Visiting Amorgos: Everything You Need to Know

Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades, Amorgos Island is a hidden gem among the Greek islands, boasting picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local culture.

Known for its stunning beaches and captivating scenery, Amorgos has become a sought-after destination for travellers seeking an authentic Greek island experience.

The island is brimming with natural beauty and charm, featuring charming villages, elegant architecture, and warm, welcoming locals.

Visiting Amorgos allows travellers to immerse themselves in the island’s tranquil atmosphere, as they explore winding roadways, historic monasteries, and crystal-clear waters.

With a range of outdoor activities, delicious dining options, and luxurious accommodation to choose from, Amorgos promises an unforgettable Greek island escape for those looking to leave the beaten path.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or planning your first Greek island adventure, Amorgos is a must-visit destination, waiting to be discovered and admired.

Getting to Amorgos

Air Travel

Amorgos Island does not have its own airport. However, you can still reach the island via air by booking a flight to a nearby island with an airport, such as Naxos or Santorini. From there, you can catch a ferry to Amorgos.

• Naxos airport – Domestic flights from Athens
• Santorini airport – Domestic and international flights

Ferry Options

After reaching a nearby island with an airport or if you’re directly arriving by sea, you can take a ferry to Amorgos. Ferries operate from various locations, including the port of Piraeus near Athens and other islands in the Cyclades.

• From Piraeus: There are daily ferry connections from Piraeus to Amorgos, usually taking about 7-9 hours, depending on the ferry type (fast or conventional) and the route.
• From neighboring islands: You can find ferry connections to Amorgos from other Cyclades islands such as Naxos, Paros, and Santorini, as well as from the Dodecanese islands. The timetable and frequency may vary depending on the season and the specific island you are travelling from.

It is advised to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the peak summer season, to ensure your preferred travel dates and times.

Where to Stay

Amorgos Island, a treasure of the Cyclades, offers a variety of accommodation options for travellers looking to indulge in its beauty, culture, and hospitality. Popular places for lodging include hotels, guesthouses, villas, and apartments. Each of these categories provides visitors with unique experiences catering to their preferences and budget.

Hotels

Hotels on Amorgos Island range from budget-friendly options to luxurious establishments. A notable hotel is the Aquapetra Hotel located near Ayios Pavlos beach, which combines modern facilities with the beauty of stone-architecture.

Other hotels in Amorgos can be found in popular areas like Katapola and Aegiali. When searching for hotels, consider factors like proximity to attractions, type of accommodation, and guest reviews.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are an excellent choice for travellers seeking a more intimate stay, often experiencing the warm hospitality of the local people. These accommodations are typically more affordable than hotels and are found across the island. Some guesthouses even offer amenities such as shared kitchens, living spaces, and private bathrooms to make your stay comfortable and convenient.

Villas

If you’re looking for more privacy and autonomy during your trip to Amorgos, renting a villa might be the ideal option for you. Villas provide more space, making them perfect for families or larger groups of travellers.

They also frequently come with private outdoor areas like gardens, terraces, and swimming pools. Villas are available in various locations on the island, allowing you to choose one close to the attractions you wish to visit.

Apartments & Flats

Apartments and flats provide an excellent opportunity for visitors looking for an affordable and flexible accommodation option. These rentals are often self-catering, allowing you to prepare your meals and follow your schedule. They can be found in the main towns of Katapola, Aegiali, and Chora, among others, providing easy access to the island’s highlights.

Remember to book your accommodation well in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the peak tourist season. Evaluating your needs and preferences while using reliable sources will help you find the perfect lodging option for your Amorgos getaway.

Exploring Amorgos

Amorgos, a stunning island located in the Cyclades Greek island group, offers a fantastic array of attractions and sights for every traveller. The island is known for its dramatic landscape, charming Chora, and crystal-clear waters.

Top Attractions

One of the top attractions on Amorgos is the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, a striking architectural wonder built on a cliffside overlooking the Aegean Sea. Another must-visit is the island’s picturesque main village, Chora, where whitewashed houses grace the narrow streets, providing visitors with an authentic Greek island experience.

Beaches

Amorgos has several beautiful beaches for travellers to explore and enjoy. Agia Anna Beach is a small, rocky beach with calm waters perfect for swimming and cliff-jumping. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Kalotaritissa Bay is the perfect destination, reputed as Amorgos’ loveliest beach.

Historic Sites

The island of Amorgos boasts several historic sites for travellers interested in learning about its history and culture. The Ancient City of Arkesini is an archaeological site featuring remnants of ancient buildings, whereas the Tower of Gavras is an impressive Venetian monument located within Chora.

Local Cuisine

Amorgos offers a delightful variety of local and traditional dishes that allow visitors to experience the authentic flavours of this Greek island. Seasonal ingredients and fresh seafood are combined with age-old recipes passed down through generations, offering an unforgettable culinary experience.

Restaurants

TranzisToRaki is a beautifully decorated room in the busiest alley in Chora (tel: 0030 698 882 0049). The restaurant prides itself on its delicious Greek delicacies made from carefully selected ingredients cooked with creativity. Consider trying some of their signature dishes like sardines, cheese, and veal risotto.

Aegiali Hotel & Spa features a splendid breakfast spread that includes homemade jams and other local delicacies for guests staying at the hotel (Aegiali village). It’s a great way to start your day and immerse yourself in Amorgos’ local flavours.

Traditional Tavernas

Loukaki Ksana is a traditional Cretan taverna that serves fresh, delicious food in a charming setting. It has earned rave reviews for its dishes, making it a must-visit spot on your culinary journey through Amorgos.

Ston Pyrgo is another excellent choice for a traditional taverna experience. Here, you can discover the local specialties like stuffed goat and pork cooked in a ceramic pot. To quench your thirst, try the excellent house wine or the local rakomelo, a sweet-flavoured alcoholic drink.

In addition to these restaurants and tavernas, it’s common to find seasonal mountain greens called “chorta” on the menus of many Amorgos eateries. Chorta can be served with oil and lemon as a side dish to accompany meat or fish dishes and is an essential part of the local diet.

Outdoor Activities

Visiting Amorgos, an enchanting island in Greece, offers a variety of outdoor activities for all types of travellers. Below are some of the most popular activities you can partake in during your stay.

Hiking Trails

Amorgos boasts numerous picturesque hiking trails for all skill levels. Trekking through the island’s diverse landscape offers stunning views, historical sites, and an opportunity to immerse yourself in the untouched natural beauty. Some of the most notable trails include:

• Chora to Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa: This 1.5-hour hike leads to an extraordinary cliffside monastery and offers panoramic views of the sea.
• Katapola to Aegiali: This 4-hour trail passes through traditional villages and lush valleys before reaching the serene Aegiali Bay.

Remember to wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and be prepared for varying terrain when setting out on a hiking adventure.

Scuba Diving

With crystal clear waters and a rich marine life, Amorgos is an ideal destination for scuba diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. Dive sites around the island cater to divers of all levels, boasting shipwrecks, underwater caves and vibrant coral reefs. Some notable dive spots include:

• The Big Blue: Featured in the movie ‘Le Grand Bleu,’ this site offers a variety of dive depths and stunning underwater landscapes.
• Nikouria Reef: Located near Aegiali, this reef provides a colourful underwater experience and a chance to spot various fish species.

Local dive centres offer rental equipment, guided dives and certification courses for those new to the sport.

Day Trips

Amorgos’ captivating beauty, coupled with its nearby islands, makes it an excellent base for day trips:

• Boat trips around Amorgos: Explore hidden coves, remote beaches and local fishing villages by joining a guided boat tour. This allows you to experience the island from a different perspective and learn about its history and traditions.
• Nearby islands: Venture beyond Amorgos to discover neighbouring islands such as Naxos, Koufonisia, and Donoussa. Each island boasts unique attractions, pristine beaches and charming villages worth exploring.

Remember to check the weather and boat schedules when planning your day trip, and don’t forget to bring your camera to capture unforgettable memories.

Useful Tips and Information

Currency

In Amorgos, as it is part of Greece, the official currency is the Euro (€). It is advisable to have some cash on hand for small expenses, such as bus fares and snacks, while credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Weather

Amorgos has a typical Mediterranean climate, which means hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The best time to visit Amorgos is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny. The average temperature during these months ranges from 25 to 30°C, with occasional heatwaves. If you prefer cooler temperatures and don’t mind some rain, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April or October.

Local Customs

It’s essential to be aware of some local customs to ensure a smooth and respectful visit to Amorgos.

• Greetings: A simple “hello” in Greek is “Yassou” (Γεια σου) in informal situations or “Yassas” (Γεια σας) for formal occasions. It is polite to greet locals in their language, although most people on the island do speak English.
• Dress code: While casual clothing is acceptable in most public places, it is important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, such as monasteries or churches. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, while men should wear long trousers.
• Tipping: In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is usual if the service charge is not included in the bill. For smaller services like taxi rides, rounding up the fare to the nearest Euro is a common practice.

Remember to be respectful and mindful of the local culture, and enjoy your visit to Amorgos!

Frequently Asked Questions

How to reach Amorgos?

Amorgos can be reached by ferry from Athens and other nearby islands. The island has two ports: Katapola and Aegiali. The journey from Athens may take around 5-7 hours, depending on the type of ferry and weather conditions. You can check ferry schedules and book tickets at ferryhopper.com or other online booking platforms.

Top activities in Amorgos?

Some top activities to do in Amorgos include:

• Visiting the Panagia Hozoviotissa Monastery, built on the side of a cliff
• Exploring the picturesque Chora, the capital of Amorgos
• Taking a boat tour to Nikouria Island
• Visiting the Kalotaritissa shipwreck
• Hiking the numerous trails across the island

Best beaches on Amorgos?

Amorgos is home to several beautiful beaches. Some of the best ones include:

• Agios Pavlos
• Mouros
• Levrosos
• Psili Ammos
• Kato Kampos

Remember that some beaches may be more remote and require a hike or boat ride to reach.

Chora Amorgos highlights?

Chora, the capital of Amorgos, is a charming village with notable highlights:

• The 13th-century Venetian Castle offers stunning views of the island
• Walking through the narrow, white-washed alleyways
• Visit the local folklore museum
• Explore numerous picturesque churches and local shops

Car required on Amorgos?

While a car isn’t strictly required to explore Amorgos, it can be useful for covering greater distances and visiting more remote areas. Alternatively, you can rent a scooter or rely on public buses and taxis for transportation.

Recommended Amorgos restaurants?

Amorgos has numerous restaurants and tavernas where you can enjoy delicious local cuisine. Some recommendations include:

• To Limani tis Kyra Katina in Katapola
• Chora’s Captain Dimos for seafood dishes
• To Patatato in Aegiali, known for their traditional Amorgian dishes
• Tranzistoraki in Chora for their Greek meze and local wine selection