Posted by Karpathos is an island in the warm south of Greece, about halfway from Crete to Rhodes. There is now a lot of tourism on Karpathos. Nevertheless, the island is still suitable for holidaymakers looking for peace and quiet. Karpathos has about 7,500 inhabitants and a small international airport for charter flights. During the season, there are several direct flights from German airports to the island every week. In Greece, Karpathos is known for its unique, traditional culture. Due to the remoteness of Karpathos, old traditions have been preserved here. The dance “Pano Choro” is said to only be found here. The traditions on Karpathos are mainly maintained in the north, particularly in the mountain village of Olymbos, which is popular with tourists.
(Barren, almost desert-like landscape defines large parts of Karpathos, but there is also forest.)
The south around the airport is very barren. A large fire a few years ago caused southern Karpathos to lose further valuable forest areas. In the middle and north, however, there are large and dense coniferous forests. These forests consist of pine and fir trees. Olives are grown in many regions of the island. There is little agriculture on the sparsely populated island. Wine is cultivated in the mountains, especially around the mountain village of Othos. The landscape is very mountainous, only in the very south around the airport is there an extensive plain.
In Greece, Karpathos is known for its traditional cuisine. Makarounes, a pasta dish with cheese and onion, is famous. It is served in many taverns. Ofto (stuffed lamb) and the Carpathian versions of sardines and sweet baklava are also worth trying. Overall, the food on Karpathos is good and relatively inexpensive.
Accommodation in Karpathos: Since the island has a large international airport, the number of tourists and hotels has grown significantly. You should book in advance online via Booking.com. In the island’s capital, Pigadia, our favorite is Elias Rooms. Captain Elias is happy to pick up his guests from the ferry and is very helpful. He speaks good English. Roses Studios is another good option in the capital.
Those looking for more peace and quiet could stay in the tiny fishing village of Finiki by the sea. We liked Theodosis Studios Finiki
The ferries arrive in the main town of Pigadia (also spelled Pigadhia). In this town there are hotels, guest houses, taverns, a post office, banks and shops. Many taverns are located along the beautiful beach promenade. More information about the capital and tips for cheap accommodation can be found here: Pigadia
(Pigadia on Karpathos)
South of the island: There are also a few villages with a well-developed tourist infrastructure – with hotels and restaurants in the medium to upper price range for package tourists. These are mainly located in the south of the island of Karpathos. There are also beautiful, wide sandy beaches. Amoopi, just a few kilometers south of the capital and north of the airport, has developed into a small package tourist resort. On the other side, on the west coast, there are a number of smaller towns. Coming from the airport, you first reach the town of Arkassa, which is equally popular with package tourists and individual vacationers. Just 3-4 km further north is the tiny fishing village of Finiki. This is said to have the best, freshest fish on Karpathos. About 15 km further north is Lefkos. The village is famous for its many white beaches. Also worth mentioning is the bay of Afiarti in the very south-east of Karpathos next to the airport. It is said that nowhere else in Europe are the winds better for windsurfing. The place has developed into an international meeting point for windsurfers and kitesurfers. Surfers are now an important part of tourism on Karpathos.
(One of the mountain villages)
North of the island: The region in the north is almost uninhabited and is ideal for long hikes. Near the small port town of Diafani (see picture below) there is a free, generally tolerated campsite. Unfortunately, there is no official campsite or youth hostel to be found. The interior of the island is also well suited for hikes. The mountain villages of the mountains, which are up to 1,200 meters high, have remained largely untouched by the package tourism caused by the international airport. The famous village of Olymbos in the north of Karpathos, whose houses cling to the mountainside like swallows’ nests, is definitely worth seeing.
Flights to Karpathos: There is at least one flight to Athens and Rhodes every day. You can fly to Crete and Kasos several times a week. In the season, Karpathos is now served by charter planes directly from Germany.
Where is Karpathos most beautiful?
Karpathos is a beautiful island with a variety of stunning beaches, traditional villages and impressive natural settings. Here are some of the most beautiful spots:
1.Afiartis – A quiet, picturesque spot in the south of Karpathos known for its pristine beaches and clear waters. Particularly popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers.
2.Achata Beach – An idyllic beach in the west of the island surrounded by high cliffs and green hills. The waters are clear and ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
3.Olymbos – A traditional mountain village in the north of the island known for its pristine architecture and stunning sea views. Here you can experience traditional Carpathian culture.
4.Kyra Panagia Beach – A beautiful sandy beach surrounded by rocks and green vegetation. The waters are calm and perfect for a relaxing day at the beach.
5.Diakoftis Beach – A stunning sandy beach in the south of Karpathos known for its turquoise waters and peaceful atmosphere. Ideal for a relaxing day in peaceful surroundings.
6.Pigadia – The capital of Karpathos, which has a lovely harbor and plenty of restaurants and cafes. From here you can reach many of the island’s beaches and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Island map
On the map you can see the location between Crete and Rhodes. It is one of the southernmost places in Europe. Only Crete and a few smaller islands are farther south in Europe. A day trip to the island of Saria to the north is interesting. There are almost no tourists here.Saria (Greece) has fewer than 50 inhabitants. Large ferries do not stop here, there are only smaller ships from Diafani. |
Buses Karpathos: Several buses connect the villages on the island with the capital. More information on the page about the island’s capital: Bus timetable Karpathos. Until a few years ago, the northern part of the island and the southern part were only connected by an unpaved track. Since 2014, the road has been asphalted throughout. In the north, buses connect Diafani and Olymbos. Buses from the south to the north (for example Pigadia to Olympia only run a few times a week). In the southern part, there are bus connections from Pigadia to the important towns several times a day in summer. Of course, you can rent bicycles, e-bikes, motorbikes and cars on the island. It is quite a large island. However, you can reach every place on a day trip by car or motorbike.
Excursion boats Karpathos: If you want to go to the north, you can take an excursion boat from Pigadia. The boat runs daily in summer and costs around 30 euros there and back. The price includes the bus from Diafani to Olymbos. You can also simply take a ferry from Pigadia to Diafani. There are also excursion boats to the uninhabited island of Saria several times a week in summer. This island is only about 200 meters away from Karpathos.
Ferries to Karpathos: From the island of Crete, Karpathos can be reached easily and cheaply by ferry. Twice a week a ferry runs from Crete (Sitia, sometimes also Heraklion) to Kasos (3 hours) and then on to Karpathos (about 4 hours). This ship continues from Karpathos via Chalki to Rhodes (5-6 hours). The ferries sometimes dock twice on Karpathos – in the capital Pigadia and in Diafani in the north. The ship to Crete continues to Santorini, Milos and Piraeus (Athens). Twice a week there is also a ferry connection from Karpathos to the island of Anafi. A ferry trip from Karpathos to Athens takes over 20 hours. (Information as of 2025).
There are also large ferries from Blue Star Ferries. These also come from Athens, but take a completely different route. This ship connects the following islands, although not very often, with Karpathos: Kalymnos, Rhodes, Kos, Lipsi, Leros, Nissiros, Tilos, Symi and Kastellorizo. As of the beginning of 2025
➔ To book ferries within Greece, we recommend the reputable website Ferryscanner.com
Caution: Ferry schedules change frequently. However, in recent decades there have always been large car ferries between Athens, Crete, Karpathos and Rhodes at least twice a week, stopping at various other islands. The ferries can also arrive and depart in the middle of the night. The ships can also be several hours late.
Sights and attractions Karpathos
If you have a few days on Karpathos, you should see the following things (must-see in Karpathos):
Lefkos Beach
Known for its crystal clear waters and sandy beaches, Lefkos Beach is perfect for swimming, snorkelling and relaxing. It is one of the best beaches on the island with nearby tavernas and stunning views.
Olympos Village
A traditional mountain village that offers a glimpse into Karpathos’ past with its narrow streets, windmills and local customs. The village preserves its old way of life, including dialect and clothing, making it a unique cultural experience. The highlight of the trip for many visitors to Karpathos.
Pigadia (Karpathos Town)
The island’s capital and main port, Pigadia offers a lively atmosphere with shops, cafes and restaurants. There are also historical sights such as the ruins of ancient Potideon and a Venetian castle.
Apella Beach
Rated by some websites as one of the best beaches in the Mediterranean, Apella has turquoise waters, a mix of sand and pebbles and dramatic cliffs surrounding it. It is great for swimming and sunbathing.
Kyra Panagia Beach
A picturesque beach with crystal clear waters and white pebbles, surrounded by pine-covered hills. The small church of Kyra Panagia with its red dome adds a charming touch to the setting.
Menetes
This village is perched on a hill and offers great views of the sea. It features traditional architecture, colourful houses and the impressive church.
Saria Island
Located just off the north coast of Karpathos, Saria is an uninhabited island with wild landscapes and ancient ruins. It is great for hiking, exploring archaeological sites and enjoying secluded beaches.
Archaeological Museum
Located in Pigadia, this museum offers insight into the island’s history and displays ancient artifacts, pottery and items from the Minoan and Mycenaean periods.
Insel Karpathos ( 
German version)
Do you have any feedback, an addition, found an error or a comment? Send us an email to: mail@griechenland-insel.de