Karpathos Dodecanese, Greece Travel Guide
The island has distinct seasons, each with different advantages.
Spring (April-May): This period brings pleasant, mild weather. Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Humidity is low, and rainfall is minimal, making it a comfortable time to explore. The island is green, and wildflowers bloom.
Summer (June-August): This is the hottest time of year. Temperatures usually range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), often reaching 40°C (104°F) in July and August. Sunshine hours are high, humidity remains low, and almost no rainfall occurs. The Meltemi winds are a constant presence, notably strong in July and August. These northerly winds refresh, providing relief from the heat, and create excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
Autumn (September-October): Temperatures remain warm, typically 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The sea stays warm enough for swimming. Humidity is low to moderate. Occasional light rainfall begins towards late October. This period offers a pleasant transition with continued warm days.
Winter (November-March): The weather is mild. Temperatures generally range from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F). Humidity is higher, and more frequent rainfall occurs, especially from December to February. Many tourist services close during these months.
Meltemi Winds: These dominant northerly winds affect the Aegean, specifically strong in July and August. While excellent for windsurfing and kitesurfing, they make some beaches windy and create choppy seas. They occasionally cause ferry delays or cancellations, especially for smaller vessels.
Heatwaves: July and August can experience prolonged periods of very high temperatures. Take precautions against heatstroke and dehydration. Wildfire Risk: Dry summer months pose a high risk of wildfires. Pay attention to local warnings.
Crowds & Highest Prices
Warmest weather, ideal for swimming/sunbathing. All tourist facilities open. Flights & ferries most frequent.
Highest prices. Crowded. Intense heat. Strong Meltemi winds may disrupt ferries.
Mild Weather & Fewer Crowds
Pleasant temperatures. Fewer crowds. Lower prices. Sea warm for swimming. Ideal for hiking and watersports.
Some services may not be fully open or begin to close. Ferry/flight schedules become more limited late October.
Lowest Prices & Authentic Experience
Lowest prices. Authentic local atmosphere. Ideal for cultural exploration and solitude.
Many hotels/restaurants closed. Very limited flights/ferries. Cooler temperatures & rain. Sea too cold for swimming.
Greece is a member of the Schengen Area. Visa-exempt nationalities (USA, Canada, Australia, UK, EU/EEA, Switzerland, Japan, South Korea) do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Citizens not on the visa-exempt list must apply for a Schengen Visa (Type C, short-stay). Apply through the Greek embassy or consulate. The process involves an appointment, documentation, and an interview. Start well in advance.
No general entry fees for tourists. Upon arrival at Karpathos Airport (AOK) or the port (Pigadia), present your passport and other relevant documents to border control. The process proceeds smoothly for most travelers. No specific permits are needed for standard tourism activities.
Valid for at least three months beyond departure from Schengen, issued within 10 years, two blank pages.
Present your valid Schengen visa.
Show sufficient financial means (bank statements, credit cards, or cash).
Confirmations of hotel bookings and return/onward flight tickets.
Mandatory for Schengen visa applicants, highly recommended for others. Minimum €30,000 coverage. Consider World Nomads, SafetyWing, or Insubuy.
Costs on Karpathos vary widely based on your travel style.
The official currency of Greece, and thus Karpathos, is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available in Pigadia and larger villages like Arkasa and Lefkos. Most hotels, larger restaurants, and shops accept credit and debit cards.
Tipping in Karpathos, and Greece generally, is not mandatory but welcomed for good service.
General Hospital of Karpathos (Pigadia) offers basic medical services. Pharmacies are numerous. Karpathos has a very low crime rate.
Carry a list of these numbers on your person and in your phone. In any emergency, dial 112.
Dial 112 for the European Emergency Number, which works throughout the EU for Police, Fire, and Ambulance services. Operators generally speak English.
Provide your exact location, the nature of the emergency, and any relevant details. Stay calm and follow the operator's instructions.
Karpathos experiences high UV levels in summer. Protect yourself from sunburn and heatstroke.
Apply high SPF sunscreen (30+), wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
Avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours, typically 12 PM to 4 PM.
The hot, dry climate, especially in summer, can lead to dehydration. Stay properly hydrated.
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
Do not rely solely on sugary drinks or alcohol for hydration.
Sea urchins are present on rocky bottoms. Protect your feet when swimming or walking in coastal areas.
Wear Water shoes when on pebbly beaches or entering the sea from rocky points.
Avoid walking barefoot where sea urchins may be present.
| Category | Item/Service | Price (€) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Mid-range Hotel (per night) | €60-€120 |
| Food | Mid-range Restaurant Meal | €20-€35 |
| Transportation | Car Rental (per day) | €30-€80 |
