Astypalea stands out as the best destination for escaping the crowds of mass tourism, according to the prestigious annual Conde Nast Traveler list of ideal Greek islands for 2025.
The renowned American travel magazine praises the “butterfly of the Aegean”, describing it as offering a gentler and more authentic way of life. It highlights the aroma of local saffron-infused delicacies that drifts through the whitewashed, picturesque alleyways. Additionally, it notes the unique 2,500-year-old rock carvings in Vathy, which celebrate love.
At the same time, Astypalea has been recommended by the British publication Travel Weekly as one of the top five Greek islands that visitors can enjoy without the need for a car. The island’s innovative sustainable initiative, “Astypalea Smart & Sustainable Island”, developed in collaboration with Volkswagen, the Greek government, and the municipality, includes electric vehicle charging stations, as well as electric cars, bicycles, and scooters available for hire via the Astymove app. This makes it easier to explore the island’s pebble-lined coves, traditional villages, and charming hidden corners.
Deputy Mayor of Astypalea, Kostas Kampylis, adds that “the island has the highest ratio of public charging stations to population in Greece. Currently, around 170 public and private electric vehicles are in use, including those belonging to public institutions. Very soon, Greece’s first electric ambulance will be introduced and integrated into the island’s Health Centre fleet.”
He further emphasises that “our goal is to seamlessly blend authenticity and tradition with the future of sustainable tourism, creating a model destination that aligns with modern travel trends. This is our central narrative in presentations, international exhibitions, and professional delegations, which continues to captivate international media and visitors from Greece and abroad.”
It is worth noting that from April to October last year, ferry arrivals to Astypalea increased by 22.5%, while air arrivals from April to the end of September grew by approximately 8.7% compared to 2023—setting new records for visitor numbers.
Also read: 12 amazing things to do in Cyprus this February
Source: ANA-MPA
