Amorgós holidays

How to reach Amorgos

Getting to Amorgos from the UK requires a little planning, as the island doesn’t have an airport. Typically, travellers fly to Athens and then take a ferry to Amorgos.

• Flight time: Flights to Athens from London Heathrow and other major UK airports take around 4 hours. British Airways, Aegean Airlines and easyJet provide regular services.

• Transfer time: From Athens Airport, you’ll need to reach Piraeus Port, which is about a 1-hour drive away. Ferries from Piraeus to Amorgos take around 7–9 hours, but faster high-speed options are available, as are speedier connections through Naxos.

• Price: The X96 bus and the metro from the airport to the port cost €6–€10 per person. The ferry from Piraeus to Amorgos costs €35–€70 one way, depending on service type. Taxis from Athens Airport to the port are around €50–€60.

Best time to visit Amorgos

Amorgos, with its scenic beaches and traditional villages, is delightful in any season, but timing your visit to suit your sightseeing and weather preferences can make a difference.

• April to June: is always a good time to visit. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 17 to 23°C, low rainfall and up to 11 hours of sunshine each day. This is a good time for hiking.

• July to August: is the high season when Amorgos is most vibrant. Expect daily highs of 28°C, minimal rain and a busy atmosphere as locals and summer tourists enjoy the beaches and cafés. Ferries and accommodation may fill up, so book early if you’re planning to visit at this time.

• September to October: offers warm autumn weather without the peak crowds. Temperatures range from 24°C in September to 20°C in October, with slightly more rainfall but still plenty of sunshine (around 8 hours daily).

• November to March: is winter – quiet and cool, with temperatures between 10 and 15°C, making this a good time to explore the island. However, many hotels and restaurants close. Rainfall is higher (60–80mm monthly), but there are still plenty of sunny days.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: Amorgos is laid-back, and people follow a slower pace. It’s customary to greet shopkeepers and locals with a friendly ‘Kalimera’ (good morning).

• Currency: Greece uses the Euro. ATMs are available in Katápola, Aigiáli and Chora.

• Getting around: The local bus system operates between Katápola, Chora and Aigiáli, with tickets around €1.80 per person per journey. For more flexibility, car rentals are available in larger towns. Alternatively, kaiki boats offer trips to nearby beaches.

• Electricity and plug types: Greece uses the European two-pin plug. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Amorgos operates on Eastern European Time (EET), 2 hours ahead of GMT.

• Required travel documentation: UK travellers don’t need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date.

Best things to do in Amorgos

With its rugged beauty, ancient monasteries and crystal-clear waters, there’s something for every traveller to enjoy during their Amorgos holidays. Here are some highlights:

Historical monuments

• Monastery of Hozoviotissa: This 9th-century monastery, perched on a cliffside above the Aegean, is an iconic sight. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it houses an icon said to have been brought from Palestine. Visitors should note that a modest dress code is required.

• Agios Georgios Valsamitis: Built on the site of an ancient oracle, this small monastery near Hora is charming and historically fascinating. Once a hub for prophecy and water divination, the monastery now features frescoes and artefacts.

• The Venetian Castle: Overlooking Hora, this small 13th-century fortress offers a panoramic view of the town and the surrounding landscape. It’s an ideal spot to capture the scenic charm of Amorgos and well worth it if you’re a photographer.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Hora: The island’s capital, Hora, is a labyrinth of winding streets, traditional Cycladic houses and centuries-old churches. The hilltop location also provides sweeping views of Amorgos and the sea beyond and is especially atmospheric at sunset.

• Aegiali Bay: Visitors can admire Aegiali Bay and its turquoise waters from the surrounding hills. Hiking paths around the area lead to some of the island’s best and most spectacular vantage points.

Beaches

• Agia Anna: Known for its appearance in the film The Big Blue, this picture-perfect beach near Hora is famed for its clear waters and rocky setting. It’s also perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

• Aegiali Beach: Located near Aegiali village, this sandy beach is lined with tavernas. It’s ideal for families, with shallow waters for safe swimming and nearby amenities.

• Mouros Beach: This more secluded beach offers crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, and rocky outcrops good for snorkelling. A nearby taverna provides refreshments during the summer months.

Day trips in the area

• Nikouria Islet: Take a short boat trip from Agios Pavlos to the tiny, uninhabited islet of Nikouria. With pristine beaches, this is a great escape for a day of swimming and sunbathing.

• The shipwreck at Liveros Bay: For a more unusual day trip, travellers can visit the wreck of the Olympia, which has been partially submerged and rusting away in Liveros Bay since the 1980s. It’s an eerie but fascinating attraction for divers and photographers alike.

Activities for families in Amorgos

Amorgos is a family-friendly destination with a range of activities for both children and adults to enjoy.

• Beaches: Aegiali and Katapola beaches are excellent family-friendly spots with safe, shallow waters and easy access to food and drink amenities. The calm bay of Aegiali is especially popular for its sandy shores.

• Boat trips: Family-friendly boat excursions are available from Katapola and Aegiali to nearby islands, including the unspoilt Nikouria Islet. These trips often include snorkelling and beach stops.

• Hiking: With easy-to-moderate hiking options suitable for families, Amorgos offers trails with scenic views. The trail between Potamos and Tholaria, near Aegiali, is a favourite and offers the chance to see rural village life and local flora.

• Local events: Various festivals occur across Amorgos in summer. Village festivals, for example, are always fun and offer a glimpse into traditional Greek culture – with music, dancing and local foods for families to enjoy.

Free things to do in Amorgos

Exploring Amorgos doesn’t have to cost a small fortune. There are a good number of free and low-cost activities available.

• Free events: During summer, Amorgos hosts a range of traditional festivals celebrating local saints and customs. The Panagia Festival in August is a highlight, featuring live music, dance performances and delicious festival food.

• Church visits: Many of Amorgos’ churches, including Agios Georgios Valsamitis, are open to the public free of charge. These historic sights offer beautiful architecture, frescoes and a peaceful setting to help visitors appreciate the island’s religious heritage.

• Free guided hikes: Various organisations offer free guided hikes on Amorgos, covering trails that explore the island’s beautiful landscapes and hidden paths. Many of these guides also work on a tips-only basis.

• Exploring Hora: The capital of Amorgos, Hora, is a well-preserved Cycladic town. Wandering its narrow streets, with their traditional whitewashed houses and bougainvillaea-draped courtyards, is an enjoyable and free activity that immerses visitors in local life.

Beaches in Amorgos

Amorgos, one of the more peaceful and untouched islands of the Cyclades, is home to some of Greece’s most beautiful and serene beaches. With crystal-clear waters, dramatic landscapes, and a mix of sandy and pebbled shores, Amorgos offers a variety of beaches perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat or a refreshing swim in the Aegean Sea.

Agia Anna Beach

Agia Anna Beach is one of the most famous beaches on Amorgos, thanks to its stunning setting and crystal-clear waters. This small sandy beach, framed by steep cliffs, is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing while taking in the breathtaking views. Agia Anna is also known for its proximity to the iconic Agia Anna Monastery, which adds to its charm and tranquillity. It’s a perfect spot for those who want to escape and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the island.

Aegiali Beach

Aegiali Beach is one of the longest and most popular beaches on Amorgos, located in the charming village of Aegiali. The beach is a mix of golden sand and pebbles, with shallow, calm waters that make it ideal for families, swimmers, and those looking to relax. The beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a selection of beach bars where you can grab a drink or snack. Its central location makes it an excellent choice for those staying in Aegiali, offering easy access to the village’s shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Levrossos Beach

Levrossos Beach is a hidden gem on Amorgos, offering a peaceful atmosphere and stunning turquoise waters. The beach is relatively quiet, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a day away from the crowds. With soft sand and clear water, Levrossos is great for swimming and relaxing in the sun. The beach is located near the small village of Katapola, offering a calm retreat in a picturesque setting.

Mouros Beach

Mouros Beach is one of the more secluded beaches on Amorgos, accessed by a steep, scenic path. This small pebble beach is perfect for those who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Amorgos in a more private setting. With its clear waters, Mouros is ideal for snorkelling and swimming. The dramatic cliffs that surround the beach make it one of the most photogenic spots on the island, offering visitors a tranquil and picturesque beach experience.

Kalotaritissa Beach

Located near the northern tip of Amorgos, Kalotaritissa Beach is a small, peaceful spot perfect for those seeking solitude. The beach is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including rocky hills and the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. Kalotaritissa is ideal for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the serene surroundings. This secluded beach is perfect for visitors looking for a quiet day of sun and sea.

Amorgos offers some of the most serene and unspoilt beaches in the Cyclades. Whether you’re looking to relax by the calm waters of Agia Anna, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Aegiali Beach, or escape to the secluded shores of Levrossos or Mouros, the island’s beaches provide a peaceful retreat. For those looking to experience the true beauty of the Aegean, Amorgos is an ideal destination for a relaxing beach holiday.

Local dishes in Amorgos

One of the great pleasures of holidays to Amorgos is sampling the island’s unique and traditional Cycladic cuisine. Known for its wholesome ingredients and flavoursome combinations, here’s a taste of what to expect during your culinary tour of Amorgos:

Some typical dishes

• Fava: A smooth, creamy purée made from yellow split peas, usually garnished with olive oil, onions and capers. It’s a popular starter served with bread.

• Xerotigana: A traditional pastry made by frying thin, coiled dough strips and then drizzling them with honey and sesame seeds. It’s a tasty snack often served during celebrations.

• Patatato: This is a slow-cooked stew of goat meat and potatoes in a tomato sauce flavoured with herbs. It’s a hearty dish found in many local tavernas, particularly in the village of Hora.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Marinated octopus: Freshly caught octopus is marinated and then grilled, giving it a tender texture and smoky flavour. It’s a staple dish at seaside tavernas and pairs wonderfully with ouzo.

• Salted fish: Preserving fish with salt is an old Cycladic method. Typically served with bread and olives, it’s a popular meze best enjoyed with a splash of lemon juice.

Sweets and desserts

Amorgos is famous for pasteli, a sweet and energising bar made from sesame seeds and honey. Another popular treat is loukoumades, small doughnuts drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon or crushed nuts, often served at village festivals.

Local drinks

• Psimeni raki: Amorgos’ signature spirit, this flavoured raki is infused with honey, cinnamon and cloves, creating a warm, aromatic drink that’s typically served as a digestif.

• Herbal teas: Amorgos boasts a rich variety of wild herbs and herbal teas are widely enjoyed. Many of these infusions are made from local mountain herbs and are said to have health benefits.