Antiparos is a small and unique island in the Cyclades group. Its ancient name was Oliaros. This island is located next to Paros island. Though it is not always as crowded as Paros, it has a developing character. The capital of Antiparos is Chora, which is where you will find most hotels, restaurants, and bars.
Many people visit Paros but only a few know there is another gem of an island in Antiparos. The island is popularly known for its famous cave, tourism, and its wonderful beaches. The cave on this island is the oldest in Greece.
This island is an ideal destination where you can relax for your holidays. This composition will guide you on how you can explore and enjoy your trip to one of the Greek islands.
Ferry schedules
Antiparos is just a short ferry ride away from Paros island. Antiparos is just a small island, so it doesn’t warrant an airport, the nearest airport that can connect Athens to the island is on Paros island.
The only way you can get to Antiparos is through Paros island. Ferries are departing from Paros to Antiparos from the ports of Parikia and Pounta.
Parikia port to Antiparos
This port transports only passengers. If you wish to go along with your car or ATV, this ferry is not for you. It operates only during the summer period, from June to October. The journey takes around 30 minutes.
The ferry on this port departs on an hourly basis starting from 10 am till 6 pm. The price for a single ticket on this port cost €5 and it is paid on board.
Pounta port to Antiparos
This is the fastest way to reach Antiparos. Pounta port transports both passengers and vehicles. The ferry at this port departs at a regular 30-minute interval and the journey takes around 10 minutes.
This port runs throughout the year. It starts operating from 6:30 am till 1:30 am. The operation time is always extended during the summer months for those who want to have the island nightlife experience.
Note that the ferry tickets are only purchased on board, only cash is allowed, and the only accepted currency is Euro.
Price for Ferry tickets
- Passengers – €1.3
- Vehicles. – €7.3
- Children – Free
It is recommended you check the schedule at the port as the time varies throughout the year.
How to plan your trip
Antiparos attracts visitors with its cool atmosphere, wonderful beaches, and charming valleys. It is a perfect place for day trips or extended vacations. There is everything you need for your holidays on this island. You will find most bars, restaurants, cafes, and hotels in the capital of the island ( Chora ).
The best time you can visit the island is in April, June, September, and October. The weather is mild during this period and there are fewer crowds. If you are planning to stay on the island overnight instead of on a day trip. There are many affordable hotels around the town. Some of the hotels are:
- Castro house
- Kouros village
- Begleri hotel
- Lagadia village
- The rooster
There are so many fun things you can do while on the island, from relaxing on the Beach, hiking, boat tour, camping, and visiting caves. You should get yourself prepared with the necessary wear and other materials needed for the activities.
Here are the lists of the best activities and places of attraction you can visit while in Antiparos:
- Explore some of the most popular Antiparos beaches
- Visit the Antiparos cave. This cave is just 8 km away from the capital of Antiparos
(Chora). Tickets cost 6 euros.
- Visit Despotiko island
- Go shopping on the island
- Go on a boat tour/excursion
- Visit the Venetian castle
- Antiparos nightlife
Alternative ways to explore the island
Moving around Antiparos island is easy, the island is small and there are public buses that connect most attraction centers, beaches, and small villages on the island. You can bring along your vehicle through Pounta port or you can rent on the island.
You can also decide not to make use of the ferry during your trip. Another available means of touring Antiparos is the use of a private boat or a catamaran. These options are quite expensive than making use of a Ferry. Using a private boat or a catamaran comes with a lot of benefits. Some of these benefits are:
- It is more suitable for groups, families, and friends
- You can customize your trip to your satisfaction
- You will visit exclusive destinations and enjoy luxurious services.
- You will get more attention from the boat captain and crew
- You will have access to different types of menus when it comes to food and drinks
- It is strictly private.
You can hire a private boat or catamaran with the following agencies in Paros:
- Anemomylos Travel
Location: Parikia 844 00, Greece. Contact: +30 2284 028090 - Brama catamarans sailing cruises
Location: leof, poseidonos 4, Alimos 174 55, Greece. Contact: +30 32 0988 8202 - Yacht hop
Location: leaf, poseidonos 1, Athina 174 55, Greece. - The sailors ride
Location: Aliki 844 00, Greece Contact: +30 697 922 9844
Conclusion
Antiparos is a traditional Greek island with a lot of character. It is a place where you can relax and enjoy yourself. Whether you plan to visit for a day or a longer period, the island has a wide range of activities you can engage in.
There are many beautiful islands on the Cyclades that you might decide to visit, make sure you add Antiparos to your list.
You can read more on Antiparos from other reliable sources before planning your trip.
