Where to stay in Folegandros , Chora, Karavostasi, Ano Meria & Agkali

If you're wondering where to stay in Folegandros, the short answer is: in Chora, if you want the magic of the square and the sunsets from the Kastro, in Karavostasi if you're arriving by late ferry or want a beach nearby, in Ano Meria if you're seeking peace and authentic life, or in Agkali if the island's most popular beach is your priority. Folegandros is small, so any choice you make won't cut you off from the other areas.

Geography and access to Folegandros

Folegandros is located in the Western Cyclades, between Sikinos and Milos, approximately 8 nautical miles from Santorini. The island has an area of just 32 square kilometres and a population of around 800 permanent residents, a number that multiplies in the summer. It does not have an airport; access is exclusively by ferry, mainly from Piraeus (a journey of 5-8 hours depending on the route and intermediate stops) or by high-speed ferry from Santorini (about 1 hour) and Naxos or Paros. The island's port is Karavostasi, on the southeastern side, from where buses and taxis transport visitors to Chora, built on a cliff about 3 km away. Chora is a declared traditional settlement, with the Kastro — a fortified complex of 13th-century houses — forming its historic heart. Ano Meria, to the west, is the most isolated and rural part of the island, with stone houses scattered among dry-stone walls, while Agkali, to the south, hosts Folegandros' largest organised beach. Getting around the island is easy with public buses connecting all areas, with a hire car or moped, or with boats that operate during the summer months to more remote beaches such as Agios Nikolaos and Katergo. The absence of mass tourism and the geomorphology with its cliffs plunging steeply into the sea have kept the island's character relatively untouched, making it popular with travellers seeking authenticity without sacrificing comfort.

Chora: the island's heart

Folegandros' Chora is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful capitals of a Cycladic island. Its four consecutive squares, with their bougainvillea and cafes, fill with people in the evenings, while the Kastro offers quiet alleyways and views of the Aegean. It's the ideal base for those who want food, moderate nightlife and easy access to hiking trails towards the church of Panagia.

Accommodation in Chora

1. Polikandia Hotel
A classic hotel at the entrance of Chora, with Cycladic aesthetics and a swimming pool. Suitable for couples who want comfort within walking distance of the square.

• Average cost: 140-190€ per night

2. Folegandros Apartments
Apartments in the centre of Chora, with a fully equipped kitchen and Aegean views. Suitable for families or groups who want autonomy.

• Average cost: 110-160€ per night

3. Solaris
A small hotel with a traditional style, a few minutes' walk from the main square. A good choice for travellers on a moderate budget.

• Average cost: 90-130€ per night

4. Aegeo Hotel
A family hotel with good value for money, rooms with a terrace and views of the surrounding landscape. Popular with repeat visitors.

• Average cost: 100-140€ per night

5. Pegados Villas
Villas with privacy and views, ideal for couples who want something quieter yet close to the centre of Chora.

• Average cost: 150-210€ per night

6. Themonies Luxury Suites
Luxurious suites with exquisite decor, appealing to couples who want a distinctive stay in Chora, without being too far from it.

• Average cost: 200-280€ per night

7. Kallisti Hotel
A hotel with consistently high ratings, close to the square, known for its service and breakfast.

• Average cost: 130-180€ per night

Karavostasi: the port of arrival

Karavostasi serves those arriving by late ferry or preferring to have a beach nearby. It is quieter than Chora, with a few tavernas at the port, and is a good option for those who want to avoid travelling to/from the port with luggage.

Accommodation in Karavostasi

8. Vrahos Boutique Hotel
Right on the seafront, with modern design and sustainable operating practices. Suitable for couples who want direct access to a beach and a peaceful environment.

• Average cost: 160-220€ per night

9. ANEMI Folegandros
A hotel on Karavostasi's main road, with comfortable rooms and easy access to the port. A good choice for those arriving or departing late at night.

• Average cost: 120-170€ per night

10. Alisideri Studios
Studios near the port, offering good value for money, suitable for short stays before or after a ferry transfer.

• Average cost: 90-120€ per night

Ano Meria: authentic country life

Ano Meria is the most isolated part of Folegandros, with scattered stone houses, windmills and traditional tavernas serving local cheese and meat. It suits those who want peace and contact with the island's agricultural tradition, with a car for easy access to the beaches.

Accommodation in Ano Meria

11. Aegean Balcony
An apartment with Aegean views, ideal for couples who want isolation and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of Chora.

• Average cost: 100-140€ per night

12. Lemon Tree Houses
Traditional houses in a quiet part of Ano Meria, with a garden and an authentic Cycladic feel. Suitable for those travelling by car.

• Average cost: 110-150€ per night

Agkali: the most popular beach

Agkali is the island's largest organised beach, with sun loungers, tavernas and easy access by bus from Chora. It is the best base for families and for those who want to spend their days by the sea without needing to travel.

Accommodation in Agkali

13. Blue Sand Boutique Hotel & Suites
Right on Agkali beach, with modern design and high guest ratings. Suitable for couples and small families who want direct access to the sea.

• Average cost: 180-250€ per night

14. Perigiali Rooms & Apartments Folegandros
Rooms and apartments a few metres from Agkali beach, with simple decor and good value for the location.

• Average cost: 100-140€ per night

Which area suits you

If it's your first time in Folegandros and you want to be close to food, cafes and life, Chora is the safest choice. If you're arriving by a late ferry or want a beach on your doorstep, Karavostasi solves the problem of transportation. Ano Meria suits travellers with a car who appreciate peace and quiet, while Agkali is ideal for families who want an organised beach. For comparison with other Cycladic islands of a similar character, see also our guides Where to stay in Sifnos, Where to stay in Ios, Where to stay in Amorgos and Where to stay in Schinousa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the best area for a first visit to Folegandros?

For a first visit, Chora is the most practical choice, as it gathers restaurants, cafes and is a starting point for most of the island's hiking trails.

Do I need a car in Folegandros?

It is not essential if you are staying in Chora or Karavostasi, as buses cover the main routes. However, if you want to explore Ano Meria and the more remote beaches, a hire car or moped makes things significantly easier.

How many days is it worth staying in Folegandros?

Three to four days are enough to see Chora, Ano Meria and the main beaches, without rushing.

Which is the best beach near Chora?

Katergo beach is the most impressive, although it requires a short hike or access by boat from Karavostasi. For easier access, Agkali is the most practical choice.

When is the best time to visit Folegandros?

May, June and September offer good weather without the large crowds of visitors in July-August, when accommodation prices are also lower.

How do I get to Folegandros from Athens?

The most common route is by ferry from Piraeus, lasting 5-8 hours depending on the route, or by combining a flight to Santorini and a high-speed ferry to Folegandros.