Unique attractions

Kythira, the island of Heavenly Aphrodite, with its wonderful natural environment, unique traditional villages, and important historical monuments.

Enchanting beaches

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Traditional villages

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KYTHIRA

Kythira, the Ionian island, welcomes us this summer, adorned with natural beauties that make it a favorite destination for holidays and recreation. Kythira, the island of Aphrodite and the winds, stands at the crossroads of three seas, like a secret waiting to be revealed.
Here, nature and myth walk side by side: from the sculpted coasts and white beaches with turquoise waters, to the gorges with running water and the old mills that stand like ghosts of time.
Stone villages, embraced by thyme and oregano, hide churches, squares and people who greet you with their gaze. Venetian castles still stand proudly on rocky peaks, gazing at the endless blue and silently telling stories of centuries.
Kythira is not just a destination, it is a sensation. A journey back in time, into nature and ultimately, into yourself.

KALADI BEACH

The island’s iconic beach, with double omega-shaped bays, fine pebbles, turquoise waters and caves to explore.

MYLOI

Perhaps the most beautiful area in Kythira is the Myloi area with its lakes and small waterfalls under the shade of centuries-old plane trees.

CASTE OF CHORA

A fortress with panoramic views of three seas, built by the Venetians in the 16th century, oozing history and romance.

The island of heavenly Aphrodite, a romantic refuge for the most famous couple in history, Paris and the beautiful Helen, a place of utopia and search to this day.

In the waters of the island of Kythera, the goddess Aphrodite was born, as the ancient myth that has survived to this day states. She was created from the foam of the organs of the god Uranus, which in his battle with Zeus for power, fell into the sea of Kythera. From the foam that was created, the goddess of beauty Aphrodite was born.
In the Orphic religion, which preceded the twelve gods, the relationship of Kythera with the goddess of love is first identified, “the Kytherian goddess of love, nurturer”.

This is also supported by the origin of the name from the verb κευθό, which means I have hidden love within me. In fact, in ancient times, someone who lacked beauty was called an Akythera, while those who made love on the island discovered the hidden love passion.
Although Paris and the beautiful Helen had no need for love passion, they went to Kythera to enjoy their bond, for the uniquely magical environment that the island offers, and it remains unchanged to this day.

Natural beauties of Kythira

It is a pleasant surprise for the visitor to the island to discover wonderful locations walking on paths, such as the Myloi ravine in the traditional village of Mylopotamos, with running waters that form small waterfalls and ponds covered with centuries-old plane trees and lush vegetation. It took its name from the watermills that exist there and were in operation until the 70s. Today, the network of old paths and stone arched bridges lead visitors on routes that will certainly remain unforgettable. The nature of Kythira is a true surprise for the visitor and an occasion for exploration and ceremonial routes to the beauties of the island.

Enchanting beaches

Between the Peloponnese and Crete, the island of Kythira embraces three seas, the Myrtoo, the Cretan and the Ionian, whose waves caress the enchanting beaches, some with fine sand, some with pebbles, some large and some smaller, but all with clear blue waters, which is why some of them have won Blue Flag awards in 2016. Perhaps Paleopolis was the largest in Kythira with fine sand, where an ancient sanctuary was discovered a few hundred meters away that is believed to have belonged to Aphrodite and immediately next to it the picturesque village of Avlemonas. Or the beach in the cosmopolitan and picturesque Kapsali which consists of two bays that form an omega and has a view of the traditional Chora, the capital of the island with the imposing Venetian castle. Or perhaps to the west, overlooking the Ionian Sea, the small beach of Limionas in the traditional fishing village with the moorings for boats and close to the Baths of Aphrodite. The answer probably lies in the pleasant memory that the visitor takes with him after an unforgettable summer vacation in Kythira.

Kythira at a glance

How do I get to Kythira?

Kythira is a beautiful island at the southernmost tip of the Peloponnese and north of Crete, it can be visited by boat, by plane, as well as by road via Neapolis Laconia, Gytheio and from Kastelli Crete. From Athens, there are daily flights that last about 40 minutes, making access quick and easy. If you prefer to travel by road, you can drive to Neapolis Laconia or Gytheio and take the ferry from there. The route from Neapolis is the shortest, about an hour and a half. There are also routes from Piraeus, with longer duration but with the possibility of transporting a car. In the summer, due to increased demand, it is good to take care of your reservations in advance.

Where should I stay in Kythira?

Kythira offers many different accommodation options, from traditional guesthouses, rooms to rent, campsites, to modern hotels. If you want to stay close to the sea and nightlife, Kapsali is ideal, while for a quieter and family atmosphere, Agia Pelagia or the picturesque Avlemonas offer beautiful nearby beaches and a peaceful environment. Chora is an excellent choice for those who want to explore the alleys and history of the island, while in Diakofti, near the port, you will find accommodations with easy access and beautiful views. Whichever area you choose, the island combines traditional hospitality with natural beauty.

How will I get around the island?

Getting around Kythira is quite easy, even if you don’t have your own vehicle, offering various options for visitors. The most practical solution is to rent a car or scooter, as the island’s road network covers most of the villages and beaches. There are several car rental companies at the port, the airport and various villages on the island. Alternatively, you can use a taxi for your transportation, but it is recommended to book in advance, especially during the tourist season.

What attractions should I visit in Kythira?

Kythira combines natural beauty, history and tradition, offering many interesting places to explore. One of the most impressive sights is the Fonissa waterfall in Mylopotamos, set in a lush green landscape. The Venetian Castle of Chora, built in the 16th century, dominates the capital and offers a magnificent view of three different seas. A visit to Paleochora, the Byzantine city that was the island’s old capital and was destroyed by pirates, is also very special; today, ruins of temples and houses are preserved in an imposing gorge. Also worth visiting is the cave of Agia Sophia, with impressive stalactites and hagiographies, as well as the picturesque Avlemonas for a walk and a swim. Among the beaches, Kaladi stands out for its clear waters and wild landscape.

What are the best beaches in Kythira?

The island has many different beaches that cater to all tastes – from organized to completely secluded. The most famous beach is Kaladi, with impressive cliffs and turquoise waters, accessible via steps. In Kapsali, you will find a more cosmopolitan atmosphere, cafes and taverns by the sea, while Fyri Ammos in Agia Pelagia stands out for its red pebbles and intense relief. Ideal for families is the beach at Diakofti, with shallow, warm waters and a sandy bottom. For quieter moments, choose Halkos or Melidoni, which offer beautiful landscapes and clear sea, ideal for those seeking tranquility.

What should I try from the local cuisine?

The cuisine of Kythera is simple, authentic and based on local ingredients. Among the most characteristic dishes are xerotigana, thin fried leaves with honey and cinnamon, which are often offered at celebrations. Do not forget to try strophilia (handmade pasta with mizithra cheese), zucchini flowers (fried flowers) and baked goat with local herbs. Also very famous are ladopassimada, which ideally accompany cheese and olives. Among the desserts, the mizithra pie with honey stands out, while as a souvenir it is worth taking thyme honey of Kythera, famous for its aroma.

Which products are worth buying?

Kythira offers unique products that you can take as souvenirs or to enjoy at home. Thyme honey is one of the most famous local products, with a unique taste and aroma, that you can find in local shops. Also, the oils and aromatic herbs such as oregano and sage are of excellent quality and ideal for cooking or aromatherapy. Do not forget to get traditional sweets, such as xerotigana and myzithropitakia, which are local specialties. The famous oil rusks, and cheeses, such as myzithra and ladotyrion of Kythira, are also excellent and are ideal gifts for your loved ones. Semprevives, the small flowers with the yellow flower, that live forever.

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