Andros Villages & Pithara Waterfalls Half-Day Tour

Summary

Explore Andros: Ancient Ruins, Waterfalls & Local Villages

You’ll get to see ancient ruins, hidden waterfalls, lively villages, and even sneak into a cave—all in half a day on Andros. This tour mixes history with real local color and gives you time to explore Chora at your own pace.

What’s the experience like?

The air in Paleopoli felt cool that morning, with a hint of wild thyme drifting up from the hillside. Our guide, Yannis, led us to a spot overlooking the old capital’s ruins—just a few scattered stones and columns now, but you could almost picture the city buzzing centuries ago. He pointed out where the agora once stood. I snapped a photo, but honestly, it doesn’t capture how quiet it feels up there.

Menites was next. The village is tucked under huge plane trees, and you hear water everywhere—trickling from the lion-head springs into little stone basins. There’s this walnut forest just behind the main square; we wandered through for a bit while Yannis surprised us with a quick sleight-of-hand trick using a coin and a walnut shell. It made everyone laugh, even the older couple from Athens.

After a short drive, we reached Apikia. The path to Pithara Waterfalls is only about 15 minutes but watch your step—the stones can be slippery if it rained the night before (which it had). The falls themselves aren’t massive, but they’re tucked into thick greenery that feels almost out of place in the Cyclades. You can hear frogs if you listen closely.

Foros Cave was smaller than I expected but full of weird rock shapes and cool air. Our guide shared some local legends—one about a shepherd who got lost inside ages ago. If you’re claustrophobic, maybe skip this part; otherwise, it’s worth ducking in for a look.

We finished up in Chora, Andros’ main town. Cobbled streets, little shops selling almond sweets (I grabbed some at Laskarina’s), and the Unseen Sailor statue looking out to sea. There’s an old Venetian castle at the end of the spit—half-ruined but dramatic against the waves. We had about 45 minutes to wander or grab coffee before heading back to Batsi. I found myself just sitting on a bench watching locals chat outside the bakery.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Andros Villages and Nature Tour

• View ancient capital remains
• Visit lion springs and walnut forest with magic trick
• Hike to Pithara Waterfalls
• Explore Foros cave
• See statue tribute to lost sailors

Top questions

Is there much walking involved?

There’s some walking in villages and about 15 minutes on a rocky path to Pithara Waterfalls. Most of it is easygoing, but comfy shoes help.

Can I bring my stroller or pram?

Yes! Most stops are stroller-friendly except maybe Foros Cave and part of the waterfall path.

Is this tour suitable for kids?

Definitely—kids usually love the magic trick in Menites and exploring the cave (if they’re not scared of small spaces).

Will there be time for shopping or snacks?

You’ll have around 45 minutes free in Chora to shop or grab something at one of the local cafés or bakeries.

What’s included

Your ride comes with WiFi onboard (handy for sharing photos right away), bottled water to keep you cool, and an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort between stops.