Andros holidays

How to reach Andros

• Flight time: Flights to Athens from London and other major UK airports take around 3 hours 40 minutes to 4 hours.

• Transfer time: Rafina Port is within a 30-minute drive of Athens International Airport. The ferry crossing to Andros (Gavrio Port) ranges from 1 to 2 hours. From Gavrio, it’s a 1-hour bus ride to the island’s capital, Chora (Andros Town).

• Price: Taxiing from Athens International Airport to Rafina Port will cost around €40; one-way bus tickets (KTEL Attikis) cost €4. Ferry ticket prices start around €25 (fares vary depending on the season and the ferry type). A one-way bus ticket from Gavrio Port to Chora costs around €5.

Best time to visit Andros

The key to finding the best time for your Andros holidays is to decide beforehand what you want to do and see and play a game of weather matching.

• April to June sees comfortable temperatures ranging from 18 to 26°C, 8 to 13 hours of sunshine daily and minimal rainfall. This is perfect weather for island treks and (on clear days) sunbathing; the sea will be bracing in April (hardy swimmers only), fresh in May, but pleasantly warm by June.

• July to August guarantees temperatures in the high 20s, next to no rainfall, and the arrival of boatloads of Greek holidaymakers. Expect several shops and restaurants to close across the island between 3 and 6 pm.

• September to October brings a drop in temperatures, 25 to 21°C, and 2 to 5 days of rainfall. These are pleasant months for swimming and outdoor activities. The island gets a bit more lively with the arrival of Athenian weekenders.

• November to March brings cooler temperatures (17°C in November, 14°C in December, hovering around 12°C for January and February, before returning to 14°C in March) and frequent rains. Daily sunshine is at its lowest, too, roughly 4 to 5 hours. With most tourist accommodations shuttering for the off-season, quiet is an understatement, but arguably, you’ll have a more authentic island experience.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Greek is the official language, but some locals can speak English.

• Currency: Greece is in the eurozone.

• Getting around: KTEL Andros buses are the main form of public transport, with routes connecting the major towns and some beaches. As an indication, a one-way ticket from Batsi to Chora costs around €5. Taxis are also readily available. For more independence, consider hiring a car (ideally one that can go off-road).

• Electricity and plug types: Greece operates on 230V at a frequency of 50Hz and uses two-pin C and F plugs.

• Time zone: Greece is in the Eastern European Time Zone, 2 hours ahead of GMT (3 hours ahead during Daylight Saving Time).

• Required travel documentation: UK citizens need a valid passport (issued less than 10 years before the entry date and valid for at least three months after the departure date) but don’t need a visa for stays up to 90 days in a rolling 180-day period.

Explore the stunning beaches on your Andros holidays

Andros, one of the lesser-known gems of the Cyclades, is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse beaches in Greece. Whether you're looking for secluded coves, family-friendly shores, or spots perfect for water sports, the beaches of Andros offer something for every kind of traveller. Here’s a guide to some of the top beaches you can explore during your Andros holidays:

• Agios Petros Beach: Located near the port of Gavrio, Agios Petros Beach is a long, sandy beach with shallow waters, making it ideal for families with children. The beach is well-organised with sunbeds and umbrellas, and there are several tavernas nearby where you can enjoy a meal or refreshment after a day in the sun. Its calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, making it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

• Golden Sand (Chrissi Ammos) Beach: True to its name, Golden Sand Beach boasts soft, golden sands and crystal-clear waters. This beach is a favourite among windsurfers and kitesurfers, thanks to the steady breezes that sweep across the bay. For those looking to relax, there are plenty of sunbeds and umbrellas available, and the beach’s proximity to Gavrio means you can easily combine a day at the beach with exploring the port town.

• Ateni Beach: For a more secluded beach experience, head to Ateni Beach on the eastern coast of Andros. This beach is split into two sections: one with pebbles and another with sand, both offering stunning views of the Aegean Sea. Ateni Beach is less crowded, making it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. The waters here are also great for snorkelling, with plenty of marine life to discover just beneath the surface.

• Vitali Beach: Tucked away on the northern coast of the island, Vitali Beach is a hidden gem known for its dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters. The beach is accessible via a dirt road, which adds to its secluded charm. Vitali Beach is a great spot for those who enjoy a more rugged and natural beach environment. The waves here can be a bit stronger, making it an excellent choice for more experienced swimmers and those looking for a little adventure.

• Zorkos Beach: One of the largest beaches on the island, Zorkos Beach is located on the northeastern coast of Andros. This sandy beach is surrounded by rocky hills, offering a stunning backdrop for a day by the sea. Zorkos Beach is well-suited for visitors who appreciate nature and tranquillity, as it is more remote and less developed than some of the other beaches on the island. The clear waters and natural beauty make it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the serene surroundings.

• Achla Beach: Achla Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Andros, accessible only by boat or via a challenging hike. This untouched paradise is famous for its white pebbles, emerald waters, and the nearby river that flows into the sea, creating a unique landscape. Achla Beach is ideal for those who seek adventure and prefer to explore the more off-the-beaten-path spots on the island.

Tips for enjoying Andros’s beaches

• Getting around: While some beaches on Andros are easily accessible by car or bus, others require a bit more effort to reach, often involving a hike or a boat ride. Be sure to plan ahead, especially if you’re visiting more remote beaches like Achla or Vitali.

• Sun protection: The Greek sun can be strong, especially during the summer months, so make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself while enjoying the beaches.

• Local dining: Many of Andros’s beaches are close to traditional tavernas where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local delicacies. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a leisurely meal with a view of the sea.

The beaches of Andros offer a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, making them a highlight of any visit to the island. Whether you’re looking to unwind on soft sands, explore hidden coves, or dive into crystal-clear waters, the beaches of Andros provide an idyllic setting for your Greek island holiday.

Local dishes in Andros

Expect to dine well on your holidays to Andros, from local cheese – Volaki, Analati, Armexia, Kopanisti, Petroti, Volaki – and charcuterie to traditional Greek dishes and desserts with an island spin.

Some typical dishes

• Froutalia: This pork sausage and potato omelette is hands down the island’s most famous dish.

• Lambropsomo: A festive bread usually made during Easter, filled with cheese and seasoned with spices and herbs.

Meze dishes

• Louza: An Andros speciality, cured and smoked pork sirloin sliced whisper-thin.

• Horiatiki: This classic salad features cucumbers, green peppers, red onions, olives and the island’s trademark creamy Volaki cheese.

Meat dishes

• Kleftiko: Slow-cooked lamb or goat marinated in garlic, lemon and herbs, then baked until tender. It’s a must-try for meat lovers visiting Andros.

• Lambriatis: The Easter dish of Andros, oven-baked lamb (or goat) stuffed with offal and herbs.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Bakaliaros Skordalia: Golden crispy cod fritters perfectly paired with a nutty, garlic-flavoured potato dip.

• Kakavia: A traditional fisherman’s soup with whole fish, vegetables and herbs.

Street food

• Loukoumades: Greek doughnuts drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon and nuts, making for a delicious street snack.

• Spanakopita: Spinach with feta cheese wrapped in crispy filo pastry, a staple of Greek street food available in bakeries and stalls.

Sweets and desserts

• Amygdalota: A traditional treat often served at celebrations, these almond-based cookies are ubiquitous throughout Greece. In Andros, they are typically flavoured with orange blossom.

• Kalitsounia: Lemony, cinnamony pastry parcels filled with cheese.

Local drinks

• Rakomelo (Pontzi): An island speciality combining blackberry raki with heather honey – best served hot.

• Tsipouro: Served with meze, this strong distilled spirit is made from grape pomace. It’s also the base for Andros’ signature apricot-flavoured (kaisi) liqueur.

Best things to do in Andros

With its mountainous beach-fringed coastline, waterfalls and forests, archeological sites, picturesque villages and cosmopolitan capital, holidays to Andros have something to offer all types of holidaymakers.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Monastery of Panachrantos: Set into the mountainside above Chora, this beautifully preserved monastery offers sweeping vistas over the town and the Aegean Sea.

• Trypes Cave: On the island's north side, on Zorkos Beach, the views from the sea-facing holes are genuinely out of this world.

The best districts

• Chora: Built by shipping magnates, Andos’ capital is home to a cluster of neoclassical mansions, marble-paved streets, a world-class art museum, independent shops, tavernas and patisseries.

• Batsi: Forming an amphitheatre around the bay, this charming fishing village is known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beach.

Parks and gardens

• Waterfalls of Pythara: A tranquil green oasis a short walk from the village of Apoikia – as long as you’re not expecting Niagara Falls, you won’t be disappointed.

Museums

• Archaeological Museum of Andros: Located in Chora, this museum houses Geometric, Classical and Roman artefacts. Highlights include a magnificent statue of Hermes and ancient inscriptions.

• Museum of Contemporary Art Andros: Very well curated, the gallery showcases the work of 20th-century Greek and international artists, including Michael Tombros.

Historical monuments

• Kato Kastro: Situated at the tip of the headland and linked to Chora by a stone-arched bridge, this medieval Venetian castle is little more than a ruin but incredibly picturesque.

• St Peter’s Tower: This ancient slate-built watchtower in Gavrio dates back to the Hellenistic period. It’s a fascinating site for history buffs and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Day trips in the area

• Tinos: A short ferry ride from Andros, laid-back Tinos is known for its picturesque villages, beautiful beaches and the famous Church of Panagia Evangelistria.

• Rafina: On the mainland, Rafina offers a bustling port atmosphere with numerous seafood restaurants and cafés.

Activities for families in Andros

Holidays to Andros have loads to offer outdoorsy and museum-going families.

• Family-friendly beaches: Andros boasts several family-friendly beaches with soft sand and gently shelving shallow water, ideal for young children; for instance, Batsi Beach, the nearby beach bars and restaurants make it easy to spend a whole day by the sea.

• Museums: Housed in a restored mill in Pitrofos, the Cyclades Olive Museum provides an immersive experience. It covers everything you could want to know about the production process of olive oil. It’s undoubtedly niche but genuinely enjoyable.

• Boat trips: Discover Andros from the sea with a boat trip around the island. These excursions often include stops at secluded beaches and coves, where you can swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.

Free things to do in Andros

For those looking to explore Andros on a budget, there are plenty of free things to do and see, whether visiting archeological and cultural sites or attending a festival.

• Beaches: Spend the day at one of Andros' beautiful beaches, like the partially organised Korthi Bay. Ignore the creature comforts, and you won’t have to spend a cent.

• Cultural sites: Churches and monasteries are scattered across the island, such as the Church of Agios Georgios in Chora. These offer a glimpse into the island’s religious history and, more often than not, stunning views.

• Annual festivals: Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the International Festival of Andros (held at the end of July and early August) presents a varied programme of musical and theatrical performances in Chora. Most events require a ticket, but there are exceptions.

• Archeological sites: On the southwest coast, a 45-minute hike from Stavropeda, the open-access archeological site of Zagora dates to the 10th century BC.

Wellness in Andros

• Spas and thermal baths: Many hotels and resorts in Andros, such as Micra Anglia Boutique Hotel and Spa in Chora, feature luxurious spas offering a range of treatments, including massages, facials and hydrotherapy sessions.

• Traditional body care: Experience traditional Greek wellness practices with treatments using local ingredients like olive oil, honey and herbs.

• Yoga and meditation centres: Several wellness centres and hotels offer outdoor yoga and meditation classes. Onar Andros, near Achla Beach, hosts retreats organised by various holistic centres and yogis.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: Andros is renowned for its extensive network of hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The 100km Andros Route runs the length of the island from north to south.

• Windsurfing: Buffeted by the Meltemi winds, Andros is a fantastic location for windsurfing. Wesurfin’, based at Kypri Beach on the western coast, offers rentals and lessons.

• Scuba diving: Andros has plenty to offer divers, with excellent visibility and no end of intriguing dive sites along its coast, including wrecks at Korthi Bay and near the port of Gavrio. Based in Gavrio, Scuba Andros offers PADI courses, fun dives and scuba (and snorkelling) boat trips.

• Mountain biking: Whether it’s mountain trails or coastal routes, Andros is tailor-made for cyclists. GR Cycling will deliver bikes anywhere on the island.

• Bird-watching: When not wintering in Madagascar, Eleonora’s falcons can be spotted around Andros.