Antiparos Cave Antiparos
Explore one of Europe's oldest vertical caves, marveling at 45-million-year-old stalactites and ancient carvings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds for photos
Antiparos Cave Antiparos
Best Time
Beat the crowds for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore one of Europe's oldest vertical caves, marveling at 45-million-year-old stalactites and ancient carvings.
"Absolutely stunning experience! The rock formations & stalactites felt otherworldly."
👟 Wear Proper Shoes
Slick and uneven paths require good grip. Avoid sandals or heels!
💧 Bring Water
The climb back up can be strenuous; stay hydrated.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient Stalactites & Stalagmites
Inside the cave
Marvel at Europe's oldest stalactite (45 million years old!) and intricate rock formations.
The Vertical Descent
Cave entrance to the bottom
Experience one of Europe's only vertical caves, descending over 400 steps into the earth.
Historical Carvings
Cave walls
Spot ancient carvings left by visitors, some dating back to 1776.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Steps!
Timing is Key for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Proper Shoes
Slick and uneven paths require good grip. Avoid sandals or heels!
💧 Bring Water
The climb back up can be strenuous; stay hydrated. +1
💳 Payment Options
The entrance fee is around 5€ and credit cards are accepted.
🚶♀️ Pace Yourself
Take breaks on the many platforms during the ascent.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Proper Shoes
Slick and uneven paths require good grip. Avoid sandals or heels!
💧 Bring Water
The climb back up can be strenuous; stay hydrated. +1
💳 Payment Options
The entrance fee is around 5€ and credit cards are accepted.
🚶♀️ Pace Yourself
Take breaks on the many platforms during the ascent.
📸 Patience for Photos
Wait for groups to pass for unobstructed shots, especially in peak times.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Antiparos Cave's stunning, otherworldly rock formations and its status as one of Europe's oldest vertical caves. The physical challenge of the steps is frequently mentioned, with advice to wear good shoes and bring water. Some note minor issues like dim lighting and occasional graffiti, but overall, it's considered a must-visit natural wonder.
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Absolutely stunning experience!
Cave of Antiparos was even more beautiful than I expected. The rock formations & stalactites felt otherworldly.
The paths can be somewhat darker and hard to see at times. You do have to be mindful that they are slicker and may be uneven as they still kept the natural atmosphere intact. So if visiting wear proper shoes. It can be a trek all the way to the bottom as it's over 400 steps, so be prepared to sweat.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes (a bit slippery in places). Bring water! If you don't have a car, you will need to ride the bus.
Overall, a must-visit if you’re in the area. Perfect mix of adventure, nature, and history!"
Shannon O'Connor
"Seeing the cave is a very unique and surreal experience. You go down about 400 steps and every step of the way you go deeper into this cave. It’s millions of years old, and depending on how deep you are you can see the difference in the various layers you’re encountering.
I didn’t do much research ahead of time, but there are some famous historical figures who have apparently carved their names. It would be worth seeing where these are if you want to spot them on the way down.
Also, it’s a pretty good workout. Be prepared. We are two in shape guys who go to the gym regularly and we were winded on the way out. However, there are small landings along the way that you can rest at. So don’t let that scare you!
Near the entry / exit there are toilets. Also, it’s about 5€ to get in, they do accept credit cards.
Enjoy the ancient site !
Check us out on IG: jjluxtravel"
J & J Lux Travel
"Really cool experience of the only vertical cave in Europe! It’s a steep 500 steps, so be warned you need to be quite mobile, but there are secure handrails the whole way down. We saw people of all ages participating. My wife and I found it not as hard as we worried, but were certainly out of breath by time we ascended out of the cave. Absolutely worth the 5€ per person, an otherworldly experience."
Stephanie Stapleton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a short ferry ride from Pounta port on Paros to Antiparos. The ferry is frequent and affordable, costing around €2.50 per person each way with a scooter, or less if walking.
Yes, there is parking available near the cave entrance if you are traveling by car. This is recommended for an earlier start to avoid bus crowds.
Many visitors rent scooters or ATVs to explore Antiparos, including reaching the cave. Walking is also an option for shorter distances.
Absolutely! Antiparos is a popular day trip destination from Paros. The ferry ride is quick, allowing ample time to explore the cave and the island.
Yes, buses operate on Antiparos and can take you to the cave. Be aware that buses can arrive full of tourists, so an early start is advised.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Antiparos Cave is approximately 5€ per person. Payment by credit card is accepted. +1
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check locally or online before your visit, but generally, it's open during daylight hours.
Advance booking is typically not required for Antiparos Cave. Tickets can usually be purchased at the entrance.
Due to the numerous steps and uneven terrain, the cave is not considered accessible for individuals with significant mobility impairments.
While there are no strict age restrictions, the steep steps make it challenging for very young children or those with limited mobility.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Exploring the cave, including the descent and ascent, can take around 25-45 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop.
The cave maintains a cool temperature, but the air can feel humid and thick, especially at the bottom.
The cave is generally safe with well-maintained steps and handrails. However, be cautious as some areas can be wet and slippery. +1
Yes, photography is allowed inside the cave. However, it can be challenging to get clear shots due to crowds and lighting conditions.
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good grip are essential. Light clothing is recommended due to the humidity and physical exertion. +1
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning, around 10 AM, is ideal for photography to avoid crowds and capture better shots.
Given the low light conditions, consider using a wider aperture, a higher ISO, and a tripod if possible for sharper images.
The various platforms along the descent offer unique perspectives of the cave's formations. The middle platform is particularly striking, though it may have graffiti.
Flash photography is generally permitted, but be mindful of other visitors and the delicate cave environment.
The dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and the sheer scale of the vertical cave create a surreal and visually stunning environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Packing your own water and snacks will further keep costs down, making it a great value experience. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 To capture the best shots, aim for an early morning visit to avoid crowds and utilize a tripod for low-light conditions. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel of Antiparos Cave
The descent into the cave is an experience in itself. With over 400-500 steps, it's a journey that takes you deep underground, revealing the cave's immense scale and beauty. The natural formations create an otherworldly atmosphere, making it feel like stepping into another realm.
Beyond its natural beauty, the cave also holds historical significance. Visitors have left their mark for centuries, with carvings dating back as far as 1776.
Navigating the Steps: A Traveler's Guide
Many visitors recommend pacing yourself and utilizing the numerous small platforms and benches along the way to rest and catch your breath.
For those concerned about the physical demands, it's worth noting that while the cave is not ideal for the extremely unfit or very young children, many people of various ages and fitness levels have successfully navigated it.
Capturing the Cave's Majesty
+1 However, the low light conditions inside the cave can make photography difficult. Visitors often recommend using a wider aperture, a higher ISO, and a tripod if possible to achieve sharper images and better exposure. To get the best shots without the distraction of other tourists, timing is crucial. Arriving early, ideally around 10 AM if you have your own transport, is highly recommended to avoid the crowds that arrive via bus tours.
While photography is generally permitted, it's important to be respectful of the environment and other visitors. Some areas, like the middle platform, may have graffiti, which can detract from the natural beauty.
+1
Social
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