Start your hike to the Kalamos rock early in the morning to avoid the intense midday heat.
Keep in mind that the wind can be very strong, so bring a light windbreaker even in summer.
While a bus connects the port and Chora, walking the traditional path features scenic views, though it is quite steep.
Bring enough cash, as some smaller tavernas and shops may not accept credit cards.
For the best panoramic views, walk up to the Venetian Kastro ruins at the highest point of Chora.
🍽 Food
🍽
Local thyme honey
Often served with thick Greek yogurt; try it at any traditional cafe in Chora.
🍽
Fresh seafood
Best enjoyed at the fish tavernas situated directly at the port (Agios Nikolaos).
🍽
Pitaria
Local sweet or savory cheese pies, which you can find fresh at bakeries in the main town.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Thyme honey
Buy a jar directly from local producers or at small souvenir shops in Chora.
🛍
Local ceramics
Look for handmade pottery in the small boutique shops dotted around the narrow alleys of Chora.
🧘
Roukounas Beach
A long, sandy beach that is usually very peaceful and handy for a relaxing afternoon.
🧘
Zoodochos Pigi Monastery
A serene monastery offering a spiritual atmosphere and dramatic views over the sea.
🧘
Chora's back alleys
Wander away from the main square to find completely silent, whitewashed streets.
Water temperature…
Anafi Town, also known as Chora, is a pristine example of traditional Cycladic architecture situated on the steep slopes of the island of Anafi. Established during the medieval period, the village was built around the remains of a Venetian fortress, known as the Kastro, to provide protection against pirate raids. The settlement is characterized by its stark white cubic houses, narrow cobblestone alleys, and numerous small churches that follow the natural topography of the hill. Geographically, Chora is located on the southern side of the island, offering panoramic views of the Cretan Sea. Historically, the inhabitants of Anafi Town were renowned as master builders, a reputation that led many to migrate to Athens in the 19th century to construct the Anafiotika district at the foot of the Acropolis. Today, the town remains a quiet administrative and cultural center, preserving its authentic character due to its remote location and limited tourism development compared to neighboring islands.
Location: Greece
Top sights: Ronkounas beach · Kleisidi beach · Katsouni
Nearby: Fira (30 km)
Population: ~270 (2020)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Avg °C
14
14
15
17
20
23
25
26
24
21
18
16
Rain mm
115
91
52
31
18
5
2
2
17
42
76
110
Geography
Population
270 (2020)
Coordinates
36.36670, 25.76670
Facts
The town is situated at an average elevation of approximately 260 meters above sea level.
The medieval Kastro was constructed by the Venetian Foscolo family during the 13th century.
Anafiote craftsmen built the Anafiotika district in Athens during the reign of King Otto in the 1840s.
The church of Agios Nikolaos in the town houses significant icons from the Byzantine period.
Primary access to the town is via a winding road from the port of Agios Nikolaos.
Due to the steep terrain, most streets in Chora are accessible only on foot or by mules.
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→14:251.9 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 17–23 €Entries 20€ · Transport 0€
Morning begins with a refreshing hike from the main town down to the pristine shores of Xetrypiti.
Midday invites you to hop along the continuous string of southern sandy coves like Kleisidi and Katsouni.
Afternoon is perfect for swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Flamourou as the sun warms the rocks.
Evening falls gently at Exo Roukounas, offering tranquil sunset views before you return.
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📍
09:10 · 47'
Xetrypiti
Explore this secluded stretch of sand, excellent for peaceful sunbathing, and remember to pack plenty of water since there are no facilities.
Marvel at the dramatic landscape wrapping around this quiet outer beach, bringing an umbrella as natural shade is incredibly scarce during the afternoon.
The morning starts with dramatic grey clouds over the cliffs. At noon, we seek shelter under the eaves of closed beach houses while rain lashes the sea. In the afternoon, hiking on the softened paths requires more focus. By evening, we return early to the cozy streets of Chora to escape the dampness and the fast-falling darkness.
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09:10 · 47'
Xetrypiti
Admire the roaring surf from the cliffs; be sure to wear high-traction hiking boots as the limestone rocks become extremely slippery when wet.
The winter morning is crystal clear and cool. At noon, the low sun warms only weakly as we explore the deserted coastal paths. In the afternoon, fresh winds often pick up, making the air feel even colder. Since the sun sets around 17:00, we finish our tour early and seek the warmth of local taverns.
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09:10 · 47'
Xetrypiti
Experience the raw beauty of the steep coast without tourists; wear windproof clothing as the gusts up here can be very strong in winter.
Set out early cycling towards the rugged northwest to uncover the hidden coastal beauty of Prassa.
By midday, challenge yourself on the dirt paths leading to the wild landscapes of Kalagkathi and Livoskopos.
Spend the afternoon riding east towards Megas Potamos, where river canyons meet the sea.
Conclude your active day below the cliffs of Agioi Anargyroi as the evening light paints the landscape.
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09:10 · 47'
Prassa
Take in the rugged northwestern beauty of the island at this pristine beach, keeping an eye out for interesting rock formations along the water edge.
The bike tour begins with a drizzle on the paved roads in the island's interior. At noon, special care is needed as coastal roads can become slippery when wet. In the afternoon, we rest at sheltered viewpoints and watch the passing showers over the sea. The tour ends in the late afternoon before visibility deteriorates too much due to rain and dusk.
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09:10 · 47'
Prassa
Use the high viewpoint for panoramic photos of the stormy sea; be sure to check your brake pads before departure for wet roads.
The rugged coastal landscape looks particularly wild in the rain; keep a sufficient distance from the roadside when descending due to possible minor rockfalls.
The winter morning offers a clear view of the neighboring islands. At noon, we cycle through the barren but impressive nature of the north coast. In the afternoon, cool sea winds challenge us as we move steadily south. We plan our arrival in Chora for the early evening to arrive safely before frost and darkness set in.
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09:10 · 47'
Prassa
The long-distance visibility in winter is phenomenal; wear thermal gloves so your fingers don't get numb while braking on the cool descents.
Drive down to the popular Kleisidi beach first thing in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful swim.
Continue along the southern coast for midday relaxation at Mikros and the famous expanses of Ronkounas.
Spend your afternoon uncovering the ancient harbor remnants at Katalimatsa and the dramatic river mouth at Megas Potamos.
Finish your road trip at Prasies, savoring the spectacular evening twilight.
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09:10 · 47'
Kleisidi beach
Park easily near this beloved family-friendly beach to enjoy its soft sand, and grab a quick morning coffee at the nearby taverna before it gets busy.
Stop at this slightly smaller and quieter alternative to its famous neighbor, offering fantastic privacy if you don't mind walking a short distance from the car.
Spend time at Anafi's most legendary and expansive beach, widely loved for its free-spirited atmosphere, where setting up camp under the tamarisks is a must.
Explore this fascinating cove that holds remnants of ancient harbor structures, making it highly recommended to bring a snorkel mask for historical discoveries.
Wander where the steep canyon meets the Aegean Sea creating a unique pebble beach, and pack light snacks since amenities are completely non-existent here.
Conclude your drive at this striking and less-visited eastern bay, perfectly framed by dramatic cliffs that offer gorgeous photo opportunities near sunset.
The journey starts safely in the dry car while rain drums against the windows. At noon, we head to viewpoints that allow a look at the turbulent sea without having to leave the vehicle. In the afternoon, we explore more remote coastal sections in changeable weather. In the evening, we enjoy the warm atmosphere inside the car on the way back to Chora.
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09:10 · 47'
Kleisidi beach
Watch the fascinating play of rain on the sea surface directly from the parking lot; keep an umbrella handy for short photo stops.
From the car, the vastness of the valley and the dynamics of the clouds can be perfectly observed; turn on your low beam headlights even during the day.
On a clear winter morning, we start our island tour. At noon, we explore the remote bays of the south coast, with the low sun casting long shadows. In the afternoon, we enjoy the solitude at viewpoints that are often crowded in summer. Since it gets dark early, we plan our return to Chora for the late afternoon to end the day comfortably.
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09:10 · 47'
Kleisidi beach
A quiet place to enjoy the sea air; bring warm clothes for a short beach walk as the wind can be quite cool in winter.
The expansive Ronkounas beach on Anafi is characterized by its long sandy stretch, leaving plenty of space for every visitor. The peaceful island atmosphere invites long days out by the vast ocean, entirely free from crowds. Because of the lack of natural shade, bringing your own umbrella is often highly beneficial.
Kleisidi beach🎡 recreation
Located within the quiet coastal landscape of Anafi, Kleisidi beach conveys the relaxed lifestyle of the Greek islands. The clear water and cozy beach cove attract nature lovers and those seeking tranquility alike. The beach is particularly beautiful in the warm light of the late afternoon.
Katsouni🎡 recreation
Katsouni is a sandy beach on the south coast of Anafi.
Archaiologiki Syllogi Anafis🏛 museum
A collection of local archaeological finds showcasing the ancient history of Anafi.
Frequently asked questions
How remote is Anafi Town?
Very remote; it is one of the quietest islands with only a few ferry connections per week.
What is the Kalamos?
The second highest monolith in the Mediterranean, an impressive rock at the end of the island.
What does Chora look like?
Classic Cycladic: white cubic houses and narrow alleys on a steep slope.
Is there any nightlife?
Very limited; there are a few cozy bars, but no large clubs.
How to get around?
There is a bus between the port and Chora; many hiking trails connect the beaches.
Anafi Town: where is it located?
Anafi Town is located in Greece.
Anafi Town: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ronkounas beach, Kleisidi beach, Katsouni.
Anafi Town: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Anafi Town: why is it worth visiting?
Anafi Town, also known as Chora, is a pristine example of traditional Cycladic architecture situated on the steep slopes of the island of Anafi.
