The cheapest option: where to vacation in Greece

Greece is considered a relatively inexpensive option for a beach vacation. If you are tired of crowds of tourists and want to enjoy an idyllic weekend full of harmony and unity with nature, you should pay attention to less popular Greek destinations.

Greece has always attracted travelers with its local flavor, history, warm climate, beautiful beaches, diverse landscapes and delicious cuisine. Express reports that Andros, the northernmost island in the Cyclades archipelago, is one of the best and cheapest options.

Andrea Afinati, travel expert and founder of Voyaged magazine, said he spent last summer exploring lesser-known and inexpensive vacation destinations.

"With the rise of tourism in popular spots like Santorini and Mykonos, I wanted to find a place that was both affordable and beautiful, without the insane crowds or hefty price tags," the expert said.

Andros is the second largest island of the Cyclades archipelago (after Naxos). Andros is washed by the Aegean Sea, has an area of 380 square kilometers, and the length of its coastline is 177 km.

The island is predominantly mountainous, with chestnuts, walnuts, willows, poplars and olive trees growing on the slopes. The largest cities are Andros (also Chora), Gavrio, Batsi and Ormos Kortiou.

According to Greek mythology, the island was named in honor of Andros, the grandson of Apollo, who served the Cretan king Rhadamanthus.

The heyday of ancient Andros dates back to the first millennium BC, when the Ionians arrived on the island. Andros became a strong maritime power, had colonies in Thrace and Asia Minor and minted its own coinage.

During the Byzantine rule, the island did not lose its cultural prosperity and importance. In the XI-XII centuries, its economicy boosted as silk production began on Andros.

Since 1204, Andros was ruled by the Venetians, and in 1556 the island was captured by the Ottomans.

The greatest tragedy of Andros occurred in 1943, during the massive German bombing.

Here is what you should visit on Andos:

• The ruins of the fortress with the Holy Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary;
• Archaeological Museum;
• Museum of Contemporary Art;
• Maritime Museum;
• Tower of Agios Petros;
• Sariza Spring;
• Apano Kastro (upper castle) and Kato Kastro (lower one);
• The ruins of the city of Palaiopoli.

"Properties on the island are also reasonably priced, making it an attractive option for both holiday stays and long-term moves. In Chora, the capital, apartments around 80-100m² are available to rent for €500-€600 per month," said Afinati.

There are 70 beaches on the island, the most popular of which include Zorkos with its golden sand, crystal clear water and surrounding rocky landscape, as well as the pebbly bay of Vitali and the secluded Achla.

Andros is relatively easy to reach - just take a 1.5 hours ferry ride from the port of Rafina in Athens.

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