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Amorgos Travel Guide 2026: Where to Stay, Best Beaches and Things to Do

Last updated: 7th April 2026

Amorgos is a perfect destination if you’re looking for a more authentic Greek island experience.

We first discovered Amorgos in 2019 after learning it’s a hikers’ paradise. Excited to try somewhere new, we spent five days here in late May and loved every minute.

Slightly off the beaten track, Amorgos lies about 20 miles southeast of Naxos and is accessible only by ferry. It does have two ports, though: Aegiali on the northwest coast and Katapola further south.

Amorgos is a great destination if you’re looking for a more authentic and traditional Greek experience. It provides a great contrast to more popular nearby islands such as MykonosNaxosParos, and Santorini.



Getting to Amorgos

Ferries are your only option if you want to visit Amorgos. Unusually for smaller islands, Amorgos has two ports that are both actively used by ferry operators, so you’ll need to make sure you know which port to choose depending on where you want to stay. Aegiali is the northwestern port, while Katapola is more central and closer to Chora. A regular bus service connects the two villages, so whichever you choose, it’s still possible to transfer to your accommodation with minimal fuss.

Check out available ferry connections using the search box below. Be aware that many Greek ferry operators don’t confirm their routes until February-April of each year. So, it’s worth checking back later if you don’t see availability for your chosen dates.

One of the best and most affordable ways to get to and from Amorgos is via Express Skopelitis, a long-running passenger ferry operated by Small Cyclades Lines. Something of an institution in the Cyclades, it’s based in Katapola and visits many of the neighbouring islands, providing a cheap and reliable way of getting around. Its relatively small size and low cost mean it can get fully booked during high season (June-September), so consider booking online a few weeks before you travel to ensure you don’t miss out.


Where to Stay on Amorgos

Aegiali

Best for: hiking, beaches

Aegiali is one of two ports on Amorgos and the largest settlement on the island’s northern half. With a wide, sandy beach and a good selection of accommodation and tavernas, it’s a great location to relax and explore.

The nearby villages of Lagada and Tholaria form a triangle with Aegiali. They are connected by walking paths that continue into the more remote parts of northern Amorgos, particularly to the church of Agios Theologos northeast of Lagada.

A regular bus service links Aegiali with Chora and Katapola. If you want to explore further south, you must arrange your own transportation. The village is fairly peaceful but has enough amenities to make it a good base for a few days. The beach, in particular, is one of the best on the island, and there is a path that continues north around the bay and provides access to three smaller beaches: Levrossos, Psili Ammos and Hochlaka. Levrossos has a few beach bars/tavernas and is soft sand, but it tends to lose the sun in the late afternoon due to its sheltered position.

Katapola

Best for: sightseeing

More centrally located, Katapola is the other port on Amorgos. Although the beach is narrower and less appealing than Aegiali, its proximity to Chora and the famous Panagia Hozoviotissa monastery makes it a more convenient base. As a result, you’ll find a broader selection of accommodation here, plus a good range of tavernas, shops and amenities both north and south of the bay.

Chora

Best for: traditional village vibe

Situated inland in an elevated position east of Katapola, the island’s capital is a small village with a decent range of accommodation and local facilities. A steep, winding path provides access to the monastery on foot. However, anyone with health issues or limited mobility should take the local bus as it considerably shortens the distance.


Things to see and do on Amorgos

One of the most popular things to do on Amorgos is hiking, attracting many visitors to the island each year. This website has a great list of walks: http://www.cycladen.be/AmorgosEng.htm, including the main ‘spine walk’ across the island from Aegiali in the north to Katapola further southwest. We did the hike in 2019 and thoroughly enjoyed it.

The main attraction is the Panagia Hozoviotissa monastery. Built into the cliffside, 300 metres above sea level, it’s an impressive and unique sight. It’s located quite close to Chora, and the local bus makes a stop about a 10-minute walk away.

We recommend hiring a car to see more of the island, as the bus service only covers Aegiali, Chora and Katapola. Further south, you can visit ancient Arkesini – check out our YouTube video below to see what it’s like.

Amorgos Beaches

Amorgos has a good selection of beaches. Use the links below to find out more about each one:

  • Kalotaritissa Beach, Amorgos

    Kalotaritissa Beach Kalotaritissa Beach is a secluded beach located on the southern coast of Amorgos. This sandy beach is one of the most remote and untouched beaches on the island, with crystal-clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and hills. Kalotaritissa Beach is ideal for swimming and snorkelling, with its calm and clear…

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  • Katapola Beach, Amorgos

    Katapola Beach Katapola Beach is another popular beach on the island of Amorgos. It is located in the main port of the island, which is also called Katapola. This sandy beach is relatively small but very picturesque, with clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. Katapola Beach is ideal for swimming…

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  • Psili Ammos Beach, Amorgos

    Psili Ammos Beach Psili Ammos Beach is a small beach of mostly coarse sand with some shingles and smaller stones. It is popular with those looking for a more secluded sunbathing spot and often hosts wild campers, though not officially permitted. Shade is minimal on the beach itself, with just a few trees to the…

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  • Aegiali Beach, Amorgos

    Aegiali Beach Aegiali Beach is another popular beach on the island of Amorgos. It is located in the picturesque village of Aegiali, on the northern coast of the island. This long sandy beach is one of the largest and most popular beaches on Amorgos, with crystal clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding cliffs.…

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  • Levrossos Beach, Amorgos

    Levrossos Beach Levrossos beach is a small-medium sized sandy beach along the northern coastline of Aegiali bay. Accessible via an unpaved footpath leading from the road that runs past the Aegialis Hotel or by the longer footpath that runs in front of the hotel and begins north of Aegiali beach, it takes around 10-15 minutes…

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Accommodation

You’ll find a good selection of accommodation in both of the main settlements, Aegiali and Katapola, plus a smattering in other areas, including Chora, Agios Pavlos, and the villages on the hillsides surrounding Aegiali. These don’t necessarily provide sufficient lodgings to meet tourist demand, which has increased steadily in recent years. If you want to visit the island, it’s a good idea to book early, especially if you plan to visit during peak season between June and early September.

We split our time pretty evenly between Aegiali and Katapola and enjoyed both. Aegiali seemed quieter, but I’m told it’s often the opposite – we were there early in the season, so perhaps tourism wasn’t in full flow.

Below you’ll find reviews of all the hotels we’ve stayed at on Amorgos:

  • Hotel Landeris, Katapola, Amorgos

    Hotel Landeris, Katapola, Amorgos

    Review Rating: 4.5/5 Date of Visit: July 2022 In a similar vein to my stay on Amorgos last year at Filoxenia Hotel, I was only on Amorgos for one night in order to switch ferries and get from Kos to my next destination, Ios. Again, I booked rather later than I should have and paid…

    Click here to read the full review


  • Filoxenia Hotel, Aegiali, Amorgos

    Filoxenia Hotel, Aegiali, Amorgos

    Review Rating: 3/5 Date of Visit: August 2021 I didn’t have much choice in booking Filoxenia Hotel, yet given its location and photos/description online, I was expecting good things. My journey from Kos into the Cyclades in the middle of the peak season required me to overnight on Amorgos, and this hotel was the only…

    Click here to read the full review


  • Amorgion Hotel, Katapola, Amorgos

    Amorgion Hotel, Katapola, Amorgos

    Review Rating: 5/5 Date of visit: June 2019 After a great 3-night stay at Yperia in Aegiali, we feared disappointment from our next hotel if it didn’t measure up. Fortunately, the Amorgion was even better! We arrived in Katapola by bus, which drops off in the centre of the bay just opposite the beach. After…

    Click here to read the full review


  • Yperia Hotel, Aegiali, Amorgos

    Yperia Hotel, Aegiali, Amorgos

    Review Rating: 5/5 Date of visit: May 2019 My friend Ed and I had high hopes for the Yperia based on its Trip Advisor rating and recommendations via the forums, and we weren’t disappointed! We booked directly via their website: it was a little cheaper, but we also contacted them first to ensure they would…

    Click here to read the full review


Videos of Amorgos

Check out some of the videos we’ve filmed on Amorgos:

Check out our recently published island guide video on Amorgos

Amorgos FAQs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about Amorgos:

How do I get to Amorgos?

Amorgos is accessible only by ferry—there’s no airport on the island. Ferries run from Athens (Piraeus port) and nearby Cycladic islands like Naxos, Santorini, and Paros. High-speed and conventional ferries are available, with travel times from Athens ranging from 6 to 9 hours, depending on the type.

What are the best places to stay on Amorgos?

The two main hubs are Katapola (the primary port) and Aegiali (a lively northern village with a beach). Katapola is convenient for ferries and has a relaxed vibe, while Aegiali is better for beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. For something more traditional, Chora, the hilltop capital, offers charm and stunning views.

What is Amorgos best known for?

Amorgos is famous for its dramatic landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and the iconic Panagia Hozoviotissa Monastery, which clings to a cliff above the sea. It’s also known for its role in Luc Besson’s film The Big Blue, and for being a peaceful, authentic alternative to the more touristic Cycladic islands.

Are the beaches in Amorgos sandy or rocky?

Amorgos has a mix of both. Aegiali Beach and Agia Anna are among the most popular. Mouros offers stunning rock formations and deep blue water, while Kalotaritissa is sandy and more sheltered—great for families or relaxing swims.

Is Amorgos a good destination for hiking?

Absolutely! Amorgos is one of the best Cycladic islands for hiking. Its ancient footpaths connect villages, monasteries, and remote beaches. Trails such as the Chora to Hozoviotissa Monastery hike offer breathtaking views over the Aegean.

What’s the food like on Amorgos?

Local tavernas serve traditional Cycladic and Amorgian dishes like fava, xerotigana (fried dough sweets), and patatato (slow-cooked goat with potatoes). Don’t miss the chance to try homemade rakomelo (a warm raki-based drink with honey and spices).

Is Amorgos suitable for families?

Yes, though it’s quieter and less commercial than other islands. The calm beaches, friendly locals, and safe villages make it a great place for a low-key family holiday. However, note that getting around often involves hills or some driving.

Do I need a car or scooter on Amorgos?

It’s recommended but not essential. While there is a local bus service that connects the main ports of Aegiali and Katapola with Chora, it doesn’t cover all areas or run too frequently. Renting a car or scooter gives you the freedom to explore the island’s beaches, villages, and remote hiking trails.


Restaurants and Dining

Both resorts have a reasonable selection of tavernas, enough to get you through a week in each location without running out of options. Google lists around a dozen choices in Aegiali and closer to 20 in Katapola.

Koralli Taverna was our favourite in Aegiali, and Corner Taverna in Katapola was excellent for lunch and dinner at very reasonable prices.


Conclusions and Alternatives

Amorgos is an excellent choice if you’re seeking a traditional Greek experience that isn’t coloured by tourism to any significant degree. It’s great for walking and does have a good selection of sights to keep you busy for a few days, perhaps even a week.

The island does have a selection of beaches, but to be honest, it’s not renowned for them. If you’re looking for golden sandy beaches to while away the days, there are better alternatives. Nearby, Koufonissi is the first place that springs to mind (stunning beaches everywhere).

If you’re looking for somewhere with more things to do, Naxos and Paros would be our first suggestions. Given that you must visit Amorgos by ferry, you can even combine Naxos/Paros with Amorgos as part of your trip.


Blog Posts

Find out more about Amorgos by reading our recent blog posts:

  • Best Greek Islands for 2026

    Introduction If you’re dreaming about your next summer escape, you’re in the right place. Today I’m sharing my favourite Greek islands you won’t find on most tourist lists but are absolutely worth checking out. Last year, I revealed my Top Greek Islands for 2025, and those islands are still well worth considering. This time, though, I’m taking you to five…

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  • Greece 2022: Retrospective

    This post is part of a series called Greece 2022 Tuesday 17th October 2023 – (Over) One Year Later Much like the retrospective from my Greek Odyssey in 2021, I want to summarise the even longer stay in Greece in 2022. It’s taken me even longer to finish writing up the trip into the blog posts on the website here…

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  • Day 43: Amorgos to Ios

    This post is part of a series called Greece 2022 Sunday 31st July 2022 An Early Start to the Day I usually try to take ferries late in the morning so I don’t have to wake up too early, but I’m at the mercy of the schedule and today’s journey begins at 8 am, so I had reluctantly set my…

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  • Days 42: Kos to Amorgos

    This post is part of a series called Greece 2022 Saturday 30th July 2022 Back to the Cyclades Farewell, Kos! It’s been an incredible two weeks (well, 15 days to be exact), but it’s time for me to set sail once again. I’m hopping on the same ferry that carried me off back in 2021 and heading to the breathtaking…

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  • 2022: Another Greek Summer Beckons

    This post is part of a series called Greece 2022 Time to Share My Plans Again With just less than a month to go before I head out to Greece for another extended trip, I thought it was about time to start a new series and set out my itinerary – or what I’ve planned so far anyway. This Time…

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  • Greek Odyssey 2021: Retrospective

    This post is part of a series called Greek Odyssey 2021 Monday 28th March 2022 – Six Months Later To anyone who’s followed my posts on this trip, you may have noticed that nearly all of them were uploaded retrospectively. I took copious notes during my travels but only began composing the articles on my return in September 2021, for…

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  • Day 48: Island-Hopping Continues: Aegiali, Amorgos to Agia Anna, Naxos

    This post is part of a series called Greek Odyssey 2021 Sunday 22nd August 2021 The next chapter of my island-hopping journey begins! While booking my stay in Amorgos, I cleverly secured accommodations for the next stops on my trip—because getting stranded once was enough. Today’s destination: the enchanting island of Naxos! I’ve lined up a five-night stay in Agia…

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  • Day 47: Kos to Amorgos

    This post is part of a series called Greek Odyssey 2021 Saturday 21st August 2021 Finally on the Move Again! After three weeks and two days, it was finally time to leave Kos and resume my island-hopping adventure. I’ve discussed this before, but in case you’ve missed some of the previous updates, I wanted to get from the Dodecanese islands…

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  • Touring Greece Without a Plan

    This post is part of a series called Greek Odyssey 2021 I Want to Freestyle it, But… How do you plan a three-month island-hopping itinerary? Well, one option – perhaps the best option really – is to freestyle the entire trip. Turn up at a resort, find accommodation, explore the area, then move on. Bored of the island? Turn up…

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  • New Amorgos Travel Guide Video

    We’re pleased to announce the publishing of our latest YouTube video: a detailed travel guide on Amorgos! You can watch it via the embedded player below, or find it on our destination page for Amorgos.

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