Dodecanese
Astypalaia
Butterfly-shaped, white-washed, and virtually undiscovered — for now.
Getting around
Scooter friendly
Cost
€€€
In peak season
Quiet
Best months
May, Jun, Sep, Oct
From Athens
Flight or ferry
In pictures
Astypalaia
Astypalaia's butterfly shape — two halves connected by a narrow causeway — is the first surprise; the spectacular Chora is the second. A classic whitewashed Cycladic village crowned by a Venetian castle, it looks as if it belongs a hundred kilometres to the west in the heart of the Cyclades, yet here it sits in the Dodecanese, a geographical outlier that gives it a slightly displaced, otherworldly quality that becomes one of its charms. The beaches are excellent and quiet: Livadi is the most accessible; Tzanakia and Vatses require a scooter to reach and reward the effort. The island has been quietly discovered by an in-the-know crowd that returns every year, but remains refreshingly uncrowded relative to its beauty. Ferry connections are infrequent, which is both the obstacle and the point.
How it scores
- Beaches
- Nightlife
- Food
- Culture
- Nature
- Family
- Accessibility
- Value for money
The catch
Remote with infrequent ferry connections. Small accommodation options mean booking far ahead is essential.
Hidden gem
Have lunch at the windmills above Chora — homemade saganaki, view of the whole butterfly-shaped island.
Where it sits
Dodecanese, Greece
Astypalaia — frequently asked
- When is the best time to visit Astypalaia? +
- The best months to visit Astypalaia are May to October. It's very quiet, even in August, so even peak season is workable.
- How do you get to Astypalaia from Athens? +
- Astypalaia has an airport, so you can fly direct from Athens in under an hour or take the ferry.
- Is Astypalaia good for couples? +
- Astypalaia is one of the most romantic Greek islands — sunsets, candlelit tavernas, sea-view rooms.
- Is Astypalaia good for families with kids? +
- Astypalaia is a solid family option, though you'll want a car for the best beaches.
- Is Astypalaia expensive? +
- Astypalaia is affordable by Greek-island standards.
- Do you need a car on Astypalaia? +
- A scooter or ATV is the easiest way to get around Astypalaia. Buses cover the main routes but a scooter unlocks the quiet beaches.
- What's the catch with Astypalaia? +
- Remote with infrequent ferry connections. Small accommodation options mean booking far ahead is essential.