Karpathos Town holidays

How to reach Karpathos

Flight time: Flights to Karpathos from the UK typically take around 4 hours, with a layover in Athens. There are some seasonal direct flights – mostly with package holiday operators.

Transfer time: Karpathos Airport (AOK) is located 14km south of Pigadia, the island’s capital. The most common way to reach Pigadia is by taxi, which takes roughly 20 minutes. Alternatively, a bus service operates after weekday flight arrivals, though it may be limited.

Price:

• Taxis from Karpathos Airport to Pigadia cost €25–€30.

• The local bus is more affordable at around €5 for a one-way trip.

Best time to visit Karpathos

The island enjoys typical Mediterranean weather, with hot summers and mild winters. Choosing the best time of year for your Karpathos holidays will depend on your preferences for warmth and outdoor activities.

• May to June is one of the best times to visit if you prefer smaller crowds. Temperatures range from 20 to 27°C, with sunny skies and occasional breezes. Rainfall is minimal, with around 10–12 hours of sunshine daily.

• July to August is the peak season, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C. This is ideal for beach holidays, although it can be too much on the hiking trails during the day. Visitors can expect around 11–13 hours of sunshine and almost no rain.

• September to October is an excellent shoulder season, with temperatures between 25 and 28°C. It’s warm enough for beach activities but also cool enough for hiking and exploring outdoors. Rainfall increases slightly, with 4–6 hours of sunshine per day.

• November to April is the low season. Temperatures drop to around 10–18°C, and the island is much quieter. Although there’s more rain, averaging 30–100mm per month, it’s a pleasant and peaceful time to explore the island’s natural beauty, without crowds.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Greek is the official language, but many locals working in tourism speak English, especially in Pigadia and the resort areas.

• Local habits and customs: Greeks value respect and hospitality. When visiting churches or traditional villages, it’s polite to dress modestly. Karpathos has a strong local culture, so it’s important to embrace their slower pace of life.

• Currency: Greece uses the Euro. Cash is king, especially in smaller villages and remote areas, but most hotels and restaurants in Pigadia accept credit cards.

• Getting around: Karpathos is best explored by renting a car, especially if you want to visit the more remote villages. Car rental prices start from around €40–€50 per day. Local buses are available but infrequent, with tickets costing between €2–€5 depending on the distance. Taxis are convenient but more expensive for longer trips.

• Electricity and plug types: Standard European 220V plugs are used on the island. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Karpathos is in the Eastern European Time zone (EET), 2 hours ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in Karpathos

Karpathos, part of the Dodecanese, is a paradise for those seeking a mix of culture, adventure and beautiful landscapes. From picturesque villages to stunning beaches, the island has something for everyone. Here are some of the top experiences to prioritise during your holidays to Karpathos:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Kastello Hill: Near Pigadia, this viewpoint offers a stunning panorama of the island’s main town and the sea.

• Olympos: This village is a step back in time and is known for its preserved traditions – the women here can be seen wearing traditional dress – while the town offers stunning views along its narrow streets.

The best districts

• Pigadia (Karpathos Town): The capital and harbour town is where most of the island’s action happens. The waterfront is dotted with restaurants and cafés, making it a perfect place for an evening stroll while enjoying the views of the fishing boats.

Parks and gardens

• Paralia Ammopi: This beach area near Pigadia is a beautiful combination of sandy coves and crystal-clear waters. It’s not a park in the traditional sense, but it is a peaceful place where you can stroll, swim or relax under the shade of a tree.

Historical monuments

• Church of Agia Sofia in Arkasa: Built in the 5th century, the ruins of this early Christian basilica are an archeological gem. With beautiful mosaics and scenic views of the Aegean, it offers a peaceful atmosphere – perfect for history buffs.

• Olympos Windmills: The historic windmills of Olympos stand as a reminder of the island’s agricultural past. They are painstakingly preserved and offer good photo opportunities against the mountain backdrop.

Day trips in the area

• Dhiafani: This quaint fishing village can be reached by boat from Pigadia. Dhiafani offers a more laid-back experience, perfect for a peaceful day exploring its small beach and local tavernas.

• Saria Island: A short boat trip away, this uninhabited island is known for its ancient ruins and stunning beaches. It’s a popular destination for hiking and snorkelling.

Activities for families in Karpathos

Whether you're looking to splash around in the sea or explore the island’s cultural spots, there are plenty of family-friendly attractions in Karpathos:

• Beaches: Many of Karpathos' beaches, such as Kyra Panagia and Amoopi, are calm and shallow, making them perfect for young swimmers.

• Caves and grottos: Kids will love exploring the numerous caves on the island, like the Cave of Poseidon near Pigadia.

• Scuba diving schools: Older children and teenagers can participate in scuba diving lessons offered at local diving schools. These lessons provide a fun and educational experience as they explore life underwater.

• Boat trips: A variety of boat tours leave from Pigadia, taking families on adventures to nearby islands or secret coves only accessible by sea.

Free things to do in Karpathos

Karpathos offers plenty of free activities that allow visitors to enjoy the island's natural beauty and culture without spending a penny.

• Explore Olympos Village: Walking through the cobbled streets of Olympos is like stepping into the past. The town is filled with historical buildings, traditional windmills and locals wearing traditional dress. It costs nothing to wander here soaking up the atmosphere.

• Visit local beaches: Many of the island’s beaches, including Apella and Kyra Panagia, are free to access. These stunning beaches with turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs make for an excellent day out on a budget.

• Hiking trails: Karpathos has many scenic hiking trails. Routes like the walk from Spoa to Olympos offer dramatic views of the mountains and sea.

• Festivals and events: Many of the island’s religious festivals are open to visitors and include free music, dancing and traditional food. If you visit during summer, you’ll likely encounter a glut of these lively community events. Ask your concierge what’s on during your stay.

Wellness in Karpathos

• Spas and thermal baths: While Karpathos doesn't have extensive spa resorts like larger islands, several accommodations offer spa services. Irini Beach Hotel is a good example, featuring pool and spa treatments in a calm, beachside setting.

• Traditional body care: On Karpathos, you’ll often encounter wellness treatments using local ingredients like olive oil, which is known for its healing properties.

• Yoga and meditation: A few retreats on Karpathos offer yoga and meditation sessions, sometimes combined with outdoor activities like hiking to help you reconnect with nature.

Local dishes in Karpathos

Karpathos is a gem when it comes to Greek island gastronomy. Whether you're savouring seafood freshly caught by local fishermen or indulging in traditional Karpathian specialities, you’ll be treated to some truly unique and authentic flavours during your holidays to Karpathos.

Some typical dishes

• Gemista: A classic Greek dish of tomatoes and peppers stuffed with rice, herbs and sometimes minced meat, baked until soft and fragrant.

• Makarounes: A traditional pasta dish unique to Karpathos, made from thick, handmade noodles typically served with grated onions and cheese. It's simple but utterly delicious.

• Moussaka: Layers of aubergine, minced meat and béchamel sauce baked to perfection, offering a taste of traditional Greek comfort food.

• Voskópi: A traditional Karpathian dish made with slow-cooked goat or lamb, often accompanied by local vegetables and herbs.

• Souvlaki: A Greek staple of skewered grilled meat, often served with pita and tzatziki.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Grilled octopus: This dish is a favourite at coastal tavernas, where it is marinated before being grilled to perfection. It is usually served with a squeeze of fresh lemon.

• Karpathian spaghetti with lobster: A local speciality that combines fresh lobster with spaghetti, all in a rich tomato sauce.

• Sardines: Freshly grilled sardines are a staple in Karpathos, often served with a side of lemon and olive oil.

Sweets and desserts

Karpathos offers a range of delightful sweet treats, such as loukoumades – small doughnuts drenched in honey – and baklava, with its layers of flaky pastry filled with nuts and sweet syrup.

Local drinks

Karpathos offers some fine drinks to complement your meal. Try ouzo, an anise-flavoured aperitif, or the local Karpathian wine, which is perfect for pairing with seafood dishes.