Getting from Andros to Astypalaia

If you are heading to Astypalaia from Andros you are making your way from the northernmost island in the Cyclades to a butterfly-shaped island sitting between the Cyclades and the Dodecanese. It has a Chora topped by a Venetian castle that is one of the finest in the Aegean.

Take the ferry

There is a seasonal direct ferry from Andros to Astypalaia running in summer on the wider Blue Star route. The service runs a limited number of times per week and takes around 8 to 12 hours with stops along the way. Alternatively, take the ferry from Andros to Rafina, make your way to Piraeus and board 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. Andros has no airport. Taking the ferry from Andros to Rafina, flying to Athens and then Athens to Astypalaia takes around 1 hour in the air. Total journey time is around 4 to 5 hours. Check the schedule carefully as flights run a limited number of times per week. In Greece, airlines do not operate direct inter island flights.

Your best option

Take the ferry from Andros to Rafina, fly 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, take the ferry from Andros to Rafina, drive to Piraeus and board the overnight Piraeus to Astypalaia ferry, which takes your vehicle and arrives in the morning.