How to get to Karpathos

Picturesque Karpathos, located between Crete and Rhodes, attracts travellers with its pristine beauty and distinctive culture. You can reach this Greek island by air or sea, whilst enjoying views of the Aegean Sea. This corner of Greece is ideal for those seeking a peaceful holiday and an authentic atmosphere away from mass tourism.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the island is by air. Karpathos Airport (AOK) receives regular flights from Athens, and during the summer season, it serves numerous charter flights from European cities. The airport is well connected to the main part of the island, making arrival as convenient as possible.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighbouring transport hubs. The nearest airports are located on the islands of Kasos (just 28 km away) and Rhodes, from where it is easy to continue the journey via local airlines or by ferry.

There is no railway service on the island of Karpathos due to its island location and difficult mountainous terrain. There are no stations or railways here, so it is impossible to get here exclusively by train.

Travellers preferring ground transport will have to combine their trip with a ferry crossing. Nearby major locations on the map, such as Sitia on Crete or Rhodes, will also require a transfer to sea transport to complete the route.

Bus connections to the island are organized via combined routes that include sea crossings. The trip from the neighbouring island of Kasos is one of the quickest and will take just about 1.5 hours, covering a distance of approximately 57 km.

For those departing from larger tourist centres, a route from the island of Rhodes is available. This journey, covering about 161 km, will last approximately 5.5 hours, allowing you to enjoy the sea landscapes on the way to your destination.

Travelling by car to the island of Karpathos is a true adventure requiring the use of car ferries. The route from the neighbouring island of Kasos takes about 1.5 hours, making it the fastest crossing option.

Longer trips await those driving from major ports. The road from the city of Rhodes (about 180 km) will take approximately 6.3 hours, while the journey from the city of Sitia on Crete will require around 8.6 hours, including ferry time.

When planning a trip to this distinctive Greek island, it is worth preparing for its specifics in advance to ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible. Here are some practical recommendations for travellers:

1. Clothing and Essentials. Strong "meltemi" winds often blow on the island, so even in summer, be sure to bring a light windbreaker or cardigan for evening walks.
2. Transport. Public transport runs irregularly, so to explore remote beaches, it is better to rent a car, preferably one with high ground clearance.
3. Finance. The official currency is the Euro. Cards are accepted everywhere in the capital, but it is better to carry cash in mountain villages.
4. Health and Safety. The island is very safe and family-friendly, but pharmacies and the hospital are located in the main town of Pigadia. Pack a travel first aid kit if you plan to stay in a remote area.
5. Communication. The main language is Greek. In tourist zones, staff speak English, but knowing a few phrases in the local language is always appreciated.
6. Local Etiquette. When visiting monasteries and churches, please observe the dress code: shoulders and knees must be covered.
7. What to Avoid. Do not rely on stable mobile internet in the mountains and secluded bays; download offline maps in advance.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to visit the village of Olymbos, where women still wear traditional attire in daily life—it is a unique cultural experience.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid minor inconveniences and fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of the island.