Andros is the northernmost island of the Greek Cyclades archipelago and a preferred destination among locals due to its proximity to the mainland. The island is famous for its Sariza spring at Apoikia, where the water flows from a sculpted stone lion's head. Palaeopolis, the ancient capital, was built into a steep hillside, and the breakwater of its harbor can still be seen underwater. Andros also offers great hiking options due to its mountainous regions. Numerous beautiful beaches surround the island, with the most prominent being Vitali, Agios Petros, Achla and Ateni. The Contemporary museum in the main town of Andros offers the opportunity to explore the local art scene.
The best time to visit is in late spring – the sea has warmed up to feasible swimming temperatures and locals outnumber tourists – and early autumn, when most of the tourists have departed and the sea is at its warmest. After late September, though, many facilities close down and ferry links get sparse.
Andros is only accessible by ferry from Athens (2 hours from the Rafina port) as the island is too small to have its own airport.