Ferries to Amorgos, the authentic Cycladic island

The authentic island of Amorgos is located on the southernmost side of the Cyclades, close to Naxos. Amorgos is a peaceful island of wild beauty. Although there are valleys with fertile flora, the island’s landscape is mostly rocky and mountainous. Amorgos might be a small island, but it offers a lot of worth-visiting places, including scenic villages and nice beaches. The island of Amorgos also offers the chance for island hopping by ferry to other major Cyclades due to its central location.

In more recent years, it has gained in popularity, after scenes of the movie The Big Blue were filmed there. Tourism has increased, but the island has still kept its authentic character and traditional hospitality intact.

Villages

Rent a car or a bike to visit the wonderful traditional villages of Amorgos. The main village, Chora, set high up in the mountains, is a charming settlement. The traditional architecture, the quaint small pathways, and the impressive windmills are remnants of a past era that seems frozen in time. On top of an imposing rock stands a Venetian Castle constructed in the 13th century. In Chora, visitors will find few taverns and cafeterias and a handful of traditional stores with local products and souvenirs.

There are many other small villages around the island. Very beautiful is Tholaria village, which offers excellent views over the bay of Aegiali. Aegiali is a pretty village with magnificent beaches and several cafes and taverns. Katapola is also a lovely fishing village. Ferries to Amorgos arrive both at Katapola and Aegiali, the two main harbours of the island.

Beaches

Most beaches in Amorgos are tranquil, family-friendly, and not organized. They are either pebbled or sandy and can be accessed by foot. The most beautiful beach is Agia Anna, found beneath the Monastery of Hozoviotissa, the most important sight in Amorgos. You can take the hiking trail from the monastery and visit this secluded, wonderful beach with the crystal waters. Another nice beach is Agios Pavlos. There are also many isolated cliffs, where the waters are excellent for snorkeling.

What to see

The most important sight in Amorgos is the Monastery of Hozoviotissa. The monastery was founded in the 9th century high on the slopes of a rocky cliff and offers splendid views to the Aegean Sea. A hike around the island will also bring visitors to other interesting ancient sites and chapels. If you are in Amorgos on July 25-26th, do not miss the large cultural festival of Agia Paraskevi in Kato Meria village. Celebrations take place all day long and the locals cook traditional foods that are blessed by the priest and shared with all participants.

Ferries to Amorgos

Ferries to Amorgos depart from the port of Piraeus in Athens 3 times per week and the journey is quite long, ranging from 6 to 9 hours depending on the vessel. Access from neighboring islands, like Naxos, is easier. All year round there is a daily ferry operated by the ferry Express Skopelitis, connecting Amorgos to Naxos, Donoussa, Koufonissia, Iraklia, and Schinoussa. Ferries to Amorgos are also available from other islands of the Cyclades, such as Santorini, Milos, and Folegandros.