Anafi map

Overview 

This island has been ignored by most holiday makers for a very long time, but has become quite popular the last years. It is very small, Island with steep cliffs offering spectacular views of the sea and unforgettable sunsets.

Anafi is a great place for recreation and relaxation. Here, time stands still, and you can enjoy the friendly atmosphere and little taverns without the pressure of doing and seeing lots of things.

If you do want some sightseeing, there are options though, as well as little bars and cafes.

What to See

Anafi is first and foremost an island for walking around on, since the roads are very bad and there are no opportunities to rent a car.The capital is the village Chora, which is a small, idyllic place with little cafes and tiny chapels.Kastelli is an ancient settlement from the 9th century BC. 

In the 15th century the Venetians built a citadel on top of it, and the ruins you see today are mainly from then.

The monastery Zoodochou Pigis (Life-giving Source) is a monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary which is worth a visit. It is often closed though, and make sure you are wearing a long skirt and covering your shoulders if you are woman, and wearing long trousers if you are a man.

What to Do

Anafi is foremost an island to relax on, so a bit of snorkeling or going on walks are your basic options. You can also go on daytrips to Santorini.

Beaches

The beach in the little harbour Ag Nikolaos is a nice, sandy one. You can also go to various idyllic beaches with a small boat starting from there.

 
Nightlife

If you are looking for a wild nightlife, don't go to Anafi. If you prefer quieter places, where you can sit and relax in good company, then you're in the right place. You'll find some nice cafes in Chora and during high season there is even a disco.

Food

Most restaurants are traditional Greek taverns. If you have children with you or simply get tired of the Greek food, you can usually get a pizza or some pasta.

Shopping

Basically, the only shops are in Chora, and the variety is limited.

Getting Around

There is a bus going between Ag Nikolaos and Chora, and a boats can take you to surrounding beaches. Because the island is so small and the roads bad, you can not rent a car.

Getting There

There is no airport to Anafi so you'll have to fly to one of the neighbouring islands, like Santorini or Naxos, or to Athens Greece. There are boatconnections with Pireus on the mainland, as well as the islands Santorini, Syros, Paros, Ios, Naxos, Folegandros and Sikinos. Make sure you know when the ferryboats leave the island so you don't end up missing your flight home.