Karpathos is one of those rare gems that seems to have dodged the ravages of time. It’s the perfect escape for those who want to break free from the crowds of mainstream tourist spots.
This island has it all: lush mountains, a rich ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna, stunning beaches, and villages that maintain a traditional charm. And let’s not forget the delicious local cuisine—it’s a must-try!
Karpathos also offers charming places to stay, enhancing your holiday experience. Check out the best spots to find your ideal holiday home. It’s the perfect base for immersing yourself in the island life and exploring every corner of Karpathos.
1. Pigadia, stay in the capital of Karpathos
Pigadia, also known as Karpathos, is the capital of the island nestled in its southeastern part. It hosts the main port, tucked away in the cozy Vrontis Bay.
This is the largest settlement on the island and has the highest population, standing on the grounds of the ancient city of Poseidon.
The town has a relatively modern feel as many homes have been renovated and some newly built by expatriates who return for the summer.
Though it might not be the quaintest town, Pigadia offers nearly everything you might need. It boasts the most vibrant nightlife on the island, with bars and clubs that keep the fun going until dawn.
Be sure to explore the ruins of the Early Christian Basilica of Saint Photini located right along the coastal road. Don’t miss the Cave of Poseidon at Myloi and the Archaeological Museum of Karpathos for a dip into history.
Around the harbor, you’ll find several pristine sandy beaches. The main beach at Pigadia, west of the harbor, is a spacious sandy haven that attracts a large number of beachgoers and is well-equipped in certain areas.
Best Hotels in Pigadia
- (€€€) Hotel Astron Princess: a 4-star hotel, with swimming pool, spa and breakfast, 1km from the center
- (€€) Astra Studios Karpathos Island: modern apartments with kitchen, 300m from Karpathos port
- (€) Regina Studios & Hotel: a 2-star hotel, with 2 swimming pools, breakfast and bar, in the center of Karpathos
2. Arkasa, a beautiful coastal village in Karpathos
Best Hotels in Arkasa
- (€€€€) Arkasa Palace: elegant apartments with swimming pool and breakfast, 500m from Agios Nikolaos beach
- (€€) Elenis Studios: beachfront studios with swimming pool, breakfast and bar
- (€) Yiannis Ηotel: apartments and studios with kitchenette, in the center of Arkasa
3. Amoopi, best area to stay in Karpathos for families and kids
Best Hotels in Amoopi
- (€€€) Aegean Village Beachfront Resort: a 4-star beachfront hotel with swimming pool, restaurant and bar
- (€€) Castelia Bay Hotel: a 2-star beachfront hotel with breakfast
- (€) Sea View Studios: studios with kitchenette and swimming pool, 200m from the beach
4. Olympos, the most charming area in Karpathos
Olympos, nestled in the northern reaches of Karpathos, is a traditional village perched high in the mountains at an elevation of 310 meters. Its isolation has helped preserve both its architecture and age-old customs through the years.
The village is a picturesque snapshot of the past, with its ancient homes, scenic windmills, and an impressive collection of 78 chapels, including the 16th-century Panagia, Agios Onoufrios, and Panagia Chrysovalantou.
Diafani, the village’s port, lies on the island’s eastern edge. It boasts a main pebble beach equipped with sun loungers, changing rooms, and showers. For those seeking tranquility, the southern Apokampos and northern Vananda beaches offer serene alternatives.
Make sure to visit “Kafeneion i Kriti” on the village’s main road and “Parthenon,” a cafe-restaurant on the central square, for a taste of local life.
From Diafani—or even from Pigadia—you can take a day trip to the nearby island of Saria, situated just above Karpathos. Regular boat tours are available for an adventurous escape.
Best Hotels in Olympos
- (€€) Nacros Villa Olympos Karpathou: a traditional fully equipped house for 4 people
- (€€)Olympos Archipelagos: fully equipped apartments with amazing view
- (€) Aphrodite Hotel: rooms with balcony and nice view
5. Kyra Panagia
Kyra Panagia beach is undoubtedly the most photographed on Karpathos. Situated on the island’s eastern coast, about 15 kilometers from Pigadia, it’s nestled in an area protected by the Natura 2000 network, safeguarding its stunning natural beauty.
The beach is famed for its golden sands and the deep blue of its waters. It’s well-equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, and is surrounded by numerous tavernas offering delicious local dishes.
Perched on a rock above the beach is the charming chapel of Kyra Panagia, complete with a striking red dome. From here, you can soak in breathtaking views of the shoreline.
One of my favorite aspects is the dramatic cliffs that rise directly behind the beach, casting early afternoon shadows and creating a peaceful retreat from the sun during the hottest part of the day.
Best Hotels in Kyra Panagia
- (€€€) Ypsilos Beach Suites: elegant studios, with swimming pool, 50m from Kyra Panagia beach
- (€€) Blue Waves Studios: traditional studios with kitchenette, close to the beach
- (€) Sofia´s rooms: beachfront rooms with kitchen – restaurant and bar
How do you get to Karpathos?
You have a few options! You can catch a ferry from Crete, departing either from the ports of Sitia or Heraklion, from the main port in Piraeus, or even from Rhodes.
Alternatively, flying might be more up your alley, especially since Karpathos has its own airport, which could be more convenient for quicker travel.
