Antiparos is a small island located just off the west coast of Paros. Antiparos Cave is the island’s most important natural attraction, and one of the oldest documented caves in Greece, with evidence of human activity stretching back thousands of years.

What is it

Antiparos Cave is the deepest vertical cave in Europe. It has a depth of around 85 metres, reached via a series of platforms and walkways, ending in a cavern filled with stalactites and stalagmites that took millions of years to form. 

The central feature is a massive limestone column, a stalagmite that geologists date to around 45 million years old, making it the oldest in Europe. 

The cave has played many roles throughout history. Ancient inhabitants used it as a shelter and ceremonial site and you can see inscriptions carved into the stone, including one attributed to Makedon, a companion of Alexander the Great. Lord Byron also left his moniker on a wall.

In the 1600s, a French ambassador decided to hold Christmas Mass inside the cave for hundreds of people, who are believed to have left the first graffiti inside.

The descent is steep, but the upper chamber is broad and relatively bright. As you descend, the formations become darker, and everything becomes more intricate and dramatic.

Huge stalactites hang like threads, heavy curtains of stone sweep across the walls, and thick columns rise from the floor. 

How to get to Antiparos Cave

Antiparos is connected to Paros by a short ferry ride from Pounda, running every 10 to 15 minutes between May and October. The crossing takes just 7 minutes and drops you right in Antiparos Town. From there, you can reach the cave by road, which is about 15 minutes south of Antiparos Town.

• Driving or hiring a scooter is the most straightforward approach. The road is sealed for most of the journey, signage is clear, and there’s a large parking area at the entrance.
• The local bus runs between Antiparos Town and the cave several times per day in summer, and stops right outside the entrance.

• Taxis are also an alternative, but you will need to pay for the driver to wait if you don’t want to catch the bus back.

• Tours there are some organised tours for Antiparos Cave from both Parikia, on Paros and in Antiparos Town.

Opening hours and admission price

Entry is inexpensive and includes access to the cave and the small whitewashed chapel of Agios Ioannis Spiliotis, located at the entrance.

Prices may change year to year, but the fee is quite modest.

In 2025, the admission prices to Antiparos Cave were:

Adults – €5

Over 65 – €2.50

Children 6 to 12 – €2.50

Under 6 – free

Groups of 15 or more – €4

Opening hours depend heavily on the season.

• May – October 10:00 am to 4:00 pm (last entry at 3:30pm)
• Winter: Frequently closed or open only on certain days.

What to expect

Most visitors spend around an hour visiting the cave.

The stairs are metal and well-maintained, but they do collect condensation, so wear shoes with a grip rather than sandals. The railings can also feel a little slimy from the moisture.

The temperature does drop as you get deeper, so a light jacket or cardigan is a good idea if you plan to stay long.

If you’re visiting during July or August, it pays to arrive early. The first hour of the day is quiet, the lighting is gentle, and you get to take in the space without dodging crowds. Afternoons tend to be busier, especially when buses arrive and tour groups arrive from Paros.

There are no night tours and no standard guided sessions unless arranged privately.

You may also like

Agios Nikolaos is one of the most picturesque towns in Crete, known for its beautiful lake, seaside promenade, and relaxed atmosphere. Located in the island’s east, there is plenty to do in and around Agios Nikolaos, including some of Crete’s most scenic drives and historic sites. 

PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE?

Be sure to check out our complete Planning Guide as well as our FREE 13-page downloadable itinerary.

And come join our private Facebook Group, where you can ask questions and get advice from real travellers!

When to visit Crete

May, June, September, and October are ideal times to visit for good weather, manageable crowds, and reasonable prices. If you prefer the lively summer vibe, July and August are great, but like most places, expect hotter weather, more tourists and higher prices.

Spring (April – June)

• Highlights: Mild weather, fewer tourists, spring flowers.
• Average Temperatures:
  • April: 16°C (61°F)
  • May: 19°C (66°F)
  • June: 23°C (73°F)

Summer (July – August)

• Highlights: Peak tourist season, ideal for beach activities, lively atmosphere.
• Average Temperatures:
  • July: 27°C (81°F)
  • August: 27°C (81°F)
  • Daytime highs can reach 30°C (86°F) or more.

Autumn (September – October)

• Highlights: Warm sea temperatures, quieter beaches, pleasant weather.
• Average Temperatures:
  • September: 25°C (77°F)
  • October: 20°C (68°F)

Winter (November – March)

• Highlights: Quiet and peaceful, good for cultural exploration but limited beach activities,
• Average Temperatures:
  • November: 17°C (63°F)
  • December-February: 14°C (57°F)
  • March: 15°C (59°F)

Where is Agios Nikolaos, and how do you get there?

Agios Nikolaos sits on the western shore of Mirabello Bay in eastern Crete, about an hour’s drive from Heraklion. 

How to get to Agios Nikolaos:

From Athens, you can travel to Rethymnon by plane or ferry.

Agios Nikolaos is around 62 kilometres east of Heraklion, the capital of Crete. The drive takes about an hour via the main northern coastal highway.

There’s no airport in Agios Nikolaos, so most visitors fly into Heraklion International Airport (HER) and either hire a car or take a bus from the main KTEL terminal next to the airport.

Buses run several times a day between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos, continuing east toward Ierapetra and Sitia. If you’re coming from Chania, it’s roughly a three-hour drive across the island.

Things to do in Agios Nikolaos 

Visit Lake Voulismeni

The town’s central lake is its most recognisable feature. It’s a small, deep body of water framed by cliffs on one side and cafés on the other. You can walk right around it, stop for coffee, or dine at one of the many lakefront tavernas in the evening.

At night, the reflections of the lights across the water make this one of the most photogenic spots in Crete.

Explore the Marina and Harbourfront

From the lake, it’s an easy stroll to the harbour and marina. Fishing boats and small yachts line the waterfront, and you’ll find several relaxed bars and seafood restaurants. It’s also where many of the daily cruise boats depart for Spinalonga Island or nearby coves.

Relax on the Beaches

There are several good beaches within walking distance of the town centre:

• Ammos Beach – a small, sandy beach close to the marina, ideal for a quick swim.

• Kitroplatia Beach – located in the heart of town with tavernas nearby.

• Almyros Beach – a larger beach about 15 minutes on foot from the centre, set beside a small river and surrounded by tamarisk trees.

For quieter options, drive east along the coast to Ammoudara or further south to Voulisma Beach near Istron, one of the most beautiful beaches in eastern Crete.

Take a Boat Trip to Spinalonga Island

Spinalonga is one of Crete’s most famous landmarks, a former Venetian fortress that later became a leper colony. Boats depart regularly from nearby Elounda or Plaka, both about a 15–20 minute drive north of Agios Nikolaos.

A visit here offers insight into Crete’s layered history as well as striking views over Mirabello Bay. Allow half a day for the trip.

Further reading: A Complete Guide to Spinalonga

Visit Nearby Villages

Several traditional villages surround Agios Nikolaos and make excellent short trips:

• Kritsa – one of Crete’s oldest and most picturesque mountain villages, known for its narrow streets, local craft shops, and nearby Byzantine church of Panagia Kera.

• Elounda – a seaside village north of town, home to some of Crete’s most luxurious resorts.

• Plaka – just past Elounda, this small, charming village is the closest to Spinalonga 

• Sissi – a small harbour village to the west, perfect for a quiet lunch by the sea.

Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos

This small but well-curated museum holds artefacts from eastern Crete, including items from Minoan and early Greek settlements. It’s an ideal stop for history enthusiasts, especially before or after visiting sites like Lato, an ancient Dorian city located a short drive inland.

Do a Fishing Trip

Enjoy Mirabello Bay by sea and chances are you may actually catch something!

Spinalonga

Paralia Kitroplatia

Day Trips from Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos is perfectly located for exploring the eastern part of Crete:

A Full Day Tour of eastern highlights – Lerapatra, Matala, Malia & Elounda

Elounda and Plaka – for coastal scenery and easy access to Spinalonga.

Lasithi Plateau – a fertile plain dotted with windmills and small villages.

A full day catamaran trip with lunch and activities

Vai Beach – the famous palm forest beach near Sitia, about two hours east.

Voulisma Beach – Macrame Beach Club

Wine Tasting  & gourmet lunch

Knossos and Heraklion – if you haven’t already explored Crete’s capital and Minoan palace.

Hike the Richtis Gorge – About 40 minutes east of town lies Richtis Gorge, one of Crete’s most scenic walking trails.

Voulisma Beach

Knossos Palace

Where to stay in Agios Nikolaos

There’s a wide range of accommodation from simple guesthouses to luxury resorts.

In town, options like Minos Palace Hotel & Suites, Minos Beach Art Hotel, and the newly renovated and branded  Intercontinental offer modern comfort and beach access within walking distance of cafés and restaurants.

If you want to stay somewhere small and right in the heart of town, on the lake or harbour, then Lato Luxury Suites has affordable, self-contained rooms with great views, or Casa Porto Boutique Hotel is just along the harbourfront and has a great rooftop bar too.

A lot of people also like to stay up the road at Elounda, which is renowned for its luxury hotels and excellent restaurants. Check out Elounda Beach Hotel  Elounda Gulf Villas, or, if you have kids, then Porto Elounda is very popular with families with a kids club, a waterpark, games rooms, heaps of activities and even a small golf course.

Interncontinental Crete

Luxury Suites by Lato

Where to Eat and Drink

Agios Nikolaos has an excellent food scene with plenty of waterfront dining.

Overall, we find the quality here to be very high and cheaper than in Chania or even Rethymnon. Try local specialities such as dakos, stifado, grilled octopus, and the region’s own Cretan wine and raki.

• Around the lake you’ll find tavernas serving fresh seafood and local Cretan dishes. A standout is Karnagio who also have a Gyros shop across the street.

• For a casual lunch, head to the marina or beachside cafés at Kitroplatia or Almyros. A lot of people love Maistrali at Kitroplatia but we found Faros and Archontiko to be just as good and not as busy.

• For dinner Almiriki at the end of Ammos Beach is excellent but you must book in advance in summer. There are several excellent gems in the back streets too such as Yiasemi and Se-Meli.

• In nearby Elounda, several fine-dining restaurants feature creative Mediterranean menus with views across the bay. Despina’s is a favourite of many locals.

Yiasemi

Faros

How long to stay?

Like the other main cities of Crete – Chania, Rethymnon and Heraklion, Agios Nikoloas can easily use 3 days and really, given the number of day trips you can do if using it as a base, 5 would not be unreasonable.

Suggested itineraries for Agios Nikolaos

3-Night Itinerary for Agios Nikolaos

Day 1

• Morning: Explore Lake Voulismeni and the marina area.

• Midday: Relax on Ammos or Kitroplatia Beach.

• Afternoon: Visit the Archaeological Museum and nearby churches.

• Evening: Dinner by the lake or along the harbourfront.

Day 2

• Morning: Drive to Elounda or Plaka and take the boat to Spinalonga Island.

• Afternoon: Lunch in Plaka, followed by a short swim or stroll through Elounda village.

• Evening: Return to Agios Nikolaos for a relaxed drink by the water.

Day 3

• Morning: Drive to Kritsa and visit the Panagia Kera church.

• Midday: Continue to the Lasithi Plateau or hike the Richtis Gorge if you prefer nature.

• Afternoon: Stop at Voulisma Beach for a swim on your way back.

• Evening: Dinner in town, watching the sunset over Mirabello Bay.

Like this post? Why not Pin it?

You may also like

Start booking your trip now!

Fodele is a beautiful village tucked into the northern coast of Crete, that is where the famous artist El Greco was from.

It’s surrounded by green hills, orange groves, and olive trees, sitting peacefully in a fertile valley that feels a world away from the bustle of the highway above. Only minutes off the main highway yet overlooked by most, this is a detour worth making a little time for.

PLANNING A TRIP TO GREECE?

Be sure to check out our complete Planning Guide as well as our FREE 13-page downloadable itinerary.

And join our private Facebook Group where you can ask questions and get advice from real travellers, or book a 1:1 Consultation with Sandy – our Founder and highly aclaimed Greece expert.

Where is Fodele?

Fodele is located about half an hour west of Heraklion and roughly an hour east of Rethymno.

The village itself sits slightly inland, around 50 to 60 metres above sea level, where a small stream winds its way through shady plane trees and stone houses.

It is well signed from the main highway and easy to find with the turn off opposite Paralia Fodele beach, into the lush valley – it’s a lovely part of the island, and often overlooked.

What is it famous for?

Fodele has a reputation that far outweighs its size, and its all about its most famous resident – actually one of the most famous to come out of Greece!

The village was the birthplace of Domenikos Theotokopoulos, better known as El Greco — the Cretan-born painter who became one of the greatest figures of the Spanish Renaissance. 

You can visit a small museum housed in what’s believed to be his family home, where you’ll find reproductions of his most famous works and a good sense of his connection to Crete.

Aside from its artistic heritage, Fodele is also known for its citrus orchards. The fertile soil and fresh water from the nearby hills produce some of the juiciest oranges and mandarins on the island. When the trees are in bloom, the scent alone makes a visit worthwhile. The local economy still revolves around agriculture, and you’ll often see crates of oranges being sold at roadside stalls or in tavern courtyards.

The village is also known for its lush, shaded riverbanks, where the Pantomantris River runs beneath a canopy of tall plane trees — a rare sight on such a sun-baked island. Combined with its slow rhythm and friendly locals, Fodele feels like a pocket of old Crete that’s managed to stay authentic while welcoming visitors.

There’s also a touch of ancient history hidden in its soil. Archaeologists believe that nearby Fodele Bay may once have been the harbour of Astali, the port of the ancient city of Axos. You won’t find major ruins, but knowing this background adds another layer to the area’s long and fascinating story.

What is there to do in Fodele?

Fodele is small enough to explore on foot, yet rich enough to keep you busy for a day or two.

• Start with the El Greco Museum, just outside the village centre. The building itself is charmingly simple, and while the artworks are reproductions, the exhibition gives real insight into El Greco’s life before he left Crete for Venice and then Spain. Art lovers will enjoy the connection to a world-famous painter in such a humble setting.
• Byzantine Church of the Panagia, built between the 11th and 14th centuries over the remains of an early Christian basilica. Its stone walls and fading frescoes are a reminder of how long people have worshipped in this valley.
• If you have a car, drive a little further into the hills to visit the Monastery of Agios Panteleimon, a 16th-century complex that once served as both a refuge and a fortress. The views from up there stretch across the valley to the sea.
• Walking Trails – you can follow the river through the orange groves, stop for lunch beside the water, or take one of the marked paths that lead into the hills. In spring, the valley bursts with wildflowers, and in summer, the shade along the river makes it one of the coolest spots in Crete — literally and figuratively.
• Hiking – look for the Fodele Gorge (Santorinios Gorge), a rugged route lined with rocks, fig trees and, after heavy rain, a few small waterfalls. It’s not a touristy path, so wear good shoes and bring water, but it’s a rewarding adventure.
• Paralia Fodele – this is the beach on the coast. It is long and mostly sandy, with a few pebbly sections. One end is organised with sunbeds and umbrellas and a couple of (very good) tavernas, while the other stays more natural and relaxed. The water here is clean and usually calm, perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just lazing the day away.
• Fodele Beach & Water Park Holiday Resort – located right on Paralia Fodele this is a sprawling all-inclusive property that’s popular with families. It has everything from pools and water slides to spa facilities, several restaurants, and easy beachfront access. This is one of the better AI options in Crete as it isnt sharing the bay or the beach with many other big resorts and masses of people.
• Psiloritis UNESCO Global Geopark – stretches across much of central Crete. This vast protected area covers ancient rock formations, gorges, caves and fossil sites that tell the story of how Crete rose from the sea millions of years ago.
• Fodele Village – there are several tavernas that serve excellent Cretan food, often under the shade of the plane trees or beside the lush creek, full of frogs, ducks and Geese. Look for dishes like slow-cooked lamb, fresh salads with local olive oil, and desserts made with orange syrup or honey. Pair it with a glass of raki or local wine and you’ve got a meal worth lingering over.
• Souvenir Street – a handful of small craft and souvenir shops selling handmade pottery, woven textiles, and natural products like orange-blossom soap and olive oil. These are genuine local businesses, not the mass-produced kind you’ll find in resort towns. The lacework is exquisite.
• The festival of Agios Panteleimon on the 27th of July. There’s live music, traditional dancing, and enough grilled meat and wine to feed half of Crete. It’s a great time to see how locals celebrate — with warmth, laughter, and a few late nights.

Where to stay in Fodele

There are no hotels in Fodele itself. It’s a sleepy village that probably wouldn’t see any tourists at all if it weren’t for El Greco, and thankfully, it hasn’t​ yet justified the opening of tourist accommodation. There are a few traditional rooms and small villas scattered across the region, though.

You can stay at the aforementioned all-inclusive Fodele Beach & Water Park Resort, right on the beach —​a great option if you have kids.

If you would prefer no kids at all, Castello Infinity Suites in nearby Agia Pelagia is a lovely option, and there are many beautiful beaches to explore on the 30-minute ​drive.

Fodele Beach & Water Park resort

Castello Infinity Suites

You may also like

Start booking your trip now!