The Best Bars in Folegandros, Greece

Soul, funk and reggae tunes await you in this cocktail bar in the centre of Chora – the main village on the island. Sip on a martini and then move on to its version of the Zombie, with home-made syrups and fresh fruits. Beez sits inside a lovely converted Cycladic home that’s small on the inside, meaning you’ll probably spill out onto the street.

This wine bar is slightly outside Chora yet still within walking distance. Here, you’ll find a choice of whites and reds, along with the usual cocktail menu of ice-shaken margaritas and a small cheese and meat meze selection. However, the main attraction that will leave you wanting to return again and again is its location – its open terrace has views across the vineyards and up to the main church on the island. So, sit back and enjoy the ’80s and ’90s vibes as you soak in the true field-to-table experience.

This small bar in Chora, opposite the church, is mostly taken up by the DJ booth that pumps out tunes from the ’80s and ’90s, so you’ll more than likely find yourself mixing with others on the street. As the name suggests, BaRaki’s speciality is raki – a twice-distilled grape and anise alcoholic drink that originated in Crete. It’s usually best served warm and here, with honey. The bar also has a few signature cocktails, such as mojitos and piña coladas, or relax with a coffee earlier in the day.

If it’s a more contemporary Greek feel you’re after, then the Astarti Bar is the place for you; it makes its home in the main square of Chora. Sit at any one of the colourful tables and listen to contemporary Greek tunes or rembetika (Greek blues) while sipping a raki, a negroni or, in the daytime, a coffee. There’s always a place to relax in the square if no tables are free; you won’t feel you’re restricted here – anything goes.

People tend to gravitate to Patitiri after visiting the other bars mentioned on this list – it’s a late-night kind of place. At the party hub of Folegandros, you can enjoy lounge and dance music – mixed with the occasional Greek music – into the early hours while sipping on a long island iced tea or a create-your-own cocktail, courtesy of the mixologist. Without much competition, Patitiri is the party place on this otherwise quiet island.