Andros: The top worldwide choice
Just before the beginning of summer, the travel website Wanderlust Marriage brought to light an article about Andros, describing it as one of the best island destination. In fact, in this particular article, the beautiful Aegean Island held a prominent position at the top of the list. If you 're wondering why, it's high time you found out by reading below. Don't forget that you can find ferry tickets from Rafina to Andros at the best possible prices with Let's Ferry!
View of Chora from the Venetian Castle
Andros, the hidden gem of the Aegean, stands out for its nobility as it is one of the most charming islands of Greece. "Little England", as it is called, is a traditional island with maritime tradition, rich history and culture, paths, valleys with gurgling waters, the essence of old cinema, where together with its enchanting beaches and its culinary specialties, offers a unique holiday experience for its guests. Whether you are a nature lover looking for peace and contact with the environment, a party animal who wants to party till morning, or a family with small children, in Andros you will definitely find something for you. However, we should underline that the island, due to its size (it is the second largest in the Cyclades), requires a car, so that you can discover comfortably every corner. Last but not least, Andros is a top weekend destination as it is only two hours away from Athens. Definitely a big plus! Find on Let's Ferry your tickets to Andros and start planning now your next trip!
Andros at a glance
The island is divided into four main areas. Gavrio, the island's port, Batsi, Chora and Korthi, providing a complete range of tourist infrastructure. Like most of the Aegean islands, Andros has interesting lowland and mountainous villages. One of the most picturesque spots is the capital of the island, Chora, that invites you to walk through the narrow streets with the impressive mansions with characteristic architecture and the wonderful sea view. Visit the Maritime Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art which hosts temporary exhibitions of various artists as well as famous works of art and the Archaeological Museum to learn about the history of the island. Stroll around, visit Riva square with the statue of the Unknown Sailor, a statue in honor of all the sailors who lost their lives at sea and admire the panoramic view during twilight from the Lower Castle.
Riva square with the statue of the Unknown Sailor
Gavrio, the island's port, is located on the northwest side of Andros, in a well-protected bay from the strong winds. As you approach with the ship, don't forget to capture the moment and witness an unprecedented plainness beauty. Small white houses, churches, pigeon houses and wild flowers, along with the blue of the sea, compose a unique summer scenery. In the area, it is worth seeing the Tower of Agios Petros, while in Ano Gavrio you will discover agricultural lands, streams, bridges and the famous pigeon lofts of Andros. Korthi, in the southern part, is located between the mountains of Gerakon and Rachi. There , you will find the Castle of Faneromeni, where a big festival takes place on the fifteenth of August, the beach of Mylos, the sheltered bay of Agia Aikaterini and the famous beach called Tis Grias to Pidima (Old Lady's Leap). Finally, Batsi, is a picturesque coastal fishing village, quite cosmopolitan and a bit more touristy, with a beach of the same name, accommodations by the sea and many tourist infrastructures. In the surrounding area, explore the beautiful mountainous village of Arni, with rich vegetation and running waters. The legendary movie "Girls in the Sun" with Giannis Voglis was filmed in Batsi, while fairies and elves were said to live in Piso Vrysi! If you're already thinking about it, check out tickets to Andros on Let's Ferry!
Villages of Andros
The village of Apoikia is famous for its lush vegetation, waterfalls, traditional architecture and the tranquility it offers, while being built among walnut and plane trees. Plan an unforgettable road trip and visit the springs, the caves and the impressive monasteries such as that of Agios Nikolaos and Agia Marina. In Agios Kyprianos, a traditional fishing village on the south side of the island, you will find a traditional tavern with excellent fresh fish and seafood, ideal for a romantic date. Don't miss on swimming in the beautiful beaches of the area with crystal clear blue waters. In Episkopeio with the picturesque atmosphere, you will be able to take photos on the Bridge of Love, known from the movie "Little England" by Pantelis Voulgaris and "break" the like button on Instagram. Messaria is known for the Tower of Lorentzou - Kairi, built in 1760, the Byzantine temple of Taxiarchis church and the bridge of Stichiomeni (Haunted), while the Aidonia (Nightingales) village is famous for their noble tower houses.
The chapel of Agios Kyprianos
Beaches of Andros
The island of Andros has wonderful beaches for all tastes, with crystal clear waters, very fine pebbles and golden sand.
Chrissi Ammos (Golden Beach): Sheltered form the wind and with shallow waters, this beach honors its name. Crystal clear, transparent waters and golden sand, with a velvety feel. The beach is organized with sunbeds and beach umbrellas and has everything you need for a whole day by the sea. Ideal for children and sunbathing.
Tis Grias to Pidima (Old Lady's Leap) : One of the most famous and popular beaches on the southeast side of the island. The heavenly shallow waters and its secluded location, make it even more charming than it looks. If you are fit, you have to follow the path. If you are not, then a plunge will reward you.
Tis Grias to Pidima Beach
Agios Petros: Simple, organized and with velvet golden sand. With a coastline of about one kilometer, this is the longest coastline of the island. Play, run, swim in peace and find some of the best beach bars of the island.
Zorkos: Magnificent view along the way, magical waters and easy access make Zorkos Beach, the star of the island. To enjoy your day to the fullest, visit on a windless day and get there early enough to find shade. Otherwise, prepare accordingly and stock up on essentials.
Zorkos beach
Vitali: An unforgettable experience for the visitor despite the fact that access takes time. The beauty of the landscape and its colors will reward you. Take a daring dive from above and get your adrenaline pumping!
Achla: Achla Beach is one of the most seducing beaches of Andros. It is not easily accessible, but when you get there, admire the turquoise waters and the refuge for rare animals, which is located at the spot. The river Achlas flows there, while the majestic natural habitat with tall plane trees and waterfalls cannot fail to impress you. Take the small boat from Chora for easier access.
Achla beach
Neimporio: It has always been the cosmopolitan beach of the island. The beach of Chora, with its very shallow waters, soft sand, various restaurants and easy access is an ideal choice for everyone. Enjoy your coffee with a view of the Tourlitis Lighthouse, built on a rock in the sea, illuminating the maritime routes for over 120 years.
Sightseeings in Andros
In Chora you will find the Maritime Museum dedicated to the maritime tradition of Andros. Discover old nautical tools, ship models and other interesting objects that tell the history of the place. The Archaeological Museum with findings from the Geometric period and important exhibits such as the Hermes of Andros, a Hellenistic copy of Praxiteles. The original statue with the same name was found in 1833 in Paleopolis. Other exhibits are the headless Kouros, the torso of Artemis and inscriptions from the early Byzantine and Byzantine era. The Holy Monastery of Panagia Panachrantou, located on the northern side of Mount Gerakones, looms over the rocks. The Monastery houses the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary painted by Luke the Evangelist. The architecture, the Byzantine wood carvings and the altarpiece, impress the visitor, while the wild landscape takes your breath away. More worth visiting attractions are the Sariza Spring with the miraculous Cycladic thermal water, the Foros Cave an underground spectacle with enormous stalactites and stalagmites, the springs of Menites and the waterfalls in Pythara, an amazing fairyland with lakes, fast-flowing waters and rich aquatic life.
Pythara in Apoikia village
Culture in Andros
If you choose Andros for holidays, you should know that the International Andros Festival takes place every year with great success and attendance, hosting performances and concerts of great cultural interest. The Open Air Theater of Andros, although recently built on an idyllic hillside with a panoramic view, looks like it has always been there. Honoring the popular and religious tradition, many villages organize festivals during the summer season until the first days of September. Among the most famous are those in Livadia, Apoikia and Menites.
Open Air Theater of Andros
Flavors of Andros
Every place has its own cuisine, so don't resist eating in Andros. Try the local specialty Fourtalia, which is basically an omelette with potatoes and pork sausages. Nonetheless, leave room for dessert. Don't forget to take back home some traditional preserves and "amygdalota". To find the most delicious "pastitsakia" (traditional macaroons), you will have to trust your nose, as you can find them in every pastry shop of the island.
Weather in Andros
Andros is not much different from the rest of the Cycladic islands. If you like the August "meltemi" winds, choose Chora or Korthi for your holidays. If you don't like taking photos with your hair blown apart by the wind or playing with the waves, then Gavrio, Batsi and the surrounding areas are for you. The best time for an unforgettable trip to Andros is June and July. Book now, while you still have time, ferry tickets to Andros and put your mind at rest.
Batsi in Andros
Ferries to Andros depart from Rafina port, while the island is the perfect starting point for island hopping with connection to many neighboring islands, such as Tinos, Syros, Mykonos, Paros, Naxos, Kythnos, Kea (Tzia) and Santorini! Find all information for the connection Rafina - Andros on the Let's Ferry website and start packing for your holidays in Andros!
See for yourself all the reasons why Andros is a top destination worldwide!