Anafi Island

Address: Anafi island, South Aegean, Greece

Admission: Free to visit

Anafi is a small Cycladic island in the South Aegean, located to the east of Santorini and known for a largely unspoilt, low-density landscape. The island is valued for hiking routes, quiet beaches and a compact main village offering basic services rather than mass tourism.

Visitors typically come for walking and simple beach-based recreation, and to experience a quieter island atmosphere and traditional whitewashed architecture in the main settlement. The coastline and interior contain a mix of cliffs and small sandy coves.

Historically the island has been part of the Cyclades archipelago with settlement and usage dating back to antiquity; its small size and relative isolation have limited large-scale development.

Anafi is reached by regular ferry connections from neighbouring Cycladic islands and from Piraeus/other ports; it lies in the Aegean Sea east of Santorini on the southern periphery of the Cyclades.

Anafi (South Aegean) is a small Cyclades island served by seasonal ferry and high-speed catamaran services from Piraeus and from nearby islands such as Santorini; crossings from Santorini are relatively short, while Piraeus sailings take much longer. Ferries dock at Anafi’s harbour; from the landing a short, steep walk (or a local taxi) is required to reach the Chora (main village) above the port.

• Catch the earliest ferry from Santorini or Ios and be prepared for a steep 20-30 minute walk up to Chora from the small port; arriving early avoids the heat and gives the best light for views toward Santorini.
• Make the hike to the Monastery of Panagia Kalamiotissa (above Chora) in the morning for panoramic views that most day-trippers miss; the path and small chapels along it reward quiet exploration.