6 Hours
Private Tour
English
Up to 12 Guests
Antiparos Best Highlights Private tour
Got a Question?
Contact UsHighlights
Antiparos Highlights
- Chora of Antiparos
- Antiparos Castle
- Antiparos Cave
Itinerary
Your adventure begins with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel, followed by a scenic transfer to the port of Pounta, a bustling gateway to the beautiful island of Antiparos. Here, you will board a ferry for a short yet delightful 10-minute ferry ride across the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea. As the ferry gently approaches the island, you will be captivated by the breathtaking views of Antiparos, with its picturesque whitewashed houses accented with touches of blue, narrow streets adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, and the gentle scent of eucalyptus trees in the air. The island’s serene yet lively atmosphere exudes a unique sense of optimism and positive energy, setting the perfect tone for an unforgettable day of exploration.
Upon arrival, the first destination is Chora, the charming and vibrant main town of Antiparos. A leisurely stroll through Chora’s main market street allows you to take in the lively ambiance, featuring traditional Greek tavernas, quaint cafes, and boutique shops offering handmade crafts and local delicacies. The labyrinthine alleys, characterized by their Cycladic architecture, invite you to immerse yourself in the island’s charm and history. As you walk through the cobbled pathways, you will eventually reach one of Antiparos’ most significant historical landmarks – the Castle, a medieval Venetian castle built in 1440. This remarkable structure, originally constructed by the Venetians to defend the island’s residents from pirate invasions, showcases an extraordinary example of fortified Cycladic architecture. The castle’s unique design consists of interconnected two-story houses, forming a protective wall around the central tower. The strategic placement and layout of the Kastro reflect the island’s storied past, when it was a major attraction for pirates seeking refuge or riches. Exploring this historic site allows you to step back in time and appreciate the island’s resilience and ingenuity during medieval times.
Next, the tour continues with a visit to one of Antiparos’ most awe-inspiring natural wonders—the Antiparos Cave, located approximately 8 kilometers south of Chora. This fascinating underground marvel is situated 160 meters below the surface, with a winding staircase of around 400 steps leading you into its depths. As you descend into the cave, you will enter an enormous chamber measuring 216 meters in length and 160 meters in depth, filled with a stunning display of stalactites and stalagmites that have formed over millions of years. The cave’s intricate formations create an otherworldly atmosphere, with some of the stalactites being among the oldest in Europe. This site has long been a point of interest for travelers, with ancient graffiti and inscriptions on the walls revealing that numerous visitors, including historical figures such as King Otto of Greece, have marveled at its beauty over the centuries. The cave’s breathtaking formations and the stories embedded within its walls make it a truly unforgettable highlight of the tour.
After this mesmerizing subterranean adventure, you will return to the port and board the ferry back to Paros, enjoying once more the serene beauty of the Aegean Sea. Upon arrival at Pounta, a comfortable transfer will take you back to your accommodation, bringing your memorable journey to a close.
This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, allowing you to experience the enchanting charm of Antiparos, from its bustling town and historic castle to its awe-inspiring cave. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the authentic Greek island lifestyle, Antiparos promises an unforgettable experience filled with discovery and wonder.
Inclusions - Exclusions
Private Tours are personal and flexible just for you and your party.
Inclusions:
-
Professional Driver
-
Local tour leader with Deep knowledge of history [Not licensed to accompany you in any site]
-
Hotel / Port pickup and drop-off
-
Transport by private, air-conditioned vehicle
- Bottled water
Exclusions:
-
Entrance fee for Antiparos Cave [6€ per person]
-
Ferry ticket to Antiparos [4€ per person]
- Licensed Tour guide upon request depending on availability [Additional cost]
- Food & Drinks
History
Antiparos Island:
Once known as Oliaros, Antiparos is a small yet historically rich island in the Cyclades, situated less than a nautical mile southwest of Paros. Its history traces back to the Neolithic period, with archaeological evidence from the nearby islet of Saliagos, indicating human habitation as early as 4000 B.C. Throughout the centuries, Antiparos was home to various civilizations, including the Phoenicians from Sidon during antiquity. By the 15th century, the island was a bustling community, providing sailors to the fleet of the Duke of Naxos. However, relentless pirate attacks led to its eventual decline and abandonment. Today, Antiparos is celebrated for its pristine landscapes, golden sandy beaches, and rich historical heritage, attracting visitors seeking tranquility and cultural exploration.
Chora of Antiparos:
Chora, the island’s main town, is a quintessential example of Cycladic beauty, offering a harmonious blend of tradition and charm. Characterized by whitewashed houses with classic blue details, the town’s streets are narrow and paved with cobblestones, adorned with vibrant bougainvillea and eucalyptus trees, adding to its enchanting atmosphere. The bustling market street at the heart of Chora is lined with local shops, cozy cafes, and traditional tavernas, providing an authentic taste of the island’s culture and hospitality. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local lifestyle while admiring the town’s picturesque surroundings and relaxed ambiance.
Antiparos Castle (Kastro):
At the heart of Chora stands the Venetian Castle, or Kastro, a remarkable fortification built around 1440 by the Venetians to safeguard the island’s population from pirate raids. This impressive structure consists of two-story houses ingeniously arranged in a circular pattern to form a protective wall around the central tower. The architectural ingenuity of the Kastro reflects the island’s strategic importance during the medieval period and serves as a poignant reminder of Antiparos’ turbulent past. Despite the passage of time, the castle remains well-preserved, offering a glimpse into the island’s resilience and its Venetian influence.
Antiparos Cave:
Located approximately 8 kilometers from Chora, the Antiparos Cave is one of the most remarkable natural formations in Europe, plunging to a depth of 85 meters. This awe-inspiring cave is famed for its striking formations of stalactites and stalagmites, with some dating back an astonishing 45 million years, making them among the oldest in Europe. The cave’s walls bear witness to centuries of fascination, with inscriptions from ancient visitors, including significant historical figures such as King Otto of Greece and the French ambassador Marquis de Nointel, who famously held a Christmas Mass inside the cave in 1673. The cave’s grandeur, combined with its historical significance, makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking both natural beauty and a connection to the past.
Antiparos effortlessly blends history, natural wonders, and traditional Cycladic charm, making it an irresistible destination for travelers looking to experience an authentic Greek island escape.
Cancellation Policy

All cancellations must be confirmed by Olive Sea Travel.
Regarding the Day Tours:
Cancellations up to 10 days before your service date are 100% refundable.
Cancellation Policy:
- Licensed Tour Guides and Hotels are external co-operators & they have their own cancellation policy.
- Apart from the above cancellation limits, NO refunds will be made. If though, you fail to make your appointment for reasons that are out of your hands, that would be, in connection with the operation of your airline or cruise ship or strikes, extreme weather conditions or mechanical failure, you will be refunded 100% of the paid amount.
- If your cancellation date is over TWO (2) months away from your reservation date, It has been known for third-party providers such as credit card companies, PayPal, etc. to charge a levy fee usually somewhere between 2-4%.
- Olive Sea Travel reserves the right to cancel your booking at any time, when reasons beyond our control arise, such as strikes, prevailing weather conditions, mechanical failures, etc. occur. In this unfortunate case, you shall be immediately notified via the email address you used when making your reservation and your payment WILL be refunded 100%.