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Where to Stay in Karpathos

Where to Stay in Karpathos

Karpathos Dodecanese, Greece Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hotels

    From small family-run places to larger modern resorts. Most are in Pigadia and beach areas like Amopi and Lefkos.

  • Studios and Apartments

    Popular self-catering options with kitchenettes. Ideal for longer stays or those wanting independence. Wide availability across the island.

  • Guesthouses (Domatia)

    Traditional rooms often run by local families, found in villages and smaller towns.

  • Villas

    Private villas, some with pools, for rent. These offer privacy and luxury, popular in secluded areas for groups or families.

Unique and Specialized Options

  • Traditional Houses

    In villages like Olympos, renovated traditional houses immerse you in historic charm and distinct architectural style.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Widely accessible through platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, Vrbo, and Expedia. Local rental agencies also manage properties.

  • Homestay/Community Tourism

    Formal homestay programs are limited. Many guesthouses and family-run hotels offer a similar experience with local hosts.

  • Camping

    No official organized campsites. Wild camping is generally not permitted due to environmental and local regulations.

Neighborhood Guide

Karpathos features diverse areas, each with its distinct character.

Pigadia Karpathos Town

Pros
  • Central location for island exploration.
  • Broad choice of accommodation, dining, services.
  • Good starting point for boat trips.
  • Relatively good public transport connections.
Cons
  • Can be busy and touristy, especially in high season.
  • Immediate town center less traditional charm.
  • Can be noisy around port area evenings, peak season.

Amopi / Arkasa / Lefkos

Pros
  • Excellent beaches for swimming, sunbathing (Amopi).
  • Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere (Amopi).
  • Laid-back atmosphere, beautiful sunsets (Arkasa/Lefkos).
  • Good selection of tavernas.
Cons
  • Fewer services than Pigadia.
  • Can feel isolated without a rental vehicle.
  • Limited nightlife (Arkasa/Lefkos).
  • Further from Pigadia (Arkasa/Lefkos).

Olympos / Diafani

Pros
  • Deep cultural immersion, unique experience (Olympos).
  • Stunning panoramic views (Olympos).
  • Authentic village experience (Diafani).
  • Direct access to remote northern Karpathos and Saria Island (Diafani).
Cons
  • Remote, challenging to access.
  • Limited amenities.
  • Not ideal for daily swimming (Olympos).
  • Very remote, fewer accommodation options (Diafani).

General Neighborhood Information

Safety Considerations

All areas of Karpathos are generally very safe. Petty crime is rare. Standard precautions, like keeping valuables secure, are good practice.

Proximity & Noise

Pigadia is the main transportation hub. A rental car makes any area accessible. Noise levels vary; Pigadia can be lively, while other areas are quiet.

Booking Strategies

Booking accommodation effectively secures your preferred lodging and may save money.

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (July-August): Book 3-6 months in advance, especially for popular options.
  • Shoulder Season (May-June, Sep-Oct): Book 1-3 months in advance for selection and prices.
  • Low Season (Nov-April): Availability often closer to travel date. Confirm property operations.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Booking.com, Expedia, Airbnb.
  • Direct Booking: Many local hotels and studios have websites. This may offer better rates.
  • Local Agencies: Some specialize in villa/traditional house rentals.

Policies and Fluctuations

Deposit and Cancellation Policies
  • Vary by property and platform.
  • Always check specific requirements before confirming.
  • Free cancellation options are common up to a certain date.
  • Deposits are common for longer stays or high-demand periods.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Prices are highest in July and August (peak demand).
  • Moderately high in June and September.
  • Significantly lower during the low season (November-April).
  • Negotiating walk-in rates is less common for established hotels.

Negotiation Note

Walk-in Rates

Negotiating walk-in rates for established hotels is uncommon, especially peak season. Smaller guesthouses might offer slight discounts for cash or longer stays in low season.

Accommodation Recommendations

This guide has options for various budget levels and travel styles. Many other excellent options exist on Karpathos.

Budget-Friendly & Solo

Hotel Porfyris Pigadia

Price Range: €40-€70

  • Central, family-run, clean rooms.
  • Close to port and town amenities.
  • Good for solo travelers, easy to meet others.
Studios Paradise Pigadia

Price Range: €45-€75

  • Self-catering studios.
  • Walking distance to beach and town center.
  • Good value.

Mid-Range Options

Esperida Hotel Amopi

Price Range: €80-€120

  • Close to beaches.
  • Pleasant pool area, quiet location.
  • Good for relaxation.
Saint Nicolas Hotel Arkasa

Price Range: €70-€110

  • Traditional design, good pool, near beach.
  • Offers beautiful sunset views.

Upscale & Family-Friendly

  • Alimounda Mare Hotel (Pigadia)

    Price Range: €100-€180. Large pool, private beach access, modern amenities, beachfront location.

  • Apolis Hotel (Pigadia)

    Price Range: €120-€200+. Modern design, luxurious feel, close to town, sea views, inviting pool area.

  • Amoopi Bay Hotel (Amopi)

    Price Range: €90-€150. Spacious rooms/apartments, multiple pools, near sandy beaches suitable for kids.

Long-Stay & Cultural/Unique

  • Various Studios/Apartments (Pigadia/Amopi)

    Price Range: €30-€80. Look for properties with kitchenettes. Often offer discounted rates for weekly or monthly stays.

  • Traditional Houses (Olympos)

    Price Range: €60-€100. Authentic renovated homes, unique cultural experience. Often basic facilities. Book locally or via specialized sites.

  • Kyra Panagia Hotel (Kyra Panagia)

    Price Range: €150-€250+. Stunning views of Kyra Panagia beach, infinity pool, boutique style.

Accommodation Choosing Tip

Activity Alignment

When choosing accommodation, consider your main activities. If hiking in the north, staying a few nights in Olympos or Diafani shortens travel time.

Beach & Nightlife Focus

If you mostly want beach access and nightlife, Pigadia or Amopi are suitable bases.

Partner Hotels

IHG Hotels

Explore IHG Hotels for various Karpathos stays. Visit IHG.com

Hostelworld

For budget-friendly stays, find options on Hostelworld.

TrustedHousesitters

Consider unique house and pet sitting stays via TrustedHousesitters.