Chora Andros Greece: the stunning hidden Italian-Greek island you must visit
Chora Andros Greece is one of the most unique islands in all of Europe – it’s a bizarre Italian and Greek Island culture making something utterly unique!
Italy meets Greece thanks to the rich history here. You’ll walk through a town has all the classic Cycladic charm but the unexpected Italian architecture. That’s Chora! With its Venetian style mansions (think of the incredible facades of Venice!), and all those adorable Greek whitewashed houses, it’s got this very laid back vibe that’s completely irresistible. 🏛️🇬🇷
I like to personally think of Andros as a foodie island – there’s so much local food here that you wont find anywhere else in the world… wines, cheeses… it’s incredible!
And one of the best things is that it remains largely undiscovered – it’s off the beaten path without many tourists. Narrow alleys and cobblestone streets, bougainvillaea draped over balconies, and views that’ll make you feel like you’ve walked straight into a quiet postcard.
This one is a true hidden gem full of natural beauty!
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mini guide: Chora Andros Greece
Don’t have a lot of time? Here’s a quick mini guide to Chora in Andros, Greece
most beautiful Hotels
- Golden vista suites – infinity pools overlooking the sea are a fraction of the price of Santorini but just as beautiful!
- Micra Anglia Boutique Hotel literally right in the heart of town, the perfect base! It also gets bonus points for being a 5 star spa hotel.
Getting around andros
- Rent a car – book in advance so you don’t miss out!
- Book a private transfer
Best restaurants in town
- Endochora
- Micra Anglia
Best Tours in Chora…
- Luxury day cruise with drinks – idyllic way to explore these waters
- River trekking – Andros is known for incredible hikes!
- Best of Andros full day tour – an easy way to see all the highlights!
- Historic Monasteries visit – see the monks and holy men up in the hills
Stay connected
Purchase an eSim with Airalo on your phone – Use discount code A&M3 for $3 off your first purchase.
Chora itself juts out onto a peninsula which turns out is a beautiful walk through the old town.
Hotels in Chora Andros
The Golden Suites Hotel is a beautiful hotel just off the peninsula of Andros Town with infinity pools overlooking the sea that are a fraction of the price of some of the other islands like Santorini. Trust me on this; it’s worth staying here! It also overlooks one of the many beaches in Chora, so if you fancy a dip in the sea, it’s right there!
How to get to Andros
Getting to Andros is super easy – head to Rafina port and jump on a ferry for around £15.
Get a ferry!
- Athens (Rafina Port) to Andros: ~2 hours
- Tinos to Andros: ~1 hour
- Mykonos to Andros: ~2 hours
- Syros to Andros: ~1.5–2 hours
Top tip: Rafina Port is much smaller and less hectic than Piraeus, so it’s a breeze to navigate. You can grab a coffee or a bite to eat before you hop on the ferry. 🚢
If you’re relying on public transport, there are buses from central Athens (like near Victoria or Pedion Areos) to Rafina Port. Or, if you’ve rented a car, there’s parking available at Rafina, so you can leave your car behind if you want a pedestrian-only island adventure.
Pro tip: Book your ferry tickets in advance during summer or weekends—it can get busy!
Things to Do in Chora, Andros Greece🌊🍴
1. Endochora (Restaurant)
📍 Find it on Google Maps or their facebook page here.
Start your adventure with a meal at Endochora, a Mediterranean gem blending traditional Greek flavours with a modern twist. The seafood here is fresh and beautifully prepared, perfect for lunch or dinner in a relaxed, chic setting. Order the seafood linguine and the mixed dips and crudites to start with. Try their wine too from the Kourtesis Winery, it’s delicious!
2. Walking Tour of Chora
Explore the Chora peninsula on foot, it’s literally the most gorgeous place; wandering through narrow cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses and impressive Venetian style mansions. You’ll find plenty of cafés, boutique shops, a tonne of restaurants and spots steeped in history. A walking tour is the best way to discover Chora’s hidden gems and learn about its fascinating past.
3. The Old Fort (Andros Castle)
📍 Find it on Google Maps
Perched at the tip of the peninsula, Andros Castle is a slice of history waiting to be explored. Reachable via a stone bridge, the fort offers incredible views of the Aegean and a chance to step back in time. Don’t miss the nearby lighthouse for an Insta-worthy photo op.
I also don’t understand how the bridge was made – my recommendation here is don’t wear flipflops. I did, and climbing up this bridge is nearly impossible. Get some trainers on. It’s not too difficult to climb across but take it slow and be wary!
4. Micra Anglia boutique – Fine Dining restaurant
📍 Find it on Google Maps or their website here
This is one of my favourite things to do in Andros Greece. Eat! For a delicious fine dining experience, head to Micra Anglia, which is a restaurant in a boutique 5 star hotel. Expect gourmet versions of traditional Andros dishes; their greek salad is INCREDIBLE. Perfect for a special night out or a treat-yourself moment.
Order the gourmet courgette balls to start and the meatballs too! They also do seaside cooking class which I totally recommend (see below)!
5. Cooking Class at Votsalo
📍 Find it on Google Maps or their page is here
With the same chefs and team as Micra Anglia, try out the cooking class by the sea they do at Votsalo Seaside. Learn how to create authentic Andros dishes from scratch while soaking in stunning views of the coast. Rain or shine, it’s a fun and immersive way to connect with Andros’ food culture.
We were in their semi-outdoor kitchen on a gorgeous farm, surrounded by rolling hills and olive trees. Then—out of nowhere—it starts raining. It never rains on Andros, but honestly? It just made the whole experience quite fun 🌧️ We were cutting fresh veggies straight from the farm, and the rain just added this cosy, almost movie-like feel to everything.
We made stuffed vegetables packed with herbs and rice, fresh bread, creamy local cheese, and the highlight—a proper Andros-style omelette. It’s similar to a Spanish omelette but loaded with the island’s famous local pork sausage. Honestly, the flavours were insane. It felt so homely and authentic, especially with the sound of rain pattering on the roof. ☁️
6. Gialia Beach
After your cooking class, unwind at Gialia Beach – you might need to! We were as stuffed as the stuffed veg. This peaceful spot is perfect for a refreshing swim or simply relaxing with the sound of the waves (I did the latter). With its crystal clear cerrulean waters and serene vibes, it’s an idyllic place to relax.
7. Monastery of Panachrantou
📍 Find it on Google Maps
Tucked away high in the mountains, this monastery is a must-visit for its serene beauty and breathtaking views of the island. It’s an active monastery, so you’ll get a glimpse of traditional monastic life. The setting is peaceful and spiritual, offering a tranquil retreat from the bustling village. Think legends, myths and tales about appearing figurines and holy caves.
8. The Lighthouse of Chora (Tourlitis Lighthouse)
Tourlitis Lighthouse is one of the most unique and picturesque lighthouses in Greece. Perched on a rocky islet just off the coast of Chora, it looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. Accessible only by boat, it’s best admired from the shore or during a walk to the nearby Andros Castle ruins. At sunset, the lighthouse lights up the landscape, creating a magical photo opportunity and a moment you won’t forget.
9. Try a dessert only found in Andros
If you’re in Andros and have a sweet tooth (who doesn’t?!), head straight to Zairis Patisserie. It’s an absolute gem, and the one thing you must try is their Amigdalota. These little almond delights are totally unique to the island—soft, fragrant, and lightly dusted with powdered sugar. 🤍
We were also lucky enough to get a sneak peak of the behind the scenes of the chefs and owners making the pastries in action.
Zairis does other treats too (try their fresh ice cream), but trust me, amigdalota is the star. Grab a box to take home (if they make it that far). Pair it with a coffee while you’re there for the ultimate Andros experience. 🥰
10. Archaeological Museum of Andros
The Archaeological Museum of Andros is small but packed with fascinating finds. It’s in Chora, super easy to visit while wandering the main town. Inside, you’ll see everything from ancient sculptures to pottery and artefacts dating back to the Geometric and Roman periods.
The highlight? The Hermes of Andros, this gorgeous Roman-era replica of a statue by Praxiteles. It’s beautifully preserved and honestly so impressive up close. Also, don’t miss the mosaic floors—they’re stunning.
Even if you’re not a history buff, the museum’s manageable size and interesting displays make it an easy and worthwhile stop while exploring Chora on Andros Island. Plus, it’s a great excuse to escape the midday sun 😉
Weather in chora Andros greece
Andros has weather typical of the cycladic islands in Greece. Andros however is a lot greener than all the other Greek islands thanks to underground rivers, meaning that the grass is literally greener.
Most of the tourism facilities open from April onwards, over the winter season most restaurants shut down and hotels aren’t open.
Andros Weather in January
- Average temperature: 12°C (53.6°F)
- Average rainy days: 10
- Average daylight hours: 9.9 hours
- Average sunrise time: ~7:30 AM
- Average sunset time: ~5:30 PM
Andros Weather in February
- Average temperature: 12°C (53.6°F)
- Average rainy days: 9
- Average daylight hours: 10.8 hours
- Average sunrise time: ~7:10 AM
- Average sunset time: ~6:00 PM
Andros Weather in March
- Average temperature: 14°C (57.2°F)
- Average rainy days: 8
- Average daylight hours: 12 hours
- Average sunrise time: ~6:30 AM
- Average sunset time: ~6:30 PM
Andros Weather in April
- Average temperature: 18°C (64.4°F)
- Average rainy days: 7
- Average daylight hours: 13.2 hours
- Average sunrise time: ~6:00 AM
- Average sunset time: ~7:30 PM
Andros Weather in May
- Average temperature: 22°C (71.6°F)
- Average rainy days: 4
- Average daylight hours: 14.2 hours
- Average sunrise time: ~5:30 AM
- Average sunset time: ~8:00 PM
Andros Weather in June
- Average temperature: 26°C (78.8°F)
- Average rainy days: 2
- Average daylight hours: 14.7 hours
- Average sunrise time: ~5:30 AM
- Average sunset time: ~8:30 PM
Andros Weather in July
- Average temperature: 28°C (82.4°F)
- Average rainy days: 2
- Average daylight hours: 14.5 hours
- Average sunrise time: ~6:00 AM
- Average sunset time: ~8:30 PM
Andros Weather in August
- Average temperature: 28°C (82.4°F)
- Average rainy days: 2
- Average daylight hours: 13.6 hours
- Average sunrise time: ~6:30 AM
- Average sunset time: ~8:00 PM
Andros Weather in September
- Average temperature: 25°C (77°F)
- Average rainy days: 2
- Average daylight hours: 12.4 hours
- Average sunrise time: ~6:50 AM
- Average sunset time: ~7:30 PM
Andros Weather in October
- Average temperature: 21°C (69.8°F)
- Average rainy days: 5
- Average daylight hours: 11.2 hours
- Average sunrise time: ~7:10 AM
- Average sunset time: ~6:30 PM
Andros Weather in November
- Average temperature: 17°C (62.6°F)
- Average rainy days: 7
- Average daylight hours: 10 hours
- Average sunrise time: ~7:30 AM
- Average sunset time: ~5:00 PM
FAQs
1. What makes Andros different from other Cycladic islands?
Andros is greener than most Cycladic islands thanks to its underground rivers. It also combines classic Cycladic charm with unique Venetian-style architecture, giving it a mix of Greek and Italian vibes.
2. How do I get to Andros?
You can take a ferry from Rafina Port in Athens (around 2 hours). Ferries also connect Andros to neighbouring islands like Tinos, Mykonos, and Syros.
3. What is the best way to get around Andros?
Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the island. Private tours are also available for a more curated experience.
4. Is Andros a good destination for food lovers?
Absolutely! Andros is a foodie’s paradise with unique local dishes, wines, and cheeses. Try the Andros-style omelette with local pork sausage, stuffed vegetables, and desserts like amigdalota.
5. Are there luxury accommodations in Andros?
Yes! You’ll find beautiful hotels like Golden Vista Suites with infinity pools and Micra Anglia Boutique Hotel, a 5-star spa and fine dining spot in Chora.
6. What are some must-visit attractions in Chora?
- Andros Castle: A historical fort with stunning views of the Aegean.
- Tourlitis Lighthouse: A fairy-tale-like lighthouse perched on a rocky islet.
- Archaeological Museum: Packed with ancient artefacts and mosaics.
7. Is Andros crowded with tourists?
No! Andros remains largely undiscovered compared to Santorini or Mykonos. It’s perfect for travellers seeking a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience.
8. When is the best time to visit Andros?
Visit between April and October for the best weather. Most restaurants and hotels are closed in the winter.
9. Can I take a cooking class in Andros?
Yes! Check out the seaside cooking class at Votsalo Seaside, where you’ll learn to make traditional Andros dishes with fresh, local ingredients.
10. What dessert should I try in Andros?
Don’t miss amigdalota from Zairis Patisserie. These almond-based treats are unique to the island and pair perfectly with a coffee.
11. Is Andros family-friendly?
Yes, Andros is great for families with its relaxed pace, easy-to-navigate towns, and family-run restaurants. Beaches like Gialia are calm and safe for kids.
12. How much time should I spend in Andros?
A 3–4 day trip is perfect to explore Chora, nearby beaches, and enjoy some unique activities like cooking classes or visiting the lighthouse.
13. What’s the shopping like in Chora?
You’ll find boutique shops selling handmade goods, local olive oil, and unique souvenirs. Perfect for picking up something truly special.
14. Is Andros suitable for hiking?
Absolutely! Andros has well-marked hiking trails, many of which offer stunning views of the island’s lush landscapes and coastline.
That’s it! Please enjoy my other Europe travel guides!
