Posted by Antiparos is a small island in the Cyclades, separated only 1.5 km from the neighboring island of Paros. It is about 35 square kilometers in size and has about 900 inhabitants. The vast majority of the population lives in the main town of Antiparos. There are no other villages on the island. The island name is often also written “Andiparos”.
Antiparos is one of our favorite islands. The town of Antiparos is a typical Cycladic town with a fishing port and narrow streets. The village is less touristy than, for example, the towns of Parakia and Naoussa on the large neighboring island of Paros. Nevertheless, tourists have everything they need: good taverns, nice beaches, small hotels and private rooms. There is also a campsite on the island of Antiparos. Andiparos is the ideal island for vacationers looking for peace and relaxation.
Until a few years ago, life on Antiparos was largely traditional: the men were in the Kafenio without their wives and played Tavli (backgammon) or cards. In the harbor, the fishermen mended their nets. In recent years, gentle tourism has changed a lot on Antiparos. There are a striking number of organic shops and vacationers on bicycles.
Our opinion: Antiparos has an intimate and relaxed atmosphere that is ideal for a break from everyday life. However, the island can seem a bit small and less varied to some. Nevertheless, it fascinates with its relaxed rhythm of life and authentic charm.
Our articles about Paros |
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| Paros Overview | island of Antiparos |
| Parikia Paros | Naoussa Paros |
| Lefkes Paros | Piso Livadi Paros |
Most of the shops are located in the main street that leads away from the port of Antiparos. Two bakeries smell of fresh bread from afar. At the end you reach the central square, which is called Platia like everywhere else in Greece. To the right of it is a small castle (Kasto) and a small museum. There are many small cafes and taverns in the main street. There are also a few banks with ATMs and the post office in the main street of the small island capital.
A good tavern in the main street on the right is Papagalos. The menu includes very interesting dishes such as chicken fillet with apple sauce or risotto with truffles. The pizzas are also delicious.
There are no other villages with more than a handful of houses on Antiparos. Many tourists take the bus to the cave. It is the most famous stalactite cave in the Cyclades (bus and entrance fee together about €6). For hikers, the lonely island in Greece is a paradise. If you are looking for lonely hikes on a largely uninhabited island, Antiparos is the right place. Important when hiking: It is very dry, always take enough water with you.
There are surprisingly many bus connections on Antiparos to the beaches, such as Soros, Georgios and Panagia Beach. In the season there are about 7 connections in both directions. There are also about 4 buses from the harbor to the cave described above (Cave, spili). Buses as of summer 2024.
Tavernas and rooms are sometimes a little cheaper on Antiparos than on Paros. The people are honest (no tourist traps) and you can quickly get into conversation. Life is still slow on Andiparos and you have time. The tavernas, most of which are right by the harbor, are consistently good – especially the fresh fish dishes. There is a smaller, good and inexpensive campsite about 1 km outside the town of Antiparos.
Boat tours Paros
There are some great boat trips from Paros (day trips): More information and booking at Getyourguide
Accommodation on Antiparos
There are now well over 50 hotels, guesthouses and private room landlords on the island of Andiparos. Since hardly any tourists arrive without a reservation these days, you can book a lot of accommodation in advance on Booking.com.
A fabulous choice is Nicolas Studios in the main town, less than 100 meters from the sea. The small apartments have a cooking facility, a balcony and Wi-Fi internet. The friendly owners, the cleanliness and the proximity to the beach are plus points of Nicolas Studios. If you wish, you can be picked up from the port free of charge. Bookable at Booking.com
The Artemis Hotel also has a very good reputation, also in a prime location in the center near the beach. With 30 rooms, the Artemis is a large hotel for Andiparos. Double rooms, for example, cost only 40 euros for May 2021. For a few euros extra, you can have a great breakfast on the veranda of the Artemis Hotel. Bookable at Booking.com
Arrival and travel on Antiparos
You can only get to Antiparos from Paros by boat.
By bus or car and ferry from Pounda: Take the bus from the main town Parikia to Pounda (depending on the season, around 8 times a day, around 2 €). In Pounda on Paros there are 2-3 tavernas, a supermarket and a small church at the ferry dock. The main function of the tiny town is the ferry port for Antiparos. From here the ferry to Antiparos leaves every 30 minutes. It arrives directly in the main town. The crossing costs less than 2 euros (!) and takes about 8 minutes. The boat leaves Pounda (Paros) on the hour and half hour. In Antiparos the departure is a quarter of an hour later.
If you come by car or motorbike, you can either take the vehicle on the boat to Antiparos or leave it in Pounta. There are now several paved roads on Antiparos. There is also a road to the famous cave of Antiparos.
Map of Antiparos
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There are only roads in parts of Antiparos. The village around the harbor is the only larger settlement.
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By passenger ferry from Parikia: There are frequent ferries to Antiparos, even directly from the capital of Paros, Parikia. The crossing costs 5 euros per person one way. In Parikia, the boat leaves a few meters to the right of the pier for the large ferries. You get on and off the Antiparos right in the center. It is a passenger-only ferry; if you want to take a rental car with you, you have to go to Pounda. When we visited in June 2021, the ship ran six times a day in both directions (see timetable in the picture).
Buses Antiparos: There are island buses that wait for passengers right next to the ferry from Pounda. The main destination is the beaches and the famous stalactite cave. In the high season, the bus connects the main town and the cave every hour during the day (a good 10 kilometers).
Antiparos tour: A local operator offers day trip boat tours from the port of Antiparos. The ship Captain Ben runs daily during the season. The main focus is on secluded beaches, visiting small caves, swimming and snorkeling. Lunch (barbecue) is served on the tour.
By car to Antiparos and renting a car: You can easily take a car to Antiparos on the short ferry from Pounda. There are a few car rental companies in the town of Antiparos, not far from the ferry dock. However, renting a car just for Antiparos is hardly worth it. The rental cars are more for tourists who want to spend their vacation on Antiparos and visit Paros. There are also mopeds, scooters and the like.
Travel agencies Antiparos: A number of travel agencies line the shore in the center. They sell tickets for the ferries from Paros. You can also book flight tickets and excursions here. Some also offer internet, fax, copies and the like. Some travel agencies also rent cars and other vehicles, including rental bicycles and e-bikes. They also help arriving holidaymakers to find accommodation on Antiparos. There are many hotels and holiday apartments nearby.
The Cave of Antiparos
The entrance to the famous cave is almost 200 meters above the sea in the south of the island. On the approximately 10-kilometer drive to the cave, you have a wonderful view of the island and the surrounding sea in some places. There are several hundred steps down. Some of them are a bit slippery. The Antiparos Cave is less suitable for old people, people with walking difficulties and small children. You can see gigantic stalactites and much more. For many visitors to the island, the cave is the highlight of the trip to Antiparos. In English, cave is called “Cave”, in Greek “Spili”.
Disposito Island
The 12 square kilometer island southwest of Antiparos has been uninhabited in winter for several years. In summer, a few shepherds sometimes live on the island. If you want to live completely without civilization, this is the right place for you. You can ask the fishermen in the small harbor of Agios Georgios in the south of Antiparos for a crossing. If you don’t want to end up as Robinson Crusoe, you should arrange a safe return trip. Take water and food with you, there is nothing on Disposito! But there are magnificent, deserted beaches!
Day trips in the form of tours around the island of Andiparos sometimes include a detour to the island of Disposito.
Even more deserted, if that is possible, is the island of Stroggili, which is located a little further west.
Boat tours Paros
There are some great boat trips from Paros (day trips): More information and booking at Getyourguide
Top 10 Antiparos: Sights and Attractions
Visit Antiparos Cave: Explore the impressive stalactites and stalagmites in this million-year-old cave. A popular attraction since ancient times, it offers a fascinating underground experience.
Relax on Soros Beach: This popular beach offers golden sand and clear waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Soros Beach is known for its relaxed atmosphere and beach bars that make it so popular with visitors.
Stroll around Antiparos Town (Chora): Stroll through the narrow, whitewashed streets of the main town, which are filled with charming boutiques, cafes and tavernas. The picturesque setting and traditional Cycladic architecture make for a quaint and relaxed atmosphere.
Take a boat tour to Despotiko Island: Visit the nearby uninhabited island of Despotiko with its ancient archaeological sites, including a sanctuary dedicated to Apollo. The island also offers secluded beaches and crystal clear waters.
Swim at Faneromeni Beach: Located on the south coast of the island, this secluded and stunning beach is known for its clear turquoise waters and dramatic rocky landscape, perfect for a peaceful holiday.
Explore the Venetian Castle (Kastro): Located in the heart of Antiparos Town, this medieval castle dates back to the 15th century. The remains of the old fortifications and stone houses offer a glimpse into the island’s history.
Enjoy water sports: Antiparos is ideal for various water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, paddleboarding and snorkeling. The island’s calm and clear waters are ideal for both beginners and experienced water sports enthusiasts.
Go diving: Explore the underwater world around Antiparos with its diverse marine life, shipwrecks and underwater caves. There are several diving schools on the island that cater to both beginners and experienced divers.
Visit Psaraliki Beach: Just a short walk from Antiparos Town, Psaraliki consists of two beaches (Psaraliki I and II) with calm waters and plenty of facilities such as beach bars and water sports rentals.
Experience the nightlife: The island has a relaxed but lively nightlife with many bars and cafes open late into the night. You can enjoy a drink in a relaxed atmosphere or dance to Greek music in one of the local clubs.
Other small attractions on Antiparos
The Old Castle in Antiparos
In the old town of Antiparos there is an old castle that is often overlooked. It is a historical site that offers an insight into the history of the island. The castle itself is impressive and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding area.
The Chapel of Agios Nikolaos
This small, picturesque chapel is located in a quiet spot and offers stunning views of the sea. The path to the chapel passes through beautiful landscapes and is a perfect place for photography and contemplation.
On foot from Antiparos to Despotiko
Despotiko is an uninhabited island near Antiparos, accessible by a short boat trip or by foot across the water (check beforehand at low tide). Here you will find ancient ruins and beautiful, unspoilt beaches.
The Ruins of Kastro
These ancient ruins are often less visited and offer a glimpse into the history of Antiparos. The remains of the old settlement are picturesquely set in the landscape and are a lovely place to explore.
The Chapel of Agios Antonios
This small, charming chapel is located in a secluded spot and offers a peaceful atmosphere. It is a lovely place to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
The small bay of Glyfa
This hidden bay is a perfect place to swim and relax. The calm waters and surrounding rocks create an idyllic setting for a day at the sea.
The Pounta viewpoint
This viewpoint offers spectacular views of the surrounding islands and the sea. It is a bit remote, but the view is worth the effort and offers a great opportunity for stunning photos.
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