Karpathos has a real Greek soul, where islanders proudly retain age-old customs on the second largest island of the Dodecanese. Sandwich in between Rhodes and Crete, a customisable island hop can be arranged through our reservations team!
Destination Profile
Step back in time to find village festivals and celebrations, where musicians play locally crafted lyre and lauto and sing just as their ancestors would have done centuries before.
Legend has it that Prometheus and his Titans were born on Karpathos, a 300 sq km island where visitors can explore the wild and rugged landscape to find early churches, ancient Vroukounta and Arkesia, the castle and the acropolis at Aperi, the Roman cistern at Lefko, the beehive tombs at Karpathos town and Arkasa.
Traditional villages dot the rugged hillsides in dramatic settings. It is well worth visiting time-forgotten Olymbos, which balances on a remote ridge where houses spill to the sea.
There are wonderful sandy beaches, so choose a different stretch every day to swim in turquoise waters. The award-winning Apella Beach is exceptionally beautiful and considered one of the best in the Med, while Ammopi, Kyra Panagia, Ahata, and Lefkos should not be missed either!
Karpathos enjoys mild weather from mid-March to May and sunshine from June to mid-September. The Meltemi, a north-west wind, blows from the middle of May and reduces the intensity of the heat, but be sure to always wear plenty of sun protection.
Make the most of the breeze to try watersports, from windsurfing to kitesurfing. Kitesurfing schools are scattered around the island, a great way to learn a sport close to the locals’ hearts.
For a more leisurely day out, take a boat from Diafani to the uninhabited island of Saria, a large, unexcavated city. Birdwatchers can look for Elenora’s falcons, which breed on the rocky, volcanic island.
Top Hotels In Karpathos
Climate
Karpathos, like the other Greek islands experiences a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry, sunny summers. The island experiences strong, refreshing northwesterly winds in the peak of the hot summers (July and August). Average temperatures peak at 29°C and drop to around 14°C in winter.
Where to stay Karpathos
Arkassa is a coastal town in the southwest of the Greek Island of Karpathos.
Afiartis is a large area in the southeast of Karpathos. In this area you will find the most spectacular beaches.
Finiki is a quaint fishing village on the island of Karpathos that enchants visitors with its picturesque harbor, traditional tavernas and stunning views of the Aegean, capturing the essence of Greek island charm.
Nestled along the southeastern coast of Karpathos, Pigadia enchants visitors with its crystal clear waters, a lively promenade and rich blend of ancient history.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Karpathos?
How many days do you need in Karpathos?
A stay of 5 to 7 days is ideal for exploring Karpathos, allowing enough time to visit the iconic mountain village of Olympos, enjoy varied beaches (like Apella and Amoopi), and explore both the north and south sides of the island. While 2–3 days can cover major highlights, a full week allows for a more relaxed pace.
If you plan to rent a car and explore all of the island, 14 days might be desired to make sure you don't miss anything. This will allow for time to take part in all activities, wine tasting, sport, hiking, visit museums, archaeological landmarks, try plenty of restaurants, enjoy some nightlife and fit in time to relax on the various beaches.
How long is the ferry ride from Rhodes to Karpathos?
It varies depending on ferry company, but the average ferry ride takes around 4 hours.
Do you need a car on Karpathos?
If you want to stay in the resort near your accommodation, a car will not be necessary as most resorts in Karpathos are walkable.
If you wish to explore the island, a car will be necessary. You can rent a car through several different services and pick it up at the entry port. As public transport is infrequent on Karpathos, and there is no Uber app, a car rental is needed to comfortably hit all the landmarks across the island.
Is Karpathos good for families?
Karpathos is excellent for families, providing a safe and tranquil destination to escape to. Families can find calm, shallow waters for children to play in, and plenty of cultural hotspots and activities for older members alike.
Is Karpathos windy?
Karpathos is known to be one of the windiest islands in Europe, experiencing cool meltemi winds from June to September. The island is popular with windsurfers and those seeking relief from summer heat.
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