Tired of the packed beaches and inflated prices of Mykonos and Santorini? It's time to discover Greece's best-kept secret: the stunning island of Astypalea. Shaped like a butterfly and floating between the Cyclades and the Dodecanese, this hidden gem offers an authentic Greek experience without the crowds.
A Journey Back In Time
Your first glimpse of Astypalea is pure magic. The magnificent Chora, a whitewashed village crowned by a dark Venetian castle, rises dramatically from the Aegean Sea. Its maze of narrow, winding streets, dotted with iconic blue-domed churches, feels like stepping into a postcard from a bygone era.
Beaches Of Secluded Bliss
Forget fighting for a sunbed. Astypalea's coastline is a haven of secluded coves and crystal-clear waters.
- Kaminakia: A favourite with locals, this picturesque pebble beach is backed by dramatic cliffs.
- Vatses: A remote and rocky bay offering incredible snorkelling and complete tranquillity.
- Agios Konstantinos: Easily accessible and family-friendly, with stunning views of the Chora.
For the ultimate adventure, hire a boat or join a tour to discover even more remote stretches of sand, perfect for a day of utter isolation.
Authentic Island Life Awaits
The authenticity of Astypalea is its greatest luxury. Here, you won't find sprawling resort complexes or wild nightclubs. Instead, you'll enjoy leisurely meals at family-run tavernas serving freshly caught fish and local specialities like pouggia (sweet cheese pies). The pace of life is slow, dictated by the sun and the sea.
How To Get There
Reaching this paradise is easier than you think. Astypalea has its own domestic airport (JTY), with direct 45-minute flights from Athens operated by Olympic Air. Alternatively, you can take a longer but scenic ferry ride from Piraeus, the port of Athens.
This overlooked jewel won't stay secret for long. For travellers seeking the stunning beauty of the Greek islands with their soul still intact, Astypalea is the undeniable answer.
