A guide to the best must-see spots
Antiparos Island is one of the hidden gems of the Aegean Sea, located just a few minutes away from its more well-known neighbor, Paros. Despite its small size, Antiparos offers a wealth of experiences to visitors, from pristine beaches to quaint villages and ancient ruins. One of the best ways to explore the island is by renting a motorbike scooter or a car, which allows you to navigate its narrow roads and discover its hidden coves and scenic vistas.
One of the standout features of Antiparos is its traditional Greek hospitality, where visitors will feel like they've stepped back in time to a more relaxed and authentic Greece. From its charming tavernas serving up fresh seafood to its cobblestone streets and white-washed homes, Antiparos exudes a sense of traditional island life that is a refreshing change from the cosmopolitan noise of Paros.
In addition to its charming villages, Antiparos also boasts some of the Aegean Sea's most pristine beaches. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot to sunbathe, a place to swim in crystal-clear waters, or an area with lively beach bars, Antiparos has something for everyone. With a motorbike scooter or a car, you can easily travel between beaches, allowing you to make the most of your time on the island.
Let’s have a look on what a local would do in Antiparos!
Antiparos is a stunning island located just one nautical mile southwest of Paros. While there is no airport on the island, visitors can reach Antiparos easily by ferry from its neighboring island, Paros. The most common option for travelers is to take a ferry from Punta port. The ferry ride is a quick 7-minute journey that offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and probably a view of surf enthusiasts you are surfing the waters around.
As you board the ferry, you'll be greeted by the salty sea breeze and the sound of the waves crashing against the boat. Take a moment to bask in the sun, feeling the cool Aegean breeze, as you make your way to Antiparos. The short journey offers plenty of opportunities to take pictures and create unforgettable memories. Whether you're traveling solo, with friends or family, this ferry ride is a delightful way to start your Antiparos adventure.
Antiparos Chora is a charming and picturesque village on the island of Antiparos that offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Greek island life. With its narrow, winding streets and whitewashed houses adorned with colorful bougainvillea, the town exudes a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. The pedestrian-only main street is lined with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants, providing visitors with plenty of opportunities to shop, dine, and people-watch. One of the highlights of Antiparos Chora is the Venetian castle that overlooks the town, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The castle was built in the 15th century and has since been restored, making it an important historical landmark on the island.
Moreover, the perfect way to start your Antiparos adventure is to head over to the “Art of Touch”, a famous massage spa located in the heart of Chora. Visitors can take a small break and get a healing massage or have a relaxing yoga session before they begin their exploration of the island. The Art of Touch offers a variety of services that cater to everyone's needs, from traditional Thai massages, detox massages to hot stone therapies and aromatherapy oil massages.
The Cave of Antiparos is a stunning natural wonder located on the island of Antiparos, Greece. This incredible cave system is one of the oldest and most beautiful in the world, and it has been a popular tourist attraction for centuries. Visitors can explore the vast network of chambers, tunnels, and galleries that make up the cave, and marvel at the incredible stalactites and stalagmites that decorate its walls. The cave is also home to several underground lakes and streams, adding to its otherworldly charm. With its fascinating geology, rich history, and unparalleled beauty, the Cave of Antiparos is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Cyclades islands.
Antiparos is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. With crystal clear waters and sandy shores, there is no doubt that the island is a beach lover's paradise. Whether you are seeking solitude, family-friendly beaches or lively party scenes, Antiparos has something for everyone. The island's beaches are diverse and offer a range of activities from swimming and sunbathing to water sports and snorkeling. Some beaches are accessible by foot or bike, while others require a boat ride to reach. From hidden coves to long stretches of sand, Antiparos has it all. We have compiled a list of the top 10 beaches on the island, so be sure to check them out and discover the beauty of Antiparos for yourself.
the top 10 beaches in antiparos
If you are a history enthusiast and intrigued by the ancient civilization of Greece, then Despotiko is an absolute must-visit destination when exploring Antiparos. You can board a ferry boat from the southern port of Agios Giorgos to reach this small, uninhabited island, which houses one of the most significant ancient sites in the Aegean. You will be awestruck by the ruins of several temples, believed to be dedicated to man Greek Godsl. The strategic location of Despotiko also provides breathtaking views of Antiparos and neighboring islands, including Serifos, Sifnos, and Sikinos. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to explore the remnants of ancient Greek civilization in a picturesque setting!
Located at the highest point of the island, stands the magnificent chapel of Profitis Ilias, dedicated to Prophet Elijah. At an altitude of 308 meters, this sacred site offers an awe-inspiring panoramic view of Antiparos and the neighboring islands, making it a must-visit destination. Built-in 1937 by the island's inhabitants, the chapel is a true testament to their faith and hard work. One particular name that stands out is Ioannis Patelis, a former miner who hauled the necessary materials to the top with the help of his faithful donkey to construct the beautiful chapel. Make sure to visit this historical and spiritual landmark during your stay on the island. Road can be a little bit tricky so keep always an eye on the road.
Sifneiko, a breathtaking part of the island of Antiparos, got its name from its strategic location directly facing the neighboring island of Sifnos. On clear days, the silhouette of Sifnos can be seen in the distance, adding to the beauty of the view.
Sifneiko is a must-visit spot for anyone looking to witness the spectacular sunset of Antiparos. You can relax at the small beach of Sifneiko, enjoying a picnic with your loved ones while watching the sun go down. Alternatively, if you want to experience the sunset with a touch of luxury, Sifneiko Cafe is the perfect place to be. One of the most visited bars on the island, Sifneiko Cafe offers delicious cocktails and a great ambiance to patiently wait until the sun completely disappears below the horizon. You can choose to have a light dinner at the bar or head back to the village and indulge in a traditional Greek dinner to complete your day.
Antiparos Island is a destination that caters to all types of travelers, including those seeking an authentic and vintage nightlife experience. The island's nightlife is not just for the younger crowd, and it's also not expensive. When the sun sets, the main square of Antiparos Town comes to life. There are bars playing mainstream music on the square, but those seeking a more authentic experience can head to The Doors, a legendary bar playing rock music since 1981. For those looking for a quieter evening, there are also bars for sipping cocktails and chatting in the streets around the square.
No matter where you choose to start your night out in Antiparos, the one place you must end it is Disco La Luna. The legendary disco opened in 1981 and hasn't changed much since then. Stepping inside, you'll feel like you've been teleported to the 80s with its decorations and music selection. During the summer months, La Luna Antiparos opens every night at 2 am, but it's after 3 am that the party really kicks off. To get there, follow one of the prettiest paths, which starts from the heart of Antiparos Town, and leads you to the picturesque disco just outside the town. The road to the disco is so dark that the stars and the moon in the sky look gorgeous.