Equidistant from Kos and Amorgos, Astypalea is an administrative island of the Dodecanese. Yet geographically and architecturally it belongs to the Cyclades.
Being relatively isolated, Astypalea is seldom visited by tourists. It’s an island we like, an authentic island with many points of interest: Astypalea, our top 10 things to do and see. Here are our practical tips for discovering and enjoying your vacation here.
How do I get to Astypalea?
The island is geographically remote from the other Dodecanese and Cycladic islands. It does, however, have an airport, making it more accessible.
Getting to Astypalea by plane
Astyaplea airport is 9 km from Chora, the island’s capital, and very close to Maltezana. There are several flights a week from Athens. The flight takes just one hour. To book, we recommend the AEGEAN flight comparator, which has the advantage of real customer service.
Beware, as flights are fully booked several weeks or even months in advance in high season.
Ferry to Astypalea
- From Athens
Astypalea is linked to the mainland by sea from Piraeus. The crossing takes around ten hours.
Our advice : for greater comfort, especially if you’re traveling with children, take a cabin even if your crossing is during the day.
- From other Dodecanese islands
It is also possible to reach Astypalea by flying to Kos or Kalymnos and then finishing the journey by ferry.
There are also sea connections to/from the islands of Nisyros, Tilos and Rhodes.
- From the Cyclades
Astypalea is linked by ferry to the Cyclades islands of Amorgos, Donoussa, Naxos, Paros and Syros.
Where to stay in Astypalea?
Astypalea has relatively few dwellings. So if you’re planning to come between July 15 and August 15, book your accommodation well in advance.
If you’re looking for a seaside atmosphere, Livadi is the place to be.
Personally, we prefer to stay in the village of Chora, which has the advantage of being central and offering a wide choice of restaurants and bars for the evening.
Pera Gialos is also a good choice, close to Chora but quieter.
Here are the hotels that we have personally tested or that have been recommended to us by friends:
- In Pera Gialos, the Hotel Paradisos, ideally located on the harbor and inexpensive.
- In Astypalea, you’ll love the Chrysalis Boutique Hotel , overlooking the port at the foot of the Chora. Cleanliness, service, designer comfort, privacy, magnificent views – it’s all there! Barbara, the host, is welcoming and takes care of everything (car rental, airport transfers, restaurant reservations, etc.). Yoga and massage available. However, to preserve the privacy of the premises, the hotel does not accept small children.
- We also liked the Kallichoron Art Boutique Hotel : ideally located in Chora. A warm welcome and, on request, pretty picnic baskets to take to the beach. Terraces with views of the Chora and Kastro. Family rooms.
- The Pylaia Boutique Hotel & Spa is a little out of the way, but a good one too: the terrace is magnificent. Good breakfast and nice restaurant in the hotel. A beautiful view from the terrace. Beautifully decorated in boutique-hotel style. Pleasant rooms with sea view.
You’ll find other great accommodations on the Booking site (direct link to the Astypaléa page).
How to get around?
To really discover the island, we recommend renting a car or scooter.
If you opt for a car, a word of advice: take a small 4×4, as some beaches are only accessible via tracks with slightly steep slopes.
We recommend the Rental cars website, which compares several local and international rental companies to get the best price. You’ll also find scooter, quad bike and bicycle rentals on site.
How long can I stay at Astypalea?
We recommend staying for at least 2-3 days. You can stay for a week or even ten days without getting bored, especially if you enjoy the pleasures of the beach.
What to do in Astypalea
What to see and do in Astypalea We share our favorites in our article Top 10 at Astypalea: great classics and off-the-beaten-track ideas.
Laure M.
