Book a Flight to Kithira from €44

Chora: Built on a hill at the south side of the island, the capital of Kythira is full of stately Venetian buildings, churches and buildings of the English Rule period. A walk in the narrow streets will take you to Belvedere district, where the view to the sunset is breathtaking! From there walk up to the Castle. Perched on the rocks, it was built on a natural fort in the 13th century, while its largest section was built in 1503 by the Venetians. There you will see the palace of the “Provveditore” (overseer), which currently houses the Historical Archives of Kythira with documents dating back in the 16th century.

Palaiochora: Wandering in the desolate castle-city is a journey through time. Built on the verge of the steep gorge Kakia Skala, the old capital of the city, was ruined in 1537 by Janissary - pirate Hayreddin Barbarossa and then deserted by its residents. The ruins of buildings and parts of church frescoes can be seen to this day.

Cave of Agia Sofia: It is located on the west coast of the island, at Kokala bay, 50m. above sea level. It was originally explored in 1930 while is mapping was completed in 1970. Rich in colourful stalactites and stalagmites, it offers visitors a spectacle of unique beauty. In the entrance of the cave you will admire a stone templon with 11th century hagiography and then you will see the small 18th century chapel of Agia Sofia.

Museums: The Archaeological Museum of Kythira in Chora (+30 27360 31739) includes artefacts from the prehistoric and classical times, such as sculptures, vessels, coins etc. The most important artefact is the 6th century marble lion, while the complex of Aphrodite and Eros, dating to the Renaissance - possibly Venetian - stands out. Furthermore, the church of Analipsi in Kato Livadi (+30 27360 31731) has a collection of works of Byzantine and post Byzantine art.

The villages: A small island with many villages is the remnant of the feudal organisation of Kythira, during the Venetian rule. The island has 62 villages today, while Chora, Aroniadika, Kastrisianika, Kato Chora and fascinating Mylopotamos with its cool square have been listed as traditional villages. Apart from those, other villages also worth a visit are the verdant Mitata, the Cycladic-style Avlemonas, the tourist resort of Agia Pelagia, the agrotourist Kalamos, Karavas with its springs, the commercial Livadi with the British bridge, Logothetianika with their beautiful architecture and historic Potamos.

The waterfall: Near picturesque Mylopotamos hides a rare gem of Greek nature. Following the sign for “Neraida Waterfall” you will find yourselves in an idyllic place with tropical vegetation and beautiful bridges, fascinating tracks and a heavenly pond on the edge of the murmuring waterfall that falls from a height of 20 metres. If you are brave enough you may swim in its cold water. Following the ravine you will see more ponds and the watermills used in the past for irrigating the water of the fall.

Antikythira: Although you will hardly ever get enough of Kythira, a trip to nearby Antikythira is worth the while. Between Crete and Kythira, this small island with only 45 residents, rose to fame thanks to the world-renowned Antikythira mechanism that was found on the island, which is said to be the first analogue computer in history. Visit the ancient castle-city of Aigila and Apollo's sanctuary at Xiropotamos beach and indulge in its crystal blue waters. If you have a boat or you don't mind walking for a few hours, you can visit one of the most beautiful spots of the area, the lighthouse of Apolytara, on the south end of the island and enjoy a breathtaking view. On the small island you will find accommodation as well as small tavernas where you can enjoy fresh fish and the famous local wild goat. Free camping is allowed in Antikythira. Boats depart from Livadi.

Beaches: Most beaches in Kythira with the famous crystal water are found on the east and south side of the island and are easily accessible. The popular with tourists Kapsali, Diakofti with the shallow waters and the amazing Cove of Aphrodite in Avlemonas are ideal for families with children. Chalkos and Melidoni are two small but beautiful bays with crystal waters. In Melidoni you can also admire the impressive image of the solitary skerry Chytra emerging from the water. The red Fyri Ammos is fascinating, but hard to access, while if you want to swim in Kaladi, you will have to descend 120 steps. The area of Palaiopoli consists of three beaches to suit all tastes and when there is no northern wind, Langada is the best option. If you love diving and caves, Chytra is an ideal destination. You will get there by boat from Kapsali.

In Kythira you should buy the famous ladopaximada (oil rusks) from the bakery in Potamos, excellent quality thyme honey, virgin olive oil, local wine (white or rose), aromatic herbs and the local Mitato cheese. You can also buy, cinnamon rusks and “fatourada” (a type of home-made liqueur based on tsipouro and tangerines). For a nice experience of the local market with authentic products, the market of Potamos is recommended, held every Sunday on the village square.

In Kythira you will try xinochondros frumenty and fried louvia - whole, boiled field beans fried in batter - wild goat, courgette pie with frumenty and octopus in the oven with wine and herbs. You should not miss sweet pears, rozedes (like almond biscuits) and “pasta milou”, a type of sweet pie served with vanilla frosting. In the many tavernas of the island you will find fresh fish and seafood delicacies to accompany ouzo.

• Festivals - Exhibitions: Various musical and artistic events are held during the summer by the municipality of the island. In June, in the framework of the European Day of Music, Kythira participates in the celebration with many events and concerts. In August, in Fratsia village and exhibition with agricultural products and textile work is held, while in Mitata there is a wine festival.
• Fairs: The greatest fair is that of Panagia Myrtidiotissa, on 15 August. The monastery hosts the icon of the same name, found in 1300-1400 AD and is a religious centre for the island. On Sunday of Orthodoxy, the “Gyra tis Panagias” (Tour of Virgin Mary) is held, a custom where the icon is transferred by the faithful in Chora up to Easter Monday and returns to the monastery after touring all churches.

Transportation from the airport

Aegean Airlines lands on “Alexandros Aristotelous Onassis” airport of Kythira. Small but convenient, this airport has a duty free shop, restaurant, café and a car rental agency. The airport of Kythira is located 23 km north-east of Chora. For your transportation you can only use car or taxi, as no bus service is available.