For other places with the same name, see Andros (disambiguation).

Andros is a large, mountainous island in the Cyclades, with beautiful beaches, monasteries and abundant water sources. It has active farming communities and villages, and three main towns/resorts: Gavrio (the port), Chora Andros (the main settlement, pronounced "Hora"), and Batsi (a resort).

Main settlements

The main settlements are:

• 

  Andros town

  Chora or Andros [Χώρα / Άνδρος] (the main town). This is a pretty town on a promontory, with a pedestrianized main street or parade, dotted on either side by neo-classical Venetian-style mansions, that runs down to the sea and a ruined Venetian castle on an islet at the end of the promontory. There are many shops, delicatessens, pastry shops, cocktail bars, cafés and tavernas along this street. An award-winning Museum of Modern Art is just off the main lower square. Divided in two buildings (one ticket gives access to both), it contains a fascinating permanent collection of modern sculpture and a temporary exhibition which is renewed each year. There is also an Archeological Museum. There are grocers and mini markets along the main street or side streets, and a couple of supermarkets out of town. The nearest supermarket is about 1km walk up the main street and then the main road to the right (past an old abandoned supermarket).
• Gavrio [Γαύριο]. This is the main port, where you will arrive if you come by ferry. All the car-hire outlets are located here. Most holiday-makers do not stay in Gavrio, travelling straight to Batsi or Chora on arrival (a bus is timed to depart shortly after ferry arrivals). However, Gavrio could be a useful base for exploring the north-west of the island, and there are two beautiful beaches within 2-3 km of the port.

• 

  Batsi, Andros island

  Batsi [Μπατσί]. This is the island's main beach resort. It can be reached with the same bus that serves Chora.
• Korthi Bay [Όρμος Κορθίου]. This is a seaside village, which contains a museum of folklore and a small harbour. From here you can access Ghrias Pidhima beach, and a number of picturesque hamlets in the surrounding area.

There are numerous other picturesque small villages that you can pass through or visit if you have transport. You will only find tavernas in areas where there are hotels.

Understand

Andros is the northernmost of the Cyclades islands. It is second in size after Naxos and is located between Euboia - which it is separated by the Cavo D'Oro (Cape Caphereus) - and Tinos island. It has mountains and fertile valleys blessed with verdant slopes full of citrus and olivetrees, waterfalls, mountain streams and numerous high quality water springs.

According to Greek mythology the island got its name from the first settler Andros, a hero descended from the Olympic gods. Other names were also used in the course of history: Hydroussa, Nonagria and Lasia, all homage to the rich flora and water springs found on Andros. It was during the Classical Age that Andros showed first signs of flourishing civilization with its capital at the site of present-day Paleopolis. The favored god was Dionysios with a great celebration in his honor where "water was turn to wine" taking place every third year the first ten days of January. In 133 BC Andros is taken by the Roman Empire and in 1270 passes to Venice and sees the construction of forts and towers, the Lower Fort in Chora being the most important and the Upper Fort in Kohilou. This period sees about 5 centuries of economic growth as it becomes an important centre of silk textile trade industry.

Get in

By sea

From the Greek mainland ferries and hydrofoil services run daily from Rafina and Lavrio. (Andros is not directly connected to Piraeus.) Andros is also connected by normal ferry to other islands, such as Mykonos (2 hours and a quarter), Paros (4 hours) and Tinos (1 hour and a half).

The main ferry services connect 1 Rafina port.  (updated Aug 2018) (5 km from Athens main airport) to the main island port of Gavrio. The distance is 37 nautical miles and the trip time is two hours. There is frequent and convenient every day service including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays (except Christmas Day and Eastern Sunday). The ferries are of closed type departing from Rafina in the morning hours between 7AM and 8AM while they return from Andros to Rafina at 3PM to 4PM. During spring and summer there are afternoon trips as well.

You may also reach the island by private helicopter which may land either at Gavrio or at Chora. There are private helicopter services at Athens which may be reached for such a trip.

The travel in the island can be done by:

• bus services connecting specific villages
• taxi services at Gavrio, Batsi, Chora, Korthi
• rent car services at Gavrio, Batsi or Chora
• rent motor bike or bicycle services at Gavrio, Batsi, Chora

You may also use your own car by transporting it via the ferries.

Useful phone numbers:

• Rafina Port Authority: +30 2294 028888
• Andros Port Authority, +30 2282 022250.
• Andros Bus Service +30 2282 022316,

The island is also connected by the ferry companies Alpha Ferries, Blue Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries, and Sea Jets catamarans, Hellenic Seaways with Tinos and Mykonos islands. Trip time to Tinos is 01:00 hours and to Mikonos 01:45 hours.

Get around

The island is quite large and unless you are visiting in cooler seasons with the purpose of hiking (see below), you will need motorized transport to get between the major settlements, to the more remote beaches, monasteries and to other sights.

Bus timetable for journeys between Gavrio and Chora Andros (August 2018)

There is a KTEL bus service linking Gavrio, Batsi and Chora Andros. Buses are mostly timed to depart shortly after the arrival of ferries in Gavrio. The cost is €4 from Gavrio to Andros (pay during the journey), and the trip takes approximately one hour. In Gavrio, buses depart from the port, directly opposite the disembarkation quay. In Chora, the 1 Bus terminal, ☏ +30 2282022316.  (updated Aug 2018) is a couple of streets south of the pedestrianized shopping parade, at the top end of town.

You can hire mopeds (and cars) in Gavrio. Mopeds can also be hired in Andros. Mopeds cost €20 per day, can carry two people (ensure you ask for two helmets), and are sufficient for accessing monasteries, springs, waterfalls and some beaches.

A taxi from Gavrio to Andros costs approximately €45.

By car

There are several car rental companies in Gavrio. In high season, advance reservation is essential, as there is very limited availability. It is possible to rent a car in Chora Andros, but there is even less availability than in Gavrio, and it is virtually impossible in high season. Prices start at €50 per day, but cheaper cars may not be adequate for driving on unpaved roads (required to access beaches such as Achla).

See

• 1 Lower Castle of Andros. The remains of Andros’ medieval castle occupy a rocky islet at the end of Chora, connected to the town by a narrow stone bridge. Built during the Frankish period and repeatedly damaged by conflict and weather, the ruins are modest but the sea setting and views back towards Chora are superb. (updated Jul 2026)
• 2 Tourlitis Lighthouse. Perched dramatically on a narrow sea stack just off Chora, Tourlitis is one of the most photographed landmarks in the Cyclades. The present lighthouse was rebuilt after the 1953 earthquake, closely following the design of the original late-19th-century structure; admire it from the waterfront or the Kastro bridge, particularly in late-afternoon light. (updated Jul 2026)
• 3 Museum of Contemporary Art, Basil and Elise Goulandris Foundation. A leading Greek art museum in Chora, known for major changing summer exhibitions as well as works from the Goulandris collection. It is an essential stop for visitors interested in modern art; check the current programme and opening hours before travelling. (updated Jul 2026)
• 4 Archaeological Museum of Andros. Also in Chora, this compact museum presents finds from across the island, including the ancient settlements of Palaeopolis and Zagora. It provides useful context before visiting Andros’ archaeological landscapes and is easily combined with the Museum of Contemporary Art. (updated Jul 2026)
• 5 Palaeopolis. The ancient capital of Andros lies on the west coast, roughly between Chora and Gavrio. Remains from the Classical, Hellenistic and Roman periods are scattered across a dramatic slope above the sea; look for the submerged ruins visible offshore as well as the archaeological museum on the main road. (updated Jul 2026)
• 6 Zagora Geometric Settlement. Near the east coast, Zagora is the excavated site of an important Early Iron Age settlement, occupied from around the 9th to 8th centuries BC. Its exposed stone streets, houses and sanctuary give a rare sense of an early Greek town; visit in cooler weather, as there is little shade. (updated Jul 2026)
• 7 Holy Church of Taxiarhis in Messaria. The Church of the Archangels (Taxiarchis) in the inland village of Messaria is one of Andros’ notable Byzantine churches, dating to the 12th century. Its stone architecture, dome and surviving decorative details make it a rewarding detour for visitors exploring the island’s religious heritage. Dress modestly and respect services or local access restrictions. (updated Jul 2026)
• 8 Panachrantou Monastery. High on the slopes of Mount Gerakonas, Panachrantou is one of Andros’ most impressive monasteries, with broad views across the island and sea. The fortified-looking complex preserves an important religious tradition; check visiting arrangements in advance and wear appropriate clothing. (updated Jul 2026)
• 9 Monastery of Agia Marina. A restored monastery in the mountainous interior, known for its tranquil setting and religious importance. It is a good addition to a drive through the island’s green valleys and villages, but is not a casual beachwear stop: modest dress is expected. (updated Jul 2026)
• Menites Springs and Watermills. The village of Menites is one of the clearest expressions of Andros’ unusually green character. Follow the lanes among springs, plane trees, old watermills and stone fountains; it is a gentle, shaded alternative to the island’s exposed coastal sights. (updated Jul 2026)
• Pythara Waterfalls. Near Apoikia, a short walk leads through a lush ravine to small waterfalls and pools. Water flow is strongest outside the height of summer, but the walk remains pleasant for its vegetation and contrast with the drier Cycladic coastline. (updated Jul 2026)

Do

Festivals

Numerous religious feasts used to be celebrated in Andros in the past. Each village would have a ceremony on its patron saint day, followed by a "greeting tour" of the village, where participants would be welcomed into the inhabitants' homes and offered a full meal including everything from sweets to fruit and tsipouro; celebrations would continue for much of the day. Nowadays, these festivities called "panegyria" are mostly organized by local 'cultural societies' and usually take place in the villages' square or on the church patio where locals and guests meet each other and enjoy the festivities.

Notable feasts include:

15 August: Ammoloxos church (9 km from Gavrion)

23 August, Varidi school (13 km from Gavrion)

Easter Monday Tromarchia (30 km from Gavrion)

27 July at St. Pandeleimon chapel at Katakilos

5th Friday of Lent (acathyst hymn) at the Church of Our Lady Theoskepasti in Chora

Beaches

Photograph of the main beach in Andros town, looking back at Andros

Many beautiful and unspoilt beaches await visitors in the northern part of Andros, most notable are Vlihada, Pirgos, Vitali and Zorkos. Lots of Athenian and young people swim and enjoy parties at Aghios Petros and Psili Ammos beaches.

Don't bother if you want to swim nude, there is no nudism on this island

If you have a 4X4 vehicle Ahla or Vori beaches on the north-east side of the island are excellent choices as well.

• 1 Batsi Beach. A sandy town beach in the centre of Batsi, with shallow water, cafés, tavernas and accommodation close by. It is a convenient choice for visitors without a car, though it can be busy in high season. (updated Jul 2026)
• 2 Golden Sand (Chryssi Ammos). One of Andros’ most popular sandy beaches, between Batsi and Gavrio. Fine sand, relatively sheltered water and organised facilities make it a strong all-round choice, particularly for families and windsurfing enthusiasts. (updated Jul 2026)
• 3 Agios Petros. Andros’ largest beach is a broad sandy stretch near Gavrio, with shallow water, parking, beach facilities and easy access by bus or car. It is exposed to strong winds, so check conditions before planning a swimming day. (updated Jul 2026)
• 4 Kypri Beach. A long sandy beach between Batsi and Agios Petros, with calmer water than some of Andros’ open north-coast beaches. Its road access, accommodation and beach services make it a practical alternative to the busier resort beaches. (updated Jul 2026)
• 5 Neimporio Beach. The town beach of Chora, within walking distance of the centre and useful for a quick swim before or after sightseeing. It is sandy, easy to reach and overlooked by the town’s handsome waterfront buildings. (updated Jul 2026)
• 6 Achla Beach. A beautiful, relatively wild beach on the northeast coast, backed by trees and a small river valley. Reaching it requires a rough road, hike or boat trip, so it is best suited to prepared visitors with suitable transport and supplies. (updated Jul 2026)
• 7 Tis Grias to Pidima Beach (Old Lady’s Leap). Near Korthi, this small beach is famous for the tall sea stack rising from the water beside it. The scenery is the main attraction; access involves a steep path, so it is not ideal for visitors with limited mobility. (updated Jul 2026)
• 8 Zorkos Beach. A large golden-sand beach in the northeast, with clear water and a dramatic, sparsely developed setting. The final approach includes unpaved road, but the scale and relative seclusion make the journey worthwhile. (updated Jul 2026)
• 9 Vitali. A broad beach of sand and pebbles below the northern hills, known for clear water and striking rock formations. It is reached by a partly gravel road from the Gavrio area; conditions are best on calmer days. (updated Jul 2026)
• 10 Fellos Beach. A long, peaceful beach north of Gavrio, with trees providing welcome shade behind the sand. Less developed than the main resort beaches, it is a good option for visitors seeking a relaxed swim without a difficult approach. (updated Jul 2026)
• 11 Ateni (Megali and Mikri Ateni) Beaches. Two neighbouring coves on the north coast, with sand, clear water and an unspoilt feel. The drive includes dirt road and the beaches are exposed to northerly winds, so choose a calm-weather day. (updated Jul 2026)
• 12 Vlychada Beach. A striking northern beach below steep, rugged slopes, reached by rough road and a short descent. Its wild setting appeals to independent explorers, but bring water, food and footwear suitable for uneven ground. (updated Jul 2026)
• 13 Halkolimionas Beach. A small, scenic cove on the south coast near Korthi, with clear water and rockier surroundings than the island’s big sandy beaches. A good choice for a quieter swim when the northern beaches are windy. (updated Jul 2026)
• 14 Paraporti Beach. A handsome, exposed beach immediately below Chora, framed by steep slopes and close to the Church of Panagia Theoskepasti. It is best for a quick scenic swim rather than a sheltered all-day beach outing, especially when the wind is strong. (updated Jul 2026)

Eat

Don't miss trying the local dairy products such as Volaki and Kopanisti cheese, as well as pork derivatives Louza and Sausage.

Sleep

• Perrakis Hotel, Kypri, 84501, ☏ +30 22820 71456, fax: +30 22820 71459. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. 3 star hotel. €55 and up. 
• Andros Prive Suites, Gavrio, ☏ +30 22820 72131.  
• 1 Mare e Vista Epaminondas Hotel, Batsi Andros, ☏ +30 2282041177, fax: +30 2822041681, marevistahotel@gmail.com. Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. This 4-star hotel offers beautiful views to the sea and the bay of Batsi village. It is 200 m from Batsi's main seashore and has a variety of air-conditioned apartments that can accommodate up to 6 people. There is a fresh water swimming pool and indoor parking. from 60 eur/day BB. 

Go next

Move on by boat to Tinos and to the other islands of the Cyclades.