Karpathos, Now is the time for you to book!

Do you want to cut the crowds? Then Karpathos is your next holiday destination because not everybody knows about Karpathos, as it is much less known than the likes of Santorini, Rhodes Island, or most other Greek Islands. Finally, Karpathos is where you get to chill at a seaside restaurant after a long year of stress, meander local markets, and go on laid-back cruises.

Beach Karpathos island Greece
Greece Karpathos Island
Chapel. Karpathos Island Greece
Family holiday Karpathos island Greece

Go to Karpathos while it’s still a hidden gem!

Karpathos (meaning “rocky”) is not the most popular, or largest of the Greek islands. In fact, it lies in the 15th spot in terms of the top 30 largest Greek Islands

Karpathos island Greece pristine beaches

The island is part of the Dodecanese collection of islands between Crete and Turkey and is slightly off the beaten track. It will take a bit more traveling to get here, but it is worth every effort!

Karpathos Island is a hidden gem among the Greek islands. It offers a more authentic and less touristy experience compared to some of the more popular islands like Santorini or Mykonos. Karpathos is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rugged landscapes, pristine beaches, and traditional villages. Visitors can immerse themselves in the island’s rich culture, sample delicious local cuisine, and explore charming towns like Pigadia and Olympos. Its secluded location and relatively untouched atmosphere make it a favorite among travelers seeking a quieter and more authentic Greek island experience.

Best time to go to Karpathos

Nothing beats a summer vacation on a Greek Island. And this little-known gem of an island in the south-east Aegean Sea is no exception.

The average temperatures from May to October are above 20°C (70°F).

Greece’s summer is from June to August, but the weather conditions are just as great just before and after the summer season. Also, you’ll pick up cheaper accommodation before or after the peak season.

Travel Tip(s)

  • Time zone UTC+2 (EET)
    Summer (DST) UTC+3 (EEST)
  • Catch a flight from Athens to the small 2-runway airport on Karpathos Island. Or extend your holiday and stay in Crete or Rhodes for a few days, from where you can also fly to/from Karpathos. 
  • Get into the spirit of an authentic Greek holiday: take a ferry instead of flying.

Must-Visit Attractions in Karpathos for an Unforgettable Trip

1. Hop on one of the shortest flights in the world

One of the shortest commercial flights in the world lasts 10 minutes. The flight connects Karpathos and Kasos, the Greek Island of Sea Foams. Once in Kasos, indulge in private vineyard wine time: sip fine wines, savor delectable pickings, and soak in panoramic views of the ocean and mountains.

Olympos village things to do in Karpathos Greece Greek islands min

2. Explore Olympos

And put on your walking shoes for long scenic walks, with your camera in hand to capture all the scenic views.  One place that immediately comes to mind is Olympos.

The quaint mountain village of Olympos sits on the northern side of the island. Here you’ll find that women still proudly wear colorful handmade costumes.

pretty village Mesochori, km northwest of Pigadia on Karpathos Island, Greece

3. Mesochori: Meander in a laid-back village

Another pretty village is Mesochori (meaning village in the middle), 34 km northwest of Pigadia, the capital city of Karpathos.

Besides the beautiful whitewashed houses and natural springs, you’ll enjoy the most beautiful sunsets from Mesochori. 

The church of Agios Ioannis, the church of the Virgin, and the Byzantine church of Agia Irini is worth seeing while you’re here. The frescoes are simply beautiful.

4. Top 4 Beaches in Karpathos for Sun, Sand, and Relaxation

Apella Beach Karpathos Greece most beautiful Greek islands in summer min

Get lots of Vitamin D on Karpathos’ unspoilt beaches. For instance Apella Beach, Lefkos, Kyra Pagina (one of the best beached in Karpathos), or Vrontis Beach where you can cool down in crystal clear water. 

What to eat in Karpathos Greece best food Greek island min
Taverna Parthenon, where to eat in karpathos best restaurants
Taverna Parthenon, Olympos 85700 Greece

5.Top 4 Traditional Dishes to Taste in Karpathos

Being on an island, fish is a given. In all of its varieties – cooked, boiled, grilled, baked, cold, warm…

However, when it comes to Karpathian cuisine, there are a few favorites I recommend. 

You can’t help but NOT love this delicious variety of Greek pasta. It is a traditional meal in Karpathos, made with flour and water. It has no egg whatsoever, which makes it pleasantly different from the usual pasta dishes.

My Mom used to wrap spiced beef mince in cabbage leaves. Little did I know it’s a variety of the original Greek Dolmades! The traditional Greek way is to wrap a rice and herb mixture in grape (vine) leaves and boil it until tender. 

I love a good salad and I was not disappointed with my choice. It came with super tasty bread cubes and the salad was as fresh as a daisy!

When you feel like a break from fish, try Byzanti, a Karpathian meat specialty. It’s a traditional meal during the Greek Easter season. The meat, either a goat kid or lamb, is filled with a mixture of chopped offal, rice or bulgur, and scallions.

Can't-miss spots to dine, drink, and feast

Travel Tip(s)

The Taverna is in the center of Olympos village. It is also the most historic Taverna in Olympos village.

The Parthenon Taverna, a family-owned business, is one of three historic taverns in Olympos. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering traditional Greek cuisine and a place to socialize. With a rooftop terrace boasting a 360-degree view, you can enjoy your meal while witnessing breathtaking sunsets. Nikos Filippakis and family, who are 4th and 5th generation owners, have artistic backgrounds in photography, painting, and music. Additionally, The Parthenon Taverna is notable as the home of Yannis Philippakis, the frontman of the British band Foals.

6. Make your own discoveries

Hike to some of the remote and equally pristine beaches on the island’s coastline. Agios Minas beach has a Taverna, but some of the remote beaches have absolutely nothing. For instance, at Kato Lakkos you may very well end up having the beach to yourself! Kato Lakkos is accessible by foot only (about a 20-minute hike, excluding photo breaks) Forget even a 4 x 4 drive. I guess one should not be surprised if you are joined by one or two naturists, as in our case. 

Experience Authentic Greek Hospitality

Discover Traditional Guesthouses in Karpathos

Discover Traditional Guesthouses in Karpathos

Immerse Yourself in Karpathian Culture

Experience the warm and welcoming nature of Karpathian locals by staying in a traditional guesthouse run by a local family. Karpathos Guest House offer a unique insight into Karpathian culture and is perfect if you're looking for a more immersive experience.

Cozy Guesthouse Interiors

Get a glimpse of the unique building designed by Stamatis. It's one of the most romantic buildings ever in a quiet location with beautiful small beaches. Indulge in traditional Greek meals and enjoy Greek hospitality at its best. Due to the steps, it is not suitable for handicapped travelers.

Experience Karpathos Like a Local

Sleep like a baby with the sound of the sea and wake up to an amazing seaview. Anemos Guesthouse Karpathos is a traditional Greek guesthouse with beautiful old furniture. Located in Olympus amongst restaurants and shops, it comes highly rated for a two-person trip.

Discover Karpathos Culture

Experience an incredible stay at a guesthouse run by kind and passionate hosts who are always helpful. Lefkorama offers a one-of-a-kind experience if you're seeking a relaxing holiday. It lies smack in the middle of the island in a quiet area close to the sea. It's a perfect spot if you have a car.

Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.

from luxurious stays to self-catering options

11 Best Hotels in Karpathos

Cozy Holiday Homes in Karpathos

Top Self-Catering Accommodation

Find places to stay, with  Agoda  |   Booking.com  |  Hotellook   |   Trip.com

Travel Tip(s)

Soak Up The Mediterranean Sun

TO VOTSALO-Beach Side Studios & Taverna is a family-run business located on the east coast of Karpathos, located in the middle of the island. Positioned on the picturesque beach of Agios Nikolaos, TO VOTSALO offers studios with verandas boasting stunning views of the Aegean Sea. You can enjoy the organized beach of Votsalo for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the Mediterranean sun. The fully equipped studios feature kitchenettes, free WiFi, and spacious verandas with large umbrellas for a comfortable stay.

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Travel Tip(s)

If you’re planning to hop between Greek islands, knowing about island groups helps you save money while enjoying awesome adventures. It’s like smart travel on a budget without missing out on amazing experiences.