Kythira

Kythira is located at the southern tip of the Peloponnese, where three seas meet: the Aegean, the Ionian and the Cretan. It is an island full of contrasts, history and natural beauty. Geographically they are part of the Ionian Islands, although their cultural identity has been shaped by their particular location, at the crossroads of important sea routes. With an area of ​​about 280 square kilometers and a rich relief, the island impresses with ravines, caves, waterfalls, fertile valleys and a coastline that alternates quiet sandy beaches with steep cliffs overlooking the infinite blue.
The climate of Kythira is Mediterranean, with mild winters and hot summers. Winds, especially those from the north, are frequent and help maintain pleasant temperatures even on the hottest days of summer.

Kythira is linked to mythology, according to Hesiod, Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty, was born here. Since ancient times they have been a place of worship and a commercial center, with influences from the Phoenicians, the Mycenaeans, the Dorians and, later, the Romans and the Byzantines. During the Frankish period and especially under Venetian rule, the island experienced a period of great cultural flourishing. Periods under French and English administration followed, until the union with Greece in 1864. Kythira’s multicultural past is evident in the architecture, castles, churches and habits of the inhabitants. Discover in detail the history of Kythira

Chora, the capital of the island, enchants with its white houses, narrow streets, mansions and the imposing Venetian castle, which offers a splendid view of Kapsali and the sea. Nearby, Kapsali is a popular destination for seaside walks, food and nightlife. At Mylopotamos, waterfalls and old watermills create an idyllic landscape, while in Paleochora, the ancient capital, you can wander among the ruins of the Byzantine castle town, destroyed by the pirate Barbarossa in the 16th century. Avlemonas, with its natural harbor and picturesque atmosphere, is ideal for romantic getaways, while the Agia Sophia cave, with stalactites and Byzantine frescoes, bears witness to the centuries-old spiritual tradition of the place. At the northern tip of the island, the Moudari lighthouse illuminates the horizon and offers magnificent sunsets. See in detail all the attractions of Kythira with specialized information, photos, and access road maps.

The island is easily accessible by plane from Athens: the flight takes about 40 minutes. Alternatively, there are regular ferry services from Gytheio, Neapoli Laconia and Crete, while the main connection with Piraeus is available all year round with routes to Kythira. Travel on the island is mainly done by car, as the points of interest are spread all over the territory. See all updated itineraries for Kythira for ships, planes and for road travel to Kythira.

The tourist infrastructure of Kythira includes hotels of charactertraditional king, modern guesthouses, rooms for rent and renovated stone houses, offering accommodation suitable for families, couples or single travellers. A stay on the island is characterised by warm hospitality and personal contact with the locals, who are happy to share the stories and traditions of their place. Find the best accommodation in Kythira with the best hotels, rooms to rent, houses and villas on the island, and campsites in Kythira.

Entertainment in Kythera has a distinctive character, based on authenticity and quality. In Chora, Kapsali and Agia Pelagia there are small bars, musical taverns and cafes with sea views. During the summer the island hosts cultural events, the Festival of the Municipality of Kythera, with concerts and theatrical performances, while of particular importance are the local festivals, where tradition is relived through music, dances and typical dishes. Find out in detail where you will find the best activities in Kythira about gastronomy, nightlife, and traditional festivals.

The gastronomy of Kythera is a unique experience. The world-famous thyme honey stands out for its purity and aroma, while the traditional xerotigana, also known for its authentic Tinos olive oil biscuits, and local cheeses are ideal souvenirs. In the local taverns you can try recipes based on local ingredients and products, such as pure olive oil, fresh herbs, fish and seafood. But if you want to keep the memory of the island of Urania Aphrodite alive, then be sure to take Semprevives with you, the small flower with a yellow corolla, whose name means that they live forever. Find out where to find the best traditional products of Kythira island.