Antiparos, Greece Guide
Know Before You Go...®
Antiparos is a charming Greek island located in the heart of the Aegean Sea. Its crystal-clear waters, picturesque villages, and stunning beaches make it a popular destination for tourists seeking a peaceful and authentic Greek experience. The island is known for its laid-back atmosphere, delicious local cuisine, and rich history, dating back to ancient times. With a variety of activities such as hiking, water sports, and exploring ancient ruins, Antiparos offers something for every type of traveler. It’s the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Greek islands.
Why Antiparos, Greece?
- Antiparos is the second most popular island in the Cyclades after Mykonos.
- The island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Cyclades, including Psaraliki, Soros, and Livadia.
- Antiparos is known for its stunning Venetian Castle, which was built in the 15th century.
- The island is also renowned for its natural beauty, with lush vegetation, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque coves.
- Antiparos is connected to the mainland via a regular ferry service from the port of Pounta.
Antiparos, Greece Weather/Climate
Average Temperatures
| January |
55° F
|
° F
|
| February |
55° F
|
° F
|
| March |
59° F
|
° F
|
| April |
65° F
|
° F
|
| May |
72° F
|
° F
|
| June |
80° F
|
° F
|
| July |
84° F
|
° F
|
| August |
83° F
|
° F
|
| September |
78° F
|
° F
|
| October |
71° F
|
° F
|
| November |
64° F
|
° F
|
| December |
58° F
|
° F
|
Average Rainfall
| January |
4.6 inches
|
| February |
3.3 inches
|
| March |
2.7 inches
|
| April |
1.3 inches
|
| May |
0.8 inches
|
| June |
0.2 inches
|
| July |
0.1 inches
|
| August |
0.1 inches
|
| September |
0.6 inches
|
| October |
1.9 inches
|
| November |
3.1 inches
|
| December |
4.7 inches
|
History
Antiparos, a small island in the Cyclades group of Greece, has a rich history rooted in its strategic location in the Aegean Sea. In antiquity, Antiparos was known as “Oliaros” and inhabited by early Cycladic civilizations around 3000 BC, as evidenced by archaeological finds on nearby Despotiko Island. Throughout ancient times, the island was an important site for trade and maritime activity, closely linked to the neighboring islands of Paros and Naxos. The island also held religious significance, with shrines and sanctuaries built on Despotiko during the Archaic and Classical periods of ancient Greece.
During the Venetian era in the 13th century, Antiparos became part of the Duchy of Naxos, and the Venetians constructed a castle, or “Kastro,” which remains a central feature of the island’s main town. The Venetian influence shaped much of the island’s architecture, even as the local Greek culture persisted. In the 16th century, Antiparos, like much of the Cyclades, came under Ottoman rule, though its small size and relative isolation allowed it to retain its distinct Cycladic character.
Today, Antiparos is celebrated for its tranquil atmosphere, natural beauty, and historical landmarks, such as the Kastro and the Antiparos Cave, a stunning geological site with ancient inscriptions and stalactites. Known for its picturesque whitewashed villages, pristine beaches, and relaxed charm, the island has become a favorite destination for travelers seeking a quieter side of the Cyclades.
Transportation on Antiparos, Greece
Getting to Antiparos, Greece and getting around. Our transportation tips will
help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
Entry Documents
- Passport: Valid for the duration of your stay.
- Visa not required for most nationalities for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
- Return/onward ticket required for proof of departure.
Departure Tax
A departure tax of €12 applies for flights leaving Greece. This is usually included in airfare but confirm with your carrier.
Driving
- Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
- Driving Side: Right-hand side.
- Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained but can be narrow, especially in rural areas.
- Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads.
- Traffic Rules: Be cautious of narrow roads leading to beaches and limited parking in the town center during peak tourist seasons. Renting a scooter or ATV is a popular way to explore the island.
Local Transportation
Antiparos offers simple yet convenient transport options to explore its laid-back charm and natural beauty. The island is small and best explored on foot or by bike, making it easy to enjoy its pristine beaches and picturesque streets. Rental scooters and cars are also available for visitors looking to explore the island at their own pace. A short ferry ride connects Antiparos to neighboring Paros, making day trips seamless and scenic. Taxis are limited but can be arranged for convenience.
Know Before You Go...® - Antiparos, Greece Travel Tips
Before making their way to Antiparos, Greece , vacationers like
to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a
look at our travel tips to make your time in villas
in Antiparos, Greece even more relaxing.
| Capital: |
Chora |
| Population: |
1,256 (estimated) |
| Size: |
18 square miles (estimated) |
| Electric Current: |
230 |
| Official Language: |
The official language spoken in Antiparos is Greek, specifically the Southern Aegean dialect. The secondary language commonly spoken is English. Many locals also have a basic understanding of German, French, and Italian. |
| Currency: |
- The official currency of Greece is the Euro (€), and it is widely accepted on the island. Visitors can easily exchange their currency for Euros at the airport, banks, or exchange offices. It is advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards to ensure convenience and safety.
- Cash is widely used on the island, especially for smaller purchases such as groceries, souvenirs, and street food. ATMs are easily accessible in most parts of Antiparos, making it convenient for visitors to withdraw cash in Euros.
- Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments. However, it is always advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or in case of any technical issues with card transactions.
- Traveler's checks are not commonly used on the island, and it may be challenging to find places that accept them.
- Many establishments on the island now offer contactless payment options, making it easier and safer for visitors to make purchases.
|
| Tipping and Taxes: |
- Tipping is not mandatory in Antiparos, but it is a common practice to show appreciation for good service.
- In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill is customary, though some establishments may include a service charge in the bill.
- Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.
- Value-added tax (VAT) is included in the price of goods and services in Antiparos. This tax is currently set at 24% for most items, with a reduced rate of 13% for certain goods and services, such as food and hotel accommodations.
- Visitors may be able to get a refund on the VAT for purchases exceeding a certain amount, but it is important to check with the retailer for their refund policy.
- When dining out, it is important to check the bill for any additional taxes or service charges. Some restaurants may include a "cover charge" or "bread charge," which is a flat fee for the use of bread or other items on the table. This charge is usually listed on t
|
| Dress Code: |
The dress code in Antiparos, Greece is typically casual and relaxed, with a focus on comfortable and lightweight clothing suitable for warm weather. |
| Topography: |
Antiparos is a small, hilly island in the Aegean Sea with rocky coastlines, sandy beaches, and rolling hills covered in olive groves and wildflowers. |
| Telephone: |
* Telephone: Country Code: +30
* Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the island, though some remote beaches may have weaker signals.
* Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi for guests. |
Antiparos, Greece Weddings and Honeymoons
In Antiparos, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.
Apply for a marriage license at the local Dimarchio (Town Hall) in Antiparos or a nearby larger municipality. Applications should be submitted at least 10 days in advance.
Required documents include:
- Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
- Birth certificates (translated into Greek and certified with an Apostille).
- Certificate of no impediment to marriage or single status certificate (translated into Greek).
- Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).
- Application form provided by the Town Hall.
Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in Greek by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak Greek.
Costs: Marriage fees vary but are typically around €100 to €200. Additional costs may apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional arrangements.
Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Antiparos offers stunning venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including secluded beaches, charming churches, and private villas. Popular spots include Agios Georgios beach and the picturesque village square. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.
