Antiparos Car Hire

Guide of Antiparos

Geography

Antiparos belongs to the Cyclades island group, located in the Aegean Sea, southeast of mainland Greece. It floats just 0.8 nautical miles (1.5km) southwest of Paros, separated by the Strait of Antiparos. The total area of the island is 22 miles (37km). Much of Antiparos is flat with small hilly peaks, characterized by its volcanic rock and dry climate. Come spring, the whole island comes alive with colourful bougainvillaea. Antiparos is encircled by several small uninhabited islands, including Tsminitir the Round, the Doub, Revmatonisi and Despotiko.

Climate in Antiparos

Antiparos has a typically Mediterranean climate with lots of sunny days, mild temperatures and limited rainfall. Summers are hot, long and dry, lasting from June until late September. The hottest month is August, with average high temperatures of 26°C. Fortunately, the hottest months coincide with the seasonal winds, known as Meltemi, which means it never gets uncomfortably hot. December is the rainiest month of the year and strong storms are not uncommon.

Culture

The community of Antiparos was only founded in 1914 and even today residents total no more than one thousand. The island’s economy is based on tourism, fishing and farming, most of which occur during the summer months. The ancient name for the island was ‘Oliaros’, which likely means ‘wooded mountain’ but it was later renamed Antiparos to reflect its geographical position opposite Paros.

Things To Do in Antiparos

Explore the Cave of Antiparos

Perched on the Agios Ioannis Hill, the Cave of Antiparos is the island’s most famous sight. The 85-metre-deep cave is the only vertical cave on the continent and showcases exquisite stalactites and stalagmites, some as old as 45 million years. In December 1673, Marquis de Nointel held Christmas Mass here and you can find his, as well as King Otto’s and Queen Amalia’s, graffiti on the rocks. But beware, the 400-plus steps aren’t for the faint of heart.

Meander around the main village and port

The main port, also known as Antiparos or Chora, is a charming village lined with boutiques, bars and restaurants. There are four old churches dotted around the old town too: Christos, Agios Antonios, Agios Ioannis and Agios Nikolaos. Time your trip right, and you can enjoy one of many good local festivals, complete with traditional dances, music and eating. The Festival of Agios Ioannis, which takes place on June 23rd and 24th, is a real highlight.

Visit the Venetian Castle of Antiparos (Kastro)

Set right in the heart of Antiparos’ old town, the Venetian Castle of Antiparos was built during the mid-15th century. Until then, the Venetians had hardly paid attention to the tiny island, which by that point had become a haven for pirates. That all changed when Giacomo Lorentano married Maria Somarripa and decided to bring new inhabitants to the island. The original construction featured 24 two-story houses, with a motte at the centre.

Hit the beach

Antiparos is home to some spectacular beaches and bays. Most of the coast here is covered in fine, golden sands that slope gently into turquoise waters. Some of the best beaches can be found around the capital and along the east coast of the island. Psaraliki Beach is the island’s most popular beach, but you can still rent out sunbeds for the day cheaply. Soros is another highlight; a 250-metre-long fine sand and pebble beach shaded by Tamarisk trees. If you feel constricted by traditional swimming attire, Antiparos Nudist Beach is the most famous nudist beach on the island.

Eating Out in Antiparos

Islanders in Antiparos like to eat well and you’ll find a wide array of excellent restaurants dotted around the island. The most common type of restaurant is the charming Greek tavernas, where you’ll find freshly grilled fish and octopus, local cheeses like mytzithra and generous carafes of local house wines. Some of the best restaurants offer sparkling sea views too, like Zombos in Agios Georgios.

Most restaurants are concentrated around Chora, the main town, though there are friendly tavernas and bars by the sea, particularly in popular resorts like Glyfa and Psaralyki. For an unforgettable gourmet experience, try Anargyros. The restaurant offers a modern take on Greek classics with top-quality ingredients and an extensive wine list.

Transport

Airport

Antiparos does not have an airport. The closest airport is Paros Airport, which is located around 10 km away from Parikia, the island’s capital. The airport offers connecting flights to Athens, Thessaloniki and Heraklion. During the summer months, you may be able to fly here directly from major cities, like London.

From Paros, you can take the ferry from Pounda port or a small boat from Parikia port. Ferries depart from Pounta every 30 minutes or so and the trip only takes seven minutes. Ferries depart less frequently from Parikia and only operate seasonally between April and October. You can take your vehicle onboard at Pounta, but not from Parikia.

Getting Around Antiparos

Antiparos is only a small island and it’s easy enough to explore using public transport. Oliaros operates a local bus service that connects Panagia, Apantima, Soros and Agios Georgios Beaches, as well as Antiparos Cave. You could also hire a bike for approximately €5 per day. But, for more flexibility and the chance to get off the beaten track, we recommend hiring a car.