Traveling as a couple for the first time: why choose Astypalea

Congratulations! You have been together for some time and have decided that you want a romantic Greek destination for your first couples vacation. Now all that’s left to do is for you to find a place to relax, with breathtaking views, a picturesque town for charming strolls, and many activity options.

But fear not, Ferryhopper has you covered! The magical island of Astypale is located between the western Dodecanese and the eastern Cyclades and has many Cycladic influences. In this article, you can find out why the butterfly-shaped island is ideal for an unforgettable first vacation with your partner.

1. Romantic walks with a view
2. Stunning beaches
3. Relaxing bars and restaurants
4. Day trips and activities

Quaint windmills in the magical Chora town of Astypalea

1. Romantic walks with a beautiful view

The Chora town of Astypalea is built circularly on top of one of the island’s hills and is considered as one the most beautiful towns in the Aegean. Its relaxing vibe and wonderful architecture make up a cinematic scenery for walks hand in hand (or not) with your partner. You can enjoy beautiful views of the Aegean blue from almost every part of the town. What a great way to spark the romantic mood!

Starting from the instagrammable, cute windmills in the town’s entrance, you can wander around its narrow alleys with impressive blue-and-white houses. When the sun starts to go down, climb up to Chora’s top and walk in the 13th-century venetian Castle of Astypalea: there, you will have the most incredible 360° view, and you will also be able to travel back in time by contemplating the architecture of the old fortified town.

Tip: if you and your significant other like camping, you can opt for the popular camping site of Astypalea and drive to Chora for a walk and dinner/drinks in the evening.

Idyllic sunset and breathtaking view from a small church in the Chora castle

2. Stunning beaches

The beaches of Astypalea are extremely beautiful and diverse. From sandy beaches to rocky and pebble ones, there is a perfect cove for everyone. You and your partner will definitely enjoy swimming in turquoise, crystal-clear waters and explore impressive seabeds together.

Most beaches in Astypalea are not crowded, so you can easily enjoy quiet moments and some private space with your other half at the beach. Some of the island’s most beautiful wild beaches are Mple Limanaki, Tzanakia and Agios Ioannis.

Then again, if you would rather chill out on a sunbed and have a cocktail at the beach bar or lunch at a nearby taverna, you will love the beaches of Megalo Steno, Kaminakia, Vatses, and Agios Konstantinos. These stunning beaches also have quieter areas, so, alternatively, you can realx in the spaces that are free of sunbeds.

Tip: in most non-organized beaches in Astypalea, shady spots are hard to find. Therefore, make sure you carry the necessary equipment.

The wild Plakes beach, with an incredible sunbed worth exploring

3. Relaxing bars and restaurants

Although you won’t find crazy nightlife in Astypalea to find some crazy nightlife, it is the perfect destination to enjoy carefree, peaceful moments with your significant other. In the evening you can go out and enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail and gaze at the sea, the moon and the stars of Astropalia, as the locals call the island. For drinks with a view, we recommend the “Thea” and “Artemis” bars in Chora.

Food in Astypalea isn't good… it is absolutely delicious! The island maintains its traditional tastes, such as cuttlefish cooked in their own ink, pougkia (sweet or savory pies with cheese) and recipes with Astypalean crocus.

You and your partner can enjoy mouthwatering local dishes in the island’s restaurants and tavernas overlooking the Aegean. In Chora, you can try makarounes (local pasta) at “Agoni Grammi” and goat with red-sauce pasta at “Ageri”. You will enjoy some very fresh fish at “Almyra”, risotto at “Akti”, and dessert at the traditional kafeneio “O Marinos”.

Traditional blue-and-white “taverna” by the sea

4. Day trips and activities

In Astypalea, you and your partner will have countless activity options. If you want to explore untouched landscapes and beaches, we suggest you take a boat to Astypalea’s neighboring uninhabited islets. In Koutsomytis, you can swim in the most clear blue-green waters, while Kounoupi is actually a pair of islets connected by a narrow sandbar which creates an amazing double-side beach.

If you wish to discover the islands history and do some sightseeing, you can visit the Archaeological Museum of Astypalea, the Hellenistic baths in Maltezana, the caves of Astypalea and the island’s ancient infant cemetery, which is unique in the world.

If you are interested in more extreme adventures for two, you can try climbing in the ftera (wings) field, diving in Livadi and hiking or cycling in Astypalea’s trails.

Tip: in the summer, the Cultural Festival of Astypalea takes place, along with many panigiria, which are festivals with live music and traditional delicacies worth tasting.

The breathtaking double-side beach of Kounoupi, with turquoise waters

By now, you have probably decided to take your first vacation as a couple in Astypalea. It's a date! Spread your wings and book ferry tickets to the “butterfly of the Aegean” on Ferryhopper, with no hidden fees!