Also known as Chora, Andros is a historic town on the east coast of Andros Island, the northernmost island in the Cyclades archipelago. It is clustered with typical Cycladic houses and inter-war Neoclassical mansions overlooking a long strip of sand.
Things to do in Andros
Climb the stairs that lead to the base of Tourlitis Lighthouse, which perches atop a tiny rock just off the coast of Andros. It was originally constructed in 1897 but was destroyed during World War II, then rebuilt in the 1990s as Greece’s first automated lighthouse. Its winding staircase is hewn from the pedestal-like rock, giving the lighthouse a whimsical appearance.
Linked to the mainland by a brick bridge is Andros Castle, once one of the most important fortifications in the Aegean Sea. It was built by the Venetians in the 13th century before the town was captured by the Ottomans in 1566. After World War II bombing, all that remains today is part of the castle’s curtain wall and two partially ruined towers.
Don’t miss the Archaeological Museum of Andros, which houses an impressive collection of artefacts dating from the Mycenaean era to the Roman period. It occupies a building designed by the Greek-American architect Stamos Papadakis, with one of its most remarkable findings being the Hermes of Andros. Nearby is the Museum of Contemporary Art Andros, which houses more than 300 works by both Greek and international artists.
Getting around Andros
Andros is around a one-hour drive from Gavrio, which has ferry connections to Rafina on mainland Greece, as well as to the islands of Mykonos and Paros. Bus services connect to Andros or you can rent a car or motorcycle to get around the island. The centre of Andros is compact enough to explore on foot.