A day trip from Santorini to Anafi

Santorini is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and most visited islands in the world. So it’s hard to believe that only 22km to the east lies an island that hasn’t been touched by mass tourism. Anafi is located in the southeast of Cyclades and it’s a perfect destination if you want to “get away from it all” and spend countless hours lying on the beach, hiking, eating or otherwise take a break from the sometimes hectic atmosphere of its neighbor to the west.

Chora is the island’s only town and here you will find most of facilities such as hotels, shops and taverns. Most beaches are located on the south coast of the island, most popular being Klisidi beach, Roukounas and Katsouni. Anafi is also one of the few places in Greece where free camping is permitted. The local municipality has even constructed facilities for free campers, like showers on the beach.

As there is not much transportation on the island – the only bus route connects Chora to the port – you will need to rent a scooter or car to get around the island.

If you’re up for a little adventure drive or hike to the Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi in the eastern part of the island and then walk up to the Monastery of Kalamiotissa, located on top of Kalamos Rock, the second biggest monolith in Europe after Gibraltar. At 463 meters high it offers breathtaking views of the Aegean sea and nearby islands of Pachia and Makra – the Fat and the Long, names they got, probably, due to their shape.

You won’t find any fine dining experiences in Anafi, but if you want a delicious and truly traditional meal, head over to Tholos or Endochora taverns. The food in both places is always fresh and owners so friendly, you’ll soon feel more like a family member that came over for dinner.

There is no airport on the island, although construction works have started recently to build a small airstrip meant for light aircraft. To get to this idyllic island you will have to book a ferry. It takes about two hours to get to Anafi from Santorini. Many tourist offices in Santorini also offer day trips to Anafi, so if you’re up for an unforgettable experience – go for it! I promise, you’ll love it!