AndrosCyclades · Greece

All About Andros

If you are interested in visiting a calm and family-friendly island that’s not far from Athens, then Andros is the destination you should choose! Taking a ferry to Andros is easy, just use Ferryscanner to compare ferry companies and book ferry tickets. Located in the northern part of the Cyclades, Andros is the second largest of the group, after Naxos.

It’s a very mountainous island, which intrigues visitors because of its natural beauty and cultural heritage. There are large beaches and lush greenery, which sets Andros apart from other Cycladic islands. Andros can satisfy every vacationgoer, thanks to the large size and variety of things to do, from sunbathing and hiking to museums and monuments.
 

Ferries and Routes to Andros

Getting to Andros from Athens only takes a few hours, and booking the ferry tickets is especially easy using Ferryscanner. Ferries from Athens to Andros depart from the port of Rafina, which isn’t too far from Athens International Airport. If you’re visiting Greece from abroad, once you exit the airport, you can just hop in one of the taxis waiting outside. The ride will cost around 60 euros and take between 30 and 40 minutes.

Alternatively, you can take a bus (KTEL) which will cost €3 (children under six ride free). The buses run every hour and tickets can be purchased directly from the driver. If you’re taking the KTEL from the center of Athens, the bus ride will be about 70 minutes.

The main ferry companies that travel to Andros are Golden Star Ferries and Fast Ferries. Conveniently, it is the first stop on the ferry when heading to Tinos and Mykonos. In addition, there are also ferry connections to Andros from islands such as Syros and Tinos with Seajets.
 

Ports of Andros

Aside from the many small ports used by the local fisherman, there is only one main port that serves the entire island of Andros, called Gavrio. It’s located in a bay, well-protected from the infamous winds. It remains a laid-back spot, despite being relatively lively all year.

As you disembark the ferry, the first thing you will see is the western side of Andros, covered in beautiful, historic villages and stunning beaches. On Ferryscanner you can easily compare prices or ferry companies and book cheap ferry tickets to Andros.
 

Capital & Villages

Due to its immense size, there are many villages to discover around Andros. From swimming in crystal clear waters to exploring deep caves, make sure to check out each one of these unique settlements.

Chora

The capital city of Andros is named Chora, or Andros Town. There are many historical buildings here, ranging in various styles. Venetian, Byzantine, and Ottoman architecture are mixed in with Neoclassical mansions and iconic Cyclades colors. Chora has many winding alleys where you can stop to shop or sip a coffee. Walking towards the tip of the peninsula, you can find the Unknown Sailor statue, as well as an incredible view of the town and sea.

Batsi

This amphitheatrically built fishing village is located 7 kilometers away from Gavrio, separated by beautiful sandy beaches, small picturesque harbors, and hidden coves. Despite the tourists, Batsi has kept up its traditional and picturesque charm. Naturally, it has all of the necessary comforts for a nice Greek holiday. Such as taverns, nightlife, shopping, rooms for rent, bank, car rental, etc.

Gavrio

Gavrio is the main port of Andros, meaning it’s where the ferries from Rafina arrive. It is located next to Batsi, on the west coast of the island, 30 kilometers from Chora, the capital of Andros. In the last 20 years, Gavrio has developed its tourist infrastructure, making it a more convenient place to stay while visiting Andros.

Ormos

A small seaside town in the southern part of the island, Ormos is ideal for relaxing. In between swimming and sunbathing, stop by the folklore museum for some culture. The nearby valley of Dipotamata is also worth a visit, with unique watermills. The area has been transformed into an ecological museum center, focusing on water-power. Nearby Ormos is the quaint village of Kaparia with lovely dovecotes, mills, and old stone houses. The proximity makes these two places worth visiting in the same day.

Messaria

Messaria is a relatively large village situated right before Chora. There is a lot of history in this village. Here you can find the Byzantine church of Taxiarchis, dating back to the 12th-century as well as the Lorentzos-Kairis Tower, which was built in 1760.
 

Best Beaches

Andros has tons of incredible beaches, suiting every beachgoer’s needs. Some are remote and secluded, while others are easily accessible and organized. Whether you’re looking for a large sandy spot for the whole family, or a rocky cove to be alone with your partner, you will find it in Andros.

Tis Grias to Pidima

This is by far the most photographed beach on the island – and for good reason! There aren’t any beach chairs or umbrellas, so it maintains a natural, raw feeling. What makes it truly stand out is the enormous rock formation emerging from the sea. To get to this beach, you will need to go most of the way by car and then do the last 10 minutes on foot down a small path. This helps to keep the beach from ever becoming too busy.

Achla Beach

This secluded beach is one of the most difficult to reach by car unless you have a jeep that can handle rough terrain. It’s on the eastern side of Andros, about 10km from Chora, and is best reached by boat. The shore is covered with shiny, white pebbles and the water is crystal clear with a tint of turquoise. Nearby the beach is a small river, surrounded by trees. Sitting on the rocks above Achla Beach is a lighthouse and the Agios Nikolaos chapel. The beach is protected from the winds, which often blow during the summer evenings. There aren’t any facilities, so make sure to pack water and a snack in your beach bag.

Gialia Beach

Located a couple of kilometers from Chora, this cove is a great place to swim. Keep in mind though it does feel the effects of the intense August winds (called Meltemi). Fortunately, there are many places to seek shelter here, such as traditional taverns or rooms to rent. During the high season, this is a popular beach for visitors.

Vitali Beach

Another secluded beach offering quiet and privacy is Vitali. You’ll find sparkling blue water surrounded by a dense rocky landscape. On the northeast side of Andros, there is a road from the port area of Gavrio leading to Vitali Beach. Only about half of the road is paved though, and it does get narrow so having a jeep or motorbike is preferable.

Zorkos Beach

If you head about 40km north from Chora, you will come across Zorkos Beach. It’s an expansive sandy bay with pristine, turquoise water. This gorgeous gem has managed to stay quiet and its vastness allows plenty of space for everyone to spread out. It can get quite windy here, although the surrounding rocks and trees provide some shade.

Agios Petros Beach

About 3 km south of Gavrio is the seemingly endless Agios Petros Beach. The soft golden sand and crystal waters make it perfect for young children to take a dip. Here you can relax by the beach bar, sip a cocktail, and watch the sunset. In the surrounding village, many taverns and restaurants offer delicious meals at the end of a long day in the sun.

Chrissi Ammos Beach

Chrissi Ammos is certainly one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Andros. The name of this beach translates to ‘golden sand’ in English, which is quite fitting. It’s conveniently located on the central road, between Kypri and Agios Petros. This is an organized beach, meaning you’ll find everything you need from sunbeds and umbrellas to food and drinks. There are even watersports and games available, for all ages to enjoy. Nearby the beach there are many other restaurants and rooms for rent available if you’re interested in staying close by.
 

Transportation Around Andros

As Andros is one of the biggest islands of Cyclades you will definitely need a car or motorcycle to visit all the places worth seeing. Rent a car from Gavrio as soon as you disembark from the ferry and start exploring. Otherwise, there is a bus service (KTEL) with central stations in Gavrio, Chora, and Batsi.