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All You Need To Know About Kalymnos Island, Greece

Heard of Kalymnos and cannot wait to discover if this is the right Greek island for you. Then check this whole Kalymnos travel guide to make up your mind and prepare your customized itinerary!

General Information About Kalymnos Island, Greece

The Greek island of Kalymnos is located between the famous island of Kos and Leros; it is the fourth largest island in the Dodecanese and is surrounded by small, rugged islets, some uninhabited, other ones, such as Pserimos and Telendos, with only a few houses and cafeterias.

The island has a rocky, very rugged landscape, with hills and mountains ideal for climbing; Kalymnos is a top climbing destination in Europe and is famous worldwide for this sport. A few isolated valleys offer a contrasting scenario.

The island is also famous for being home to some of the finest sponge divers in the world. Although this tradition has been lost for a while, life on the island still revolves around sea-related activities, including fishing and other marine water sports.

The island offers a great base to explore other Dodecanese islands, many of which can be visited with a short day trip, including Lipsi, Patmos, Kos, Leros, and Nisiros.

Where Is Kalymnos  – Getting To Kalymnos

You can reach Kalymnos port by ferry (from Piraeus or other islands in the Dodecanese), with daily departures, or by plane from the International Airport of Athens, either with a direct flight or via the island of Kos.

It is also possible to reach Kalymnos from the airport of Bodrum in Turkey (also directly or via Kos).

When Is The Best Time To Visit Kalymnos Island

Located a short distance from the Turkish coast, in the eastern Aegean Sea, Kalymnos enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and sweltering and sunny summers, reaching 25 to 30 degrees in July, the hottest month.

The island has perfectly mild weather from the end of May until the end of September.

Top Things To Do In Kalymnos Island Greece

These are some of the most interesting sites on Kalymnos Island, as well as remarkable things to do in Kalymnos during your visit, in no particular order…

Discover The Former Capital, Chora

The small settlement of Chora is located in the center of the island. It was once the capital town and grew under the shadow of a huge Byzantine fortress over 300 meters above sea level.

It is possible to check the old ruins of former houses and nine different churches in the area, some of them with impressive frescos. The views from the top of the fortress are spectacular, spreading across the sea, the nearby island of Kos, the port of Kalymnos, and the nearby valleys.

Today, the island’s capital is Pothia, a seaside settlement worth a visit, home to the main port, countless restaurants, and all kinds of accommodations.

Check The Temple Of Kalymnian Apollo

If you are interested in ancient sites and ruins, it is a good idea to visit the Temple of Apollo just minutes from the island’s former capital, Chora.

Built in Doric style and belonging to the Hellenistic period, it is said that parts of this ancient temple were used to make the church of Jesus Christ in Jerusalem.

Visit The Archaeological Museum Of Kalymnos

Located in the village of Pothia, the museum is also home to the magnificent Vouvalis Mansion, an extraordinary example of urban architecture from the nineteenth century. The museum focuses on the island’s history from the Prehistoric Period, with finds dating from the Neolithic down to the Mycenaean times.

There are also findings from the Minoan era and large marble Cycladic statuettes. There are also collections of old silver and bronze coins and jewelry, both from Kalymnos and Kos, and relief oil lamps, altar miniatures, figurines, and metal tools.

Admire The Findings At The Valsamidis Museum Of Marine Life

This private museum is in the coastal village of Vlichadia. It features exhibits related to the local sponge fishing, sea plants, sea animals, and an exciting collection of trade amphorae and other findings from ancient shipwrecks.

This is a fascinating place to visit with children who will love to check the different kinds of sponges, corals, shells, fish, and strange sea creatures but also all the sponge diving equipment, ancient findings, coins, and even an ancient wreck that form the collection.

Learn About Kalymnos’ Traditions At The Traditional Kalymnian House

This fantastic exhibition is a ten-minute drive from the town of Pothia. It is a private folklore museum featuring objects of popular culture and household items.

Among the exhibits are attractive local costumes, bridal dresses, houseware, a curious hand mill, and traditional furniture; areas of the museum are also dedicated to paying homage to the strong and close relationship that the islanders have always maintained with the sea.

 

 

Other Remarkable Places To Visit In Kalymnos And The Nearby Area

Kalymnos is full of many other interesting places to discover, such as the magnificent Kastelli Fortress and the ruined Byzantine Fortress of Agios Konstantinos on the tiny islet of Telendos.

In the small settlement of Vathi, there is an impressive ancient Christian Basilica worth a stop when checking the area.

Climbing On Kalymnos

The most popular thing that you can do in Kalymnos is climbing. No matter your skill level, there’s always an opportunity to take your first steps or go for adventurous experiences if you are an experienced climber.

During the past 20 years, Kalymnos has been considered one of the world’s top sport-climbing holiday destinations. With a rocky landscape featuring rock faces of unique quality for sport climbing, the island is also known for the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

Kalymnos features almost 2500 well-equipped sport climbing routes for all levels, ranging from easy routes for beginners to tough ones for the experts, both single and multi-pitch routes, including technical wall climbs and wild overhanging.

There are many climbing instructors on the island that you can contact for climbing lessons and guiding. Every year, Kalymnos holds the Climbing Festival too. Remember that the island has a special Rescue Team that offers help in any accident concerning climbing or other on-land activities.

Diving On Kalymnos

Home to one of the wealthiest and most beautiful seabeds in the Mediterranean, Kalymnos is known for its impressive submarine vegetation and sea life.

The island boasts an excellent infrastructure for safe diving conditions combined with an ancient sponge harvesting and diving tradition. It is good to remember that the local hospital is equipped with a modern decompression chamber for those still uncertain.

Check Other Sports Available In Kalymnos

Although climbing and diving are the top experiences that have made Kalymnos rather famous, you can enjoy many other sports on the island.

Hiking is one of them; with dozens of well-marked paths, the island is a perfect place to explore a unique landscape while walking either along the coast or far from the sea. On Kalymnos, it is also possible to go fishing, sailing, and even practice windsurfing.

Best Beaches In Kalymnos

The island, still relatively unexplored and wild in some areas, is home to incredible beaches, some of them hard to access but owners of stunning beauty. These are some of the most remarkable beaches in Kalymnos that you should visit when traveling to the island.

Arginonta Beach

Quite family-friendly, Arginonta is a pebbled beach, well-organized, and relatively calm since it is about 15 km from the town of Pothia; therefore not so easy to access if you don’t have your own car.

The beach is on a picturesque bay with loungers, umbrellas to rent, and a few good seaside restaurants. If you’re not renting a car, you can visit with the bus that departs from Pothia, the island’s capital.

Town Beach

Probably the most crowded and popular beach on the island, this pebbled shore is a few steps from the harbor and the center of Pothia. The beach is not so big, so it is easy to find it overcrowded in summer. There is some organization, and it is easy to reach on foot.

Myrties

Located about 8 kilometers from the capital, Myrties remains one of the most popular beaches in Kalymnos.

Organized and featuring an excellent touristic infrastructure, the beach tends to be overcrowded during summer. The beach has shallow waters and small pebbles and is a good and safe place for families with small kids.

Kantouni Beach

Another organized beach with pebbles suitable for the whole family is Kantouni, featuring long extensions of soft, golden sand and crystal clear water appealing to those in long swimming and sunbathing sessions.

Massouri

Home to a resort of the same name, Massouri Beach is a partly organized pebbled beach, suitable for families, about 10 km from Pothia.

The area is calm and quite relaxing; there is a good organization, and staying in the area can be an excellent alternative to the more crowded and noisy Pothia. The beach features an impressive surrounding landscape of rocks and high hills and offers incredible sunset views.

Platis Yialos Beach

Look no further if you are after some bizarre and unique landscape. Platis Gialos is an unorganized beach featuring black sand and pebbles located about 7 km northwest of Pothia Town.

The landscape is stunning, with imposing rocks and a clear contrast between the pristine waters and the dark coast.

Kalymnos With Children

Kalymnos is a fine destination for families that want to train their kids into adventurous experiences. Whether climbing, diving, snorkeling, or even hiking, the island’s landscape is unique for children interested in outdoor adventures.

Older kids good at swimming can take the challenge of swimming the one kilometer that separates the island from Telendos.

The whole family can take up this challenging adventure and enjoy some time exploring the tiny islet. If you are too tired to return swimming, you can arrange the pick up with a local boat before the departure.

Top Kalymnos Hotels

If we have convinced you that Kalymnos is an excellent place for family and adventurous holidays, the next step is to book your place to stay.

Here we present our selection of the best places to stay on the island to compare and check the best option according to your budget. These are some of the best hotels in Kalymnos; take a look.

Budget Places To Stay In Kalymnos

Manolakis Pizanis is the perfect place to stay in Kalymnos if you are looking for a very budget-friendly property a few minutes from the capital. Located in the village of Emporio, this accommodation enjoys top reviews by dozens of happy guests.

Each unit has a beautiful terrace for relaxing after hiking and fishing in the nearby area, featuring free private parking, air-conditioning, and a private kitchen. The hotel is a few minutes from the beach, while the National Airport of Kalymnos is only 9 km from the property. More information here

 

Oasis Hotel is a sustainable property located in the well-known village of Massouri. Located only 50 meters from Massouri Beach, the hotel boasts beautiful stone-paved terraces and sunny rooms open to a furnished balcony. The hotel offers stunning views of the nearby islet of Telendos and the Aegean from almost every unit.

The on-site snack bar with comfy stone-built sofas serves a wide variety of homemade sweets and snacks, while a delicious buffet breakfast is prepared daily. Guests can enjoy a lounge area, a library, and a gift shop among the hotel facilities. There are plenty of local taverns and restaurants within a short walk from the property. More information here

 

Mid-Range Places To Stay In Kalymnos

Hyperion Hotel is in Myrties, a top location for a relaxing holiday in Kalymnos. The hotel is close to Pothia, while Pothia Beach is less than 2 km from the venue.

The hotel offers perks such as express check-in and check-out and allergy-free rooms. Guests can take advantage of the gorgeous terrace and use the dedicated luggage storage space if visiting other nearby islands.

Rooms are modern and comfortable, and the hotel serves a delicious buffet breakfast daily. Hyperion Hotel is conveniently close to Kalymnos National Airport, only 3 km away. More information here

 

Kalypso Studio is a stunning property in Myrties, only 50 meters from Myrties Beach. The property has a beautiful outdoor pool with a sun terrace, snack bar, and self-catered studios, all opening to a balcony with views of the Aegean Sea and Telendos Island. They include modern amenities, including a satellite TV and a kitchenette with a refrigerator. Guests can enjoy massages and beauty treatments arranged upon request too.

The area has several restaurants, shops, and a mini market, while the beaches of Melitsaha and Massouri Beaches lie within meters of the property. The island’s airport is only 4 km from the hotel. More information here

 

Luxury Places To Stay In Kalymnos

Petra Boutique Homes offers straight views of the Aegean in Arginonta, only 200 meters from the beach. The complex features holiday homes built according to the local architecture, fitted with beamed ceilings and built-in beds and sofas.

The houses open to a private terrace; some also come with a private pool. Each unit has a fully equipped, colorful kitchen, a fireplace in the living room, and a flat screen.

The seaside village of Massouri is only 6 km away, while the port of Kalymnos is about 14 km from the homes. More information here

 

Via Ferrata House is probably one of the most excellent holiday homes on the island. It is located on Massouri Beach Road and boasts breathtaking mountain views. The accommodation has a curated garden and a balcony, two bedrooms, a bathroom, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with sea views.

The villa is about 4 km from the Castle of Kalymnos and 1.5 km from Pothia Beach. The property offers free parking, while the airport is only 3 km from the property. More information here

 

Best Places To Eat In Kalymnos

Excellent fish and seafood are the main ingredients on the island. Don’t miss the locally produced honey and the fresh local aromatic herbs such as oregano, thyme, and rosemary. If you’re looking for the tastiest places to eat on the island, check the following suggestions:

O Sfouggaras

This restaurant is located in the village of Vlychadia, specializing in seafood and Med cuisine. Although it can be a bit hard to find, once there, you will not only love the fantastic homemade cuisine, but the seaside panorama is also to die for.

Dreamcatcher

The perfect romantic spot by the sea, Dreamcatcher is located in the fishing village of Emporio and serves a mix of seafood, Mediterranean and international cuisine. The place opens for breakfast, lunch, and dinner too. The place opens for breakfast, lunch, and dinner too. Book a table with privileged sea views if you are in the mood for an unforgettable evening and an excellent location.

Ambiance Cafe Bar

Located in Massouri, this is an informal place perfect for a drink, a cold coffee, or a snack after a whole day spent at the beach. It features comfortable seating areas and a variety of delicious and refreshing cocktails. It is a perfect place for breakfast and brunch and opens for lunch and dinner.

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