By Antonia Komarkowski
Antiparos is a beautiful and picturesque island in the southern Aegean sea, offshore from Paros and at the heart of the Cyclades.
It’s the perfect island for relaxation, and is easy to get to from Paros, just a 7 minute ferry ride from Pounda port. Once you step off the ferry and place your feet on Antiparos land, you instantly feel taken away by its beautiful white ensemble and rare beauty.
There are lots of restaurants and shops on the main street from the port, but the village runs deep inland to quiet squares and alleyways that give way suddenly to open fields. Not to mention, the island also has quite a few dazzling beaches.
Even European Royalty, Hollywood stars and A-list celebrities holiday here as they enjoy the ‘secret getaway’, including Tom Hanks, Rita Wilson, Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, who are all currently holidaying here!
Antiparos is perfect for a day trip (although the more time you get to spend here, the more you will fall in love) and we give you some tips on what to do once here!
Things to do in Antiparos
The cave
The most famous, picturesque sight on Antiparos is its Cave. Located on the south eastern part of the small island, the cave has a long history. It is also the the only vertical cave in all of Europe with a depth of approximately 85 meters. The cave showcases the most exquisite stalactites and stalagmites making this one of the finest enchanting natural museums in Greece. It’s a must see!
Panagia Beach
Panagia Beach is 1 km to the south of the main village and is a favourite for locals because of its peaceful atmosphere. The beach has bright blue waters, fine golden sand and big trees that provide nice shade. A delicious taverna across the road also serves mouth-watering Greek dishes inviting its visitors for a delicious experience of local flavour. You could spend all day here!
Agios Georgios Beach
Found in the small village Agios Georgios, this stunning beach is sheltered in a picturesque bay with a beautiful view to the islet of Despotiko. With only a chapel nearby, this beach doesn’t have any food or drink vendors nearby, so you will need to bring supplies with you.
Diving: Blue Island
Blue Island Divers gives the experience to people to dive and glide in the most amazingly clear waters of Antiparos, seeing underwater canyons, caves and the rich marine life. The dive trips start early in the morning, with small groups of no more than 5 people. The center is PADI certified and all courses are conducted in English, Greek, Italian and French.
Food and drinks:
– Tzitzikas Cocktail Bar
Situated next to Antiparos central square Tzitzikas bar offers unique cocktails, cool vibes, smiley staff and the island’s most beautiful back yard. The prettiest bar on the island by far! Ask for Vasilis (the owner) and the vodka-honey-grape shot! And also try the Cheese Cake Cocktail!
– Lollo’s Pizzeria
Serving delicious Italian cuisine for lunch or dinner, Lollo’s Pizzeria brings the unique Italian flavours of Rome to Antiparos! Their huge and thin crust pizza’s have been inspired by the ancient traditions of Rome and is baked in a wood burning oven using an excellent blend of Italian organic bread wheat flour. They are a must try, as well as their Italian pork meat and cheese, salads, pastas, homemade desserts and Italian wines. This place is always busy so I would advise you to book before you go.
– Pavlos Place Restaurant
At Pavlos Place, you can find the main traditional dishes such as Moussaka, Dolmades (homemade stuffed vine leaves) and Gemista (stuffed tomatoes), all cooked with family love. And don’t forget, at the end of your meal you must experience one of their homemade desserts. Pavlos Place is the only place in Antiparos where you can find live Greek music. While you enjoy your tasty food, there will be magical moments of entertainment and dancing with the bouzouki and guitar playing, so be prepared to eat and dance up a storm!
-Vicky’s Ice Cream
Making delicious ice-cream, using only fresh milk and ingredients of the highest quality, the unique taste and variety of flavours cannot be found elsewhere in Antiparos! Vicky’s offer close to 40 flavours of ice cream, many of which are available every day. Not only do they create the freshly made ice-cream and sorbets (and serve extravagant scoops), they also create the freshest of cakes and desserts. Make sure you treat yourself to something sweet here!
