Getting from Alexandroupoli to Astypalaia

If you are heading to Astypalaia from Alexandroupoli you are making your way from the far northeastern corner of Greece to a butterfly-shaped island sitting between the Cyclades and the Dodecanese, on the opposite side of the Aegean. It has a Chora topped by a Venetian castle that is one of the finest in the Aegean.

Take the ferry

There is no direct ferry from Alexandroupoli to Astypalaia. Alexandroupoli's ferry connections are limited to Samothrace, Lemnos, Agios Efstratios and Lavrio. Getting to Astypalaia by sea means flying to Athens first and then taking the Piraeus to Astypalaia ferry, which runs around 5 times a week and takes around 8 to 12 hours depending on the route and vessel.

Getting there by air

Astypalaia has its own small airport with connections from Athens. Flying from Alexandroupoli to Athens and then Athens to Astypalaia takes around 1 hour in the air. Total travel time door to door is around 4 to 5 hours. Check the schedule carefully as flights run a limited number of times per week.

Your best option

Fly from Alexandroupoli to Athens and then fly to Astypalaia. It is the fastest and most practical approach. Give yourself at least three nights on Astypalaia as the island rewards those who stay long enough to explore both its Cycladic and Dodecanese sides. If you are traveling with a car, drive from Alexandroupoli to Piraeus and board the overnight Piraeus to Astypalaia ferry, which takes your vehicle and arrives in the morning.