ASTYPALEA TRAVEL GUIDE: DISCOVER THE BUTTERFLY OF THE AEGEAN

This comprehensive travel guide will help you uncover the island’s best-kept secrets, from charming villages and pristine beaches to historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, and authentic local flavors.

Whether you seek a peaceful retreat by the sea, cultural exploration, or thrilling activities, Astypalea offers a unique escape untouched by mass tourism. Wander through the whitewashed alleys of Chora, explore the iconic Venetian Castle, dive into the island’s crystal-clear, turquoise waters, and indulge in its rich gastronomic heritage.

At Kallichoron Art Boutique Hotel, our highly specialized concierge team is here to offer personalized recommendations and local tips, ensuring you make the most of your stay in Astypalea.

We are here to help craft the perfect itinerary tailored to your preferences, for an unforgettable experience on this enchanting island.

Astypalea may be a hidden gem in the Aegean, but getting here is easier than you think! Whether you prefer a quick flight or a scenic ferry ride, this guide will help you plan your journey seamlessly.

Astypalea offers its most vibrant and welcoming atmosphere during the months from April to October, making this the perfect window for your visit. The island enjoys warm weather, clear skies, and a variety of activities, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers alike.

Astypalea, meaning "old city", is a captivating island that bridges the Cyclades and Dodecanese, offering a unique blend of both cultures. Covering 97 sq.km and with a coastline stretching 110 km, Astypalea is the fourth largest and westernmost island in the Dodecanese. Including the nearby islets, the total area reaches 128 sq.km. The island is divided into the Inner and Outer Island by the narrow sandy strip, 'Steno,' which, without it, would separate Astypalea into two distinct islands.

The island's villages, with their charming chapels, rich local traditions, and inviting atmosphere, are perfect for visitors eager to explore its hidden beauties. From the picturesque streets of Chora to the peaceful smaller villages, Astypalea offers a warm welcome to those seeking a deeper connection to its culture and natural beauty.

Until the 19th century, Chora was the only settlement of the island. It is built on a peninsula with the Venetian Castle of Querini standing proud on the top. Most of the island’s life is concentrated there.

Pera Yalos with the yacht marina is the seaport of Chora. In the old days and as the centuries progressed, little white houses began to appear outside the walls of the Castle and reached the port of Pera Yalos.

Livadi village is the fertile valley of the island and the summer resort from the locals. Citrus groves, pistachio trees, vegetable gardens and vines stretch the length of the creek running through the valley.

The gardens and courtyards of the houses are filled with flowers of all kinds creating a palette with bursts of colour. It is a very beautiful area with an equally beautiful beach with various cafes and tavernas.

Analipsi, also known as Maltezana, is a seaside village in the outer part of the island with a beautiful sandy beach and a long jetty for fishing boats. Located approximately 9 km from Chora, it was named after the Maltese pirates, who pillaged the Aegean and found refuge in the island's sheltered bays. The fearful Ottoman pirate Hayreddin Barbarossa, who secured Ottoman dominance over the Mediterranean during the mid-16th century, conquered the island of Astypalea in 1537 and was using the favorable position of the island and especially Maltezana bay for his naval victories.

Vathy is nestled in an almost closed-off bay with an opening of just 50 meters, creating a secluded and picturesque atmosphere. It is divided into two parts: Exo Vathy, located at the mouth of the bay, and Mesa Vathy, situated on the inlet of the bay. Mesa Vathy is characterized by its serene surroundings, with lush fields, a quaint church, a welcoming tavern offering delicious local cuisine, a handful of traditional houses, and a small dock dotted with a few fishing boats. Visitors can reach Exo Vathy by asphalt road and then continue towards Exo Vathy along a passable dirt track. Alternatively, one can arrive by boat.

Astypalea, with its rugged terrain, boasts an array of stunning beaches and secluded coves, perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. The island’s crystal-clear waters and mesmerizing azure sea invite you to swim, sunbathe, and explore. Most beaches are lined with welcoming tamarisk trees offering ample shade, while organized beaches feature sunbeds and small shops for your convenience. During the summer months, daily tourist boat excursions depart from Pera Gialos and Maltezana, taking visitors to nearby islets such as Koutsomytis, Kounoupa, and the impressive Red Rock.

Some of the island’s most beloved beaches include Livadi, Tzanaki, Agios Konstantinos, Vatses, Kaminakia, Agios Ioannis, Mamounia, Steno, Plakes, Ble Limanaki, Schinontas, Maltezana, Vrysi, Chrysi Ammos, Koutsomytis, and Kounoupa – each offering its own charm and stunning views, ensuring an unforgettable beach experience on Astypalea.

Astypalea is not only known for its stunning beaches but also for its rich history and cultural landmarks. Explore the island's fascinating historical sites, from the impressive Venetian Castle of Querini Stampalia to the peaceful Panagia Portaitissa Church. Discover the island’s archaeological treasures, at the Archaeological Museum, where you can learn about Astypalea's ancient past. The Ecclesiastical Museum offers a glimpse into the island's spiritual heritage and traditional religious practices. These sites, along with many others, make Astypalea a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

It is the island’s most important sight. Situated on Chora’s loftiest point, on the remains of the island’s ancient acropolis and of the Byzantine castle, it was initially constructed by Giovanni I Querini in 1207 and completed by Giovanni IV Zanachi Querini in 1413. The castle offered protection, which resulted in an increase of its population, reaching 4,000 inhabitants.

The strongly built castle with the narrow, cobblestone alleys also included two towers, one at the gate where the feudal owners resided and one with four storeys on the south side, the so-called “Sarai”. The abandonment of the castle began in 1830, when piracy was no longer a threat and by 1948 it was completely deserted.

You can read here more information about the history of the Castle.

The infants’ cemetery on Astypalea is the largest ancient children's cemetery in the world. According to the 22nd Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities, this ancient cemetery was used from the Late Archaic up to the Roman times (600 b.C.-200 A.D.).

As was usual for ancient Greek cemeteries, the dead infants were placed in clay pots. Once the baby or infant had been laid inside, the door was replaced and the pot was buried in a small pit. The area of the cemetery is still being excavated by 22nd Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities.

There have been excavated more than 2,700 burials to date and one such vessel is on display in the Archaeological Museum of Astypalea.

You can read here more information about the Infantile Graveyard Excavation at Kylindra.

Near the Venetian castle of the island there is the church of Panagia Portaitissa, one of the most beautiful in the Dodecanese. The church was built in 1762 by Saint Anthimos after nine years of construction and is the religious center of the island. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary of the Iberian Monastery of Mount Athos. During your visit, it is worth noticing the wooden Chancel Table and the wooden carved chancel screen dated back in 1766 as well as the silver-plated icon of Panagia Portaitissa. Near the church you will also find the Ecclesiastical Museum of Astypalea, which exhibits precious and rare religious relics. Findings on display include a wooden, 17th century epitaph, a 15th century icon of Christ and rare heirlooms of unique craftsmanship.

The Archaeological Museum is located at Pera Yalos village and housed at a ground-floor hall granted to the Hellenic Ministry of Culture by the Ecclesiastical Charity Fund of Astypalea. The museum was inaugurated in September 1998 and exhibits findings from prehistoric up to medieval times. According to the 22nd Ephorate of Prehistoric and Classical Antiquities, some of the exhibits are: a marble coat of arms of the Querini, clay vessels, jewellery and tools from Mycenaean tombs, silver coins of the Classical Period, inscriptions from the island’s shrines, findings of the Hellenistic and the Classical period as well as clay vessels of the Geometric up to the Roman times. The museum is open daily except for Tuesdays, with an entrance fee of €3.

Astypalea offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Dive into the island's crystal-clear waters to explore its vibrant marine life, or embark on a boat excursion to nearby islets and hidden coves. For those who enjoy land-based adventures, the island's picturesque landscapes are perfect for hiking, with trails offering stunning views of the coastline and hills. Cycling enthusiasts can explore the island's charming villages and scenic routes.

Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Astypalea's diverse activities provide something for every traveler.