Visiting Andros town (Chora) on Andros island in Greece

Writer: Helena Bergström

The capital of the Greek island of Andros is called Chora, but is often referred to as Andros Town. The reason is that 'Chora' basically means capital or village centre, and the capital of several Greek islands has this name... 'City of Andros' is thus more clear.

Andros city (Chora)

Andros Town (Chora) is a charming little town, built on a steep peninsula that stretches straight into the sea.

Andros town is located on the eastern side of the island of Andros, which is two hours away from Athens, by ferry.

Car journey from Batsi to Andros town

During our stay on the island of Andros, we stay in the town of Batsi, located on the western side of the island. To get around the island, which is about 40 kilometres long and at its widest point 16 kilometres wide, we have a rental car at our disposal. Driving from Batsi to Andros town took around 45 minutes, not because it is far but because the roads are narrow and winding.

When we arrived, we had to pass a bunch of ducks, who barely noticed us, to get to one of the car parks. Did we mention that Andros is a very peaceful and relaxed island?

City of Andros

The town of Andros is characterised by classic whitewashed cube houses, although there are also neoclassical mansions and Venetian-style houses, a legacy of the merchant families who once grew rich from shipping.

We made our way up into the city via stairs almost along the peninsula. Here the alleys are narrow and winding, and it was so calm and quiet that we almost wondered if anyone was home ...

Kato Kastro

At the far end, off the peninsula where the city is located, you will find Kato Kastro (Venetian castle). This is the ruin of a castle built in the 13th century, when Andros was part of the Duchy of Naxos.

Strategically located on a rocky island just off the Chora peninsula, the castle once served as a fortress to protect the city from pirates and other attacks.

Most of the castle has been destroyed, but remains of the walls and towers can still be seen, including a small arched stone bridge connecting Chora to the castle cliff. In the past, it was a wooden bridge, which could be quickly pulled away to keep enemies out.

The unknown sailor

In the open square, located at the far end of the city's peninsula, you will find a magnificent seafaring monument in the form of Afaneis Naftis (The Unknown Sailor). This bronze statue was erected in 1950 and honours all the sailors who have been lost at sea over the years and never returned.

The Archaeological Museum

Although Chora is a relatively small town, there are several museums here, and we visited the one that attracted us most: the Archaeological Museum. Here you can discover the history of the island, from prehistoric times to the Christian era.

As usual in Greece, there are lots of history. The visit gave us a clearer picture of life on the island in the past and we learnt, among other things, about Zagora - an ancient settlement from the early Iron Age. The museum houses a wide range of artefacts from both this and later periods of history.

Shopping and restaurants

At the far end of the peninsula, it was quiet and peaceful, but as we walked further inland, we came to the streets where you find all the shops and restaurants. There are lots of little boutiques selling clothes, jewellery, interior design and souvenirs.

These streets are also home to many cosy outdoor cafés.

For us, on our first visit, it was a very good ice cream.

On another day, we had a very good lunch at the cosy and relaxed juice bar Fresco, where you can find things like brunch, smoothies and bowls.

Beaches around Andros town

Of course, there are also several beautiful beaches around Andros town. Neimporio Beach is on the northern side of Chora, and a little further north is Gialia Beach. On the south-east side you will find Paralia Paraporti and also Syneti Beach, which is only accessible via a small winding road.

More to see and do in Andros Town

What else is there to see and do in Andros Town (Chora)? You can visit, among others Museum of Contemporary Art and there is also a maritime museum.

More to see and do in the neighbourhood

There is much more to see and do on Andros Island. We can recommend, among other things, the cosy town of Batsi and all the lovely restaurants in Andros. In addition, there are many beautiful beaches on Andros, great hiking trails and interesting monasteries. Read also our report on the hike to Gerolimni waterfall!

Have you visited Andros City?

Have you visited Andros Town on Andros Island? How was your experience? Please tell us!