cave tours greece

Antiparos Cave (2024 opening hours and tickets)

Natural wonder

85 meters deep Oldest stalactite in Europe

By vehicle or bicycle: The paved road that leads to the Cave begins to the left of where the ferry boat docks (arriving from Paros) in the Port area of Antiparos. The parking lot at the Cave is very big and spacious. By Municipal bus: The Municipal bus stop is located in the Port area of Antiparos, opposite Agia Marina, where the ferry boat from Paros docks. There are frequent departures for the Cave.

Antiparos Cave is situated just 8 km from Antiparos town (Chora). It is also called the Cave of Agios Ioannis church.

This natural wonder is the number one attraction of Antiparos island.

The Antiparos Cave is open daily from 10:00 to 16:00. Last entrance 15:30. (Last updated: June 2024)

THE CAVE WILL BE OPEN EVERY DAY UNTIL THE END OF OCTOBER

Antiparos Cave is the only vertical cave in all of Europe with a depth of approximately 85 meters. The cave showcases the most exquisite stalactites and stalagmites making this one of the finest enchanting natural museums in Greece. In the cave you will find the the oldest stalactite in Europe estimated to be 45 million years old! A must see!

The view from the Cave is special. The Aegean sea sprawls at your feet, you can gaze at Soros beach and the surrounding inlets, the wild beauty of the rocks, and also see clearly Paros island.

• Antiparos Cave will be open for visits through October 2024 and its opening hours are daily from 10:00 to 16:00 . Last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.
• The admission ticket costs 6.00 euros (including a visit to the Folklore Museum). There is a 50% discount for children 6 to 12 years old (3.00 euros). Children up to 6 years old get free entrance to the cave.
• You can use your Antiparos Cave ticket to also visit the Historical and Folklore Museum of Antiparos .
• In winter months visits can be made upon arrangement with the Municipality of Antiparos.
• For school visits, please contact KEDA at the telephone number 22840 61640.
• The descent in the cave will take you down approximately 411 steps so be prepared. You should wear comfortable shoes.
• Make sure you bring a bottle of water as you will need it after the 411 step ascent. There is no shop close to the cave.
• Individuals with respiratory or heart problems are not permitted to enter, because of the high level of humidity prevalent inside the Cave.
• Smoking, flash photography and the breaking off of stalactites and stalagmites are strictly prohibited. Writing on the walls and surfaces of the Cave is also explicitly prohibited.
• The area in and around Antiparos Cave was renovated in 2009. The modernization project included the creation of the 411-step cement staircase with a protective railing, for a spacious and safe descent, the installation of security cameras, the remodeling of the forecourt area and the installation of lighting using the latest technology.
• The audio tour is available in two languages (Greek and English). Free printed leaflets with the cave information are available in seven languages (Greek, English, French, Italian, German, Swedish, Russian), and may be obtained at the entrance to the Cave.
• The cave can be accessed by bus from the port that runs hourly during the summer. The public bus timetable is available here .
• You can also go to the cave by car, motorcycle or bicycle. The paved road that leads to the Cave begins to the left of where the ferry boat docks (arriving from Paros) in the Port area of Antiparos. The parking lot at the Cave is very big and spacious. You can also walk to the cave. The walk is estimated to take about an hour and a half from Antiparos port.
• For additional instructions or information about your visit, please contact: +30 2284061640 or e-mail [email protected] .

window.tgpQueue.add('tgpli-66f7391a7d8e3') Antiparos Cave information and history

Antiparos Cave is very large, and extends at several levels.

Its maximum depth is about 85 meters, it has a length of 89 meters and its maximum width is almost 60 meters.

Inscriptions on the walls of the cave mark are proof of the many prominent visitors of the cave dating back to the Neolithic period. A few of those visitors include: Alexander the Great, King Otto, the marquis de Nointe (ambassador of France) and the lyric poet Archilochus of Paros.

Originally the Cave of Agios Ioannis was used to provide shelter and was later used as a worship place for the goddess Artemis.

Stalactites and stalagmites in the cave, which change form according to the inspiration and imagination of the each visitor. It is located 171 meters above sea level, is precipitous, and its interior temperature in wintertime is at about 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees fahrenheit). It has an area of approximately 5,600 square metres. Its maximum depth reaches about 85 metres and the descent takes place easily and securely, by a cement staircase made up of 411 steps.

• The Cave is divided into the ‘Antechamber’ and three additional halls: ‘The Chamber of the Stone Waterfalls’; ‘The Chamber of the Cathedral’; and, ‘The Royal Chamber’.
• The huge stalagmite found at the entrance is 45 million years old, the most ancient in Europe, and is called ‘The Huge Central Column’.
• ‘The Royal Chamber’ was ‘christened’ as such on account of the visit paid there by King Otto and Queen Amalia. Its adornment is not impressive, but it is commanding nonetheless.
• The two picturesque little churches at the entrance are named Agios Ioannis (Ai Yiannis) Spiliotis and Zoodohos Pigi.

The lyric poet Archilochus of Paros is said to have left an inscription in the cave. In 1673, marquis de Nointel, French ambassador to the Ottoman Empire visited the cave for three days with numerous companions and celebrated mass on Christmas Day in it. Later, visitors who carved their names include Lord Byron and the first king of Greece, Otto.

During the German occupation, part of the cave was destroyed.

At the entrance of the cave the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis Spiliotis was build.

On the eve of and the day of Ai Yiannis—on 7 and 8 of May, respectively—a celebration is held with local food and drinks.

Antiparos Cave was fully developed in the second half of the 2000s with funds from the European Union by erecting barriers, building adequate steps, installing lighting, security cameras and loudspeakers to inform visitors.

On October 26 2018 the Antiparos Cave closed for the winter season until further notice. For further information on how to visit the cave during the winter season please contact 2284061640 or email [email protected].

Antiparos Cave will be opening daily from 10:00 to 15:00 from September 30 2019. October 13 2019 will be the last day the museum will be open for 2019.

Explore more of Antiparos

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How To Visit The Melissani Cave Lake In Kefalonia, Greece

The Melissani cave lake is a spectacular underground lake in Kefalonia Greece , with an open ceiling that lights up its stunning blue water.

You can go into this ‘cave of the nymphs,’ as it’s called, and take a short paddleboat tour around the lake. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Kefalonia island!

If you visit Melissani cave at the right time of day, the ceiling lets in just enough light to make the water color go crazy, turning a transparent bright blue.

This travel guide will explain how to get to the Melissani lake, when is the best time to visit, current entrance fees, best tour packages, and everything else you need to know before you go!

Best Melissani Tours

If you’re looking for the best day tours on Kefalonia island, we recommend GetYourGuide!

They have high rated tours that visit many of the best sights like Melissani Lake, Antisamos Beach, and Assos Village. These tours usually include free hotel pickup and drop-off from most of the popular areas in Kefalonia.

We’ve used this company for lots of day tours and activities around the world, and they’re great! Highly recommended.

Book Now: Melissani Cave Lake Private Tour / Half-Day Tour / Bus Tour

Melissani Cave Lake: What To Expect

Melissani cave is explored by paddleboat. You walk down a flight of stairs and through a narrow tunnel into the cave, and then hop onto a small boat with about a dozen other tourists and a local Greek boatman.

The boatman will circle the lake and take you to the back of the cave, where you can see impressive stalagmites and other sights. It’s a magnificent cave with a cool temperature, and the lake is up to 30 meters deep in some spots.

I would almost say this is a bucket list item that every world traveler needs to see, although the boat ride is a bit short and the lake is really dependent on the right lighting in order to look its best.

Rowboats on the stunning Melissani Lake

Because of its beauty, Melissani has become one of the most popular places to visit in Kefalonia , so you’ll usually have to queue to see it. During the high season months, the line to get in can take anywhere from 10 to 40 minutes.

Even though the boat ride itself is short (about 10 minutes), it’s loaded with good photo opportunities! If you’re lucky, you can sometimes see eels swimming around in the lake too.

It’s a great little adventure! I enjoyed it so much I actually got back in line and paid to tour the cave a second time, although for most people seeing it just one time will probably be enough.  

Hours & Entrance Fees

During the summer months (May to October), the Melissani cave is open from 9 AM to 7 PM. During the winter months, the cave is only open on Thursdays and weekends, from 10 AM to 4 PM.

The entrance fee for the boat trips is 10 Euros per person for adults. Kids are half price. If you also plan to visit Drogarati Cave (which you should!), then there’s a combo ticket that includes both Melissani and Drogarati caves for 13 Euros, which is a good deal.

These hours and ticket prices are current as of 2024, but they may change over time since this place is a popular tourist attraction.

Impressive ceiling and stalagmites at the back of the cave

Best Time To Visit Melissani Cave Lake

The color of the Melissani lake is stunning if you come at the right time of day.

Mid-day around 11 AM to 1 PM is the best time to see the cave, because that’s when the sun is highest in the sky, lighting up the colors of the lake. Unfortunately, that’s also the busiest time to visit, so be prepared to wait.

The biggest crowds are generally from noon to 1 PM, so you can avoid most of it by getting there before then. If you aren’t a photographer, it probably doesn’t matter too much when you visit. Honestly, the lake is impressive at any time of day as long as the sun is shining!

Melissani Cave Lake — one of the best things to do in Kefalonia Greece!

Can You Swim In Melissani Cave?

No, unfortunately you can’t swim in the Melissani cave. The only way to see the lake is by paddleboat. Maybe that’s a good thing, though, because it keeps the water clean.

If you’re looking for a good place to swim, check out Antisamos Beach near Sami!  

Where Is Melissani Cave?

Melissani cave is located in central Kefalonia island , near the town of Sami.

Kefalonia is easy to reach from Athens, the capital of Greece, as well as nearby islands like Zakynthos . There are daily flights and ferries for reasonable prices.

If you’re looking for more information about how to get to Kefalonia island, you can find that in my complete travel guide for Kefalonia Greece .  

How To Get To Melissani Cave Lake

Melissani cave is easy to reach on a paved road from the harbor town of Sami.

You can drive there yourself, or book a tour . It’s a 5 minute drive from Sami, or 40 minutes from the Argostoli area.

You can use the map below to direct you to the parking area for the cave.

History Of Melissani Cave

During ancient times, Melissani cave was inhabited and used as a place for worshipping the Greek god Pan and the nymph Melissanthi. According to Greek mythology, the nymph Melissanthi took her own life in the lake because Pan rejected her love.

The ceiling of the cave is believed to have collapsed during an earthquake, revealing the hidden lake inside. The cave was first explored by Ioannis Petrocheilos in 1951, and some artifacts related to Pan were found at that time, which you can now see at the Archeological Museum of Argostoli in Kefalonia.

The Melissani cave was opened to the public in 1963, and it’s become one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island of Cephalonia !  

More Kefalonia Travel Tips

Thanks for looking! I hope you enjoyed this travel guide for the Melissani cave lake in Kefalonia, Greece.

Don’t forget to check out my complete Kefalonia Travel Guide for more information about this scenic island in the Ionian Sea!

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Blue Caves in Zakynthos

The Blue Caves are one of the most famous attractions in Zakynthos. Located on the northwest coast, between the port of Agios Nikolaos and Cape Skinari, the Blue Caves consist of a series of natural caves and arches ending in the large cave (Megali Spilia) and in the small cave (Mikri Spilia). Their name originates from the particular reflections that the water takes on inside them, a phenomenon very similar to that of the Blue Grotto of Capri. Here’s how to reach the Blue Caves by sea and by land.

How to reach the Blue Caves of Zakynthos by boat

The boats offering excursions to the Blue Caves depart from Zakynthos town harbour and from Agios Nikolaos port. If you want to visit the inside of the caves the only solution is to book an excursion with boats with maximum 50 seats , in fact the caves have a height of about 4 meters and consequently the large boats that go around the island cannot enter inside the Blue Caves but they can only stop in front of the entrance to take pictures of these particular rock formations. Keep in mind that in case of wind and rough sea it is not possible to enter the caves. Information on weather and sea conditions is posted on this Facebook group, subscribe and stay updated: CLICK HERE .

With the Welcometozante excursions it is possible to change the day of the excursion in case of bad weather or for health reasons . More information on Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves Excursion .

Private Boat

An excellent alternative way to visit the Blue Caves of Zakynthos is to rent a private boat with or without a captain . This type of boat can typically hold up to 9 people (but larger models are also available) and the cost for a 2-hour tour ranges from € 200 upwards. More information on Shipwreck Beach and Blue Caves Excursion .

How to reach the Blue Caves of Zakynthos by car / scooter

To reach the Blue Caves by land you have to arrive with your own vehicle at the Windmill Restaurant, this is the position on Google Map https://g.page/potamitis-windmill?share . To the left of the mill there is a staircase that leads to the sea. Swimming to left and right you will notice small caves you can enter. It is forbidden (as well as dangerous) to swim to the entrance of the most important Blue Caves due to the numerous boats around this area.

Is it possible to swim inside the Blue Caves of Zakynthos?

Swimming is forbidden in the main Blue Caves due to the numerous boats that enter and leave the caves. It is possible to enter the smaller by swimming.

How do you know if the Blue Caves of Zakynthos are open or closed?

In case of wind and rough sea it is not possible to enter the caves. With Welcometozante it is possible to change the day of the excursion in case of bad weather or for health reasons. To find out about the marine situation at the moment you can contact the information service at 00306995806809 or check on this Facebook group: Welcometozante .

Keri Caves Zakynthos: Best Tours, How to Get There, Top Tips & More!

Posted on Last updated: October 29, 2023

Planning a visit to Keri Caves in Zante, Greece, but not sure where to start? You’ve come to the right place!

In this article I have outlined everything you need to know about visiting Keri Caves on the island of Zakynthos. Including how to get there, the best tours, what to do once there, where to stay and more!

Located in the south part of the island, this group of sea caves is nowhere near as famous as the Blue Caves, but it’s just as beautiful (if not more, thanks to the presence of fewer ships)!

The Keri Caves is a must-see for nature lovers. The impressive caves, paired with the high white cliffs and distinctive blue color of the sea, is a pretty stunning natural sight.

It’s easy to see why Keri Caves is one of the most popular tourist excursions in Zante.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s dive in, and discover everything you need to know about visiting Keri Caves in Zante, Greece!

• 1 What are the Keri Caves in Zakynthos? 
• 2 How to get to Keri Caves 
• 3 The best Keri Caves tours 
• 4 What to do at Keri Caves 
• 5 Is visiting the Keri Caves worth it?
• 6 Where to stay to visit Keri Caves
• 7 What to pack for Keri Caves
• 8 Do you need travel insurance to visit Keri Caves?

Kayaking through Keri Caves in Zakynthos, Greece

What are the Keri Caves in Zakynthos?  

Zante has a lot of amazing places to see and spots to explore along its stunning coastline.

Along with the more famous locations such as the Navagio Shipwreck Beach and the Blue Caves , there’s also the equally (if not more) pretty Keri Caves.  

The Zakynthos Keri Caves are a series of spectacular caves that have been carved out of the cliffs over thousands of years.  

There’s a variety of different caves to explore in this cave network, some are large enough for a boat to enter, while others have small entrances that can only be accessed on a kayak.  

Although not as well-known as the more famous Blue Caves, the Keri Caves are actually very beautiful and the water inside them is also bright blue.  

Kayaking through the rock formations of Keri Caves in Zakynthos, Greece

Kayaking through Keri Caves in Zante, Greece

How to get to Keri Caves  

The Keri Caves in Zakynthos are located over on the island’s south-west coast. The caves are actually found on the Keri coastline between the Kapo Marathia and Mizithres rocks, which is where they get their name from.  

The only way to access them is by the sea – most people choose to get there by boat or kayak.

Boat trips usually leave from either the busy port of Agios Sostis or Laganas Bay, so you may want to choose a tour that sets off from a location that’s nearest to where you’re staying.  

Exploring the coastline and turquoise sea of Zakynthos, Greece, by boat

The best Keri Caves tours  

Keri Caves & Turtle Island private boat trip

The Keri Caves, Greece, are one of the many amazing places to see on a boat trip around Zakynthos.

This private day tour will take you on a 3-hour-long adventure around the coast of the island, stopping off at some of the most incredible locations along the way.

The trip begins at Agios Sostis Harbour, where you’ll join an experienced skipper and head out to sea.   This tour takes you to see the abundance of nature that lives within the boundaries of the National Marine Park in Laganas Bay.

You’ll try and spot the native turtles that live in the waters here, and pass by beaches where they lay their eggs.

The adventure continues at Keri Caves where you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in the crystal clear water of the caves, and really soak up the beauty of the island.  

Check out prices & availability for your private Keri Caves boat trip here , or directly in the calendar below!

Exploring Keri Caves and Turtle Island during our private boat tour around Zakynthos Island

Keri Caves & Turtle spotting tour on a glass bottom boat

A popular choice for those looking for affordable Keri Caves boat trips is to join a tour on a glass-bottom boat.

Although they seem like a pretty cool idea (seeing the turtles and other fish swim below you sounds epic), it doesn’t always live up to the hype.  

Sometimes the glass bottom of the boat can be dirty, so it’s hard to see anything swimming around the boat.

There also seems to be a bit of an issue with the boats harassing the turtles, with crowds harassing the marine creatures in their natural environment.  

That being said, some glass-bottom boat tours are better than others, and if you really want to see the coast of Zante but are on a budget, then they’re a good option.

This tour is well-reviewed and takes you turtle spotting, but also to see the Caves of Keri where you can jump off the boat and enjoy a refreshing swim.  

Check out prices & availability for your Zante glass-bottom boat tour here , or in directly in the calendar below!

Going inside the smaller Keri Caves during our kayak tour in Zakynthos, Greece

Private cruise around the whole island

Looking for something a bit more exclusive? Then why not treat yourself to this private boat tour of the Keri Caves of Zante ?

This cool private cruise sets sail from Porto Vromi, and leads you along the coast in search of all of the amazing locations around the island.   Your friendly local skipper will be on hand to make sure everything runs as smoothly as possible.

The trip is packed full of sights and includes the chance to spot turtles on Turtle Island, get a close-up look at the famous Navagio Shipwreck, and then onwards to the intriguing hidden treasure cave along with other special destinations.  

Finally, the trip rounds up with a visit to Keri Caves, where you can swim in the glistening turquoise waters before being whisked back to port.  

Click here to book your private cruise to Keri Caves , or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Kayaking to a hidden beach during our Keri Caves kayak tour in Zante, Greece

Kayak tour of Keri Caves

For the most adventure-minded travellers out there, why not make your way into the network of caves in a kayak?

We did a Keri Caves kayak tour with this company , which gives you the opportunity to explore the Keri Caves with a knowledgeable guide.  

You will be led into the caves by the guide who will show you all of the hidden spots and photogenic locations deep inside.

The best part about exploring by kayak is that you can see parts of the caves that the larger boats just aren’t able to access.  

The tours are open to anybody aged 6 and above and those with a good level of swimming ability. You don’t need any previous kayaking experience, and the tour will take you to a collection of scenic locations along the coast.  

Enjoying our kayak tour along the Keri coast of Zante, Greece

Private Zante Boat Rental

Or how about hitting the high seas in your very own boat? This boat rental experience allows you to set off on an adventure of your own making.

The small boat can be rented from Laganas Beach and then you can simply decide where you want to explore.

All you need to bring along for the ride is your food and drink for the day, as well as plenty of sun protection. Keri Caves and all the wonders of Zante’s coast await!

It’s worth noting that although you don’t need a boat driving licence to rent a boat in Greece (as long as the engine is below a certain power), you shouldn’t do so unless you have experience at sea and feel comfortable doing so in a safe manner.

Click here to book your own private boat rental in Zante, Greece! Or check out prices & availability in the calendar below!

Enjoying our private boat tour around Zakynthos, with a stop at Navagio Shipwreck Beach

The iconic Turtle Island, just off the coast of Zante

What to do at Keri Caves  

So what can you actually do at Keri Caves? The caves themselves are the main attraction. No matter what type of cruise you choose from, you can expect to cruise through the pretty limestone arches and explore inside caves.

The caves are super scenic (perhaps even more so than the Blue Caves), but you don’t spend long inside them. If you want to see more of the caves, it might be a good idea to opt for a kayak tour.

During our kayak tour we paddled through two caves, which were way too small for a boat to fit in. This was a pretty special experience, as we were the only ones there.

Most of the Keri Caves tours also include some beach time, a little turtle spotting, and if you’re joining a full-island tour, maybe even Navagio Shipwreck Beach.

Enjoying the beautiful beaches of Zakynthos, Greece

Is visiting the Keri Caves worth it?

Yes. I found Keri Caves just as beautiful as the Blue Caves (if not more), and since we explored them by kayak instead of by boat, I actually enjoyed my experience more.

We spent a very fun half day kayaking along the coast of Zante, just below the towering limestone cliffs, weaving in and out of narrow caves and imposing arches.

Add to it a short break at a beautiful beach with crystal clear turquoise water that you can only reach by sea, and it was the perfect excursion in Zante!

We also cruised past it on the day that we did our private boat trip, but since we’d already seen them thoroughly by kayak, we told our captain not to stop.

Overall I found it to be a very beautiful spot to discover, especially by kayak, and especially if combined with a longer tour that includes other sights in Zante .

Kayaking through the crystal clear waters of Zakynthos, Greece

Where to stay to visit Keri Caves

If you want to be close to the Keri Caves, then the village of Keri is the obvious choice when it comes to deciding where to stay in Zante . We spent five nights there and found it a quiet and relaxing town to stay.

That said, given many Zante boat tours will include a pick-up and drop-off transfer service, or depart from different harbours around the island, what town you stay in Zakynthos won’t massively affect your visit to Keri Caves.

Here are some great places to stay for every budget.

Budget: Gerovasis Apartments with Sea View – This is where we stayed in Keri for five nights. This apartment spacious, clean, has epic views and for the amount of people it sleeps, it’s fairly cheap.

Click here to book your stay at Gerovasis Apartments with Sea View!

Mid-range: Joya Luxury Villas – Even though there is Luxury in the name, this beautiful villa is actually pretty affordable, while still offering a luxury service. It sleeps up to 10 people, has a private pool, and is perfectly positioned to explore the North East coast of Zante. We stayed here for the weekend and loved it.

Click here to book your stay at Joya Luxury Villas in Zante!

Luxury: Lesante Cape Resort & Villas – We had lunch here and fell in love with the venue. This 5-star hotel has beautiful little villas with private pools, amazing service, stunning views and is in a great position. Perfect to spoil yourself!

Click here to see prices & availability at Lesante Cape Resort & Villas!

The outdoors terrace at Gerovasis Apartments in Keri, Zakynthos

The beautiful pool and sea view at Lesante Cape Resort & Villas in Zante, Greece

What to pack for Keri Caves

You don’t really need much besides your usual beach essentials to visit Keri Caves, but I listed below a few essentials anyway, just to make sure you don’t forget.

Power bank – you don’t want your phone to run out of battery while you’re busy capturing the stunning caves and beautiful blue waters!

Waterproof phone pouch – Whether you’re visiting Keri Caves by boat or kayak, it’s always a good idea to put your phone in a waterproof pouch, so that you can have it on your for photos, without risking it getting wet!

Stainless steel water bottle – save money and reduce plastic consumption by bringing your own water bottle and refilling it.

Sunscreen – Especially if you visit in summer, you don’t want to ruin your trip by getting sunburnt.

Hat – Same as above, the sun is strong, you’ll want some shade for your head during the day!

Kayaking through the rock arches of Keri Caves along the coast of Zante, Greece

Do you need travel insurance to visit Keri Caves?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your Greece travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

As a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Exploring hidden beaches during our private boat tour in Zakynthos, Greece

Final thoughts on visiting the Zakynthos Keri Caves

There you have it, the ultimate guide to visiting Keri Caves in Zante, Greece! Have you explored these unique sea grottoes in the Ionian Sea before? How did you find them? Let me know in the comments below!

Located in the southwestern coast of Zakynthos Island, these caves are characterised by the highest cliffs, distinctive rock formations and crystal clear blue water. It’s a pretty beautiful spot to discover.

They’re pretty similar to the Blue Caves, with the added benefit of less crowds, which meant we really enjoyed our kayak tour along this coastal stretch of the island.

Keri Caves is definitely a must-see in Zante, especially when combined with other iconic sights on a longer boat tour.

I hope you found my Keri Caves guide useful. If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

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Editor's Pick

Melissani lake in Kefalonia was formed by a collapsed cave

© Shutterstock

The Incredible Blue Caves of Greece

Discover the natural wonder that is greece’s caves, which turn blue when the light hits the water..

Omaira Gill | June 1st, 2016

Greece has a plethora of natural wonders, and the country’s famous blue caves are no exception. These are the best places where sun, sea and earth combine to create a wondrous spectacle – which is also very photogenic.

Melissani Lake Cave | Kefalonia

The legend behind this huge cave says that it was named after a heartbroken nymph , Melissani , who took her own life when spurned by the god Pan. It lies 2 km outside Sami, and regularly features on lists of the most beautiful natural attractions in the world .

To reach the lake, visitors descend through an underground passage; it is after this that the fun really begins. A boat ride takes you to the center of the cave , which was originally composed of two chambers. The roof collapsed thousands of years ago following an earthquake, creating a natural window through which sunlight floods in and paints the waters with an array of blue tones.

It’s a miraculous sight – made even more magical by the tranquility of gliding across the lake in the little oar-powered boats. No sounds of engines to disturb your peace here; it’s just you and the splash of oars against water.

The cave itself was discovered in 1951 and its stunning stalactites have been estimated to date back to over 20,000 years . At the center of the lake a little island emerges, where evidence of worship of the god Pan was uncovered in previous decades.

What sets this (lake) cave apart from sea caves is that it benefits from a contrast : there is the crystal blue water below, and lush greenery growing at its summit, which is a breathtaking, visual delight.   Visit between 11 am – 1pm for the full effect of the light playing on water.

The road to the cave is overland, so it can be easily done with a car, scooter, or organized coach trips offered by hotels and tour operators. A 10-minute trip across the lake by boat costs €7 ‒ try to get a singing boatman who will copiously demonstrate the cave’s acoustics! Prices given are indicative.

Papanikolis cave | Lefkada

Lefkada is famous for its turquoise waters and its white sandy beaches, which get their color thanks to the island’s abundance in limestone. These limestone rocks in turn have given way to many caves dotting the island’s shores.

The little island of Meganisi , located just 12 nautical miles to the east of Lefkada, is home to Papanikolis cave. This beautiful cave takes its name from a submarine that was hidden there during World War II. The cave provided shelter to boats of all sizes during bad weather, as well as to locals hiding from pirates and other marauders. Today, it’s simply a beautiful place to visit.

Its sheer size is impressive. It is the second largest sea cave in Greece, and it measures 120 meters in length and 60 meters in width. Inside, you’ll be treated to the dazzling sight of sunlight dancing and bouncing off the crystal clear waters, which cast their mesmerizing blues all over the cave walls and stalactites.

For those unable to resist plunging into the waters: you’ll be rewarded for braving the cold by a rest on the little sandy beach at the far end of the cave.

Several cruise companies operate along Nydri’s port, offering day cruises to the caves. Getting there takes around 45 minutes. Expect to pay around €20 per person. Prices given are indicative.

© Clairy Moustafellou

Blue Grotto | Kastellorizo

The blue cave of Kastellorizo is the island’s most famous attractions, and undisputedly one of the most stunning blue caves in Greece. The inside is 75 meters long, 40 meters wide and 35 meters high, but from the outside you almost can’t see it at all.

Reaching it is a little tricky ‒ the entrance is a meter or so high, so you need a small boat, calm seas and steady nerves. But it’s worth it. Inside, the sunlight is refracted through the water, scattering the light and turning the sea into a pool of vibrant turquoise blue so beautiful that visitors have described it as overwhelming.

The best time to visit is in the morning , when the sun is low and the full glory of its interaction with the water can be appreciated. It’s no wonder that Tripadvisor lists a visit to the Blue Grotto as the number one thing to do on the island.

Accessible by a 40-minute boat ride, it costs around €20 per person. Operators advertise themselves at the island’s port. Prices given are indicative.

Blue Caves | Zakynthos

One of the best-known sights of the island, located in the north , these are not caves in the strict sense of the term, but rather the remnants of caves worn away by the water, leaving behind natural limestone formations . It was discovered in 1897 by Antonio Komouto, and since then visitors have been flocking to see it.

The highlight of any visit is when the captain gently guides the boat right through the white arches, pausing to allow visitors to appreciate not just the blue waters, but the way they taint the limestone in their colors , painting everything around them in a stunning, ethereal blue (including you!). To get the full effect, visit between morning and noon .

Accessible by boat from Aghios Nikolas Port. Trips cost around €15 per person and usually include a trip to Navagio beach too. Prices given are indicative.

Blue Caves | Alonnisos

The coastline of Alonnisos is wild and rocky , featuring many little caves and formations. Located near the island’s marine park at the northeast, between the beaches of Strovili and Lalarias, lies the most famous cave: the Blue Cave.

It is a white triangular limestone cave , framing the dazzling blue waters, the colors of which shift into an endless spectrum of shades as the sun moves across the sky. Pause for a swim and enjoy waters so clear you can see right to the bottom.

One of the biggest advantages, not just of this enchanting little cave but of Alonnisos in general, is that it remains a relatively unknown destination for tourists. This means that –unlike the case for most other blue caves in Greece – you’re likely able to appreciate it in the company of very few visitors.

Boat excursions depart from the port of Patitiri at around 10 am, and take you to the marine park as well as the Blue Caves. The price is around €35 per person. There is also the possibility of visiting via kayak ‒ check with tour operators for reliable guides offering this option. Prices given are indicative.

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Private tour: paleokastritsa & corfu town, small group corfu food walking tour, private shore excursion: achillion, kanoni & corfu town, full-day cruise: paxos, antipaxos & blue caves, private shore excursion corfu beaches: paleokastritsa & glyfada, book your next experience in corfu, why blue tours corfu.

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Greece’s top 10 most spectacular sea caves .

• May 9, 2021
• News & Tips , Travel

Many stunning islands and coastlines around Greece have more to offer than just beaches and sunsets. Many are dotted with amazing sea caves that have been worn away over the years, leaving behind natural wonders.

These caves sit on the edge of the sea and are absolutely breathtaking. If you get a chance to visit any of the islands mentioned below we suggest you do yourself a favour and get up close to one of these magical sea caves. 

Lake Cave of Melissani, Kefalonia 

Located near Sami, Melissani has an amazing lake inside the cave featuring trees and forests. The cave itself is B-shaped and when the roof of one of the halls caved in centuries ago, it allowed sunlight to filter through, making it an incredible experience when you visit in the afternoon. The sunlight hitting the turquoise-blue waters creates a magical illusion and it’s one of the most spectacular images of Kefalonia island.  

Blue Caves, Zakynthos

Located near Volimes, the waters here have the colour of deep blue and the bottom of the sea features purple and orange coral. You can only reach the blue caves by boat and you can either hire a boat to take part in one of the tours. It’s best to visit the caves in the morning to enjoy the colours of the water and keep in mind only small boats can get through the caves.

Blue Caves, Alonissos 

Located on the northeastern side of Alonissos, between the remote beaches of Strovili and Lalarias. Excursion boats depart daily from Patitiri village for surrounding beautiful islets and the remote caves. The striking water around the Blue Cave is so clear and most visitors dive off the rocks to enjoy an unforgettable swim. 

Papanikolis Cave, Lefkada 

Lefkada is known for its magical beaches (Egremni, Porto Katsiki, Kathisma) thanks to its turquoise waters and its white sandy beaches, which get their rich colour thanks to the island’s limestone. If you are looking for a unique swim on the island that’s truly spectacular, make sure to visit Papnikolis Cave. This is one of the largest and most beautiful caves in Greece, that can only be reached by boat.  

Blue Grotto, Katelorizo 

The Blue Cave of Kastelorizo is famous worldwide and one of the biggest attractions to the island. This cave is said to be among the most impressive natural treasures found in the Mediterranean, as it’s larger than the Grotta Azzurra on Capri in Italy. The best time of the day to visit here is during the early morning when the sun is still low. 

Caves of Papafragas, Milos

Papafragas on Milos island features a gorgeous rectangular-shaped cove surrounded by tall cliffs and natural caves, which were the base of operations for pirates during the Byzantium and were named after the last priest (papa – Frangos). The rocks around the beach are huge and visitors can only reach them by car. 

Milk, Koufonisia 

You will find this spectacular sea cave on the way to Pori. Featuring an amazing shape, it’s named milk as the water is white due to the dust of calcium that falls from the rock. You can only get here by boat but it’s definitely worth the effort. 

The Cave, Hydra

On the island of Hydra, you can experience a breathtaking swim in a cave that is set on the most famous beach on the island. The water is spectacular and you can spend endless hours swimming through the cave and feeling a sense of serenity. 

Diatripti Cave, Skyros  

Boasting beautiful turquoise waters, you can reach Datripti by boat and there are quite a few tours to the cave throughout summer. In the caves, the colours of the water are magical, thanks to the reflection of the sun. The stalactites and the green bottom of the sea will amaze you. 

Nausica Cave in Palaiokastritsa, Corfu 

Palaiokastritsa is where you can find the cave of Nausica. Referred to as the “Capri of the Ionian Sea” Palaiokastritsa village is located on the west side of Corfu. Boasting crystal clear, turquoise waters, steep rocks and lush greenery that almost reaches the sea, this is a magnificent spot not to be missed when visiting Corfu.

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Kefalonia Melissani Cave

Location: Sami

Situated just outside Sami, the Cave of Melissani in Kefalonia has a strange appeal. It is one of the most significant places for tourists to visit in Greece. Surprisingly, a lake lies inside the cave, with trees and forests surrounding it.

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The cave is B-shaped, with two chambers or halls separated by an island in the center. The first chamber is sun-lit while the second is dark and has many stalactites covered with algae and moss. Even though big in size, they are dwarfed by the huge dome. Surprisingly, many of the stalactites resemble dolphins, the companions and messengers of the nymphs. This chamber is lit with electric lights.

The roof of one of the halls caved in centuries ago, letting sunlight filter in. The depth of the lake is 20 to 30 meters. When the sun is right overhead at noon, the sunlight hitting the turquoise-blue waters creates a magical illusion and the whole Cave of Melissani suddenly feels lit with blue light. This is the best time to visit this cave; slanting rays in the morning and evening have a magical quality and guests get an ethereal feeling of boats hovering in the light!

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Top Tours and activities

Customized private tour.

A private tour exploring plenty of important sights of Kefalonia, including Melissani and Drogarati caves, as well as the picturesque villages of Fiscardo and Assos.

Highlights private half day trip

This half-day tour around Kefalonia is a perfect chance to check out sights such as the Monastery of Agios Gerasimos, the lake of Melissani, Agia Effimia Village, and the stunning Myrtos Beach.

Island bus tour with wine tasting

Enjoy a full tour of Kefalonia! Taste wines, visit the stunning caves of Drogarati and Melissani, and take photos of the beautiful Myrtos Beach.

Melissani is 36m high, 40m wide and 3.5 m long. A balcony was built on top of the cave for tourists to get a spectacular view of the inside from the top. The water in the lake is a mixture of freshwater and seawater. It is about 500m away from the sea and the water is 1m above sea level. The brackish water enters the Cave of Melissani from one end and flows out from the other. Water is replenished by the springs gushing underneath the 30m in-depth water inside. The Cave of Melissani leaves a memorable and lasting impression on everyone who visits it.

Myth has it that the cave was named after the nymph Melissanthi who committed suicide because God Pan did not reciprocate her love. Excavations in 1962 that unearthed many artifacts dating back to the 3rd and 4th century BC give credence to the legend, as figures of nymphs were found.

Visitors can enter Melissani Cave after walking an underground path. Then, they can step into a boat and take a tour of the cave. 

How to get there

The Melissani Cave is located in Sami Village . Private transfers : We recommend using an online pre-booked Kefalonia transfer service , which provides transfer by taxi, minibus, or private VIP car and arranging a pickup directly from the airport, port, or your hotel. Alternatively, there's the option of arranging a pickup by a local driver directly at the following numbers: 0030 694 511 8866, 0030 694 530 6145, 0030 699 561 9605, or booking your taxi online .

Car rental : There's the option of renting a car in Kefalonia and picking it up directly from the airport, port, or your hotel. Using a rental car allows visitors to discover Melissani Cave and many other places of interest in Kefalonia at their own pace.

Public transport: The central bus station of the island is located in Argostoli. There are buses from Argostoli to Sami during the day. Consider that time schedules might change according to the season. Check the official timetables here . Tip: Since buses don't always stop at every scheduled stop of their itinerary, our advice to visitors is to inform the driver about their final destination, so that he makes a stop there.

Photos by Greeka Members

Photos by greeka team.

• cicipu 31 Jul 2010 Best sight in entire island This is the best sight on the entire island of Kefalonia (and for me it was the best amongst all the places I have ever visited!). No I am not exaggerating and I am sure that you will say the same once you visit the place. The cave is shaped in form of the letter B and is about 40 meters wide and 36 meters high... But who's interested in statistics... it is the beauty of the place that definitely deserves a visit. The full tour is done by boat, first making an encompassing trip around the first hall of the cave with the crack in the roof. After that the boat crosses the island on the opposite wall, where a tiny canal exists. This channel is too slender for the boat to row, and therefore there is a rope attached to the wall with which the gondolier pulls the boat. It was a very good experience. There are numerous stalactites and stalagmites in the second chamber of the cave and when the boat passes it, numerous lights lit up the place which was simply outstanding. Highly recommended.

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