KarpathosDodecanese Islands · Greece

All About Karpathos

An island that’s still wild at heart, Karpathos offers dramatic landscapes, beguiling mountain-top villages, awesome beaches, and authentic traditions, making it a must-visit destination. Taking a ferry to Karpathos is easy, just use Ferryscanner to compare companies and book ferry tickets. Lying between Rhodes and Crete in the southeastern Aegean, Karpathos is the second largest island in the Dodecanese group and perhaps the most epic. Swim in its pristine coves, dive into its hidden underwater depths, hike across its stunning terrain and meander through traditional settlements untouched by the ravages of time. Discover a myriad of cultural cues, from early Christian churches and ancient settlements to Medieval castles and Roman aqueducts but most of all, step back into a world where unique island customs still prevail to this day.
 

Routes and Ferries to Karpathos

Begin your own Greek odyssey by booking ferry tickets with Ferryscanner for the incredible island of Karpathos. Sail from the port of Piraeus with ANEK Lines or Blue Star Ferries and enjoy the journey, which takes from around 18 to 21 hours. Alternatively, you can book your ferry tickets to reach Karpathos from a nearby island such as Rhodes in 5-6 hours. Sail from Chalki and reach Karpathos in 3 and a half hours or arrive from Kasos in 1 hour and 40 minutes. The ferry crossing from Crete to Karpathos takes around 8 hours if you depart from Heraklion or just 4 hours and 50 minutes from Sitia. From Milos, there is a 20-hour crossing and an 11 and a half hour journey from Thira, Santorini. The ferry trip from Rhodes to Karpathos takes about five and a half hours and approximately nine and a half hours from Anafi, while you can also reach your destination from the islands of Kalymnos, Patmos, Kos, and Leros.

There are flights from Athens to Karpathos airport all year round and the journey takes about one hour. There are also many European flights directly to Karpathos throughout the summer months.
 

Ports of Karpathos

Karpathos has two ports, called Pigadia and Diafani. Pigadia is the main port and capital, with a population of about 2,500 residents. Dominated by the ruins of an ancient acropolis on a rock overlooking this natural harbor, the town was once the site of the ancient cities of Karpathos, Poseidio or Posi, dedicated to the sea god Poseidon.

Diafani is the second port of Karpathos on the northern side of the island and about 10km east of the stunning Olympos village. Built around a small bay, this traditional fishing hamlet is a pretty seaside resort and supply port for the mountain villages. Boats also leave from here for the tiny island of Saria and other unspoiled island beaches. On Ferryscanner you can easily compare prices or ferry companies and book cheap ferry tickets to Karpathos.
 

Capital & Villages

Pigadia

The capital of Pigadia, named after mountain springs, is a charming settlement with red-tiled rooftops and floral balconies. It is lined with cozy cafés, tempting restaurants, and alluring tourist shops. The area offers a leisurely introduction to Karpathian life. From here, you can explore the rest of the island and enjoy the stunning surrounding environment with its lofty mountains and shimmering bays. Combine hiking through dense olive groves and craggy footpaths with snorkeling in turquoise waters after visiting the town’s ancient acropolis, the ruins of an early-Christian basilica, a tomb in the cave of Neptune, and the small archaeological museum.

Olympos

Olympos is a stunning remote village located 58km northwest of Pigadia that is set amidst lush green valleys high on the mountain slopes. A living museum in an idyllic setting, the village only recently became accessible by car, which explains its authentic character to this day. Most of its 400 inhabitants are still engaged in traditional pursuits such as farming and agriculture and you will even find them speaking in their own local dialect. Visit the 16th-century church of Panagia in the square, where festivities on the 15th of August include women wearing the elaborate customary dress as the menfolk play their traditional musical instruments.

Diafani

Diafani is 70 kilometers from the capital and you can get there either by boat or via a lovely drive through the villages of Aperi and Spoa. This quaint fishing harbor is a peaceful destination where you can unwind and enjoy fresh fish in a picturesque setting. Inhabited since ancient times, the area boasts a Mycenaean tomb, and some of its important artifacts are now housed in the British Museum. Pine-covered hills with abandoned mills and iconic little churches lead to the majestic mountains of Olympos, where you will find the namesake village.

Menetes

Menetes is one of the most significant settlements on Karpathos and is located on a 350-meter hillside slope, 8km away from Pigadia. The winding road leading to the village is quite steep, with the quaint whitewashed dwellings visible from afar. The well-known church of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary houses an old icon that is said to possess miraculous properties. Further up the mountain sits the church of Profitis Ilias, from where you can take in the spectacular views. Other sights worth visiting include the church of Agios Antonios with its rare Byzantine frescoes and Agias Mamas, as well as interesting exhibits from the surrounding area like sculptures, ceramics, and icons.

Aperi

This mountain settlement is nestled in the midst of lush scenery, just 8km north of Pigadia, and is well hidden when approaching by sea. Once the capital of the island (from 1700 to 1892), it was also inhabited during the Middle Ages and was an idyllic haven from pirate attacks. Now a scenic village that is carefully tended to, you can explore its history via the remains of a Venetian castle and the ruins of a tower built in 3,000 BCE. Several paths lead from Aperi to Mertona and Katodio, where spring water flows through the villages and if you carry on, you will find the beautiful beaches of Kyra Panagia and Apella.

Mesochori

Mesochori literally means ‘middle country’ and this idyllic village is located approximately 34km from Pigadia on a slight elevation, with sweeping sea views and exquisite sunsets. Its two bays are separated by a small cape with high cliffs protecting them from the wind. The narrow, stone-paved streets reveal pretty courtyards, traditional-style dwellings, intimate squares, and endearing churches. The main one, Our Lady of the Fountain was built over a spring. Surrounded by thick olive groves and vineyards, the village is a favorite spot for local festivals where you can enjoy amazing cuisine and traditional dances.
 

Best Beaches

A true treasure trove for those seeking that perfect beach, Karpathos has many to choose from, some of which are deemed to be the most beautiful in all of Greece. Several attract windsurfers from all over the world while others remain secluded and offer the perfect opportunity for snorkeling or simply chilling out.

Apella Beach

A sandy beach 18km north of Pigadia, the azure water wraps around the scenic rocky cove, which is dressed in pine trees. Difficult to reach by car or motorbike, the best way to arrive is by one of the regular boats leaving from Pigadia. The exotic nature of Apella has earned it the honor of being voted as the best beach in Greece twice, and it is a wonderful place to explore sea life with a mask and snorkel.

Kyra Panagia Beach

The stunning contrast of the mountain backdrop, smooth pebbles, and crystalline waters make this beach a real jaw-dropper. Located 14km north of Pigadia, it is also considered one of the best beaches in Greece and it is easy to see why. Swim in its azure waters, sit back to enjoy the inspiring setting, and dine at the waterfront fish tavern before making this your favorite island sunspot.

Arkassa Beach

Also known as Agios Nikolaos Beach, Arkassa is 1km from Pigadia and offers golden sands and foaming waves, making it ideal for the windsurfing crowd. The strong undercurrents mean it is not suitable for poor swimmers but you can simply sit and enjoy the splendid views from the shade of the tamarisk trees or while enjoying a cold drink at one of the small beach bars.

Lefkos Beach

Lefkos Beach is located 31km northwest of Pigadia, and 17km from Arkassa village. This long beach is actually made up of four coves, each one offering sun-bleached sand and transparent waters, making them just ideal for bathing. Suitable for both families with young children as well as couples, you will also find a few taverns and beach bars for when you seek refreshment.

Achata Beach

If you seek perfect peace and quiet, head for Achata Beach a few kilometers north-east of Pigadia. This splendid cove is surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation, with sparkling waters reflecting their emerald hues in the sunlight. Apart from a small beach tavern, there is nothing to do here but relax in perfect harmony with nature.
 

Transportation Around Karpathos

Karpathos has a well-developed transportation network, making it easy for you to get around the island. Use the public buses, which are affordable and offer a great way to do some sightseeing. All buses departing from the Pigadia station go to almost every popular village and beach. Taxis are another option if you want to travel faster and they can be found throughout the central meeting points around the island. Car and motorbike rentals are also readily available, allowing you to go at your own pace and to discover those off-the-beaten-track attractions.