How many days do you need in Anafi?
Give Anafi 4 days to truly unplug. Two days lets you hike up to Chora and see the cliffside Zoodochos Pigi Monastery, but 4 days accounts for the ferry schedules, wind delays, and a slow-paced exploration of remote beaches like Katsouni and Roukounas without rushing.
Short answer
2 days
Hike the dramatic stone path from port Agios Nikolaos up to the cliffside Chora. Wander its whitewashed lanes, visit the Panagia tou Roukounas monastery, and watch the sunset from the Venetian Kastro.
You give up: You skip relaxing on remote southern beaches like Katsouni, hiking Mount Kalamos to the Dracontospilo cave, and the island's famous slow tavern dinners.
4 days
Tackle the steep trail up Mount Kalamos to the imposing limestone cliff of Drakontospilo and the ruined Temple of Apollo. Spend full days lounging at Roukounas beach and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Megas Potamos.
You give up: You miss renting a small boat to reach hidden sea caves and uninhabited offshore islets, plus deeper immersion in the slow local rhythm.
6 days
Explore every corner of the rugged interior, hike the ancient footpath network connecting abandoned stone shepherds' huts, and take a day trip by local fishing boat to the nearby deserted islet of Pachia for ultimate isolation.
You give up: Nothing—this gives you complete mastery of Anafi's limited trail system and beaches, though you might run out of taverns to try.
If you can stay longer
An extra 2-3 days buys deep isolation and schedule flexibility. Ferries to Anafi are notoriously fickle due to Cycladic meltemi winds. This buffer ensures you won't get stranded, while letting you do a full-day boat trip to the volcanic caldera rim of nearby Santorini or the islets of Christianika.
Lock in the dates
Common questions
How do I get to Anafi?
Anafi has no airport. You must take a ferry from Piraeus (Athens), which takes about 9 to 13 hours depending on the vessel, or catch frequent local connections from neighboring Santorini, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours in good weather.
Are there ATMs or car rentals on Anafi?
Facilities are extremely limited. There is only one ATM in Chora, which frequently runs out of cash, so bring enough Euros. There are no car rental agencies, so you will rely on walking ancient footpaths, local buses, or a very limited taxi service.
Where should I stay on Anafi?
Stay in Chora for authentic whitewashed Cycladic architecture, stunning cliffside views, and easy access to taverns and cafes. Alternatively, stay near Roukounas Beach if you prefer camping, rustic rooms right on the sand, and a permanent hippie vibe.
Hotel and tour links are partner links — the price you pay is the same.