Chora (Castro)

Chora, also known as Castro (castle), is the main town and port of Antiparos. The central square of Chora is the most vibrant spot of the island filled with cafes, bars, restaurants and clubs. The imposing Venetian castle is also located in Chora featuring 4 churches within its square walls, the churches of Christos, Agios Antonios, Agios Ioannis and Agios Nikolaos.

Glyfa

Glyfa is a picturesque settlement 6 km from Chora with a beautiful beach with tranquil waters and hotels and taverns in the surrounding area.

Agios Georgios Settlement

On the south-western side of Antiparos, the Agios Georgios settlement is a gem of tranquility with a gorgeous beach, translucent waters and a few taverns where swimmers can enjoy scrumptious local specialties and fresh fish. From the village of Agios Georgios you can enjoy the most amazing view to the azure of the sea and the islet of Despotiko.

Soros Settlement

Situated on the west coast of Antiparos, Soros is a quaint little settlement with a golden sandy beach, a family tavern and many houses for rent ideal for those seeking a relaxing summer escape.

The Cave of Agios Ioannis

Situated 8 km from Chora the Cave of Agios Ioannis is the number one attraction of Antiparos. It is the only vertical cave in all of Europe with a depth of approximately 85 meters. Dating back to the Neolithic period the cave has been visited by many prominent individuals as dictated by inscriptions on the walls, such as Alexander the Great, King Otto, the marquis de Nointe, the lyric poet Archilochus of Paros as well as the ambassador of France. Originally the cave was used for shelter, pottery and later on as a worship place for the goddess Artemis. Adorned with some of the most exquisite stalactites and stalagmites this enchanting grotto is one of the finest in Greece also considered a natural museum. There are hourly bus routes from the port to the cave but it can also be reached with a traditional donkey ride. In order to discover the greatness of this natural marvel you will have to go down approximately 400 steps but it is honestly worth the trouble. The cave features the oldest stalactite in Europe estimated to be 45 million years old.

The Sea Caves

Antiparos is filled with enchanting sea caves and emerald waters were travelers can enjoy a relaxing swim in the most intimate of settings.

The Venetian Castle

Situated in Chora the Venetian castle, now in ruins, was built in the beginning of 1440 for the protection of the island’s inhabitants from pirate raids. Square in shape, the castle is fortified with the houses surrounding it and it now consists of 4 churches and a circular tower that used to be the residence of the archon. It is an impressive architectural accomplishment that became well known from the awarded film Mandalena.

Church of Agios Ioannis Spiliotis

The magnificent church of Agios Ioannis Spiliotis is situated right at the entrance of the famous cave of Antiparos dating back to the 18th century.

Church of Agios Nikolaos

Situated between Chora and the cave of Antiparos this picturesque little church has played a significant role in the history of the island since it was used as a shelter for the British that were heading to the Middle East.

Panagia Faneromeni

The chapel of the revealed blessed virgin is situated on the southern tip of the island. It is a very picturesque chapel set in a gorgeous setting within a bay ideal for swimming and diving.

Despotiko & Small islets

Dating back to the 7th century the island of Despotiko is an island of great historical interest. Through major excavations that have been conducted through the years, two cemeteries from the primary Cycladic era, remains of pre-historic settlements, parts of a Dorian temple, a temple dedicated to Apollo and a big idol of a female goddess named Isthmia, verifying the existence of an Isthmos (connecting canal), have been discovered. Excavations still continue so as to turn the unspoiled uninhabited island of Despotiko into a live walking-through museum.

Islets

The Cycladic Art Museum of Antiparos hosts exhibits from excavations on different parts of the island as well as replicas from the Goulandri museum in Athens and famous statues made from Parian marble as well as from opsiolianos.

Cycladic Art Museum

The islets of Tsimintiri and Strongylo are also of historical interest and there are three more beautiful islets surrounding Antiparos that are worth visiting: Diplo, Revmatonisi and Saliagos.

Where beauty exceeds the size, Antiparos has a diversity of stunning seashores of striking natural beauty.

Antiparos is a tiny island with quiet beaches and calm evenings. Swimming in nice beaches and soaking the summer sun are pretty much the main things to do in Antiparos. If you like kitesurfing, you just want to ride the waves in Pounda beach, between Antiparos and Paros, a world famous spot for kitesurf lovers. Alternatively, you can go scuba diving, kayaking, hiking, trekking and cycling.

Agios Spyridonas

Agios Spyridonas is a popular beach in Antiparos. Protected from the winds it offers a heavenly spot for family enjoyment and pleasurable breaks. The crystalline shallow waters make this beach ideal for children. Visitors can relax as they gaze at the magnificent panoramic view of Paros island, relish some local specialties at the traditional taverns along the coast and enjoy a delightful accommodation experience at the small nearby hotels and the convenient rooms to let.

Kako rema

Due to its distance from the main road this quiet beach can be reached either by bike or boat. Not known by many it offers absolute privacy and tranquility. Despite its size it is a beautiful clean beach with crystalline waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling adventures. There are a few rooms to let nearby and it is fully protected from the winds. .

Agios Georgios

Situated in the quaint village of Agios Georgios this beautiful beach is nuzzled in a picturesque sheltered bay offering an exceptional view to the islet of Despotiko. From Agios Georgios you can enjoy several boat trips to the nearby islands. Many taverns close by serve local specialties and freshly caught fish taking you one step closer to the island’s tradition and culture. The beach, though, is not organized so mind to have with you, necessary beach equipment.

Apantima

Set in a lovely cove fully protected from the summer winds, Apantima is a charming pebbly beach with crystal clear waters and a rocky sea bottom providing an atmosphere of serene calm in the most picturesque of settings. One of the islands best restaurants is situated right above the beach offering swimmers a great selection of local specialties and drinks to quench their thirst.

Sifneiko

Named after Sifnos Island that can be seen in a distance, this enchanting beach is a pure haven of tranquility with crystal clear waters and golden sand. It is exposed to the summer winds so its waters can get pretty rough otherwise it is ideal for swimming and snorkeling adventures. Visitors who decide to spend the entire day on the beach will be able to watch the most amazing sunset on the island.

Vathis Volos

This lovely sandy beach offers a heaven of privacy and relaxation. Visitors are welcome to dive in the crystalline emerald waters, lie on the lovely sandy beach and enjoy some local delicacies at the nearby taverns. Some rooms to let and small hotels are available close to the beach as well. The islet of Despotiko is situated right opposite from the beach and you might even see the tour boats to Despotiko since Vathis Volos is also used as a stopover.

Soros

Soros beach is a popular long sandy beach organized with sunbeds and umbrellas with sapphire waters and trees offering natural shade to the bathers. It is not suggested for families with children since the water in many spots suddenly deepens and the seabed is abrupt, with some rocks found even near the shore. There are two taverns nearby inviting visitors for delicious local specialties, freshly caught fish and refreshments.

Livadia

Set on the most undeveloped side of Antiparos this beautiful beach is not easily accessed and it is affected by the summer winds. When the winds settle it is worth visiting due to its sapphire crystalline waters and lovely scenery. Visitors can find calmness and peacefulness in this protected bay and enjoy a relaxing swim or sunbathe under the sizzling sun away from the crowds.

Psaraliki

Comprised of two consecutive beaches, Psaraliki I and Psaraliki II, Psaraliki beach is a family friendly sandy beach with shallow waters ideal for family breaks and water sports activities. Pedal boats, windsurfing, swimming, snorkeling and beach tennis are available as well as a number of picturesque taverns and music clubs. It is a lively beach full of entertainment options for everyone to enjoy with sunbeds and umbrellas where bathers can lie away from the sun.

Panagia

The picturesque setting, the peaceful atmosphere, the azure waters of the sea and fine golden sand create a feeling of serenity. Bathers can swim in the cerulean waters and get some shade under the trees. An excellent tavern serving mouth-watering Greek dishes invites visitors for a delicious break from the sun. It is the perfect choice for travelers seeking some privacy and calmness.

Glyfa

Nestled in a rural setting Glyfa beach offers an enchanting beach escape for travelers seeking a tranquil beach hideaway. The unspoiled natural surroundings, the crystalline waters, the golden sand and gorgeous view to Paros Island create a picture perfect setting for a relaxing swim. This beautiful beach is ideal for families who can play around the beach and swim in the sapphire waters or enjoy scrumptious local dishes in the nearby taverns. Some hotels situated close to the beach can cover all accommodation needs.

Nuzzled in the heart of the Cyclades island group, right next to Paros Island, Antiparos Island offers a great selection of dining options, bars, taverns as well as a quite vivid nightlife compared to its size.

Some of the best restaurants and best places to eat in Antiparos serving scrumptious dishes of traditional cuisine as well as fine Mediterranean gastronomy are situated in the capital of Chora.

Antiparos Island is one of the smallest and tranquil islands of the Cyclades in Greece combining the serenity and purity of nature with ample entertainment options, dining suggestions, bars and taverns scattered throughout the island offering an eclectic selection of Greek gastronomy and mouthwatering dishes of traditional cuisine.

THE LUXURIANS offers an exclusive booking service to the best restaurants and bars on the island, based on its fully supported recommendations. The comprehensive ‘little black book’ that we have compiled and update every year, lists restaurants and bars in every tiny place on the island.

Just lay back and let your personal concierge with first-hand experience make all arrangements on your behalf.

Patido

Patido is a dish made with rooster stuffed with sautéed giblets, country bread crumbs, raisins, local kefalotyri cheese (hard & salty cheese), onion, garlic, Mantilaria wine, parsley, salt & pepper, cinnamon and cloves.

Stifado

Wild rabbit and onions stew with whole, small boiler or pearl onions, wine, tomato, cinnamon.

Kolokythokeftedes

Kolokythokeftedes are fried zucchini balls made from grated zucchini, chopped onion, dill, parsley, grated cheese, 3-4 eggs slightly beaten and flour.

Grilled Octopus

Sun dried octopus cooked on the grill and served with olive oil, oregano and vinegar.

Raviolia

Raviolia are crescent shaped pastries filled with sweet cream cheese, honey, sugar and cinnamon

Bourekakia

Bourekakia are pastries filled with honey, nuts and sesame seeds which are baked and then sprinkled with raki liquor and powdery sugar.

GENERAL INFO

When to go

Antiparos is most enjoyable in late spring – when the landscape is still green, the sea has warmed up to feasible swimming temperatures, but the crowds have yet to descend – and early autumn, when the summer hordes have departed and the sea is at its warmest. In both spring and autumn, you can expect attractive prices for villa accommodation compared to summer.   But take note – not too late in autumn; after late September many facilities close down and storms do hit.

Climate

Like in most Cycladic islands the climate of Antiparos is temperate, with sunny and warm summers and mild winters with hardly any rainfall making the island an ideal holiday destination all year round.

Telephone

The national prefix for Greece is +30 if you are calling from abroad. All numbers in the capital Athens start with the prefix 210 and are followed by 8 digits (e.g. 210-3227400).   The Area Code for Antiparos is: +30 22840. If you wish to call abroad, you have to start by dialing the other country’s national prefix (i.e. 0049 for Germany, 0044 for England etc.) and continue with the area code and the number where you wish to call.

Currency

Euro Bank Notes: Are available in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. It is not always easy to receive change for 200 and 500 Euro Notes

GETTING THERE

By Air

The island of Antiparos doesn’t have an airport but you can reach the island by air through the airport of Paros and then board on one of the boats that reach Antiparos. There are daily departures from Athens international airport Eleftherios Venizelos for Paros Island and the duration of the flight takes approximately 35 minutes.

Olympic Airlines Tel. 801 114 4444, 210 9666666 www.olympicairlines.com

By Boat

The island of Paros is connected with the main port of Piraeus, Lavrion as well as the ports of Andros, Syros, Tinos, Mykonos, Sifnos, Naxos, Ios, Amorgos and Santorini, the Dodecanese islands, Volos, Thessaloniki and Crete with high speed boats or ferry boats. The trip from Piraeus lasts approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes by high-speed and 4.5 hours by the Blue Star Line boats. Travelers can also reach the island of Paros with a hydrofoil from Rafina or a ferry from Lavrio.

There are two ways to reach the island of Antiparos from Paros; either by ‘kaiki’ found on the left side of the port of Paroikia, a journey that lasts approximately 30 minutes or by road and ferry. You will have to drive to Punda (or take the local bus or taxi from the port to take you there) and then take a small car ferry to Antiparos. The time of that trip will take approximately 30 minutes as well.

To reach Paros, see below:

Hellenic Seaways Tel. + 30 210 4199000
www.hellenicseaways.com

If you are travelling from Lavrio Port to Paros: C-Link ferries Tel. +30 210 4594096

LOCAL TRANSPORTATION

Antiparos is a relevantly small island on which you can easily get around. Most beaches are within walking distance from Chora and the rest of the places worth visiting can be reached either by rented vehicles, by water taxi or bus.

Local Buses

There is a bus service connecting Chora with the Cave of Antiparos and continues to the beaches of Soros and Agios Georgios.

Taxi Service

There are no taxis available on the island of Antiparos except from taxis that transfer back and forth from Paros to Antiparos. Tel.no. for Paros taxi: +30 22840 21500

Rent a Car / Motorbike

The best way to explore the island of Antiparos is with your own vehicle at your own time and convenience. There are quite a few car rental companies at the port where you can rent bicycles, scooters, ATVs and cars.

Water taxis – boats – ‘kaikia’

There are many ‘kaikia’ available on the island that offer the round trip of Antiparos as well as trips to the islets of Despotiko and Saliagas. Those interested should arrange transportation ahead by contacting one of the following numbers.

Water –taxi owners on Antiparos

Alexandros: (+30) 22840 61273, mobile 6972026585, Tassos Kouvaras: (+30) 22840 61028, mobile 6972809962

LOCAL SERVICES

Banks and ATMs

There are two banks in Antiparos and three ATMs – one at the port and two on the main street.

Money Exchange

There are two banks in Antiparos and three ATMs – one at the port and two on the main street.

Emporiki Bank Antiparos, Antiparos, 84007, KYKLADES Phone: +30 2284061691

National Bank of Greece Antiparos, Antiparos, 84007, KYKLADES Phone: +30 2284062001

Money exchange Currency can be exchanged in many places throughout the island including the banks, post office, travel agents as well as some hotels.

Post Office

The Greek post office is called ELTA and you can find the post office of Antiparos at Antiparos Chora. The post office performs money transactions and cash currency exchange. Post Boxes in Greece are YELLOW for normal post, usually with 2 slots for INTERNAL POST (meaning inside Greece) and post for ABROAD. REGISTERED mail is always handled and given a receipt for at the POST OFFICE. Post office no: +30 22840 61223

Police Station

Antiparos police station is situated in Chora. Tel: +30 22840 61202

Municipality of Antiparos

The municipality of Antiparos is off the main street of Chora. Municipality Tel: +30 22840 61570

INTERNATIONAL PRESS

In Antiparos there are several convenient stores were travelers can find all kinds of international press, newspapers, books and magazines in both Greek and English languages.

USEFUL NUMBERS

• Tourist Police: +30 22840 61202
• Port Authority: +30 22840 61485
• Hellenic National Meteorological Service: +30 210 9699101-3
• Elpa (Car breakdown tourist information service): 174

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

• Police: 100
• Fire Department: 199
• Ambulance: 166

Health

Due to its small size and minor permanent population the island of Antiparos is served by one regional clinic and one pharmacy both situated in Chora.

Tel: +30 22840 61219

Regional Clinic of Antiparos

Pharmacy

Tel: +30 22840 61621