Ferry to Karpathos

Visualise yourself stepping onto a sunlit path where the air is filled with the scent of wild herbs and salt from the sea. Wander through narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers. Taste the flavours of authentic Greek dishes in family-run tavernas. Feel the warm sand beneath your feet as you relax on a secluded beach, while the gentle waves whisper their ancient stories. As dusk falls, watch the sunset paint an awe-inspiring skyline. Karpathos – a dream holiday along the Aegean awaits.

While Karpathos may feel like a hidden gem of the Aegean, reaching this island paradise is delightfully straightforward. Flights from Athens to Karpathos National Airport (AOK) operate regularly, offering a scenic introduction as you soar above the peaks and coastline. Alternatively, for those seeking a nautical approach, ferry services from Piraeus or neighbouring islands arrive at Pigadia, the island's capital.

Olympos Village: Explore the incredibly preserved traditional village of Olympos in northern Karpathos. This remote village offers a unique glimpse into the island's past, with its colourful houses, windmills, and locals often wearing traditional dress. It's a living museum of Karpathian culture.

Lefkos Beaches: Spend a day at the stunning beaches of Lefkos on the west coast. This area boasts several sandy coves with crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. There are also tavernas nearby for a relaxed lunch.

Try Makarounes: Indulge in Makarounes, a traditional Karpathian pasta dish. These handmade pasta pieces are typically served with caramelised onions and local cheese, offering a unique and delicious taste of the island's culinary heritage.

Hike to Kali Limni: Undertake a challenging but rewarding hike to the summit of Kali Limni, the highest peak on Karpathos. From the top, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the entire island and the surrounding Aegean Sea.

Windsurfing or Kitesurfing in Afiartis: Experience the excellent windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions in Afiartis Bay, located in the southern part of the island. The consistently strong winds make it a world-renowned spot for these watersports, catering to all skill levels.

Achata Beach Cave Diving: Discover the underwater world by trying cave diving or snorkelling at Achata Beach. The dramatic rock formations and clear waters make it an ideal spot to explore marine life and fascinating sea caves.

Explore Pigadia (Karpathos Town): Wander through Pigadia, the capital and main port of Karpathos. Explore its charming harbour, enjoy a meal at one of the waterfront tavernas, and visit the Archaeological Museum of Karpathos to learn about the island's ancient history.

Folklore Museum in Menetes: Visit the Folklore Museum in Menetes, a traditional village just a short drive from Pigadia. The museum showcases everyday objects, tools, and costumes, providing insight into Karpathos's traditional life and customs.

Boat Trip to Saria Islet: Take a boat trip to the uninhabited islet of Saria, just north of Karpathos. This natural wonder features impressive geological formations, sea caves, and ancient ruins, offering a chance to explore untouched beauty and history.

Attend a Panigiri (Festival): If your visit coincides with a local panigiri (traditional festival), especially during the summer months, make sure to attend. These lively events, often held in villages to celebrate saints' days, feature traditional music, dancing, food, and a strong sense of community.

Karpathos shines in the summer from June to September when temperatures are ideal for beach activities and water sports. 

Spring (April to June) offers milder weather, perfect for hiking amidst blooming landscapes.

Autumn, from September to November, provides a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with warm seas and cooler breezes. 

Winter is less crowded, making it suitable for those seeking solitude and a taste of local life.

Languages Spoken: The official language of Karpathos is Greek. However, due to its historical ties and proximity to other regions, some older inhabitants, particularly in the northern villages, may still speak a distinct Karpathian dialect that retains archaic Doric Greek elements, showcasing a linguistic heritage unique to the island.

Currency Used: The currency used on Karpathos, as throughout Greece and the European Union, is the Euro (€).

Ancient History - Mycenaean Presence: Archaeological findings indicate that Karpathos had a significant presence during the Mycenaean period (c. 1600–1100 BCE). Remains of Mycenaean tombs and settlements have been discovered, suggesting the island played a role in the ancient Aegean world.Ancient History - Doric Influence: In antiquity, Dorians settled Karpathos, who established important city-states on the island. This Doric influence is evident in the island's ancient dialects and certain cultural practices that persisted for centuries.

Recent History: Karpathos and the rest of the Dodecanese islands were under Italian rule from 1912 until 1943. After a brief period of British administration, it officially became part of Greece in 1948, a significant moment marking its reunification with the rest of the nation.

Nearest Neighbours: Karpathos is located in the south-eastern Aegean Sea. Its nearest significant neighbours include the island of Rhodes to the northeast, Crete to the southwest, and Kassos, a smaller island, immediately to its southwest.

Cultural Traditions - Dress: Karpathos is renowned for its vibrant and distinctive traditional costumes, especially those worn by women in the northern villages like Olympos. These elaborate outfits, often hand-embroidered and adorned with intricate patterns, are still worn on special occasions and are potent symbols of the island's unique cultural identity.

Cultural Traditions - Music and Dance: Music and dance are integral to Karpathian culture. The island has a rich folk music tradition, characterised by the lyra (a type of stringed instrument) and laouto (lute). Traditional dances are often performed at festivals and celebrations, showcasing lively footwork and communal participation.

Major Festivals: One of the most significant festivals on Karpathos is the celebration of the Dormition of the Virgin Mary on August 15th, particularly in the village of Olympos. This panigiri (traditional festival) involves religious ceremonies, traditional music, dancing, feasting, and drawing both locals and visitors.

Spanning approximately 125 sq mi (324 km²), Karpathos presents a landscape of dramatic contrasts. Whether you're navigating its lush northern regions or exploring the sun-drenched southern beaches, getting around is a breeze. The island is approximately 31 miles (50 km) long, so hiring a car or scooter is an ideal option for exploring. Public transport is also available, catering mainly to the connections between major tourist spots, though it is less frequent in remote areas.