Karpathos Island: A Jewel in the Aegean Sea

Karpathos, the second largest of the Dodecanese islands, is located in the southeastern Aegean
Sea. During the peak summer months, you can easily reach Karpathos with daily flights from
popular Greek destinations like Athens and Crete. This makes it an accessible destination for
both domestic and international travelers.

Beyond the bustling tourist season, Karpathos is home to approximately 6,000 permanent
residents who maintain the island’s traditions and cultural heritage throughout the year.

Getting to Karpathos: Air vs. Sea

While you could opt for a ferry from Athens to Karpathos, the journey can take anywhere from 18
to 20 hours. If you’re looking to maximize your vacation time, this might not be the most
efficient option.

Instead, we recommend following our group’s lead and booking a flight with Olympic Air from
Athens to Karpathos. The flight is just about an hour long, and the breathtaking views of the
Greek islands from above make the journey a treat in itself. Round-trip flights typically range
from $130 to $250.

Karpathos has one main airport with two runways, situated on the southern side of the island.
If you plan on renting a car, be aware that most rental agencies require drivers to be at least
21 years old and hold a valid driver’s license for at least one to two years. Car rental costs
generally range from $7 to $10 per day, making it an affordable way to explore the island.

Pigadia: The Heart of Karpathos

Pigadia, the capital city and main port of Karpathos, is the ideal base for your island
adventure. Most visitors choose to stay in Pigadia and take day trips to explore the rest of
the island and its surrounding islets.

This charming fishing village is brimming with hotels, restaurants, and shops, offering a
vibrant atmosphere and plenty of options for dining and entertainment. Pigadia is also a great
place to charter an excursion boat to visit some of the smaller, nearby islands.

We’ll be sharing more about the fantastic dining options on Karpathos in an upcoming article,
but it’s worth mentioning that Pigadia boasts the highest concentration of cafes and restaurants
on the island.

Don’t be surprised if you run into fellow travelers you met on a boat tour earlier in the day
at one of the restaurants or bars in Pigadia. Karpathos is a small island, and you’re bound to
connect with both locals and other tourists during your visit.

Karpathos is deeply rooted in history and tradition, with a strong emphasis on family. Visiting
the hilltop cemetery overlooking Pigadia offered a poignant reminder of the enduring love and
care for family members, both living and deceased.

Olympos: A Village Frozen in Time

After Pigadia, the village of Olympos is perhaps the most popular destination on Karpathos.

Located in the northern part of the island, Olympos is best reached by boat. Although a road
now connects the village to the rest of the island, we still recommend arriving by sea to fully
appreciate the dramatic coastal scenery.

We’ll delve deeper into the captivating story of Olympos in a separate article. This unique
village is home to residents who still speak an ancient dialect and wear traditional costumes
passed down through generations, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

Mesochori: A Walk Through History

On the western side of Karpathos lies the picturesque village of Mesochori. To explore this
charming village, park in one of the designated parking areas surrounding the perimeter and
wander into town on foot. Most of the cobblestone streets in Mesochori are pedestrian-only,
allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere.

Admire the traditional houses painted in stark white with blue accents, the delightful patio
gardens, and the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Beneath the Panagia Vyrsiani church, you’ll find a natural spring. Local legend says that if an
unmarried woman drinks from the spring, she will soon find her husband.

Lefkos: Sunsets and Seaside Serenity

A short drive from Mesochori will take you to the coastal village of Lefkos.

Lefkos is one of the most popular beach towns on Karpathos, and it’s the perfect spot to witness
a breathtaking sunset.

On the mountainside overlooking Lefkos, you can visit the 13th-century church of Agios Georgios.

Aperi & Othos: Exploring Karpathos’ Past

Just north of Pigadia, you’ll find Aperi, the former capital city of Karpathos. Nestled high on
the mountainside, Aperi remains one of the most populated villages on the island, with around
400 residents.

Nearby is the village of Othos, home to the Folklore Museum and Archaeological Museum. A visit
to these museums is highly recommended to gain insights into the rich history, traditions, and
daily life of Karpathos.

Pyles: A Glimpse into Karpathos’ Agricultural Heritage

Close to Othos lies the village of Pyles. This mountain village is home to the Agricultural
Museum of Karpathos. If you’re interested in learning about the island’s history, local
agriculture, and traditional cuisine, a visit to this museum is a must.

Here, you can explore a traditional windmill, discover ancient wine-making and cheese-making
techniques, and meet local farm animals.

Karpathos, Greece: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main language spoken on Karpathos?

Greek is the primary language spoken by the residents of Karpathos. However, many also speak
English, and there are quite a few German speakers as well.

What is the currency in Karpathos?

The currency is the Euro, which is the same for all of Greece.

What is the weather like on Karpathos Greece?

The weather on Karpathos is typically sunny and warm. Being a southern island, rainfall is
rare during the summer months. However, it can get windy.

What should I pack for Karpathos Greece?

Be sure to pack sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, water shoes, a swimsuit, a hat, and
sunglasses. The sun can be intense, so come prepared! It can also get cooler at night in some
parts of the island, so pack a light cardigan.

Do I need to rent a car on Karpathos island?

Yes, renting a car on Karpathos is highly recommended for traveling between towns. While a
local bus line and a few taxis are available, a car or scooter will give you the most
flexibility during your time on the island.

Plan Your Visit to Karpathos Today!

Karpathos is an island of contrasts, offering travelers a diverse range of scenery and
activities without the overwhelming crowds of other Greek destinations.

It’s a magical place where you’ll be welcomed into the lives and families of the warm-hearted
locals. Karpathos offers the perfect blend of peace and relaxation, along with opportunities
for outdoor adventures. I hope to return again with my family, and I know that you, too, will
fall in love with this special island.

Explore More of Greece

Want to learn more about Greece? Be sure to check out all of our
Greece travel guides!

• Greece Travel Guide: Athens Food Tour
• Making Traditional Greek Makarounes in Olympos, Greece
• Greece Travel Guide: Olympos Village on Karpathos Island
• Greece Travel Guide: Overview of Karpathos Island