3Astypalea – The Butterfly of the Aegean

Shaped like a butterfly, Astypalea bridges the Cyclades and the Dodecanese, blending elements of both. Its whitewashed windmills, Venetian castle, and picturesque Chora make it a hidden gem. Unlike busier islands, Astypalea remains quiet year-round, and off-season visits feel particularly intimate. You can wander empty cobbled streets, swim in crystal-clear waters, and discover hidden chapels on hilltops. The island’s simplicity and beauty capture the essence of untouched Greece.