancy driving then Astypalea is a hiking mecca, with walking routes all over the island. Just be aware that it can get screaming hot over the summer months, and even if the wind is cooling the sun will still be very strong. Try to plan shade breaks during the mid-day heat and bring plenty of water and sun cream.
Bus is also a great option, though obviously you’ll be more limited than if you had a car. There are pretty regular buses from the chora to some of the more touristy beaches around Astypalea though they don’t run very late so be sure to check the timetable and don’t miss the last one!
Where To Stay In Astypalea
The best place to stay in Astypalea is definitely in or around the chora, though there are cheaper options elsewhere if you don’t mind travelling to see the most impressive sights! We’ve included a mixture of the best for you to make your own decisions.
Hotels In Astypalea In Greece
Tholos Delux House
A stay here is like living in a piece of artwork and has to make the top of our list of accommodations in Astypalea. From the private underground swimming pool to the green balcony and the beautiful traditional cavernous bedroom, this place is designed to impress.
It gets the top vote for location too, being situated in the middle of the beautiful backstreets of the chora. A stay here will be something to remember!
For more information and prices head here!
Studios Kilindra
Combining luxury and character, these studios pretty much have it all. Located within the chora and a stones throw from the castle and pretty little backstreets you can be lazing by the pool in the morning before you step outside and find yourself within the action. This is the best place for character, location and a slice of luxury.
For more information and prices head here!
Atlantic
If you stay in the old part of the chora itself then you obviously don’t get the views of the chora! Atlantic is in the perfect location if impossibly beautiful views are your thing, and it’s only a short walk away from the ancient settlement and the castle.
The accommodation here is comfortable and modern but does lack some of the character of the other options.
For more information and prices head here!
Camping In Astypalea In Greece
Camping in Astypalea is a good idea if you don’t envisage spending much time indoors! The nights tend to cool down in the summer due to the Meltemi winds, so it might not be as punishing as you’d first imagine.
This summer-only campground is located next to Marmari beach, which is about a half hour walk from the main town in Astypalea or there is a bus stop right outside.
It has 24-hour hot water, safety deposit boxes, kitchen, barbecue, cafe and minimarket, and provides free transport from the port to the campground. This is a great choice if you’re on a budget or travelling solo or as a family, as there is a community feel here and the chance to meet other travellers.
Things To Do In Astypalea, Greece
Visit The Chora Of Astypalea
The main highlight of Astypalea, like many other Greek islands, is the Chora. Chora means ‘town’ in Greek and is often used to describe the main town on the island, with particular reference to the old, historic part.
The Chora on Astypalea tumbles down from the castle in whites and blues, creating a maze of backstreets and alleys all brimming with individual charm and character. You won’t pass a single house that you won’t want to live in, with their pretty potted plants and colourful shutters and doorways.
You’re best off visiting the Chora in the late afternoon when the sun starts to set, creating a golden glow on the white-washed houses and cooling down enough to make the climb to the castle a comfortable one (instead of the sweaty mess you’ll become if you do it midday as we did!)
Wander The Castle Ruins
If you can tear yourself away from the pretty streets then you should definitely visit the castle while you’re in Astypalea.
Built in the 13th century by a Venetian family as a shelter against the frequent pirate attacks, the castle sits proudly on top of the hill with the most stunning views out to sea.
Up until the 19th century, it was the only settlement on the island. It’s unique in that it actually housed a number of the citizens inside the castle walls.
Summer is one of the best times to visit Greece but you should be aware that Astypalea gets hot! Take decent sun protection and lots of water for your walk up to the castle.
Visit The Church of Panagia Portaitissa
The church of Panagia Portaitissa stands beneath the Castle. Many consider it among the most beautiful in the Dodecanese.
The church was built in the middle of the 18th century and during the 9 years of construction, it is said that many miracles occurred. If you’re lucky enough to be here on August 15th, when Panagia Portaitissa is celebrated, there is a big festival with violins and lutes which is well worth seeing.
Near the monastery operates the ecclesiastic museum of Astypalaia where rare relics of exquisite art are on display.
Stroll Along Windmill Row In Astypalea, Greece
Like many towns throughout Greece, Astypaleas windmills have become somewhat iconic. We can see why! Eight traditional windmills line the path to the Castle in Chora, all beautifully conserved.
They mark one of the most beautiful views in Astypalea, framing the Chora behind them and the sea beyond that. If you visit during the heat of the day then there are several generic restaurants opposite that boast views of the windmills and aren’t too expensive for a cooling drink or three!
Astypalea Beaches
The beaches and sea in Astypalea are some of the best we’ve seen in all of Greece (and we’ve seen a lot of Greek beaches!) Astypalea beaches are much quieter than some of the beaches on other islands and a lot of them are sandy too, making a nice change from the pebbles!
Depending on where you’re staying, there will be a number of beaches you can access on foot with a bit of a walk. Astypalea is hilly in places so bear this in mind. If you don’t have a car then there are many Astypalea beaches you can access by bus.
The most popular Astypalea beaches are Pera Gialos, Agios Konstantinos, and Livadia. We’ve detailed some of our favourites below!
Livadi beach
If you’re staying in the town but want to escape the more busy beach there then this is the perfect option. This Astypalea beach is a short walk downhill away from the Chora (and a steep walk back up again!)
It has beautiful views of the town, a long stretch of beach with plenty of shade and the snorkelling here is some of the best in Greece, with the biggest fish we’ve seen! This bay is very well protected from the Meltemi winds that blow through the summer, so although it will still be windy here at times, the sea never gets too rough to swim.
The taverna on the beach serves food way better than what you’d expect from a beachside cafe!
Agios Konstantinos Astypalea Beach
This beach is probably one of the most popular because of its views of the town. It’s a stunning place to take a dip! It’s partly organised with sun umbrellas and there are some small tavernas on the beachfront.
Pera Gialos Beach
1 km south of the Chora you’ll find Pera Gialos beach. It’s a long, sandy beach surrounded by pretty tavernas and small hotels.
Maltezana beach
Maltezana is one of the most popular beaches on Astypalea, probably because of its lovely soft sand and tourist facilities, making it a great family beach to spend the day on. Just make sure you bring some shade with you!
Day Trips From Astypalea In Greece
Astypalea itself is simply stunning, but venture slightly beyond and you might be even more blown away. The two islands nearby, reachable by boat through organised day trips, are some of the most beautiful spots in all of Greece. We’ve listed some of the best trips to these islands below – and they will probably be the highlight of your whole trip.
Day cruise to Koutsomitis & Kounoupes
This trip will take you to five different islands and beauty spots close to Astypalea and you’ll be enjoying it in style on a luxury powerboat. Breakfast and lunch are included along with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
You can enjoy the island’s incredible crystal clear waters from the boat or from shore, and you’ll feel as though you’re in the Caribbean rather than Europe when you see just how clear the sea is!
This is a full-day tour so make sure you bring suncream and something to cover yourself. The sun, especially during the summer months, can be quite something in Greece!
Book your tickets in advance here
Sunset Yacht Tour
There really is no better way to see Greece than on a sailboat (we should know!) It’s not always possible to get out on the water in such a romantic way, which is why we can’t recommend this trip highly enough.
Enjoy dinner and sunset overlooking the castle from your own yacht for the evening and take in Astypalea’s stunning coastline as you sail along by it! Bliss.
Book your tickets in advance here
Travel Insurance!
Safety Wing offers travel insurance and they will cover you for many activities that standard travel insurance won’t.
If you want to take any boat trips or do any water sports then check your policy carefully, or just use the tick list through Safety Wing to make sure you’re fully covered.
✅ Buy Safety Wing insurance here
So there you have it – the ultimate guide to Astypalea in Greece. If this hasn’t persuaded you to book your holiday here then we don’t know what will!
Let us know if you’ve been here already or are planning a trip. We would love to know what you thought! And if you found this article useful then follow us on the social media links below for more Greece travel guides, or check out the places we’ve already visited in Greece for more holiday inspiration.
ANYTHING BUT ultimate guide….food, hikes, villages? very poor piece – and PALEASE dont use exclamation marks in every sentence. its akin to shouting in speach and shows you dont have much info
ANYTHING BUT ultimate guide….food, hikes, villages? very poor piece – and PALEASE dont use exclamation marks in every sentence! its rude