15 Unique Things To Do in Andros Greece & Guide

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Last updated on May 8th, 2024 at 09:36 am

Although we were both born and raised in Athens, Andros Island has gradually become a second home to us and this is why we’re happy to share you with our ultimate travel guide to the best things to do in Andros Greece, an off-the-beaten-path island just two hours away from the Greek capital.

One of our favourite islands in the Cyclades, Andros is a laid-back island that offers visitors the most authentic Greek Island experience. From spectacular beaches to historical sites to scenic hiking trails, there are several memorable things to do in Andros Greece. So, read on to find out what to do in Andros for a fantastic vacation washed in the bright Greek sunlight.

Have a look at our Andros YouTube video

Travel Resources For Andros Island

Why Visit Andros Island

The second largest of the Cycladic Islands, Andros is unlike any other island in the group. With rivers flowing across its fertile land and mountain peaks disappearing behind the clouds, the island’s raw natural beauty is captivating. Andros is ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and everyone who dreams of spending their holidays in an authentic destination like no other.

Top 15 Things To Do in Andros Greece

1. Wander Around Andros Town (Chora), One of The Prettiest Places To Visit in Andros

Built on a small peninsula between two long sandy beaches, Chora, the capital of Andros, is a fascinating place to explore.

Unlike other Greek Islands with their small whitewashed buildings, Andros Town is dotted with magnificent neoclassical mansions that date back to the time when the island was a maritime superpower. Just walking around the main town, admiring its traditional architecture and taking in its old-fashioned charm, is one of the best things to do in Andros.

For a glimpse into the island’s former grandeur, don’t miss a visit to the sophisticated Andrion Club, one of the most impressive buildings in Andros. Andrion Club is one of the oldest yet most progressive social clubs in Greece. It was a place where men, but also women, got together to discuss and entertain themselves.

Any walk around Andros Town starts from its main street, the pedestrianised Embirikou Street. From this point onwards, no vehicles are allowed. The street concludes at the quaint Kairis Square, where cafés look as though they have sprung out of a 1960s Greek movie.

However, the real magic begins once you cross the arched passageway to the Old Town.

Passing one neoclassical mansion after another, you will soon reach the glorious Goulandris Square, where the statue of Afanis Naftis (Unknown Sailor) dominates. The area where the marble square now stands used to be occupied by beautiful mansions, but they were all destroyed by bombings during the Second World War.

Goulandris Square boasts breathtaking views of Paraporti Beach on the right, the large beach of Nimporio on the left and the remains of the Lower Castle of Andros at your feet.

If it’s not extremely windy, you can walk down the steps to take a closer look at the beautiful stone bridge that connects the Castle to Andros Island. Now and then, daredevils cross the bridge and visit the Castle’s ruins. We’ve never done it and we advise you against doing it as well.

Once back at Kairis Square, there are two options. Having the arched passageway to your back, go down the steps on your left and spend some relaxing moments listening to the sound of huge waves crashing on Paraporti Beach.

Alternatively, head in the opposite direction and go down the steps to your right for magnificent views of Panagia Thalassini Church and Tourlitis Lighthouse, the only lighthouse in Europe built on a rock in the middle of the sea. Then, walk along the path from Nimporio Old Port to Nimporio Beach, where you can either have a swim or catch your breath at one of the beachside bars and restaurants.

2. Go Hiking

With a wide network of ancient paths that comprise more than 180 kilometres of quality trails, Andros is a hiker’s heaven. Lush valleys, dramatic mountain tops, running rivers, settlements that date back to ancient times and remnants of mighty fortresses, like the Castle of Faneromeni or Upper Castle, render hiking one of the most exciting activities in Andros.

Most importantly, hiking on Andros Island is accessible to everyone. There are routes for beginners, advanced and highly-skilled hikers alike. The award-winning Andros Routes, a team of passionate volunteers, is responsible for restoring, signposting and maintaining all those hiking trails.

You can add an easy hike or two to your Andros holidays itinerary during the summer. However, if hiking is the main reason you’re visiting Andros, you’ll be better off going in spring or autumn when the weather is mild rather than hot, thus more suited to physical activity.

For some of the most demanding hikes in Andros, we’d recommend joining a guided tour run by an expert hiker. Join this small-group trekking adventure along the Achla River, one of the most fascinating experiences in Andros.

3. Embark on an Incredibly Scenic Road Trip

Andros is a fairly large island and due to its natural morphology, it boasts unbelievably beautiful scenery. High mountain tops, golden-hued slopes and melodious streams are succeeded by green valleys, whitewashed villages and the most beautiful beaches. This ever-changing scenery can be best explored and enjoyed on a road trip. Therefore, do not hesitate to rent a car during your Andros holidays.

A road trip is among the best things to do in Andros Greece, as it can take you to the remotest villages like Korthi or the most picturesque ones like Stenies, once the wealthiest maritime village, now a perfect example of zero tourist presence. Instead of sticking to public transport routes, renting a car offers the unique opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path roads with stunning views.

Some of the best scenic routes include:

• Korthi to Andros Town
• Gavrio to Vitali
• Batsi to Andros Town via the little villages of Katakilos, Arni and Vourkoti

4. Swim in The Crystal Clear Waters of The Remotest Andros Beaches

Andros Island is home to some of the most spectacular remote beaches in Greece. From the hard-to-reach Achla Beach to the scenic Tis Grias To Pidima, Zorkos or Vitali Beach and its iconic small chapel, there are countless beaches to relax, away from the larger towns and main roads. You can learn more by reading our comprehensive guide to the best beaches in Andros.

5. Taste The Best Traditional Food & Sweets on Andros Island

Andros is an island where you can taste delicious traditional Greek dishes. Vegetarians and vegans can savour meatless delicacies of Greek cuisine there.

The typical dish of the island is fourtalia, a meat-based omelette unique to Andros Island. Its main ingredients are local sausages seasoned with aromatic herbs, potatoes, spearmint and, sometimes, chunks of pork.

You can ask for a vegetarian version which is made with courgette instead of sausage. However, it’s not 100% sure that the restaurant will accommodate you. Most often your request will be dismissed with a we-are-out-of-zucchini or similar statement. But it’s worth trying.

Furthermore, Andros Island produces amazing local cheese. The latter is white and it can come in many forms. As a spread, as a feta-like yet softer cheese (ideal for your Greek Salad) and in mozzarella-like balls, only a lot smaller.

Andros is also heaven on earth for your sweet tooth. Alongside the typical Greek sweets that you can find anywhere in the country, Andros is famous for its French-inspired pastries, too.

The reason for this is Ioannis Athinaios, a renowned 19th-century pastry chef, who learnt the secrets of French pastry art in Alexandria and then went back to his homeland Andros to teach local pastry chefs how to create sugar wonders. The rest is sweet history.

There are many mouthwatering sweets to taste while in Andros. Pastitsakia are macaron-like treats and amygdalota are also made of almonds and covered in icing sugar. Bananakia (Greek for small bananas) are banana-flavoured marzipan treats covered in dark chocolate. Moreover, Andros Island has a long tradition of spoon sweets (fruit preserves).

However, it’s the fresh pastries that are intertwined with the island’s culture and are considered the most typical sweets of Andros. You can try the chocolate or hazelnut ones but you must save the best for last. The flagship of Andros Island sweets is the pyramid-shaped almond pastry (pasta amygdalou).

6. Listen To The Water Whispering The Island’s Secrets in Apikia

Unlike most of the other Cyclades Islands that are dry and suffer from lack of water, Andros is very rich in water and this is also the reason why the island is graced with such lush greenery. An impressive fact about Andros is that it’s home to ten rivers with continuous flow all year round.

Situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Apikia, the island’s most famous natural spring of mineral water is Sariza. SARIZA WATERS, the factory by the same name which has produced high-quality bottled water since 1929, is also in Apikia Village.

Your journey along the island’s water routes doesn’t stop there, though. From the heart of Apikia Village, follow a super easy yet utterly charming signposted path. After 15 minutes or so, you’ll find yourselves at the Pithara Waterfalls, a spot of untouched beauty that locals like to call fairyland.

When in Apikia, consider taking a detour to visit the island’s lush Botanical Garden at the nearby Agadaki Estate. The estate is home to more than 150 species of native island plants, a restored 18th-century tower and an olive mill. Overall, it’s a scenic area that evokes nothing but feelings of calmness and joy.

7. Step Inside a Fairytale at The Prettiest Villages in Andros

If you think that the Pithara Waterfalls is the only dreamy location in Andros, think again. The island’s countryside is dotted with several picturesque villages tucked away in the arms of lush valleys and kissed by fresh running streams.

Probably the prettiest village in Andros is Episkopeio, a traditional village built in dark stone amidst glorious cypresses and fragrant fig trees. No vehicle can enter the heart of the village and this is part of its magic. There’s a main cement path zigzagging its way across the entire village until it reaches the ultimate highlight of Episkopeio: the so-called Bridge of Love.

In a setting of exceptional beauty with ivies climbing on dry-stone walls and a stream running at the foot of the mesmerising ruins of an old watermill, you’re going to have to pinch yourselves to make sure you’re not dreaming, as you wander around one of the best places to visit in Andros.

Another small village worth visiting is Menites near Chora. Similar to Apikia Village, Menites is famous for its natural springs, cobbled streets and lush greenery. Even on the hottest of summer days, the tiny square of Menites is a cool haven under the thick shade of century-old plane trees. Of course, don’t forget to snap a selfie with the iconic marble lion heads before you leave Menites.

8. Explore Foros Cave

The impressive Foros Cave may be one of the least-known caves in Greece, but visiting it is one of the best things to do in Andros Greece.

Foros Cave is situated in Aladinos Village near Chora. To get to the cave, you need to cross a beautiful arched bridge, built in 1680 AD by builders coming from the Epirus region, renowned for their stonemason skills. From then on, the cobblestone path that leads to the cave coincides with the Andros Route 18a hiking trail.

You can visit the cave on a guided tour only, which lasts between 15 and 20 minutes. During the tour, you learn the cave’s history, from how it was first discovered to its inclusion in the official list of caves in Greece by the Hellenic Caving Association. Although not large, Foros Cave abounds in impressive formations, such as stalagmites, stalactites, helictites, gours and many more.

Read our full guide to Foros Cave.

9. Visit Some of The Best Museums in Andros

Andros Island has quite a few interesting museums. First of all, the quaint Agia Irini Monastery near Apikia houses collections of musical instruments, writing equipment and many other treasures.

The monastery is no longer inhabited by monks or nuns. Ever since its renovation by Captain Lefteris Polemis and his family, the monastery has been functioning as a cultural hub while serving a high charitable cause by hosting orphans from all over Greece for their summer holidays in Andros.

UPDATE: After the sad passing of Captain Lefteris Polemis in November 2021, we can’t know for sure if the monastery continues to host orphans. However, we do hope that the late Captain’s wish to offer children the joy of a carefree Greek summer is still fulfilled.

Andros is an island rich in recent maritime history, a few fragments of which are displayed at the Maritime Museum of Andros in Chora. The latter is open only during the summer months.

On the other hand, for a glimpse into the island’s vast agricultural past, don’t miss the chance to visit the Cyclades Olive Museum in Pitrofos Village. Furthermore, the Archaeological Museum of Andros in Chora displays numerous findings that date back to the island’s earliest settlements.

Last but certainly not least, the Museum of Contemporary Art in Andros Town is one of the best things to see in Andros. Locals call it Goulandris Museum, after its founder Vassilis Goulandris, one of the greatest Greek shipowners of his time. Together with his wife Elisa, Goulandris founded the museum back in 1979. It’s been a cultural hub of great importance since then.

The Museum of Modern Art has two wings, one of which houses the permanent collection. The other hosts a special exhibition every summer, paying tribute to a different distinguished artist each year.

10. See & Be Seen at Cosmopolitan Batsi

Batsi is the most popular town in Andros. It features most of the island’s large hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Its long sandy beach is perfect for an afternoon stroll but not among the top choices for a swim. In the summer, Batsi is the right place for a night out in Andros, either for dinner or late-night drinks and dancing.

11. Mingle With Locals in Gavrio, One of The Most Authentic Places To Visit in Andros

Gavrio is the port of Andros Island. It used to be dark and melancholic in the past, but, in recent years, it has become a vibrant yet still laid-back spot. Its cafés and restaurants are decorated with taste, exuding a unique local feel and ambience. For magnificent photos, walk to the far left end of the port and keep your camera handy just as the ferry boat enters the port of Gavrio.

12. Marvel at The Tower of Agios Petros, One of The Best Things To See in Andros Greece

When it comes to Andros sightseeing, the Tower of Agios Petros is an essential stop. Boasting a unique strategic position, the Tower was built in the 4th or 3rd century BC. Most probably, its purpose was to control sea and land alike, thus protecting the island from potential invasions. Nowadays, the Tower is among the most popular attractions in Andros.

13. Catch Breathtaking Sunsets

Sunsets and sunrises are beautiful everywhere. However, there’s something special about sunsets in Andros. Watching the sun diving into the sea or hiding behind the mountains of Evia is quite a spectacle. The western part of the island enjoys the most stunning sunsets.

14. Party & Play at The Trendiest Beach Bars

Beaches in Andros are abundant and very diverse. Alongside the most secluded ones, some beaches know how to party. There are bars on most Andros beaches and some of them play loud music, serve fancy cocktails or even throw parties with guest DJs. You can party at Golden Beach, Agios Petros Beach, Piso Gialia Beach and Apothikes Beach to name but a few.

If you are into water sports, Andros is the right island for you, too. You can hire jet skis, windsurfing boards and many others at most beach bars. Yet, Kypri Beach boasts the largest selection of water sports on the island.

15. Enjoy The Best Island-Hopping Experience

Island-hopping is among the best things to do in Greece. Andros is the perfect base from where to explore other nearby Greek Islands. Its close proximity to Athens and the frequent ferry schedules during the summer months make Andros an island-hopping paradise.

Andros is connected to Tinos and Mykonos daily during summer. It also connects to several other islands, such as Paros, Naxos and Syros either on a direct ferry or with a connection.

Plan your island-hopping adventure and book your tickets here.

Andros Guide

Where Is Andros Island Greece

Andros is the northernmost and second largest island in the Cyclades complex in the Aegean Sea.

Best Time To Visit Andros

The island of Andros is the ideal summer destination. Its busiest month is August. However, unlike the majority of Greek Islands, not even then does Andros feel unbearably crowded. It is a very big and off-the-beaten-path island, which means that there is room for everyone even during the peak season.

That said, if you can avoid planning your Greece holidays in August, by all means, do so. Apart from being overcrowded, the Greek Islands in August are usually annoyingly windy, too.

Again, if hiking is the main reason you’re visiting Andros, you should plan your Andros holidays in spring or autumn to make the most of the mild temperatures.

How Many Days in Andros

If you’re wondering how long to stay in Andros, we’d say that anything less than a week wouldn’t do Andros justice, given the island’s size and its abundance of spectacular beaches and other attractions.

How To Get To Andros Island

Sadly, there is no connection between Andros Island and Piraeus, the main port of Athens, which is very easily accessible via public transport. Ferries to Andros depart from Athens’ smaller port, Rafina, instead. Rafina lies 25 kilometres east of Athens city centre. However, public buses connect Athens to Rafina Port. Click here for the Athens – Rafina Port bus timetable.

There is also a direct bus from Athens Airport to the port of Rafina. For timetables and more information on the latter, click here.

Ferries from Rafina to Andros are very frequent. The journey time is two hours each way.

How To Get Around Andros

Public transport in Andros will only get you from the port to the main towns, such as Batsi and Chora, and the most popular beaches in between. By far the best way to get around an island of this size and with so many hidden treasures waiting in its small villages is driving.

As in most Greek Islands, roads are winding and sometimes you have to drive on the cliff side or on a dirt road. There are no road lights at night so you need to be extra careful. Also, extra caution is needed if riding a scooter when strong winds blow. In fact, we don’t recommend scooters for getting around Andros. You’ll be better off – and safer – in a car.

You can rent a car at Gavrio Port once you get off the ferry. However, it’s best to book your car in advance just so you are on the safe side, especially during the high season when available vehicles run out fast. If you don’t feel like driving, but you’d still like to check out the best of the island, this full-day tour gets you to several points of interest.

Where To Stay in Andros Greece

Andros is a big island and where you choose to stay has to do with what you expect of your Andros holidays. If you’re driving, you have the freedom to stay anywhere you want, from laid-back farm stays to tranquil villas lost in olive groves.

However, if driving isn’t an option, perhaps the best accommodation choice would be near Agios Petros Beach. The latter is very close to Gavrio Port, it has a couple of fantastic places to eat and is only a short walk from some of the best beaches in Andros.

For nightlife lovers, Batsi would be the best choice. Still, don’t expect the club scene of Mykonos. Andros Island is a lot quieter yet irresistibly authentic. The majority of Andros hotels are in Batsi whose central location makes it an ideal base to explore the entire island.

That said, some of the best hotels in Andros are housed in neoclassical mansions scattered around Chora and you shouldn’t miss the chance to stay in one of those. For example, clad in an aura of nostalgia, Egli Hotel features spotlessly clean rooms with high ceilings.

If you’re looking for a more easy-going ambience without staying far from the architectural wonder that is Chora though, choose Anemomiloi Andros, a family-run hotel with smartly decorated rooms, a relaxing swimming pool and the kindest owners who will go out of their way to make you feel at home in Andros.

Find the best accommodation deals here.

Where To Eat & Drink in Andros

Chora & Around

• Fresco Juice & Salad Bar for the healthiest breakfast and brunch in Andros with plenty of options for vegans and vegetarians.
• Krisilias for the best handmade cheese pie.
• Platanos for a cup of coffee, a glass of beer or a big meze dish in the most picturesque setting and always served with a smile.
• Ta Skalakia for the best Greek Cuisine in Chora at super generous portions.
• Endochora for top-quality Mediterranean Cuisine prepared with fresh local products.
• NeoBar Andros for authentic Italian pizza and Aperol Spritz.
• Zairis is the dreamiest pastry shop in Andros. From superb handmade ice cream to delicious local sweets, whatever you try there will haunt you for life. Yet the indisputable star is the pastry chef’s signature cake. Don’t leave the island without trying the caramelised almonds and cherry cake.
• Patisserie Lygizos for delicious desserts, including the best almond pastry on the island.
• Votsalo Seaside Lounge on Gialia Beach near Chora is the epitome of beachside relaxation and a great place to spend an entire day.

Korthi Area & Around

• Sea Satin Nino serves exquisite Greek Cuisine with a twist and, although situated in remote Korthi Bay, it’s an essential stop for gastronomy enthusiasts.

Gavrio & Around

• Eftichia is an all-day hangout, popular with locals and visitors alike and particularly famous for its sweet and savoury treats.
• Laas Café is open all day for coffee, brunch, drinks, etc. But, if there’s one thing you should try there, it’s the mouthwatering Loukoumades (Greek-style doughnuts).
• Francesco for delicious pizza and pasta.
• Barkaroutsos for traditional Greek dishes.
• Hot Spot Pizza Bar on Agios Petros Beach is another top place for pizza lovers.
• Giannoulis on Agios Petros Beach is one of the best traditional restaurants on the island where you can taste authentic Greek food.

Batsi & Around

• Als opens early in the morning for coffee and brunch, but it’s at its best in the evening for a cocktail or two.
• O,ti Kalo in Batsi serves delicious pasta in a stylish setting with gorgeous views.
• Rodia for scrumptious pizza and pasta.
• Agios Kyprianos Restaurant on Agios Kyprianos Beach for homemade Greek food.

Please note that, if visiting outside the high season, perhaps some of these places won’t be open. Check in advance to avoid any disappointments.

We hope our list of the best things to do in Andros inspires you to add this extraordinary destination to your Greek Island itinerary. Before visiting Andros, you can watch Little England, a period drama that provides insight into the island’s maritime past and how it forged the very essence of the local society. Have a look at the trailer here.

We also hope that our Andros travel guide helps you plan the perfect trip to an island we know quite well. That said, if you still have a question or two, feel free to ask us anything in the comments. But if you decide that you need further help planning your trip to Andros, you can turn to the most knowledgeable locals, the amazing Explore Andros team. See you in Andros!

WORDS & EDITING: Maria
IMAGES: Katerina

Disclosure: Fast Ferries kindly offered us complimentary tickets to and from Andros for various trips between 2018 and 2019. In May 2021, the Cycladic Tourism Network invited us on a press trip to Andros. As a result, we’ve updated this article about the best things to do in Andros Greece with some of the places we visited during that particular trip.