On the edge of the Aegean Sea lies an island that most people on an island-hopping trip through the Cyclades probably just sail past. Hardly anyone knows the second largest island of the Cyclades archipelago, but Andros has the potential to enchant you right away.
“Perhaps Andros is the best-kept secret among the Cyclades islands…”
The Island of Seafarers and Captains is authentic and has remained completely untouched by international tourism. The glorious days of the Greek shipping families can still be felt today on a stroll along the marble streets of the Chora.
From the sea, Andros looks like other Cycladic islands — highly rugged and partly barren. However, if you venture into the hinterland, you’ll be surprised by a diverse and multifaceted landscape.
Old stone paths meander through wildly romantic gorges and along rugged mountain slopes. The hiking trails are perfectly marked, making it easy to find your way around even in the most remote areas of the island.
In the lush green valleys, even in midsummer, streams babble and geese frolic in the cool water beneath ancient stone bridges. Golden sandy beaches alternate with coves of white pebbles that make the sea shimmer in seductive shades of turquoise blue.
Scattered across the landscape are lonely hamlets and blue-and-white chapels, old dovecotes and monasteries that look like fortresses. Andros is an island that should not be missed on a Cycladic island-hopping trip. Below we show you our 8 highlights of Andros:
- #1 Chora Andros: The picturesque island capital
- #2 What to see around Andros Town
- #3 Coastal towns of Batsi and Gavrio
- #4 Beautiful beaches in Andros
- #5 On the road in the south of Andros
- #6 Andros Island Tour: From Batsi to Stenies
- #7 Hiking on Andros: Panorama from the Rock Chapel
- #8 Wine enjoyment at Kourtesis
- More travel tips for your Andros vacation
#1 Chora Andros: The picturesque island capital
Almost majestically, the island’s capital sits enthroned on an elongated mountain ridge that stretches from a wide valley far out into the sea. On the hilly terrain rise white cubes of houses with red roofs, complemented by magnificent neoclassical villas and mansions in the centre of Chora. Of the island’s almost 10,000 inhabitants, about 4,000 live in Andros Town and the surrounding area.
Andros Town, also called Chora, struck us as an authentic Greek place, still largely untouched by tourism. One reason for this could be the lack of a ferry port. The port is located in the village of Gavrio in the west of the island. As a result, only a few day trippers usually make their way to the east coast of Andros.
Walking tour of Andros Town
Be sure to set aside a morning to wander through the marble-paved streets of this former shipping town. You can start your walking tour at the Open Andros Theater, where you can park your vehicle in the free parking lots.
From here you can reach the traffic-calmed pedestrian zone in a few minutes, which leads to the central square, the Platia Kairis. Along the main street you will find numerous shops for everyday needs and beautiful boutiques that carry very little tourist knick-knacks.
Once you arrive at the Platia Kairis with its striking fountain, numerous cafés invite you to take a short break. With a cool Freddo in hand, you can sit back and watch the hustle and bustle.
Particularly curious: standing on the square, you can see the sea on both your left and right. A stone archway takes you further into the picturesque old town, which has several highlights in store.
Venetian Kastro and Lighthouse
At the tip of the headland you will reach a large square called Platia Afanous Nautou, home to the impressive bronze Monument of the Unknown Navigator of Andros. From here, you can also look out over the remains of a Venetian castle.
Only the sure-footed should dare to cross the old stone arch over to the Kastro. The view of the Chora from the ruins of the castle is magnificent. At the northern end of the former fortress you can see the Tourlitis Lighthouse, the landmark of Andros.
On the way back to the city center, it is worth taking a detour to the small chapel of Agia Thalassini, which sits photogenically on a rocky outcrop in the sea.
A visit to the museums of Andros Town is not only recommended in bad weather. Particularly worth seeing are the Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Modern Art.
💡 The special Andros Hotel: At the Boutique Hotel Micra Anglia (Booking.com*) in the heart of the Chora, you can indulge in royal pampering. The name Micra Anglia (“Little England”) refers to the glorious era of the Andriot shipping companies in the 19th and 20th centuries, during which the island’s shipping trade flourished between England and America. The luxurious suites of the 5-star hotel reflect the splendour of that era.
#2 What to see around Andros Town
The Foros stalactite cave
Just a 15-minute drive from Andros Chora, in the hamlet of Aladino, lies the Foros Cave, a small stalactite cave that is the pride of the local population. It is especially worth a short detour for cave enthusiasts and families with children.
From a parking bay above the stone bridge of Aladino, a paved footpath leads about 400 m to the entrance of the stalactite cave. Here you will find a very friendly local guide who will make the tour both informative and engaging.
The compact cave, with its numerous stalagmites, stalactites and colourful limestone formations, covers about 500 square metres and contains eight chambers filled with bizarre formations to marvel at.
Sturdy shoes and a jacket are recommended, as the temperature inside Foros Cave is a constant 16–17 degrees. Due to the low ceilings and limited lighting, hard hats and flashlights are provided free of charge. (01.07.–15.09.: Mon.–Sat. 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Wed.+Sun. 11 a.m.–3 p.m., out of season from 16.09.–30.06. only on request, admission: 5 €)
Bridge Hike in the Mesaria Valley
This Andros hike takes you past two ancient stone bridges and can be started directly at Foros Cave, for example. Follow route 18a down into the valley until you reach a stream after a few kilometres, spanned by the picturesque Stone Bridge »Gefira Aladinou«.
A small group of geese and ducks splash around in the cool water here. Even during our visit at the beginning of September, the stream still had water flowing through it.
From the first stone bridge, follow Route 1c towards Chora. It winds through unspoilt nature, with the paths well marked. There are magnificent views of Mesaria, the mountain village of Fallika, and later of Chora. The landscape along the characteristic dry stone walls is simply picturesque.
Occasionally you will encounter wild goats, and every now and then abandoned ruins of old stone houses bear witness to the valley’s former settlement. On top of the mountain stands the mighty Panachrantou Monastery, built of dark stone, while below are a few snow-white houses and little churches.
After about 45 minutes you will reach the second stone bridge »Stichiomeni«. This almost meditative spot in the middle of the valley is embedded in lush green vegetation — a perfect place for an extended rest. In the caves along the eroded riverbed, centuries-old small hermitages are tucked away, which today likely serve as shelters for goats.
In summer, the stream reaches roughly this point. The huge oleander bushes below the bridge were in full bloom during our visit. If you want to continue the hike, follow routes 1 and 17a towards Chora.
On the other side of the bridge, the trail continues along Route 1 towards Mesaria. The whole tour covers about 6 km, so make sure you bring enough water and wear sturdy shoes.
The springs of Menites
Andros is one of the most water-rich and therefore greenest islands of the South Aegean. Throughout the year there are water-bearing streams, fed by the numerous mountain springs. The most famous springs are located in Menites and Apikia (Sariza).
In the centre of Menites, spring water flows from lion’s heads into a canal system. According to legend, wine once flowed here, hence the name “Springs of Dionysus”, named after the Greek god of wine. The village itself has two solid tavernas. The idyllic atmosphere under plane trees makes it well worth a detour.
🗺️ 8 Islands with route maps
🏖️ Beautiful beaches & swimming spots
🏛️ All top sights
🔍 Valuable planning tips
🍽️ Accommodation, tavernas & cafés
#3 Coastal towns of Batsi and Gavrio
On the west side of the island, the ferry brings you to Gavrio as your first port of call. The unspectacular harbour town, set in a sheltered bay, offers a few tavernas and cafés, supermarkets and car rental companies. During our stay, Gavrio was no more than an arrival and departure point.
History lovers will want to visit the ancient Agios Petros Tower. It is the most important ancient monument on the island, standing around 20 m tall. Standing next to the massive round tower with its huge stone blocks, you really feel tiny.
The dilapidated building dates back to the Hellenistic period and once served as a watchtower. There are said to have been other pyrgi (Greek towers) spread all over the island. The Agios Petros Tower is to be restored in the coming years to protect it from complete collapse.
💡 Camping in Andros: Camping enthusiasts will also find what they are looking for on Andros. Just outside Gavrio is the Andros campsite. Stamatis and his team offer 68 individual pitches for tents and caravans on the idyllic grounds. A bistro and a pool for refreshment are also located on the site, which is open from 1 May to 30 September. More information at: Camping Andros
For a sundowner in Batsi
Probably the most popular place on the west coast is Batsi. The former fishing village has become a tourist magnet on Andros, and in midsummer the atmosphere here is exuberant, especially in the evening.
Batsi is picturesquely nestled in a bay and boasts a long sandy beach, which is particularly popular with families thanks to its shallow water.
A visit to this pretty village is particularly worthwhile in the late afternoon and evening, when you can round off the day at one of the taverns right at the harbour pier with a view of the sunset.
The best view of Batsi is from the cozy Kolona Beach Bar. Here you can unwind with a cool drink and then dive into the crystal clear sea.
#4 Beautiful beaches in Andros
Andros is also a wonderful destination for a beach holiday. From organised sandy beaches with a wide range of water sports to secluded bays with white pebbles and turquoise blue water, this Cycladic island has it all.
Golden Beach
On the west coast between Gavrio and Batsi you will find several beautiful beaches. At Golden Beach, also known as Psili Ammos, the name says it all. A fantastic sandy beach with shallow, clear water promises a truly paradisiacal bathing experience.
Umbrellas and loungers as well as toilets and showers are available. A lifeguard is also on site in midsummer. Thanks to the shallow entry into the water, Golden Beach is ideal for families with children.
Right next to the Golden Beach is the lively Paralia Kipri. The sandy beach offers an extensive range of water sports as well as several beach bars.
Agios Kyprianos
A little further south you will reach the small bay of Kyprianos Beach. Especially in the low season, you will find a quiet swimming spot on this sandy beach. The pretty chapel above the beach is often used for weddings.
Batsi Beach
In the coastal town of Batsi lies the sandy beach of the same name, which slopes very gently into the sea. It is particularly popular with families with children. It has sun loungers and umbrellas as well as sanitary facilities. In addition, there are plans to make the beach accessible for people with disabilities.
Vitali Beach
The north of Andros in particular is home to several beautiful bays, but most of them can only be reached with an off-road vehicle.
Alternatively, we recommend a private tour guide who will show you the northern beaches on a day trip by jeep (more info: Guided tours in Andros).
A true hidden gem, Vitali Beach in the northeast of the island features a light pebble shore and turquoise blue water. Nestled in a picturesque bay with a blue-and-white chapel, it’s a perfect spot to cool off.
On site you’ll find the Kampos Beach Bar, which serves delicious snacks and drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. One of our absolute Andros highlights! Access is via a 5 km long bumpy gravel road.
Zorkos Beach
A little further north lies a wide bay with its stunning turquoise blue shimmering water. On the pebble beach, umbrellas and sunbeds are available for rent in midsummer. Depending on the wind direction, waves at Zorkos Beach can get quite high, and the beach drops off steeply. Access is via a rough gravel road.
Fellos Beach
The long bay in the northwest of the island is especially popular with the locals. Since there is no operator, everyone brings their own umbrella or uses the shade of the tamarisk trees. The coarse sandy beach slopes very gently into the crystal clear sea. Thanks to its wind-protected location, there are usually hardly any waves.
Tis Grias to Pidima (The Old Lady’s Leap)
A wild beach in the southeast of the island, which is very popular due to its unique setting. In front of the grey sandy beach stands a huge stone pillar in the middle of the sea.
Especially when there is no wind, the rocky bay is wonderful for swimming, even if it gets very busy in midsummer. Above the cliff you can park your vehicle, and a steep path leads you down to the natural beach.
💡 One beach and many legends: During the Ottoman occupation, the castle of Faneromeni was under siege, but it had not yet been taken. An old lady and her pregnant daughter were then sent to the castle under a pretext to seek help. During the night, the lady opened the gates to the Ottomans, who killed all the inhabitants. Out of remorse and shame, the old woman jumped into the sea and, at the spot where the rock stands today, she turned to stone.
#5 On the road in the south of Andros
One of the most beautiful panoramic roads leads from Andros town along the southeast coast to Ormos Korthiou. Take a day to explore this magnificent area on Andros.
From Chora, the road first runs to the sleepy village of Sineti, which sits impressively on the slopes of the Dipotamata Gorge. At the foot of the gorge is Sineti Beach, a perfect spot to cool off when the wind is calm.
Hiking enthusiasts can explore the impressive Dipotamata Gorge, home to 22 (!) historic watermills, some of which are still preserved. The river of the same name makes its way to the sea here and typically carries water all year round.
💡 Andros book tip: The Greek Islands travel guide from Lonely Planet contains an informative chapter about the island of Andros with extensive travel tips. Order here: View on Amazon*
Ascent to Kastro Faneromeni
In the pretty village of Kochylos, a real Andros highlight awaits you. On a striking rock at an altitude of 583 m above the village lie the remains of Kastro Faneromeni.
A well-navigable gravel road leads almost all the way up to the castle ruins, where the white church of Panagia Faneromeni gleams. The view from up here over the bay of Ormos Korthiou and the Aegean Sea is simply magnificent!
The Kastro of Faneromeni, also called “Pano Kastro” (Upper Castle), was built for defensive purposes in the 13th century under Venetian rule. In the 16th century, it fell into the hands of the Ottomans, who built residential buildings around the complex, ruins of which can still be seen today.
The atmosphere is especially magical in the evening, when the setting sun bathes the entire mountain plateau in a warm light and makes the hearts of photography enthusiasts beat faster.
Coffee break in Ormos Korthiou
The small coastal town in the south of Andros seems quite unspectacular at first glance. A few fish taverns line the concrete waterfront, and south of the village is the long sandy-pebble Milos Beach, which is mostly deserted.
An idyllic place to linger is the Doloma Bar on the northern outskirts of the village, directly below the church of Agia Ekaterini. Here you can sip a cool Freddo with a view of the bay of Ormos Korthiou or refresh yourself on the small stretch of beach.
#6 Andros Island Tour: From Batsi to Stenies
Another beautiful panoramic route on Andros leads over the mountains from west to east, or optionally the other way around. From the coastal town of Batsi, the road winds through the wild mountain landscape of Andros.
Passing Kato Katokilos, the route leads to the green valley of Remata, then winds up through several serpentine bends to Arni and along the flanks of the highest mountain, Kouvara or Profitis Ilias, at 997 m.
Beyond Arni you can make a detour to the chapel of Profitis Ilias, which sits atop a striking rock (see #7 Hiking in Andros). The route then continues through an almost alpine landscape to Vourkoti, before crossing the ridge and descending to Apikia.
From here, especially in spring, it is worthwhile to take a short hike (Route 2a) to the Pithara Waterfalls, which are located in a lush valley. In the village of Apikia itself, mineral water is still commercially extracted from the Sariza spring.
Along the road from Apikia to the picturesque village of Stenies, magnificent views of the Chora of Andros await you. Once you arrive in Stenies, you can refresh yourself on one of the beautiful sandy beaches or continue towards the capital.
Everywhere on the island you will encounter the Xirolithies: distinctive dry stone walls into which large vertical slate slabs were incorporated between small stones stacked on top of each other. This construction is typical of Andros and, since there was plenty of slate available, the slabs were simply built into the masonry to save stones. The Xirolithies were used, among other things, to mark property boundaries and fence off livestock.
#7 Hiking on Andros: Panorama from the Rock Chapel
Andros is a still relatively unknown hiking paradise in Greece, with a network of over 150 km of trails spread across about 20 routes. Thanks to the association Andros Routes, the hiking trails are perfectly marked, making it easy to find your way around the island.
Hiking on Andros is a treat for every nature lover, especially in spring. Winding between babbling streams, you pass old watermills, cross historic stone bridges and discover lonely chapels, all surrounded by lush blossoms.
A particularly attractive route is Route 12 from Vourkoti to Arni, which leads, among other things, to the Kouvara, the highest mountain ridge of Andros at 997 m. We only walked a short section of this route to the rock chapel of Profitis Ilias.
For the half-day hike, park your car about 2 km east of Arni on the road to Vourkoti. From here, a dirt road leads up to the right towards a bizarre rocky outcrop, on which the white chapel is impressively enthroned.
As you hike up the mountain, you are accompanied by a magnificent view of the village of Arni and colourful slopes covered in lush maquis. Directly below the boulder is another chapel, behind which there are shelters for grazing sheep.
If you walk around the rock, you can climb a staircase up to the upper chapel of Profitis Ilias. The view from the forecourt of the chapel is magnificent, and the surrounding mountain landscape of Andros is simply breathtakingly beautiful!
The 2 km climb is quite steep and takes about 45 minutes. Due to the altitude, it is advisable to bring warm clothing, even in summer. Temperatures here can sometimes be around 10 degrees lower than in the coastal towns.
#8 Wine enjoyment at Kourtesis
The viticulture in Andros dates back to ancient times, but most of the vineyards have been abandoned over the centuries or are only maintained for personal use. In 2015, Andriote native Makis Kourtesis began to revive the island’s vineyard heritage with great passion and dedication to organic wine.
Rarely have we enjoyed such a great red wine as the one from Kourtesis Winery! If you visit Andros, please promise to bring us a bottle of “Ypsilon”?!
The location of the Kourtesis Wine Estate above the capital guarantees a fantastic panorama. The vineyards gently slope downhill and offer a spectacular view of Andros Chora. The tasting room and utility rooms are housed in cavernous vaults, creating a cozy atmosphere during a visit.
Three different varieties are currently offered, which (unfortunately) are only sold on site at the winery. The focus is on cultivating Cycladic grape varieties such as Mavrotragano, Mandilaria, Assyrtiko, Malagousia and the native variety Potamisi.
A wine tour incl. tasting is an unforgettable experience for lovers of fine wines at the only official winery on the island of Andros. Tours can be booked by phone and are by appointment only. More information can be found directly on the website: Kourtesis Winery
More travel tips for your Andros vacation
Guided tours and activities in Andros
The island of Andros can be wonderfully explored on your own with a rental car. Guided tours also offer the advantage of benefiting from the know-how of local guides and learning more about the island and its people.
We have listed popular Andros activities with great reviews. Click on the link from GetYourGuide* to see more details:
Vlm Travel, Batsi
The best way to reach the beautiful northern beaches of Andros is with Savvas and his jeep. The friendly guide runs the travel agency Vlm Travel and offers numerous full-day and half-day excursions, including a complete island tour of Andros.
➲ To the organized island tour (via GetYourGuide)*
Particularly popular are the full-day sightseeing tour across the island and the off-road trips to secluded beaches. In addition, you can also book cooking classes, hiking tours, and diving and snorkeling trips through the agency. Have a special request? Savvas can make almost anything happen! 😉
You can find more information here: Vlm Travel Andros
Andros Cooking Class at Votsalo Seaside
For amateur cooks who would like to learn more about traditional Greek cuisine, we recommend a cooking class in Andros. Our cooking class took place under the guidance of the charismatic Katharina, owner of the Tou Zozef tavern, at Votsalo Seaside Estate.
The setting could hardly be more fitting — chopping and cooking takes place in an outdoor kitchen in the idyllic vegetable garden of the estate. Depending on the season, the ingredients are harvested as fresh as possible from the vegetable patch. All participants are actively involved in preparing the food, and chef Katharina is on hand with advice and assistance throughout.
We rolled Dolmadakia ourselves for the first time during the cooking class. It’s amazing how much work goes into those small vine leaves filled with rice! The Greek cooking class lasts about four hours and costs around 65 euros per person, including wine and ouzo. The activity can be booked, for example, through Vlm Travel: Cooking Experience in Andros
Accommodation on Andros
Since Andros is known for soft tourism, large hotel complexes and all-inclusive facilities are completely absent. Instead, you will find beautiful boutique hotels, villas and holiday homes scattered all over the island, offering a very welcoming and private atmosphere:
➲ To beautiful hotels on the island (Booking.com)*
→ On Booking.com* you will find plenty of accommodation on Andros and you can check prices here:
Where we stayed
Votsalo Sea Side Villas, Stenies
Below the pretty seaside village of Stenies you’ll find the three villas of the Votsalo Seaside Estate. The white beach houses are spread over two floors and are furnished in a very tasteful and modern style.
The well-equipped holiday homes are also ideal for self-catering, with everything you could need for a relaxing holiday. From the large upper-floor balcony, which features a Jacuzzi, you can enjoy a wonderful view of the sea.
The villas are nestled in an idyllic garden where cooking classes (see Andros cooking class) and yoga classes take place. The on-site lounge-style bistro-café is located directly in front of the villa complex. From there it is only a stone’s throw to Gialia Beach. On Booking.com* you can book the accommodation directly if needed:
➲ Book Votsalo Sea Side Villas*
Yana Studio, Mesaria
Ioanna’s spacious studio is located in a quiet side street in the suburb of Mesaria, just 5 km from Andros Chora. The modern, air-conditioned apartment includes a very well-equipped kitchen, a comfortable double bed and even a washing machine.
Directly in front of the studio there is a small terrace and a parking area for the rental car. Ioanna is a lovely hostess and even provided us with fresh fruit and vegetables from her own garden. The accommodation is great for independent travellers and is a good base for exploring the island. You can book the accommodation directly here: Yana Studio
Andros restaurants: Our recommendations
Asēmóleuka, Ipsila
Here you will find a cozy tavern with a terrace and a fantastic view of the capital. Homemade Greek dishes are served, including the island specialty Fourtalia, a traditional hearty omelette. You should also try the pickled zucchini slices and the eggplant dip (Melitzanosalata).
Dolly’s Restaurant (Micra Anglia Hotel), Chora
The gourmet restaurant at the Micra Anglia Hotel has everything you could wish for for a romantic evening. In a relaxed atmosphere, you can enjoy an excellent menu. The Greek and international dishes are attractively served in individual courses. A fine selection of wines completes the dining experience. The staff is very accommodating and child friendly.
Gevsis me Thea, Livadia
In the hamlet of Livadia above Andros Chora lies this pretty restaurant with stunning views of the Mesaria Valley. We had a really delicious meal here at a fair price-to-performance ratio. We found the chicken in spicy sauce with rice particularly delicious. The staff is a bit reserved but friendly.
Kóssēs, Epano Felos
The rustic farm is located about 15 minutes north of Gavrio by car, in a fairly secluded stretch of land. Served in a rustic ambience are mainly hearty meat dishes from their own livestock, as well as traditional Greek home cooking.
A worthwhile excursion destination especially for families with children, as there are plenty of animals to admire on the farm. If you want to get a seat, you should arrive early, as the taverna is very popular with locals and is often packed, especially on weekends.
Getting around Andros
With a north-south extension of 40 km and a width of 17 km, Andros is the third largest island in the South Aegean region. The larger towns of Gavrio, Batsi and Chora are reliably connected by KTEL buses. You can find the current bus timetable at: KTEL Andros
The beaches along the west coast can also be easily reached by public transport. For further exploration of the island, however, it is worth renting a car, so you can reach remote beaches and hiking areas at your own pace.
Local car rental companies are available in Gavrio, Batsi and Chora. We can recommend the following car rental companies on Andros:
- Andros Car Rental
- George’s Rent-a-Car Andros
- CAPTAINS Rent a Car Andros
Getting to Andros Island
The island of Andros does not have an airport and can only be reached by ferry from Rafina (Athens East) or via the neighboring islands Tinos, Mykonos or Syros. There are currently no direct connections from the port of Piraeus (Athens South).
→ This article gives you all the information you need for your journey by ferry to Andros: Ferries in Greece
From many countries in Europe you can take a direct flight to Athens (Book on Skyscanner*) or to Mykonos. From Athens airport, the ferry port of Rafina, east of Athens, is only 30 minutes away by taxi. From Mykonos, the fast catamaran takes about 1.5 hours to reach Andros.
From the port of Rafina, car ferries operated by Golden Star Ferries and Fast Ferries depart several times a day during the season, reaching Andros in just 2 hours and docking at the port of Gavrio in the northwest of the island. We use the portal Ferryhopper* to find suitable ferry connections between the Greek islands:
➲ To the ferry booking with Ferryhopper*
→ All information and travel reports about the Cyclades archipelago can be found here: Cyclades Islands
*Support our blog Greece-Moments
In this post, you will find affiliate links marked with an asterisk (*). If you book or buy something through one of these links, we receive a small commission. The price stays the same for you. This way, you help us continue providing high-quality content for free. Did you enjoy this post and want to say thank you? Then simply buy us a Greek coffee ☕️ To the coffee fund
Bookmark this post on Pinterest!
