Cities, Towns & Villages in Amorgos
Aegiali (Ormos Aegialis)
The northern port village with approximately 150 inhabitants, located at the northwestern edge of Amorgos in a charming bay. This is the second most important settlement on the island and serves as the secondary port. Aegiali features a long beautiful sandy beach with crystal clear, shallow water perfect for families. The village has the most modern holiday resort atmosphere on the island with abundant restaurants, bars, beach clubs, shops, and a floating souvlaki stand along the waterfront. Fishing boats dock alongside visiting sailing boats in the natural harbor. Situated 16 kilometers from Katapola and 21 kilometers from Chora, Aegiali is connected by regular bus service.
Langada
One of the three picturesque hillside villages in Aegiali Bay, located on the mountainsides surrounding the bay. Langada is surrounded by the highest mountains on the island with beautiful walking paths full of herbs and flowers. The village features traditional Cycladic architecture with whitewashed alleyways, narrow winding streets, and numerous cafes and tavernas serving traditional Greek food. The beautiful church Panagia Epanochoriani is located nearby and is celebrated annually on August 15. Langada is one of the bigger villages on the island and offers genuine Greek village life experience.
Tholaria
A picturesque mountain village with narrow alleys and traditional whitewashed houses. Surrounded by mountains with beautiful walking paths full of herbs and flowers typical of Amorgos. The locals maintain traditional lifestyles and customs, providing visitors with authentic Greek daily life experiences. Tholaria is situated on the hillside of Aegiali Bay forming a triangle with Langada and Aegiali village.
Potamos
A cute small village with traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere, divided into two distinct parts: Ano Potamos (Upper) and Kato Potamos (Lower). Situated on the hills of Aegiali Bay, Potamos offers wonderful sea views and excellent viewpoints overlooking Aegiali. The village is not as popular as the larger settlements during peak season, making it ideal for relaxation and steep walks away from crowds. Mountain surrounding areas feature many walking paths ideal for hiking and enjoying nature. Approximately 3 kilometers from Aegiali port and 24 kilometers from Katapola.
Chora (Hora)
The island’s capital, considered one of the most picturesque and traditional villages of all Cycladic capitals. Built at 350 meters altitude on the northeast side of Mount Prophet Elias among smaller hills, Chora has 400 inhabitants. The village is dominated by a 13th century Venetian fortress called the Kastro, which serves as the historic guardian overlooking the village. The ancient whitewashed chapel of Kyra Leousa (Our Lady of Mercy) was built inside the fortress more than 15 centuries ago, featuring a vestibule and pre-Christian architectural elements. Walking through Chora is like stepping into a dream of the perfect Greek village with narrow winding alleys, whitewashed houses, charming squares full of ancient churches, cozy taverns, cafes and shops. The village has two distinct village squares: the Lower Square (Loza) where the Holy Metropolis of Amorgos is located, and the Upper Square. The name Loza derives from the Latin word “loggia” meaning market. A large eucalyptus tree dominates the Lower Square. The village’s main street extends from east to west, paved with stone slabs and numerous steps, crossed by narrow alleys running north to south. Located 5.5 kilometers from Katapola port and 16 kilometers from Aegiali port, connected by regular bus service.
Main Ports in Amorgos
Katapola Port – The primary and most centrally located port of Amorgos on the southwestern coast. It is the main ferry hub connecting the island to Athens via Piraeus port and nearby Cycladic islands including Naxos, Santorini and Paros. The port handles regular ferry services with both high speed and conventional ferries available. Travel times from Athens range from 6 to 9 hours depending on ferry type. The Express Skopelitis ferry operated by Small Cyclades Lines is a long running institution based here connecting to neighbouring islands.
Aegiali Port – Located on the northwestern coast of Amorgos. Although a secondary port, it is actively used by ferry operators providing up to 28 sailings weekly connecting Cyclades Islands with Dodecanese Islands and Athens. This port serves the northern villages and beaches of the island.
Getting around Amorgos
Amorgos has no airport, so most visitors arrive by ferry into Katapola or Aegiali. Once on the island, a public bus connects the main villages several times a day, taxis are available but limited (best to book ahead in peak season), and renting a car or scooter is the easiest way to reach quieter beaches and villages like Chora and Kalotaritissa.
Full Guide: Getting Around AmorgosHow to get to Amorgos
Amorgos is accessible only by ferry as there is no airport on the island. Ferries run regularly from Athens at Piraeus port and from nearby Cycladic islands such as Naxos, Santorini and Paros. Both high speed and conventional ferry options are available with conventional ferries taking 9 hours from Athens while high speed ferries complete the journey in approximately 6 hours. The journey times vary depending on the ferry type chosen and which port you sail from. Ferry connections are seasonal with many Greek ferry operators confirming routes between February and April of each year. Booking online several weeks in advance during high season from June to September is recommended as ferries often become fully booked. Once arriving at either Katapola or Aegiali ports, a regular bus service connects the main settlements of Aegiali, Chora and Katapola making transfers straightforward.
Full Guide: How to get to AmorgosImportant Contact Numbers for Amorgos
If you are travelling to Amorgos, it is worth keeping a few local numbers close by. The island is relaxed and welcoming, but having the right contact on hand can save you time if you ever need help. Below you will find the numbers we recommend saving before you arrive.
The country code for Greece is +30, and the local area code for Amorgos is 22850.
- Emergency number: 112
- Medical centre, Chora: 22850 71207
- Medical centre, Aegiali: 22850 73222
- Medical centre, Katapola: 22850 71805
- Pharmacy, Chora: 22850 74042
- Pharmacy, Aegiali: 22850 73173
- Police station, Chora: 22850 71210
- Port police, Katapola: 22850 71259
- Port police, Aegiali: 22850 73620
- Post office, Chora: 22850 71250
These numbers cover most situations you might come across during your stay, from a minor health concern to a question about ferry schedules at the port. We always suggest saving the medical centre and port police numbers for the area you are staying in, since each village on Amorgos has its own contact point.
Source: numbers gathered from the official Amorgos tourism guide.
More attractions in Amorgos
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Amorgos
What is the best time to visit Amorgos?
June and September offer ideal weather for hiking with mild temperatures and fewer crowds than July and August. June attracts many Scandinavian and French visitors while September sees a mix of nationalities. August sees peak tourism with near full occupancy. The island is quieter during spring and autumn making these excellent times for visitors seeking a more tranquil experience.
Is a car rental necessary on Amorgos?
A car or scooter rental is recommended but not essential. A local bus service connects the main ports of Aegiali and Katapola with Chora however it does not cover all areas or run frequently. Renting a vehicle gives freedom to explore the island’s beaches, villages and remote hiking trails particularly in the southern Kato Meria region which cannot be accessed by bus.
What makes Amorgos different from other Cycladic islands?
Amorgos provides an authentic Greek island experience compared to more popular nearby islands such as Mykonos, Naxos, Paros and Santorini. The island remains largely unspoiled by mass tourism with traditional family run businesses, fair prices and genuine hospitality. Life is calm and close knit yet the island offers significant cultural experiences through its picturesque Chora village, iconic monastery and rich archaeological heritage.
Can I visit the Panagia Hozoviotissa Monastery?
Yes the monastery is accessible and highly recommended. It was built in the ninth century and renovated in 1088. The structure is carved into a steep rock face 300 meters above the Aegean Sea. Access involves climbing 271 to 350 steps carved into the rock. The local bus makes stops about a 10 minute walk from the monastery making it accessible to most visitors.
What are the island’s best beaches?
Aegiali Beach has the widest sandy beach on the island suitable for swimming and relaxation. Kalotaritissa Beach located on the southern coast is a sheltered natural bay known for calm waters and picturesque views making it popular with families and couples. Mouros Beach features dramatic rock formations and dark pebbles with underwater caves ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Nikouria Island accessible by boat features three pristine sandy beaches with crystal clear waters perfect for diving and snorkeling.