Folegandros: The Untamed Elegance of the Southern Aegean
Folegandros is an island of dramatic cliffs and serene beauty. For years, it was Greece’s best-kept secret, but in 2026, it has become the destination of choice for those who find Santorini too crowded and Mykonos too loud. It offers a refined, minimalist aesthetic, a Chora that is arguably the most atmospheric in the Aegean, and a landscape that feels like it was carved by the gods themselves.
Things to know about Folegandros
Geographically, Folegandros is small and rocky, located in the southern Cyclades. Historically, it was a place of exile for centuries, which helped preserve its traditional way of life. An ideal trip length is 3-4 days. It is famous for its three consecutive village squares in Chora, the zig-zagging path to the Panagia Church, and its traditional ‘matsata’ handmade pasta.
Top attractions in Folegandros
Folegandros Chora
The Chora is built on the edge of a 200-meter vertical cliff. What makes it unique are its three interconnected squares, each filled with trees and traditional taverns. It is a car-free zone where the life of the island happens under the shade of the plane trees.
Church of Panagia
The most iconic site on the island, this white church sits high above Chora. A stone, zig-zagging path leads up the hill, offering one of the most legendary sunset walks in Greece. The view from the top encompasses the entire island and the surrounding sea.
Kastro (The Medieval District)
The oldest part of Chora, built by the Venetians in the 13th century to protect against pirates. The houses are built into the castle walls, with their balconies hanging over the cliff. It is one of the most well-preserved medieval settlements in the Cyclades.
Katergo Beach
Often cited as the most beautiful beach on the island, Katergo is a wild, pebble beach with incredibly clear turquoise water. It is best reached by boat from the port of Karavostasi, as the hiking path is very steep and exposed.
Agali Beach
A beautiful, sandy bay that is easily accessible by bus or car. It is the starting point for several coastal hiking trails that lead to more secluded beaches like Galifos and Agios Nikolaos.
Ano Meria Village
The second-largest settlement on the island is a traditional farming village. Unlike Chora, the houses here are spread out in ‘Themonies’ (small farm units). It is the best place to try ‘matsata’ pasta in a local tavern.
Ecclesiastical and Folklore Museum
Located in Ano Meria, this museum is housed in a traditional ‘Themonia’ and showcases the rural lifestyle of the islanders before the arrival of tourism, including traditional tools, looms, and kitchens.
Chrysospilia Cave
A natural monument located on the northeastern side of the island. It contains impressive stalactites and stalagmites, but its most important feature is the ancient inscriptions of names on its walls, dating back to the 4th century BC.
Livadi Beach
A long, sandy beach near the port of Karavostasi. It is home to the island’s campsite and offers a relaxed environment with several trees for shade and calm water for swimming.
Karavostasi (The Port)
The gateway to Folegandros is a quiet, friendly place with several small beaches and waterfront cafes. It is the perfect spot for a final swim while waiting for your ferry to depart.
Island-hopping from Folegandros
Folegandros is well-connected to the southern Cyclades. High-speed ferries from Piraeus arrive in about 4 hours. It is only 45 minutes from Santorini and 1 hour from Milos. Regular local boats also link Folegandros to Ios, Sikinos, and Kimolos, making it a key stop on any southern Aegean itinerary.
