Andros and Kea (Tzia) stand out for their lush landscapes, rich history, charming villages, and relaxed atmosphere.
Easily reached by ferry from the port of Lavrio (and, for Andros, also from Rafina), these islands are perfect for weekend escapes or as the starting point for a Cycladic island-hopping adventure. Combining beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, traditional architecture, and excellent local cuisine, Andros and Kea reveal a side of Greece that many visitors overlook.
Why Visit the Nearshore Cyclades?
Unlike some of the more famous Cycladic islands, Andros and Kea have retained much of their traditional character.
Visitors can enjoy:
Easy access from Athens
Authentic Greek villages
Beautiful hiking routes
Crystal-clear beaches
Rich cultural heritage
Excellent gastronomy
Fewer crowds, even during summer
These islands are ideal for travelers seeking relaxation, outdoor adventures, and genuine Greek hospitality.
Andros – The Green Island of the Cyclades
As the northernmost and second-largest island of the Cyclades, Andros is unlike its drier neighbors. Thanks to abundant natural springs and fertile valleys, it boasts green hillsides, rivers, waterfalls, and lush vegetation.
The island is also renowned for its maritime heritage, elegant mansions, and extensive network of hiking trails.
Chora – One of Greece's Most Elegant Island Capitals
Andros Town, commonly known as Chora, is built on a narrow peninsula extending into the Aegean Sea.
Its unique setting combines traditional Cycladic architecture with Venetian influences and neoclassical mansions.
Highlights include:
The pedestrian-friendly old town
The remains of the Venetian Castle
The Monument to the Unknown Sailor
Charming cafés and boutiques
Museums showcasing local art and maritime history
Walking through Chora feels like stepping into a living museum.
Hiking Through Nature
Andros has become one of Greece's top hiking destinations thanks to the Andros Route, a certified long-distance trail crossing the island from north to south.
The route passes through:
Stone-built villages
Olive groves
Forests
Rivers
Watermills
Ancient bridges
Scenic mountain landscapes
Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful seasons for exploring these trails.
Beaches of Andros
Whether you prefer organized beaches or secluded coves, Andros offers something for everyone.
Popular beaches include:
Golden Sand Beach (Chrissi Ammos)
Achla Beach
Agios Petros
Vitali Beach
Fellos Beach
The island's diverse coastline provides excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.
Cultural Highlights
Andros has a thriving artistic community and hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year.
Notable attractions include:
Museum of Contemporary Art
Archaeological Museum of Andros
Maritime Museum
Traditional festivals celebrating local music and cuisine
The island's strong maritime traditions continue to shape its identity today.
Kea – The Cyclades' Hidden Gem
Just one hour by ferry from Lavrio, Kea, also known as Tzia, is the closest inhabited Cycladic island to Athens.
Its relaxed atmosphere, rolling hills, ancient sites, and charming villages make it an ideal destination for short getaways.
Unlike many Cycladic islands, Kea features abundant oak forests, fertile valleys, and traditional stone architecture.
Ioulida – A Timeless Hilltop Village
Kea's capital, Ioulida (or Chora), sits inland on a hillside rather than beside the sea, a strategic location chosen centuries ago to protect against pirate attacks.
Visitors can wander through:
Narrow stone-paved alleys
Whitewashed houses
Traditional cafés
Artisan shops
Historic churches
One of the village's most famous landmarks is the Lion of Kea, an ancient stone sculpture carved directly into the hillside, dating back to the 6th century BC.
Ancient Karthea
One of the island's most important archaeological sites is Ancient Karthea, once one of Kea's four independent city-states.
Accessible via scenic hiking trails or by boat, visitors can explore:
Temple of Athena
Temple of Apollo
Ancient theater
City walls
Spectacular coastal scenery
The combination of archaeology and breathtaking sea views makes Karthea one of the most rewarding excursions on the island.
Beaches of Kea
Kea offers beautiful beaches suitable for every type of traveler.
Among the favorites are:
Koundouros
Otzias
Korissia
Sikamia
Spathi
Xyla
Many beaches remain peaceful, even during the height of summer.
Hiking Across Kea
Kea is famous for its network of well-preserved ancient footpaths.
These marked trails connect villages, beaches, monasteries, and archaeological sites, making the island a paradise for walkers.
The routes reveal:
Stone fountains
Windmills
Terraced farmland
Chapels
Panoramic sea views
Hiking is one of the best ways to experience Kea's authentic countryside.
Local Gastronomy
Both Andros and Kea offer delicious regional cuisine based on fresh local ingredients.
Specialties of Andros
Froutalia (traditional omelet with potatoes and local sausage)
Fresh seafood
Local cheeses
Almond sweets
Citrus-based desserts
Local wines
Specialties of Kea
Loza (cured pork)
Traditional pies
Chickpea soup slow-cooked in clay pots
Fresh goat cheese
Local honey
Handmade pasta
Dining in family-run tavernas allows visitors to experience recipes that have been preserved for generations.
Suggested 6-Day Itinerary
Days 1–3: Kea
Explore Ioulida, hike to Ancient Karthea, relax on the island's beaches, and enjoy traditional cuisine.
Days 4–6: Andros
Travel by ferry to Andros, discover Chora, hike part of the Andros Route, visit museums, and unwind on the island's beautiful beaches.
This itinerary combines history, culture, nature, and relaxation at a comfortable pace.
