Batsi: 5-Hour Andros Monasteries Tour

The Batsi: 5-Hour Andros Monasteries Tour is an ideal way to discover the spiritual heart of Andros. Departing from the charming coastal town of Batsi, this guided excursion takes visitors on a journey through the island’s historic monasteries, offering insights into their rich heritage and stunning architecture. With stops at sites like Aghia Marina, Aghios Nikolaos, and Aghia Eirini, as well as a chance to explore the ancient capital of Paleopolis, this tour promises an immersive cultural experience. But there’s more to uncover about this captivating itinerary.

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Key Points

A 5-hour tour from Batsi that visits three historic monasteries on the island of Andros, including Aghia Marina, Aghios Nikolaos, and Aghia Eirini.
Highlights include engaging with local monks at Aghios Nikolaos Monastery and exploring the ancient capital of Andros, Paleopolis.
Tour includes transportation, a tour leader, water, and a map, but excludes food, drinks, and gratuities.
Maximum group size is 7 participants, with departures available in English and Greek.
Tour offers an immersive cultural experience and an opportunity to learn about the island’s rich history and heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Batsi: 5-Hour Andros Monasteries Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the rich spiritual heritage of the island.

Priced from $100.70 per person, the tour lasts 5 hours and accommodates a maximum of 7 participants.

Available in Greek and English, the tour departs from Batsi in the morning.

Highlights include visits to the Aghia Marina, Aghios Nikolaos, and Aghia Eirini monasteries, as well as the capital Chora and the ancient site of Paleopolis.

The tour includes a tour leader, water, a map, and hotel pickup and drop-off, but excludes food, drinks, and gratuities.

Cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is free.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a visit to the Aghia Marina Monastery, followed by an exploration of the Aghios Nikolaos Monastery.

Next, participants discover the Aghia Eirini Monastery.

The tour then takes visitors to the capital, Chora, allowing time for exploration.

Visitors explore the capital Chora, taking time to wander and discover its unique charm.

The final stop is Paleopolis, the ancient capital, where participants learn about the island’s history and take photos.

Throughout the tour, the group passes through charming villages like Aprovato, Aghia Eleousa, Pitrofos, and Stavropeda.

Engaging with local monks at the Aghios Nikolaos Monastery provides a unique spiritual experience.

Departure and Route

Departing from the Batsi office in the morning, the tour takes participants through a series of charming villages, including Aprovato, Aghia Eleousa, Pitrofos, and Stavropeda, before reaching the key destinations on the itinerary.

Along the way, the group will:

Learn about the history of ancient Andros and take photos at the ancient capital of Paleopolis.
Engage with the local monks at the Aghios Nikolaos Monastery.
Enjoy 45 minutes of free time to explore the capital, Chora, at their own pace.

Paleopolis and Ancient Andros

One of the highlights of the Batsi: Andros Monasteries Tour is the visit to Paleopolis, the ancient capital of Andros.

Guests learn about the island’s rich history as they explore the ruins, taking in the breathtaking views. The tour leader shares fascinating anecdotes, painting a vivid picture of life in ancient Andros.

Visitors have the opportunity to capture stunning photos at this archaeological site, which offers a glimpse into the past. This stop on the itinerary provides a unique chance to connect with the island’s heritage and gain a deeper understanding of its enduring legacy.

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Aghios Nikolaos Monastery

Next, the tour explores the Aghios Nikolaos Monastery, located in the village of Aprovato. Visitors engage with the local monks and learn about the monastery’s history and significance.

The tour highlights three key features of the Aghios Nikolaos Monastery:

Ornate Byzantine architecture, with intricate frescoes and iconography adorning the walls.
Valuable religious artifacts, including ancient manuscripts and sacred relics, housed within the monastery’s collection.
The monks’ daily life and spiritual practices, offering a unique insight into the monastic tradition of Andros.

Exploring the Aghios Nikolaos Monastery provides a captivating and immersive cultural experience for tour participants.

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Chora: The Capital of Andros

The tour then takes visitors to Chora, the charming capital of Andros. Guests enjoy 45 minutes of free time to explore the quaint town.

Narrow streets are lined with neoclassical buildings, cafes, and local shops. Visitors can wander the coastal promenade, taking in the Aegean Sea views.

The town’s central square features a clock tower and monuments honoring Andros’ history. Travelers have the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals and enjoy the island’s culture.

Chora’s tranquil atmosphere and picturesque setting make it a delightful stop on the Andros Monasteries Tour.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a tour leader, bottled water, a map of Andros, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

However, food, drinks, and gratuities are excluded.

Travelers should also keep the following in mind:

Long trousers and sleeves are required; no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts are allowed.
Participants should bring their passport or ID card.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is offered.

Important Information

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now & pay later option is offered.

Participants should bring their passport or ID card. The dress code requires long trousers and sleeves – no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless shirts are permitted. This is due to the monasteries’ religious nature.

The tour leader will provide a map of Andros, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included. With a maximum group size of 7, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience exploring the island’s rich spiritual heritage.

Since You Asked

Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Monasteries?

Yes, the tour operator may be able to customize the itinerary to include additional monasteries on Andros. Travelers should inquire about this option when booking the tour, as it may incur an additional cost or require adjustments to the schedule.

Are the Monasteries Accessible for Individuals With Limited Mobility?

The monasteries generally have accessible paths, but some may have uneven terrain or steps which could pose challenges for individuals with limited mobility. It’s best to discuss any accessibility needs with the tour operator before booking.

What Types of Souvenirs Can Be Purchased at the Monasteries?

The monasteries often sell locally crafted items like icons, religious artwork, textiles, and other traditional souvenirs. Visitors can find unique handmade goods reflecting the island’s cultural heritage and the monastic lifestyle.

Is It Possible to Attend a Religious Service During the Tour?

The tour does not include attending religious services. Visitors are encouraged to explore the monasteries and engage with the local monks, but participation in services requires separate arrangements. The focus of the tour is on visiting and learning about the historical and cultural significance of the monasteries.

Can the Tour Be Extended to Include a Visit to the Local Winery?

The tour can’t be extended to include a visit to the local winery. The itinerary is focused on exploring the island’s historic monasteries, and adding an additional stop would exceed the scheduled 5-hour duration.

Final Words

The Batsi: 5-Hour Andros Monasteries Tour offers an enriching exploration of the island’s spiritual heritage. Departing from Batsi, the guided tour takes visitors to notable monasteries, providing insights into their history and architecture. Guests can engage with local monks, explore Chora, and admire the ruins and stunning views of Paleopolis, the ancient capital, all at an affordable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: