Amorgos: A paradise for nature and history lovers

Amorgos is one of Greece's lesser-known islands, but it will be etched in your memory forever if you give it a chance and visit. It is a relatively large island belonging to the Cyclades complex, with just 2,000 inhabitants. It is a long and slender island, almost 50 km long from north to south and only 10 km wide from east to west.

A different and very unique island with the most impressive old town in the Cyclades. The landscape also offers stunning views from any point on the island, with towering mountains rising above the sea. Amorgos doesn't have the crowds you find on other islands, which makes it stand out.

What is Amorgos famous for?

Amorgos is known for its wild landscape, a stunning monastery clinging to the mountain, being the filming location for "The Big Blue", and the prevailing tranquillity everywhere. If you're looking for an escape from city noise, Amorgos should be your choice for this year's holiday.

Overview of Amorgos island

Amorgos, an island in the Southern Cyclades, boasts an impressive seahorse-like shape and is home to some of Greece's most rugged landscapes. Inhabited since ancient times, Amorgos is believed to have played a significant role in ancient Greek mythology.

Why visit Amorgos?

If you enjoy serene mountainous islands, then Amorgos is an absolute treasure for those seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. Imagine walking through fragrant herb-filled paths, discovering ancient ruins, and leaping from cliffs into crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Enjoy Greek cuisine in the picturesque streets of Chora and the magical sunsets from the monastery, and don't miss the traditional festivals. The calm atmosphere and warm hospitality make this island an excellent destination.

A Special Destination: Amorgos

Amorgos, an island with particular charm and the most impressive old town in the Cyclades. Its landscape offers unique views, with high mountains embracing the sea. It is an island less crowded than others, which makes it unique in my experience.

How to get to Amorgos

Amorgos is not an easy destination to reach, but that is also its beauty. It's not as bustling and has a smaller population. Nevertheless, during the summer months, there are plenty of ferries serving the island. Typically, you'll need to take a ferry that stops at Naxos, with Seajets and Blue Star Ferries offering daily routes to the island. Through Travelo.gr, you can find cheap ferry tickets to Amorgos, with all companies operating routes!

There are no airports on Amorgos, but there is a helipad.

Two Ports in Amorgos: Aegiali and Katapola

Amorgos has two functional ports: Aegiali and Katapola. Both are charming towns with restaurants, hotels, and vehicle rental shops.

Visiting Amorgos Chora

Chora of Amorgos was the medieval capital of the island. It is one of the most beautiful old towns in all the Cyclades, with an authentic appearance and verdant streets. Wandering through its narrow alleys is like being in a fairy tale. Here you will find many restaurants, bars, and cafes to enjoy traditional cuisine and local hospitality.

By day, Amorgos is a quiet and calm destination, without many people strolling the streets. But on summer nights, the town comes alive, filling with visitors enjoying the best restaurants in Chora.

There are also small pathways worth exploring, with more cafes, traditional white houses, and doors painted in vibrant colours like blue, green, and red.

Don't miss visiting the Venetian castle located atop a rocky hill. You'll enjoy a unique view of Chora, the sea, and the surrounding mountainous landscape.

Amorgos is famous for having the tallest mountains after Naxos and Paros. The big difference is that Naxos's highest peak is in the island's interior, while Amorgos's seem to emerge directly from the sea. This contrast is what makes this island stand out.

Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa

This is the most impressive sight you can see in Amorgos. The Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa should be much more famous than it is. This ancient monastery, built more than a thousand years ago, is perched on a mountain slope hundreds of metres above the sea, overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean. Its white facade is clearly visible from the horizon. The architecture of this monastery is breathtakingly impressive.

The monastery is near Chora and is an absolutely essential destination to visit. Don't miss it!

History of the monastery

The monastery was built approximately a thousand years ago when monks fled persecution in Palestine and found refuge in Amorgos. The island's inhabitants allowed them to build the church, which began construction in the 9th century. Initially, the monastery started to be built near the ocean, close to where the icon of the Virgin Mary had been found. However, every day the builders went to work, they found that what they had built the previous day had been mysteriously destroyed by nature. This happened for a few days until the master builder found his tools hanging from a nail on the rock above. This was considered a miracle and a sign from the Virgin Mary to continue construction at this particular spot. Funding for the monastery's construction often ceased, and it wasn't until 1088, when Emperor Alexios Komnenos of the Byzantine Empire learned there was an unfinished monastery on Amorgos, that he sent the necessary funds and it was finally completed.

In total, it took 250 years to complete the construction of this monument!

As you walk towards the monastery, from the entrance of the Monastery, you can discover the beauty of the church. There are many paved steps you will need to climb, enjoying the magnificent sea view. It is not a difficult route and takes approximately 15 minutes to reach the top. Once you reach the entrance, you can visit the monastery for a quick tour inside. To enter the monastery, you must be modestly dressed, otherwise, you will need to cover yourself with clothes provided there for this purpose.

As you enter the monastery, you will go upstairs where the abbot will offer you cool water, a lokum, and rakomelo.

Overall, a very impressive experience!

The Beaches of Amorgos

Next, visit the beaches of Amorgos. Although it doesn't have the best beaches in the Cyclades, Amorgos boasts several beaches worth visiting.

Agia Anna Beach

After visiting the monastery, head towards the famous Agia Anna beach, where the church featured in the film "The Big Blue" is also located.

The view is impressive and the waters have a wonderful turquoise colour.

Mourous Beach

Mourous beach is one of the best in Amorgos with many beautiful caves and offers stunning views. It is located in the southeastern part of the island and is easily accessible by car. It is one of the island's most beloved beaches and perhaps the most frequented.

Levros Beach

This beach, located near the town of Aegiali, is arguably the best on the island, though it's not as well-known as you'll mostly encounter locals, despite it being a vast sandy beach with crystal-clear waters.

The Olympia Shipwreck in Amorgos

After the famous Hozoviotissa Monastery, the Olympia shipwreck is perhaps the only other must-visit spot on the island.

It is located near the southwestern tip of the island and is a huge freighter that capsized on the shore of the bay. It reminds me of the shipwreck at Navagio Beach in Zakynthos, although it's not as perfect or blue.

The ship sank in 1980 when the crew encountered strong winds. They tried to steer it away, but failed and brought it into Liveros Bay. Fortunately, the entire crew was rescued.

To see it, you'll need to walk a short distance from the car park, but it's well worth the effort for the photos and the view!

Tavernas and cafes in Amorgos

Amorgos, like all Greek islands we've visited, offers excellent Greek food. In Amorgos, you'll find the same amazing food at very good prices! The best restaurants are located in Chora, and they are always packed from late afternoon until late at night. Amorgos Chora is an ideal destination for food, drinks, and entertainment.

Transistoraki is one of the highest-rated and most recommended restaurants you'll find. It's located right on the main strip of Chora's restaurants and serves some of the best Greek food the island has to offer. Transistoraki is a meze-style restaurant with all the Greek delights I'm accustomed to. Their pork neck and octopus dish was absolutely delicious.

When is the best time to visit Amorgos?

Amorgos is the easternmost island in the South Aegean. The climate in the Cycladic islands is roughly the same. It enjoys a mild and pleasant climate all year round. During the summer months, temperatures are higher, around 30 degrees during the day and dropping to about 24 at night. Days are usually sunny for many months. The shoulder seasons from September to November and April to June are also quite pleasant, but you will see some cloudy and rainy days, although it's still not too bad. Winter months or off-season are usually colder, but temperatures never really drop below 10 degrees. These months between November and March are the slowest months and tourism usually stops. So when is the best time to visit Amorgos? It really depends on what you're looking for. If you want endless hot sunshine, then you should visit in the summer. These are the best months for swimming in the ocean, as water temperatures will be pleasant at 24 to 25 degrees. However, this is also when all of Greece and the rest of Europe also choose to visit Greece, so crowds will be at their peak. Prices will be highest between June and September (particularly in July and August).

Where to stay in Amorgos

Amorgos is a large island with few inhabitants. There aren't many accommodation options compared to other Cycladic islands like Naxos or Paros. In Amorgos, you'll find a few hotels, but mainly traditional guesthouses.

Most accommodation options are concentrated around the two main port towns, Katapola and Aegiali. There are some guesthouses in Chora as well, but choices are limited. If you don't plan to stay in Chora, I recommend choosing accommodation near the port to save time and money!

Getting around Amorgos

Amorgos, like many other Cycladic islands, is ideal for adventures. Taxis are available, but they are not cheap and don't always serve immediately. If you're staying in Chora and just want to get to the nearest beach, a taxi is sufficient, but for more freedom, you can alternatively rent your own transport.

Amorgos is large, so if you're not a fan of scooters, you can rent a car, especially if you plan to cover long distances.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amorgos

What is Amorgos known for?

Amorgos is an incredibly beautiful island in the Cyclades. It is known for its impressive landscape with high mountains and its views of the Aegean Sea. One of its remarkable spots is the Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa, one of the most impressive you will ever encounter.

How many days do I need in Amorgos?

Amorgos can be explored in 2-3 days, but we recommend at least 3 nights to fully enjoy the island. If you want to relax at beach clubs, Amorgos is not the best choice. However, if you are looking for authentic Cycladic charm, then it is the ideal place.

How long does the ferry trip from Athens take?

From Athens, the journey to Amorgos takes approximately 7 hours by ferry, with a stop in Naxos. You can also fly to Naxos or Mykonos and then take the ferry to Amorgos. Make sure you choose the correct port (Aegiali or Katapola) for your arrival!

What is the best time to visit Amorgos?

The tourist season in Amorgos starts from Easter and lasts until the end of September. July and August are the busiest months, but you will never experience the excessive crowds found on other Cycladic islands. For us, the best time is May, June, and late September when the crowds have thinned out and the weather is excellent.

Amorgos, with its beauty, traditional character, and welcoming atmosphere, is a destination that will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.

Discover its picturesque beaches, ancient monuments, and traditional settlements, while tasting local flavours and enjoying the authentic hospitality of its inhabitants. Experience the magic of Amorgos and surrender to its unique rhythm, leaving behind unforgettable experiences and memories.