With tourists swarming hotspots such as Santorini and Mykonos this summer, a lesser-known Greek hideaway is slowly becoming a paradise for those looking to avoid the crowds.
The island of Antiparos, located 32 miles southwest of Mykonos, is a gem that boasts turquoise blue waters, ancient caves, lively bars and highly affordable local cuisine.
It offers all the charm of a Greek island but doesn’t mean you’ll have to break the bank. Some even say it’s better than its flashy neighbours.
Summer temperatures average 30C, and one can pick up traditional gyros for just €4 (£3.40).
Metro travel writer Lillie-Rose Lenga-Kroma described her experience visiting the island on a tight €150 (£129) budget.
She wrote: “On the ferry from Athens, my stomach was in knots imagining the throngs of tourists I’d find at my final destination,” she wrote.
“But on the last leg of my journey, a short boat ride from Pounta to Antiparos, I realised I’d stumbled across a place few foreigners visit.”
She also said how she managed to make her little money last eight days, covering supermarket groceries, handmade souvenirs, and frequent taverna trips.
It can cost just €1.50 to get there on a ferry from nearby Paros, and accommodation is also amazingly cheap.
An example is the family-run Kastro House, which overlooks a 15th-century Venetian castle, starting at just £60 per night.
Head to one of the islands tavernas, such as Klimataria, which serves up generous portions of traditional dishes including moussaka, dolmades and grilled seafood.
The travel writer recommends heading to Vicky’s Ice Cream for dessert, where there are over 40 flavours to choose from.
For daytime activities, there is lots to do, such as exploring the Cave of Antiparos, relaxing on beaches like Agios Georgios or Soros, and taking boat trips around the island.
