Posted by Katapola on Amorgos is a picturesque port town with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for visitors looking for Greek tradition and peace. The mix of tavernas, small beaches and proximity to sights such as the ancient city of Minoa makes Katapola the perfect starting point for exploration.
Katapola Amorgos is the largest and most important port town on the island of Amorgos. At least that was the case until now – for several years now, Aegiali Amorgos has been catching up rapidly and has now caught up with Katapola in size and number of beds. There are now almost as many ferry connections to Aegiali as to Katapola. The main town of Amorgos, Chora Amorgos, is only about four kilometers away by road (about 300 meters above sea level), and it is just under 20 km to Aegiali, the other large port town.
Katapola has around 380 inhabitants. Many regulars come to the small town, and quite a few have been here continuously for months or even years. There is not much to see in the town. Amorgos became famous through a feature film in the 80s. The French cult film “The Big Blue” (original title in French Le Grand Bleu) was shot on the island. Fans of the film, especially from France, meet at the Cafe Le Grand Bleu, which, like almost everything else, is located near the long waterfront promenade.
Our articles about Amorgos |
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| Amorgos Overview | |
| Katapola Amorgos | Aegiali Amorgos |
| Chora Amorgos | Chozoviotissa Monastery |
The “Moon Bar” (also right on the shore in Katapola) is very relaxed – in my opinion one of the best bars in the Cyclades (great atmosphere, drinks and music).
Accommodation Katapola / Amorgos
I stayed in Katapola a few years ago for 35 euros in the very good Hotel Minoa. It is a good mid-range hotel with lots of extras like air conditioning, TV, fridge and hairdryer and of course a little more expensive in summer. WiFi is free in the Hotel Minoa.
“Amorgos Rooms” is a little simpler and probably a little cheaper in summer. Like the Hotel Minoa, this guesthouse is just a few meters from the ferry dock. The cheapest place to stay in Katapola is the good campsite, which is only open in the season.
Don’t have a hotel on Amorgos yet?There are many thousands of hotels on the islands of Greece. In our opinion, the best overview is on Booking.com. Here you can sort the accommodations by price or only display accommodations on a specific island. Hotels can be booked quickly and easily on Booking.com, and there are also many holiday apartments. |
There are a few small supermarkets in Katapola, but those in Aegiali are a bit bigger, more modern and cheaper.
Renting cars and mopeds
You can rent cars and mopeds in Katapola on Amorgos, for example from Thomas Car Rental. The prices are quite reasonable – but you should pay attention to the insurance (fully comprehensive, excess, etc.). You can also return the vehicles to the other Thomas branch in Aegiali for a small fee.
Buses from Katapola Amorgos
In general, Amorgos is still pretty quiet outside of the main season. There are only many tourists between June and September. Only then are there better bus connections on Amorgos. In summer, buses run about 6 times a day up to Chora and from there several times a day to Aegiali. The small villages in the south are difficult to get to by bus. The connections to the Chozoviotissa monastery and the neighboring Agia Anna beach are quite good, however.
The bus fares on Amorgos are cheap. A ticket for a short trip costs about 2 euros, a longer trip from Aegiali to Katapola about 4 euros.
Reader comment: The great bus connections on Amorgos belong in Greek mythology. Now in mid-May, no buses are running. No guests, no bus is the friendly information at the tourist information office in Katopola. Alternatively, the friendly gentleman offers scooter rentals.
Katapola Top 10 Sights and Attractions
Here are the top 10 sights and attractions in and around Katapola on Amorgos:
1. Port
The picturesque port is the heart of Katapola, surrounded by tavernas, cafes and small shops – perfect for strolling and watching the fishing boats.
2. Ancient City of Minoa
Archaeological site above Katapola with ruins from ancient times and impressive views of the bay.
3. Maltezi Beach
A lovely, quiet sandy beach accessible by boat or on foot – ideal for swimming and relaxing.
4. Plakes Beach
A secluded, rocky beach near Katapola, particularly popular with snorkelling fans.
5. Agios Georgios Church
A charming little church located above Katapola with wonderful views.
6. Hiking trails around Katapola
The town is a good starting point for hikes on Amorgos, such as to the ancient city of Minoa or to Chora, the island’s capital.
7. Xilokeratidi district
A traditional district on the southern edge of Katapola with narrow streets, white houses and a quiet atmosphere.
8. Le Grand Bleu filming locations
Fans of the movie The Big Blue can enjoy the atmosphere as parts of the film were shot in and around Amorgos.
9. Local tavernas and cafes
Try local specialties such as fava, patatato (braised lamb) and fresh fish in the tavernas by the harbor.
10. Boat trips
Boat trips are available from Katapola, taking you to secluded beaches, neighboring islands or just exploring the coast.
Hiking from Katapola on Amorgos
Katapola on Amorgos is a great base for hikers as the island is crisscrossed by a well-signposted network of hiking trails. Here are some of the best hikes you can do from Katapola:
Katapola – Ancient City of Minoa
Length: approx. 2 km (round trip)
Duration: approx. 1 hour
Highlights: The trail leads up to the ruins of the ancient city of Minoa with spectacular views of Katapola Bay. Perfect for a short hike with a historical feel.
Katapola – Chora (capital of Amorgos)
Length: approx. 5 km
Duration: approx. 1.5 hours
Highlights: The trail climbs gently and leads through olive groves and traditional landscapes. In Chora, picturesque alleyways and small cafes await you.
Katapola – Monastery of Panagia Chozoviotissa
Length: approx. 8 km (via Chora)
Duration: approx. 3 hours
Highlights: One of the most beautiful hikes on Amorgos. After a stopover in Chora, the hike continues to the famous monastery, which clings spectacularly to a rock face. Breathtaking views included.
Katapola – Aegiali (north coast of the island)
Length: approx. 15 km
Duration: approx. 5-6 hours
Highlights: A challenging hike along the island’s old connecting routes. On the way, you can enjoy impressive panoramic views of the coast and the mountains of Amorgos.
Circular hike: Katapola – Lefkes – Agios Georgios Valsamitis
Length: approx. 10 km
Duration: approx. 3-4 hours
Highlights: This route takes you to abandoned villages, olive groves and the historic church of Agios Georgios Valsamitis with its holy spring.
Hiking tips for Amorgos
Best time: Spring and autumn are ideal as the weather is pleasant and the nature is particularly beautiful.
Equipment: Good shoes, plenty of water and sun protection are a must.
Signage: Many paths are marked (usually with red dots or stone markings), but a hiking map or GPS can be helpful.
Katapola offers a perfect mix of history, nature and relaxation – a must on Amorgos!
The Mouth of Truth Rome in the church of Santa Maria in Cosmedin
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