Astypalaia is unlike most Dodecanese islands. Instead of the typical long sandy beaches dotted with sun umbrellas, the island has coves and secluded beaches that require a car to reach.
The main town, Chora, evokes the feel of the Cyclades. Small cubic houses and narrow streets lined with churches make up the charming village.
It’s a great place to take photos
Located in the western Dodecanese Islands, Astypalaia is a picture-perfect Greek island. It has a centuries-old history, whitewashed villages, and sun-drenched beaches. The highlight of the island is its Venetian castle, which offers stunning views and a glimpse into the past.
The best way to explore the island is by car. You can rent a car from most of the hotels and rental companies in the capital, Chora. This will allow you to explore the entire island at your own pace and take photos of the scenery. The island also has a bus service and taxis, but if you want to enjoy the sights at your own pace, a car is the best option.
Exploring the Venetian Castle of Astypalaia is a must-do activity during your visit to the island. It’s an impressive structure that is made of dark stone and towers over the dazzlingly white old town (Chora) of Astypalaia. It was built by the noble Querini family after the siege of Constantinople (Istanbul) in 1204. It used to be a refuge for the locals against pirate invasions.
The Venetian castle is a beautiful place to photograph, especially at sunset. You can even find a few serene beaches in the vicinity of the castle, such as Maltezana and Sxinontas. While these beaches are not the typical long stretches of beach with sea umbrellas, they offer some natural shade and are surrounded by small trees that add to the beauty.
It’s a great place to relax
Exploring the Venetian Castle of Astypalaia is a great way to relax and take some time out of your holiday. The imposing castle stands tall over the picturesque island of Astypalaia and is a must-see attraction for visitors to this gorgeous Greek destination. The castle is home to two beautiful churches, and it offers some unique panoramic views that are sure to leave you breathless.
The castle is also a great place to grab a bite to eat. There are several cafes and tavernas in the area, as well as a few museums. The Archaeological Museum features a variety of artifacts from the prehistoric and ancient eras. These include jewelry, stone tools from necropolises, column chapiters from early Christian basilicas, and more.
Another highlight of the castle is Castro Bar, a popular bar located underneath the castle. It is a great place to enjoy a sunset cocktail or a late night cap with friends. The drinks are reasonably priced, and the atmosphere is perfect for enjoying a night out.
Astypalaia is a perfect summer vacation spot for people looking to escape the overcrowded crowds of other Greek islands. The best times to visit are May-June and September-October, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant for hiking. In addition, Astypalaia has many serene beaches that are ideal for relaxation and swimming.
It’s a great place to eat
The island of Astypalaia is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the Greek cuisine. One of the best places to eat is Maistrali Restaurant, which has excellent reviews on Facebook. It serves traditional Mediterranean dishes, including moussaka and fish. You can also try a delicious yogurt with perfectly cooked cheese and liqueur. The staff is also very friendly. Prices here are average, but the food is worth it.
Another popular destination is the Venetian Castle of Astypalaia, which is built over the island’s capital Chora. It was built by the noble Querini family to protect the island from pirate attacks, and it’s a sight for sore eyes. It is also home to two churches, including the Panagia tou Kastrou (Lady of the castle) and Agios Georgios.
Other attractions on the island include the ethereal Drakos Cave, which features stalactites and stalagmites that change color depending on their mineral content. The compact but informative archaeological museum on the island is another must-see attraction. It showcases some unique finds, including jewelry, tools, and other items that date back to prehistoric times.
If you’re a history buff, make sure to visit the castle, which was once inhabited by the noble Querini family and is now an important part of Astypalaia culture. In addition to its historic architecture, the castle has some of the most impressive views on the island.
It’s a great place to explore
The Castle of Astypalaia is one of the most impressive sights on the island and it’s well worth a visit. The castle is built on a rocky hill overlooking the village of Chora (or Astypalaia Town) and was constructed with dark stones that show a stark contrast with the white-walled cluster of houses around it. The castle was constructed by the Querini family who took over Astypalaia after the siege of Constantinople and it was used as a shelter against pirates and enemies.
Astypalaia isn’t as crowded with tourists as other Greek islands, so it’s a great place to enjoy the scenery and relax in peace. However, you should avoid visiting the island during peak summer months, as it can get very hot and crowded. The best time to visit the island is in May-June or September-October, when the weather is mild and comfortable.
Whether you’re looking for a place to shop or just want to explore the unique architecture, there are many things to do on Astypalaia. The town of Chora is the most famous on the island, and it’s definitely worth a visit. The town has narrow streets that are lined with bougainvillea and colorful balconies, and the imposing castle is the crowning glory of the village. You can also find many cafes and tavernas in the town, and there are several museums that showcase the history of Astypalaia.