Astypalea Ferries

Unlock your adventure to Greece at the incredible port of Astypalea! It's your essential gateway to the stunning nearby islands. Imagine seamless connections and breath-taking scenic journeys – that's what awaits you.

As a bustling hub for both passengers and freight, Astypalea boasts an impressive 40 ferry routes operated by 13 top-tier ferry companies. Get ready for a convenient sailing experience from Astypalea, with schedules perfectly tailored to the seasons, ensuring you always find your ideal departure, no matter the demand, weather, or tourism buzz. Your unforgettable escape begins here!

Astypalea offers wonderful connections to popular routes like Piraeus - Astypalea, Kos - Astypalea, Rhodes - Astypalea. You can customize your trip by choosing between a swift high-speed ferry to get there in a flash or a classic vessel for a more scenic, relaxing journey. From quick local hops to leisurely overnight voyages, your island adventure starts here.

Getting to your destination is a breeze with several excellent ferry operators departing regularly from Astypalea. You'll find companies like Dodekanisos Seaways, Blue Star Ferries, SeaJets ready to whisk you away.

Each offers a variety of onboard amenities to make your journey pleasant, from comfortable seating and delicious food and drink options to private cabins and even vehicle transport.

With a range of ticket options available depending on the company and vessel, there's something to suit everyone, whether you're traveling solo, with family, or on a business trip.

Whether you're dreaming of an exhilarating island-hopping escape, making your way back to the comfort of home, or embarking on a brand-new journey, your perfect voyage begins right here with Astypalea.

Travelers can reach Astypalea by ferry from several major Greek ports including Piraeus (Athens), with journeys typically taking 9-12 hours depending on the vessel and route. Regular ferry connections also operate from nearby islands like Rhodes, Kos, and Santorini, making island-hopping convenient. If arriving from mainland Greece by car, you'll need to park at your departure port as vehicles can be transported on larger ferries but advance booking is essential. For those coming from further afield, domestic flights to Astypalea's small airport connect through Athens, with a subsequent short taxi ride to the port area.

Nestled in the southeastern Aegean Sea, Astypalea captivates visitors with its distinctive butterfly shape and pristine beauty. This hidden gem combines traditional Cycladic architecture with rugged landscapes, creating a tranquil escape from the more crowded Greek islands. As an important ferry connection point between the Cyclades and Dodecanese island groups, Astypalea offers travelers the perfect blend of authentic Greek island life, stunning beaches, and rich historical heritage.

The ideal time to visit Astypalea falls between late May and early October when warm temperatures (averaging 25-30°C) and minimal rainfall create perfect conditions for swimming and outdoor exploration. July and August bring the liveliest atmosphere but also higher prices and more visitors. For a more authentic experience with comfortable temperatures and lower rates, consider the shoulder months of June and September when ferry services remain frequent but crowds thin considerably. The island celebrates its patron saint with the colorful Panagia Portaitissa festival in mid-August, offering visitors a glimpse into local traditions and community celebrations.

Astypalea serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the diverse character of both the Cycladic and Dodecanese island groups. Regular ferry services connect to Rhodes (about 4-5 hours), where medieval history comes alive within the impressive walled Old Town. Kos lies approximately 3 hours away by ferry, offering ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The volcanic landscapes of Santorini can be reached in around 5-6 hours, presenting one of the most photographed seascapes in the world. For those seeking quieter experiences, the nearby smaller islands of Tilos and Nisyros provide authentic Greek charm with fewer tourists and can be reached in 2-3 hours.

Dominating the landscape, the 13th-century Venetian Castle (Querini Castle) offers panoramic views across the island and sea, especially magical at sunset. Beach enthusiasts will treasure the crystal waters of Livadi and Kaminakia beaches, while the more adventurous can seek out secluded coves accessible only by boat or hiking trail. In Chora, the island's main town, wander through narrow whitewashed streets lined with blue-domed churches and traditional tavernas serving local specialties like lambriano (Easter lamb with herbs) and pouggia (sweet cheese pies). The Archaeological Museum houses impressive artifacts dating back to prehistoric times, providing fascinating insight into the island's long maritime heritage.

Despite its small size, Astypalea boasts over 365 churches, one for each day of the year according to local tradition. The island's unusual butterfly shape created by two mountain masses connected by a narrow strip of land gave rise to its nickname 'The Butterfly of the Aegean.' In ancient times, Astypalea was dedicated to the goddess Artemis, and recent archaeological discoveries revealed one of the world's largest ancient children's cemeteries with over 2,700 infant remains in clay pots, a practice believed to help their souls return to the womb of Mother Earth. The island is also pioneering Greece's green energy transition as the first Aegean island aiming to run entirely on renewable energy.