Written by Celine Fournier, Julien Lambert, Maria Gaulto
08/08/2025
analogicus, Pexels
Karpathos is a Greek island known for its authentic charm and tranquil atmosphere. It offers a diverse landscape of wild mountains and beautiful beaches, catering to visitors seeking relaxation, cultural experiences, and active pursuits.
For socializing, the capital, Pigadia, is the main hub with various taverns, traditional cafes, and music bars, offering some nightlife options. Smaller resorts like Lefkos also have a selection of tavernas, cafes, and bars, and some beach bars in Arkassa host occasional parties.
Top 5 Things to do in Karpathos
The island offers a variety of experiences, from immersing oneself in traditional village life to exploring stunning beaches and engaging in active pursuits.
1. Explore Olympos Village
Stepping into Olympos feels like a journey back in time. Perched atop dramatic mountains, this remote village has preserved unique traditions, a distinct dialect, and a matriarchal social structure. Visitors will observe women in traditional handmade costumes and experience a strong sense of local culture. The village offers stunning panoramic views and charming narrow alleyways dotted with cafes and artisan shops. Arriving early in the morning allows for a more serene experience before the main influx of day-trippers. An overnight stay is recommended to truly soak in the tranquil evening atmosphere.
Cost: Free to explore. Boat tours from Pigadia to Diafani (then bus to Olympos) vary in price, typically around €45 per adult for a full day. Self-driving requires car rental (daily rates vary) and petrol. Public bus from Pigadia is an option but takes around 2 hours.
Transport: Olympos is located in the far north of Karpathos, about an hour's drive from the capital, Pigadia. The road, while now asphalted, is winding and requires cautious driving. Alternatively, take a boat from Pigadia to Diafani, then a short bus ride up to Olympos. Taxis are available but can be costly for this distance.
2. Relax on Apella Beach
Apella Beach consistently ranks among the most beautiful beaches in Greece. Its striking turquoise waters, framed by towering pine-clad cliffs and soft white sand, create an idyllic setting for swimming and relaxation. The crystal-clear seabed makes it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Part of the beach offers organized facilities like umbrellas and sunbeds, while other areas provide natural shade under pine trees. The drive down to the beach offers breathtaking coastal views.
Cost: Access to the beach is free. Organized sections may charge for sunbeds and umbrellas (e.g., ~€50 for two loungers and an umbrella at some Karpathos beaches, though this specific price was for Diakoftis). Bringing personal beach gear allows for a free experience.
Transport: Apella is approximately 18 km north of Pigadia. It is accessible by car, though the road can be winding and challenging in parts. Many daily boat trips from Pigadia also visit Apella, offering a scenic way to reach it by sea.
3. Hike the Karpathian Trails
Karpathos is a hiker's paradise, boasting a network of over 60 mapped trails that traverse rugged mountains, verdant pine forests, and scenic coastal paths. These trails lead to secluded chapels, hidden caves, and breathtaking viewpoints, offering diverse experiences for various fitness levels. Engaging in a hike provides an immersive way to discover the island's unspoiled nature and enjoy panoramic sea views. Guided hikes are available for those preferring expert insights into the local flora, fauna, and history.
Cost: Self-guided hiking is free. Guided hikes vary, with some experiences priced around $50-$70.
Transport: Trailheads are scattered across the island. Many significant trails are found in the northern part, especially around Olympos and Avlona. Access typically requires a rental car to reach the starting points. Some guided tours include transport from Pigadia.
4. Take a Boat Trip to Saria Island
Embark on a full-day boat trip to Saria Island, a small, uninhabited island just north of Karpathos, separated by a narrow strait. This excursion offers a unique opportunity to explore hidden coves and pristine beaches only accessible by sea, swim in crystal-clear waters, and discover ancient ruins, including remnants of an ancient city and a temple. Saria is also an important ecosystem, providing shelter for predatory birds. It's a fantastic way to experience Karpathos' coastline from a different perspective and enjoy secluded natural beauty.
Cost: Boat trips vary, with full-day group excursions starting around $45 per adult. Private speedboat tours can range from €200 and upwards, depending on duration and group size.
Transport: Boat trips to Saria Island typically depart from the main port of Pigadia or Diafani. Guests staying outside Pigadia may need to arrange their own transport to the port.
5. Experience Water Sports at Afiartis Bay
Karpathos is globally recognized for its excellent windsurfing and kitesurfing conditions, particularly in the southern Afiartis Bay, often referred to as a world-class spot. The strong 'Meltemi' winds provide ideal conditions for enthusiasts, from beginners to advanced riders. Beyond windsurfing, the clear waters around Karpathos are perfect for diving and snorkeling, revealing vibrant marine life, colorful caverns, and intriguing underwater landscapes.
Cost: Windsurfing/kitesurfing rentals and lessons vary by provider. For diving, a 'Discover Scuba Diving' single dive costs around €75, while a guided dive for certified divers is approximately €55. Packages for multiple dives are also available.
Transport: Afiartis Bay is located in the south of Karpathos, close to the airport. It is best reached by rental car or taxi from your accommodation. Many dive centers and windsurfing schools are based directly in the area.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
