Film nights in the Cyclades take on a special charm, with screenings under the stars, where the Aegean breeze blows.
White houses with blue windows, pink bougainvillea, turquoise waters, a cool breeze, orange sunsets set against the Aegean, and unhurried strolls through the alleys make up summer in the Cyclades for many of us. The romantic scene is completed with a visit to the open-air cinemas, a beloved habit we take with us beyond the city too, only with a distinctly more laid-back mood.
From improvised screenings by the waves to premieres in lush gardens and at little tables with breathtaking views, the open-air cinemas of the Cyclades are more than simple screening spaces - they are an experience of aromas, memories, and summer magic.
Cine Manto, Mykonos
In a lush garden beside Little Venice, the open-air cinema of Mykonos, Cine Manto, is tucked away. Among palms, pines, cacti and a cistern filled with koi fish, a multi-space for cinema, the arts and taste has been created. An oasis of calm in the bustling Chora, for relaxed movie nights, as well as food - coffee - drinks, in the specially designed restaurant area.
Cine Kalisperitis, Kimolos
Perhaps the most viral cinema of recent years, Cine Kalisperitis on Kimolos has been much loved by visitors to the island. It is considered the most atmospheric cinema in the Aegean, thanks to the simplicity and the romantic landscape that surrounds it. The volunteers of the Kimolistes group organize free-admission screenings all summer, setting up a screen in the most beautiful locations of Kimolos such as the medieval castle, on the rocks or on the sand, with little lanterns that create an unbeatable setting.
Open Air Cinema Kamari, Santorini
For about 30 years now, the Kamari Open-Air Cinema in Santorini has been gifting visitors and locals special evenings under the stars. The distinctive wrought-iron gate and the earthy tones on the walls stand out among the Cycladic buildings in the area, while the canteen hints at a beach bar. Besides first-run films, you can also enjoy theatrical, or musical performances, as well as art exhibitions.
Volkan Open Air Cinema, Santorini
With an unrivaled view of the Caldera, Volkan Cinema in Fira stages movie nights against a postcard-like backdrop. You’ll find it near the cable car, along an ancient cobbled path that leads away from the town. At the little tables set by the cliff, you’ll enjoy films at sunset, accompanied by food. Next to it there is a cafe and a restaurant with a menu based on the flavors of Santorini.
Pallas Open-Air Cinema, Syros
The open-air cinema of Syros, Cine Pallas, is fully in tune with the neoclassical architecture of Ermoupoli. One of the most aristocratic cinemas in the Cyclades sits on central Miaouli Square, where the jewel-like Town Hall of Syros presides. It is the sibling of the indoor Pallas cinema located behind the square. Its choices of classic films create a unique setting combined with views of the impressive buildings all around.
Cine Enastron, Paros
In one of the most beautiful locations on Paros, close to the popular Kolymbithres beach, Cine Enastron offers a distinctive cinema experience. Within the Environmental and Cultural Park of Paros that occupies the Agios Ioannis Detis peninsula, the 100-seat open-air cinema, with free admission, is built amphitheatrically, with stone and gravel. The path to the cinema among the tamarisks is striking, while next door you will also find a cafe-bar and a restaurant.
Cine Rex+, Paros
Since the 1990s, the Cine Rex+ open-air cinema has been a steady presence in Parikia. For about 4 years now, the business has passed to the second generation and has evolved and been renewed. Its upgrade with latest-generation digital projection equipment offers excellent picture and sound to viewers. Screenings are even more comfortable thanks to the beanbags placed on one side of the cinema for relaxed, cool evenings.
Cine Avli, Andros
A charming Cycladic courtyard -as its name suggests- lies in the heart of Chora, screening selections of films from the Andros Film Club. Cine Avli is essentially the courtyard of the Municipal Theater of Andros, built by the sea, at the Venetian bridge and the Castle, one of the most impressive locations on the island. Watching old films by directors such as Hitchcock, Buñuel and Kiarostami beside the Aegean landscape is an experience worth experiencing.
Cine Naxos, Naxos
One of the most contemporary cinemas in the Cyclades is on Naxos. Cine Naxos, in Chora, offers a distinct viewing experience with Dolby surround sound and a digital projection unit. The open-air cinema is located at the exit of Chora towards the airport, while the winter one is in the Municipal amphitheater. It is a favorite outing for locals and travelers who love contemporary cinema, as the films are exclusively first-run.
Cine Korissia, Kea
Near the port of Kea, so close to the capital, afternoon strolls take on color for anyone visiting Cine Korissia. The open-air cinema of Kea is housed in an old building with a warm atmosphere and a long history. When the sky is painted with the colors of sunset with views of the hills of the island, film screenings for young and old begin, accompanied by popcorn.
