The Top Things to See and Do in Folegandros, Greece

Agios Nikolaos Beach is a family-friendly beach, roughly 5km (3mi) west of the main town on the island. Brilliant turquoise waters tempt you in, with a backdrop of trees providing welcome shade. Once you get hungry, visit one of two traditional taverns nearby for a light lunch – before getting back to tanning and swimming. At the left side of the main beach, you’ll find the Agios Nikolaos chapel, gleaming white against the surrounding area.

After a redesign by the new owner, Merkouri Wine Bar is back and better than ever, serving up local wines, European favourites and select cocktails. Located a short walk outside Chora, the island’s main town, the bar boasts a spectacular view of the vineyard and surrounding area, perfect for watching the sun go down.

This local business offers all things ocean adventure. Visit Sea U’s main office in Chora and bounce between all the available activities: scuba diving, freediving, snorkelling and even island-hopping. Folegandros’s location in the middle of the South Aegean, surrounded by other destinations like Milos, Kimolos, Paros, Sikinos and Santorini, is primed for exploring via chartered boat. No matter your experience level, there’s something to partake in.

Once you’re at Livadaki Beach, a slightly more difficult hike at just over 1km (0.6mi) will take you to the lighthouse. It was built in 1919 and has been operational since 1921, plus it has been fuelled by solar energy since the 1980s. At 58m (190ft) above sea level, it offers an amazing view of the southwest side of the island.

Fine sand and gorgeous water views due north? Don’t mind if we do. Agios Georgios Beach is a sweeping path of white sand on the top tip of the island, accessible via a 10-minute motorbike or car ride through Ano Meria village. Check the weather before you go – this beach is known for its strong winds. On the positive side, you’ll likely have the place to yourself.

Also known as the Folklore Museum, this museum will take you back in time. It’s housed in traditional huts of the 19th century, made of stone and mud – originally used to conceal residents from pirates offshore – and is filled with household items and agricultural tools. It’s truly the best way to glimpse what the lives of Greeks used to look like.

Chora – as many of the main towns on Greek islands are named – is a study in contrasts: a cluster of blinding white buildings perched on a russet hillside. Spend an afternoon winding your way through the narrow streets, closed to car and motorcycle traffic, decorated with bougainvillea and hibiscus. The main Kontarini square comes alive after sunset with locals sipping wine and tucking into souvlaki.

Ano Meria is another small village on the island, a calm, idyllic locale spread over cultivated fields. Here, you’ll find Greek cafes, called kafeneios, which serve as a typical gathering place for men to chat and lounge. These days, of course, women are also welcome. Hungry after all that caffeine? Your next stop should be a local tavern for sharing plates.

Also known as the Venetian Castle, this small fortress was built around 1215 to protect against pirate attacks, making it one of the oldest stalwarts on the island. These days, it’s a gorgeous cluster of residential buildings, with rows of bright blue shutters and stairs that were once used as seating by the former inhabitants.