Why You Should Visit This Rugged Greek Island Paradise Known Only to Locals This Summer

What is Amorgos Known For?

A remote rocky island way out in the Cyclades archipelago, Amorgos Island is known for its rugged landscape, an amazing hillside monastery, filming locations in the movie “The Big Blue,” and a very quiet atmosphere. If you’re looking for a far getaway from the city, add Amorgos to your Greece island-hopping itinerary! 

Having explored eight Greek islands and gone on a beautiful road trip around Peloponnese over two months, I can say that Amorgos was the most out-there island choice I’ve been to.

In this travel guide to Amorgos Island, Greece, I will relay all the necessary information you need to plan the perfect trip. From the must-see attractions and activities to the best Amorgos beaches and trip logistics, I’ve got you covered. 

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Overview of Amorgos Island

Amorgos Island, located in the southern Cyclades, is shaped like a seahorse and is home to some of Greece’s most dramatically steep landscapes. The island has been inhabited since ancient times and is believed to have played a significant role in ancient Greek mythology. 

Why visit Amorgos?

If you’re into peaceful mountainous islands, a trip to Amorgos is an absolute gem for those who want a blend of relaxation and adventure. Imagine hiking through fragrant herb-filled paths, discovering ancient ruins, and cliff-jumping into azure waters.

Treat yourself to some Greek cuisine in the cute streets of Chora, catch breathtaking sunsets from the monastery, and join in community dances at traditional festivals. The tranquil vibe and warm hospitality make this island a great destination.

Where is Amorgos Located?

Amorgos is one of the larger islands located in the southern part of the Cyclades, east of the island of Koufonisia and north of Astypalea.

How big is Amorgos Island?

The island measures approximately 126 square kilometers and has a population of around 2,000 people. It has a rugged, mountainous terrain with steep cliffs. It’s highest peak, Mount Krikelos, rises to 821 meters above sea level. 

Things to Do in Amorgos Island

✅ Enter the Monastery of Hozoviotissa

As one of the best things to do in Amorgos, you can’t miss the Panagia Hozoviotissa Monastery. This incredible hillside monastery dates back to the 11th century and hugs the edge of a rocky cliff 300 meters over the Aegean Sea. The building stands 40m tall but only has a width of 5m. 

Hozoviotissa is the country’s second oldest monastery, built in 1017 as a tribute to the Holy Mother.

At certain times of the day, step inside and explore the monastery’s interior. Once you ascend the main stairs, it’s a labyrinth-like layout with a church, balconies, and living quarters. The walls are lined with portraits of monks and leaders, and the sweet smell of incense wafts in the air. 

The monks, who take care of this place, even hands everyone a shot of Raki, a local liqueur, and some loukoumis to try.

How to Get There

Chora village is just 2 kilometers away from the Hozoviotissa Monastery. You can spend some time at nearby Agia Anna Beach before heading to the monastery. 

Park outside the gates and climb the paved steps to the Holy Monastery. The hike should take around 20-30 minutes, but there’s also a longer route from the top if you’re up for it.

The opening hours of Hozoviotissa are from 8:00 to 13:00 and 17:00 to 19:00. You will not be able to enter at any other time. 

Before entering this religious space, they provide and require men to wear trousers and ladies to wear skirts. I got chided for wearing pants and had to change.

✅ Shipwreck of Olympia

The Shipwreck of Olympia is a giant, rusty attraction for divers and tourists to check out. This ship went down in 1980 and has found its final resting destination near the beach of Kalotaritissa.

The shipwreck appears in several scenes of the movie “The Big Blue” by Luc Besson. 

You can hop on a boat tour, take a 20-minute hike from the road, or dive to get up close.

✅ Best Beaches of Amorgos

Amorgos, being a pretty big island, has quite a few beaches scattered around. Of course, you can always head to the ones near your hotel or the ports, but here are some of the absolute best ones on the island.

1. Agios Pavlos Beach

Agios Pavlos Beach is located on the northern coast of Amorgos Island, between the two ports of Katapola and Ormos Egialist. This beach is special for its big snow-white pebbles and shallow waters. The island Nikouria lies in front of it, creating the scenery even more beautiful. 

Entry to the beach is free, but there are no amenities save for a small boat access landing strip. A few nearby hotels give you access to food and drink. 

2. Agia Anna Beach

Agia Anna Beach is a beautiful but tiny beach close to Chora and the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa.

The beach itself has three small, pebbled areas. The clear, calm waters are a great way to cool down, and the rocky surroundings add an adventurous touch for cliff jumping. Because of its size, Agia Anna Beach can get crowded, so go early to secure a good spot.

Right by the parking lot, there’s a little café that serves yummy pies and drinks. You can grab something there before heading down the steep stairs. There aren’t any facilities or drinking water at the bottom, so bring whatever you need from the café.

3. Mouros Beach

Situated 13 kilometers southeast of Chora and near the villages of Vroutsis, Mouros Beach is known for its turquoise waters, pebbled shores, and unique caves on the beach’s hillside. Massive rocks surround the beach, adding to its dramatic landscape.

Mouros Beach has become more popular in recent years thanks to improved accessibility. It even has a bus stop now! Plus, a safe descent with a staircase takes you directly to the sea.

Travel Tip! Check the weather forecast or ask the locals about the winds and sea conditions of Mouros Beach. We made the mistake of going on a day with the wrong forecast, and the waves practically swallowed up the beach!

4. Paradisia Beach

On the western coast of Amorgos Island, Paradisia Beach is characterized by its small yet beautiful sandy stretch with some pebbles and crystal clear waters. It’s one of the few sandy beaches on the island. 

5. Kalotaritissa Beach

At the southernmost tip of the island, Kalotaritissa Beach is a relatively long beach stretching along the coastline. It is easily accessible by car or public transport, and the parking lot is right at the beach.

The charming little bay boasts a soft sandy beachfront, a few trees for shade, and waters that beckon you for a refreshing swim. Many boats dock here that add to the scenery. 

There’s a little cafe with a couple of picnic tables right on the beach, and they also have sunbeds for rent.

✅ Wander Around Chora and its Windmills

Chora, the capital of Amorgos Island, is a traditional Greek village perched 350 meters above sea level and hidden behind mountains. Be sure to see the windmills that overlook the town. 

With around 400 inhabitants, you’ll love walking among the white houses and winding alleyways with vistas of the Aegean Sea. 

Chora has one main street with restaurants and bars open until later. If you hadn’t had enough of Greek food in Athens yet, I highly recommend Transistoraki Restaurant which had amazing goat with orzo and mushroom rissotto. 

✅ Hit the Hiking Trails

The entire island of Amorgos is basically a network of trails, with routes ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks.

Some of the most popular hiking trails (check Alltrails for more):

• Chora – Chozoviotissa Monastery – Aegiali: Long, mountainous route through Amorgos’ rural landscape
• Chora – Katapola: Trail through traditional Cycladic architecture
• Ormos Aegiali – Lagada – Tholaria Loop: Circuit hike through the upper villages above the port town 

Where to Stay in Amorgos Island, Greece

Since Amorgos Island is relatively large, you want to find accommodation near the attractions you plan to see.

Which town to stay in, Amorgos?

Amorgos Island has three main towns: Chora, Katapola, and Aegiali. 

• Chora: The island’s capital and has a vibrant vibe with its charming narrow streets and white-washed buildings in the middle of the island
• Katapola: A quaint fishing village with a smaller port, a few restaurants, and cozy cafes towards the south
• Aegiali: A bigger town with a sandy beach, plenty of restaurants, and more nightlife options, closer to the north

Best Hotels for Each Budget on Amorgos Island

Aliori Art Caves

⭐ RATING: 9.6 out of 10 Stars (130+ reviews) | $$$

Book a room at Aliori Art Caves Hotel to add an artistic flair to your Greek vacation. Opened in 2019, each room at this unique hotel is creatively designed, giving guests an immersive artistic experience. You’ll enjoy free private parking and a chill terrace amidst a serene garden. Kiriaki and Roberto, the amazing hosts, have received rave reviews for their warm hospitality.

Skopelitis Village

⭐ RATING: 9.6 out of 10 Stars (260+ reviews) | $$

Skopelitis Village Hotel is a lovely resort between Katapola and Chora. The hotel has a simple and minimal design, but each room is beautifully decorated. What’s great about Skopelitis Village Hotel is that the rooms are clean and spacious, more so than typical Greek accommodations. You’ll also get freebies like WiFi, self-parking, and a delicious buffet breakfast daily.

Galaxy Pension

⭐ RATING: 8.3 out of 10 Stars 750+ reviews) | $

The Galaxy Pension Hotel, just a 2-minute walk from the Aegiali port, is an affordable inn for travelers coming on those late-night ferry arrivals. It’s conveniently only 200 meters from the Aegiali beach and port – they even do pick-up service! 

While the rooms aren’t enormous, they also have a nice outdoor patio area and a buffet breakfast for just 7 euros. You’ll also enjoy free WiFi and self-parking during your stay.

How do you get to Amorgos Island?

Traveling to Amorgos Island is quite the journey as it is pretty far from the historical Athens. The journey involves either taking a ferry or flying to the nearest airport and then taking a ferry to the island. 

Booking your tickets in advance is recommended, especially during the peak season.

👉 Check Ferryscanner for the latest timetable and best ferry prices here!

Here are the details of how to get to Amorgos Island:

Travel Tip! Amorgos has two ports: Katapola and Aegiali. Both ports have passenger ferries connecting with Athens and other islands. So make sure you know which port you’re arriving and departing at!

By Air

Unfortunately, there is no airport on Amorgos Island. Flying to the nearby islands of Santorini, Paros, or Naxos will be your cheapest option. Depending on where you are, hop on a ferry to Amorgos.

There is also a small airport on the neighboring island of Astypalea, which has flights from Athens and other destinations in Greece. The flight is more expensive, but the ferry to Amorgos is cheap and takes just 1.5 hours. 

By Sea

The most common way to reach Amorgos Island is by taking a ferry. Check Ferryscanner for the latest timetables and the best prices. 

To reach Amorgos, there’s a daily ferry all year round from the main port in Athens Piraeus, onboarding at a few other islands along the way, like Paros and Naxos.

How long is the ferry from Athens to Amorgos?

The ferry from Athens (Piraeus Port) to Amorgos Island takes approximately 5.5-9 hours, depending on the type of ferry. The ferry companies that operate this direct route are Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways. 

How long is the ferry from Santorini to Amorgos?

The only direct ferry from Santorini to Amorgos Island takes approximately 1.5 hours with Seajets. Otherwise, you must transfer to Naxos, Paros, or Koufonisia. 

How long is the ferry from Naxos to Amorgos?

The ferry from Naxos to Amorgos Island takes approximately 1.5-5 hours, depending on the type of ferry. Daily ferries that operate this route are from Blue Star Ferries, Hellenic Seaways, and SeaJets. 

How do you move around Amorgos?

Amorgos Island is not a small island, so getting around can take some time. There are several ways to move around the island, including buses, taxis, and renting your own car.

Do you need a car in Amorgos?

Renting a car is the easiest way to get around Amorgos. Although the island has a reliable public transportation system, most attractions are far from the main towns and villages.

There are several car rental agencies on the island, and the price of renting a car starts at €25 per day, much cheaper than other islands like Mykonos or Santorini.

Alternatively, you can rent a scooter or an ATV, which can be a fun and affordable way to explore the island if you are only two people. Scooters and ATVs can be rented for around €15-€30 per day.

Best Time to Visit Amorgos Island

Amorgos Island is a year-round destination, but the peak season is the summer months of July and August when the weather is hot and sunny.

Although it never gets too crowded on Amorgos, it’s best to visit during the shoulder season from April to June and September to October if you prefer quiet and lower prices.

The weather can be unpredictable during the winter months, and some businesses may be closed, but traveling in the off-season months is much cheaper. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Amorgos Island, Greece

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth Going to Amorgos?

Amorgos is worth visiting if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway. The island has managed to maintain its traditional character, so it’s great if you’re after an authentic Greek island that goes beyond the usual tourist hotspots.

For those looking for adventure, explore the island’s many hiking trails, go diving, or take a boat tour to Nikouria island. The shipwreck of Kalotaritissa and the Monastery are also popular attractions.