Antiparos Island Overview

Antiparos is a small Cycladic island with a relaxed charm that makes it feel worlds away from its busier neighbour, Paros. Known for its whitewashed streets, laid-back beaches, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect destination for travellers seeking a slower pace and authentic island life. From its charming main town to the famous cave and tranquil coastline, Antiparos offers simplicity, beauty, and a strong sense of place.

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Getting to Antiparos

Getting to Antiparos is straightforward, though it requires a brief ferry ride, as the island does not have its own airport.

By Plane

The nearest airport to Antiparos is Paros National Airport (PAS), which receives daily domestic flights from Athens and seasonal flights from other locations. Upon arrival at Paros Airport, travellers can take a taxi or bus to either the port of Pounta or Parikia to catch a ferry to Antiparos.

By Ferry

There are two main ferry routes from Paros to Antiparos:

• Pounta to Antiparos: This is the most frequent and quickest option. The ferry ride takes approximately 7 minutes and operates every 30 minutes from early morning until late at night. These ferries can accommodate vehicles, making it convenient for those travelling with a car.
• Parikia to Antiparos: This route is seasonal, typically running from April to October. The journey takes about 30 minutes and is suitable for foot passengers only. Ferries depart several times a day during the high season.

Tickets for both routes are purchased on board, and it’s advisable to carry cash, as card payments may not be accepted.

In summary, the fastest way of reaching Antiparos involves flying to Paros and then taking a short ferry ride. This combination offers travellers a seamless transition from air to sea, leading to the tranquil charm of Antiparos. You can also take a ferry from the mainland or one of many neighbouring islands, again via Paros, before taking a connecting ferry to Antiparos.

Use the search box below to find available ferry connections. Many Greek ferry operators don’t confirm their routes until February-March of each year, so it’s worth checking back later if you don’t see availability for your chosen dates yet.

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Antiparos Video Guide

As visitors to Antiparos typically spend some time on its larger neighbour, Paros, we’ve featured it in our main Paros video guide:

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Where to Stay on Antiparos

Though small in size, Antiparos offers a variety of areas to stay, each with its own distinct atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for easy access to amenities, a quiet retreat, or a beachfront escape, there’s a part of the island to suit your travel style.

Antiparos Town (Chora)

The island’s main hub, Antiparos Town — often just called Chora — is where most visitors choose to stay, and with good reason. Its charming pedestrian streets are lined with traditional whitewashed houses, boutique shops, tavernas, and cafés, all centred around a lively main square. Staying here means you’re within walking distance of the port, local beaches like Psaraliki, and most restaurants and nightlife. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, couples, and families who want everything at their fingertips.

Psaraliki & Sifneiko Beaches

Just outside Chora, these beach areas offer a quieter stay while still being close to the action. Psaraliki Beach, to the southeast, is great for families thanks to its shallow waters and water sports facilities, while Sifneiko Beach, to the west, is known for its spectacular sunsets. Accommodation here tends to be relaxed, with beach studios and small guesthouses that offer the best of both beach life and proximity to town.

Agios Georgios

Located on the southern end of the island, Agios Georgios is a small, peaceful settlement with views across to Despotiko Island. It’s perfect for those seeking a serene, off-the-beaten-path experience. Here you’ll find a handful of tavernas by the sea and a few boutique hotels and villas, making it an ideal base for couples or anyone looking to unwind in a quiet, natural setting.

Livadia

For travellers who prefer privacy and wild beauty, the remote Livadia Beach area offers rugged charm and fewer crowds. It’s less developed and better suited to those with their own transport, but the reward is seclusion, space, and dramatic coastal scenery. There are a few upscale villas and design-forward properties here for those seeking a more exclusive, away-from-it-all experience.

Camping Antiparos Area

Just north of Chora lies the Camping Antiparos site, which has gained a bit of a cult following among budget travellers and backpackers. The nearby beach is idyllic, and the surrounding area offers a mix of affordable rooms and a relaxed, sociable vibe. It’s a great choice for younger travellers or those seeking a more casual, bohemian experience.

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Accommodation on Antiparos: Where to Stay and What to Expect

Antiparos offers a charming and varied selection of accommodation, perfectly reflecting the island’s relaxed, Cycladic atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a luxury escape, a traditional guesthouse, or a budget-friendly base by the beach, accommodation on Antiparos caters to a wide range of travel styles without the crowds or pretension of larger islands.

For those seeking boutique or luxury accommodation, Antiparos delivers understated elegance in idyllic surroundings. The Rooster stands out as one of the island’s most exclusive places to stay — a secluded retreat near Livadia Beach offering stylish private villas, wellness programs, and a strong focus on sustainability and privacy. In the heart of Antiparos Town, Kouros Village offers chic, contemporary rooms and a laid-back pool area just steps from the harbour, making it an excellent option for couples and families who want to stay close to restaurants and nightlife.

Travellers looking for traditional Cycladic charm will find plenty of mid-range hotels and studios that offer authentic hospitality and a homey atmosphere. Hotel Mantalena, one of the oldest hotels on the island, combines heritage and hospitality with sea views and a central location in Chora. Not far away, Hotel Begleri offers clean, airy rooms and a warm welcome just a short walk from the port and nearby beaches like Psaraliki.

For a more secluded and scenic stay, the southern village of Agios Georgios is a peaceful alternative with a handful of beachfront guesthouses and villas overlooking Despotiko Island. Hotel Dolphin and Oliaros Seaside Lodge are both excellent choices in this area, providing simple yet well-kept rooms, stunning sea views, and easy access to uncrowded beaches and boat tours.

If you’re travelling on a budget, Antiparos has several excellent options near the port and Camping Beach. Aegeo Inn and Sunset Studios offer affordable, well-located studios with sunset views and walking access to both Chora and nearby beaches. For a social, laid-back experience, the area near Camping Antiparos is popular with younger travellers and backpackers, offering casual accommodation and a fun, community vibe.

From exclusive retreats and boutique hotels to family-run studios and beachfront apartments, accommodation on Antiparos reflects the island’s easy-going nature and timeless appeal. Whether you’re here for a romantic escape, a family holiday, or a quiet break from the world, you’ll find a place to stay that fits your needs — all within reach of Antiparos’s clear waters, charming villages, and unforgettable sunsets.

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Antiparos: Conclusions and Alternatives

We first visited Antiparos during our very first island-hopping adventure back in 2017, and returned several times while spending a fortnight on neighbouring Paros in 2022. Each time, we found ourselves drawn to Antiparos’s slower pace and more traditional charm — a refreshing contrast to the busier streets and beaches of its larger neighbour. It’s a place that invites you to unwind, with fewer crowds, a relaxed atmosphere, and a distinctly local feel.

Many travellers choose to base themselves on Antiparos for just that reason, using the cheap, quick, and frequent ferry to hop over to Paros when they want more variety. I’ve often heard that Chora — the island’s main village — transforms in the evening, taking on a calmer, more intimate vibe once the last of the day-trippers head back across the water.

Whether you choose to stay overnight or visit on a day trip from Paros, Antiparos is definitely worth your time. It’s a small island with a lot of character, and easy to explore at your own pace.

If you’re looking for similar destinations, Kimolos, just off the coast of Milos, offers a comparable experience — a quiet, authentic island with a close connection to a busier neighbour. For those seeking real tranquillity and a slower rhythm of life, Sikinos and Folegandros are two other small Cycladic islands that might also steal your heart.

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Antiparos Blog Posts

Check out the blog posts below from our previous visits to the island: