The 8 things to do in Astypalea

Do you want to enjoy the beauty and calm of the Aegean Sea? Embark on Astypalea, one of the Dodecanese jewelry!

Astypalea (or Astypalée) is a dream destination in the heart of the Aegean Sea. Rattachée at the Dodecanese, this small butterfly-shaped island has preserved its authenticity and magic thanks to the weak development of its tourism. Today, only Greeks and well-informed travellers benefit from its beauty. But what is it possible to visit Astypalea?

During your stay, you will be charmed by its traditional charm, its reliefs and monuments with varied architectures. Your walks will lead you to the old port of Pera Gialos and the Venetian castle that dominates the entire island. Unless you prefer to relax on Livadi Beach or venture into the surprising Dragon Cave.

Are you still wondering what are the most important things to visit in Astypalea? Here's our selection!

1. The Venetian castle of Astypalea

Visit Astypalea passes through the discovery of Querini Castle. Perched at the top of the Chora, this dark stone Venetian castle contrasts with the white walls of the surrounding houses. Unique in the islands of the South Aegean, the building developed on the ruins of the ancient acropolis.

His nickname comes from Giovanni Querini and Giovanni Querini Zanachi IV, respectively responsible for the construction (XIIIth century) and the completion of the castle (1413). This former home built in local stone was deserted from 1830, when the threat of piracy ended. He was completely abandoned in 1948. Since then, he has been receiving curious travellers.

Inside the castle, do not miss the churches of the Virgin Mary (1853) and Saint Georges (1790), two monuments whitewashed with lime with beautiful stone bells. Note that the monument also offers a wonderful view of the island and its surroundings. This is the best spot to watch sunsets of Astypalea.

2. The beach of Livadi

No way to visit Astypalea without stopping on one of its beaches! The most famous is the charming village of Livadi, 1.5 km from Chora. Located only twenty minutes’ walk from the largest city of the island, it is perfectly suited to sportsmen and lovers of farniente.

Very organized, this large beach of fine sand and pebbles is bordered by lush vegetation: tangerine trees, orange trees, vines... A location that offers shade to holidaymakers when the sun grows in intensity.

In this exceptional setting composed of flowered houses and small cafes equipped with tamaris, you can also practice many water sports (car, diving...) without emptying your wallet.

If you prefer the secret beaches with landscaped spaces, you will also find your happiness. From Livadi, discover the beach Tzanaki , Moura , Papou or that of Agiou Konstantinou .

3. The Archaeological Museum of Astypalea

What to do in Astypalea to better understand her story? Dispatched in his archaeological museum of course!

Inaugurated in 1998, this small educational space is located in a room offered by the Association de Charité Ecclésiastiques d’Astypalea. It houses and exposes all the finds made on the island, treasures whose origins range from prehistoric times to medieval times.

Inside the archaeological museum, you can discover a collection articulated around ceramic vases, jewelry and bronze and stone tools from the tomb of a Mycean tomb (protohistory). The rest of the visit will consist of votive ornaments of the fourth century before our era, silver coins of the classical period, vases of the Roman period and many other treasures.

This is an exciting stop for those who want to visit Astypalea in a pedagogical way and learn more about her past.

4. The old port of Pera Gialos

The ancient main port of the island has preserved its magic and authenticity. Located at the bottom of the Chora, it provides fishing and pleasure harbour functions. With its lively cafés and fresh fish taverns, it is the most dynamic place on the island!

To immerse yourself to the maximum atmosphere of the port, the best thing is to settle on one of its terraces. From your chair you can admire the enchanting charm of this bay dominated by the imposing Venetian castle and picturesque houses.

If you want to escape on the nearby islands of Astypalea such as the desert and magnificent Koutsomitis and Kounoupa, you will find the right boats in the port of Pera Gialos.

5. The Dragon Cave or Dracospilia

At the end of the island, northeast, there is a place full of charm named Vathi . If you are looking for an atypical outing idea to do in Astypalea, this is the place that will guarantee you this escape!

Similar to a lagoon, Vathi is composed of two small, isolated and almost deserted villages, Exo-Vathi and Messa-Vathi. The first has a small pier dedicated to mooring the seculars, traditional rustic boats of the Mediterranean basin, while the second is surrounded by fields and vineyards.

It is in this enchanting setting that you will find the Dragon Cave or Dracospilia. Accessible on foot or in a boat, this rocky formation has a magical setting decorated with stalactites and stalagmites. An impressive show that deserves a detour, even if it is made difficult by the relief of the places.

6. The Flevariotissa Monastery

The monastery of Flevariotissa is 6 km from Chora, in an area called Agios Ioannis (Saint John). Pittoresque, the whitewashed church is built on steep hillsides and it houses a remarkable iconostase Byzantine wood carved. It has the particularity of being partly built in a cave, a frame that offers it a unique silhouette.

If you want to visit Astypalea in winter, know that the monastery serves as a place of celebration every year on February 2. On this occasion, the population gathers around traditional dances, food and wine.

Close to the monastery of Flevariotissa, you will find orchards, boiling water sources, a beach and the ruins of the old castle.

7. The Kafenio Mouggos

The Kafenio Mouggos is listed in the most beautiful cafés in Greece! For many tourists, visiting Astypalea goes by a stop on its pretty terrace. Located at the foot of Chora, the hotel attracts the attention of all the curious thanks to its typical atmosphere of the 1950s.

It also serves as a point of fall for gourmet premises that come to enjoy its delights. When you pass, take the time to test a orzo accompanied by dishes served in mezzé , you'll leave the belly full and full. On the decor, the owners taped the walls of the café of photographs that tell their story and that of the island. A disappointing setting that offers a window in the past.

8. Local specialties

If you want to charm your stomachs with local specialties, stop in one of the Astypalea taverns. Renowned for its honey, fish and lobsters, the island has a fantastic gastronomy.

In addition to the excellent local cheese, Astypalea's pastry and cookers offer cheese leaflets ( Pugia ) and paximadis saffron and milk (Greek bread similar to a cookie). You can also enjoy dishes made of lentils ( ardista ) and lamb stuffed with rice and liver ( Umbriano ). The most greedy people will also be afraid of them xirotiganas , pastries sprinkled with honey.

How do I get to Astypalea?

The authenticity of the island of Astypalea was preserved thanks to its positioning outside the beaten paths. To reach the destination, two ways are possible:

By plane

Every day since Athens a flight of 50 minutes allows to connect the Greek capital and the island of Dodecanese. It is essential to reserve its place in advance. To know the prices, don’t hesitate to take a look at a flight comparison such as Skyscanner .

By boat

Astypalea is 8:30 a.m. from the port of Piraeus, the largest seaport in Greece. Once arrived on site, it is recommended to rent a car or a two-wheel drive due to the relief of the island and the weakness of its public transport.

Where to stay in Astypalea?

Thanks to the beautiful sunshine of the island, visiting Astypalea is interesting from spring to autumn! To make the most of your stay, it is best to book accommodation close to the main points of interest of the destination.

For this reason, Pera Gialos and Livadi appear as the best options. The first is home to most of Astypalea’s accommodations and has quick access to the castle, the port and the rare distractions of the island (bars, shops), while the second is close to its family beach.

Before you book and in order not to miss any offers of the moment, think to compare prices and neighborhoods on one Compare hotels . You can also find accommodation offers on Airbnb . On average, approximately 85€ for one night.

Just fill your bags!