Like a huge bare boulder, Kalymnos rises out of the southeastern Aegean Sea. The island is located between Leros and Kos, with the latter usually being the starting point for a trip to Kalymnos. In contrast to the rather green island of Hippocrates, Kalymnos is a rocky and barren island with little vegetation.
Kalymnos is a true paradise for climbers, as there are numerous caves and steep walls where extreme athletes can let off steam. Also worth visiting is the tiny neighboring island of Telendos, just a stone’s throw away, which you can reach in a few minutes by taxi boat.
Kalymnos is still quite unspoiled and even during the summer months the tourist crowds remain limited. The island may not offer long dream beaches, but it does offer a variety of culinary delights. You can choose from fresh fish, octopus, mermizeli salad and moussaka, among others. On Kalymnos, you will experience true culinary pleasures!
In this article, we share our personal Kalymnos highlights, which we discovered over more than five stays on the island, and give you important travel tips for a visit.
- #1 Pothia: Capital of Kalymnos
- #2 Agios Savvas Monastery Kalymnos
- #3 Castle of Chora (Kastro)
- #4 Vlichadia Beach
- #5 Kantouni: Monastery of the White Cross
- #6 Resorts of Massouri and Myrties
- #7 Telendos Day Trip
- #8 Emporios in the North
- #9 Vathy: Kalymnos’ green oasis
- #10 Hiking on Kalymnos
- #11 Island of the Sponge Divers
- More travel tips for your Kalymnos holiday
🗺️ Kalymnos Map: This map includes all Kalymnos highlights, 35 places to visit & insider tips, 11 beaches & bays, as well as personal recommendations for 28 restaurants & cafes. Ideal for holiday planning and getting around locally. Compatible with smartphones, tablets and PC/Mac. Click here and start using it right away: To the Kalymnos map
#1 Pothia: Capital of Kalymnos
Usually, the exploration of Kalymnos begins in the capital Pothia. It was the Italians during their occupation at the beginning of the 20th century who left clear traces on Kalymnos. Especially in Pothia, the neo-colonial architectural style with its many Art Deco buildings is still clearly visible today.
When arriving by ferry, the striking architecture of the port city immediately catches the eye, especially the town hall of Kalymnos. Along the bustling waterfront, pastel-colored two-story mansions and magnificent villas line up next to each other. Here, a touch of southern Italy definitely drifts over this Dodecanese island.
Depending on the season, between 12,000 and 15,000 people live here. Even in winter, the third largest city in the Dodecanese is lively. Both along the inviting waterfront and in the winding streets of Pothia there are numerous restaurants and shops. However, keep in mind that some places are closed during siesta time (3–6 p.m.).
You should definitely walk the promenade of Kalymnos, called Enoria Christou, with its traditional taverns and charming shops such as the delicatessen Enallaktiko Pantopoleio. Compared to other islands, many restaurants are already open in the low season – perfect for a stroll through the town without the crowds.
Those interested in history can visit the Archaeological Museum of Kalymnos on the northern outskirts of town. The small exhibition displays many finds from Kalymnos and Telendos. The Nautical Museum on the harbour promenade is also worth a visit. There you can learn about the history of sponge diving (see #11).
- Opening hours Kalymnos Archaeological Museum: Wed–Mon 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., admission €5
#2 Agios Savvas Monastery Kalymnos
Above Pothia sits the magnificent Monastery of Agios Savvas. The most important monastery on the island is dedicated to Saint Savvas of Kalymnos. He preached on Kalymnos in the 20th century and is revered as the patron saint of the island.
A visit is especially atmospheric when the sun goes down and the city and the Aegean Sea are bathed in a beautiful light. The Monastery of Agios Savvas is not only an important place of pilgrimage for Orthodox believers, but also a popular photo motif that has gained a certain fame.
On numerous holiday portals, the iconic Kalymnos church with the red roof serves as the cover picture for other Greek Islands. The Monastery of Agios Savvas has already been attributed to the islands of Crete, Rhodes, Symi, Kos, and even Corfu.
Today’s convent includes a total of six churches. In the courtyard there is a tree that looks gnarled and almost enchanted. In the hermitage next to it, personal belongings and gifts from pilgrims are on display. Right next to it are the bones of Saint Savvas. It is a sacred place, so please make sure to dress appropriately when visiting!
- Opening hours Agios Savvas Monastery Kalymnos: open daily from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., free admission
#3 Castle of Chora (Kastro)
The village of Chorio is located above Pothia and has since merged with the city. Worth seeing here are the ruins of the old island capital, situated above the village. On a rocky outcrop stands the Chora Castle, which dates back to Byzantine times and was the centre of the island until the late Middle Ages.
Steep steps take you up to the mighty fortress walls and into the interior of the complex. There you can still visit some ruins, houses and small chapels with preserved wall paintings. From here, a wonderful panoramic view over Pothia and the interior of the island opens up before you.
- Opening hours Kastro Chora Kalymnos: accessible at any time at your own risk, free admission
Chrysocheria Castle
History buffs can take a look at Chrysocheria Castle (dating from the 14th century), just a few minutes away on the other side of the valley. The grounds around the old castle and the windmills below were extensively restored in 2025 and are accessible to all. It is very romantic here in the evenings, and most of the time you’ll have the place entirely to yourself.
#4 Vlichadia Beach
If you drive south from Pothia towards Vlichadia, two beautiful beaches await you. The one further back is a sandy beach, while the one at the entrance to the village is covered with gravel. Both have very shallow, clear water and are therefore ideal for children to swim in.
The Restaurant Paradisio on site won us over with its tasteful ambience right away. There is delicious food and cool drinks that you can enjoy with a view of the turquoise blue bay. The owner Giannis and his team are all really friendly and make you feel right at home.
#5 Kantouni: Monastery of the White Cross
To the west of Kalymnos lies the village of Panormos with its white rock monastery. The Monastery of the Cross, Moni Stavrou, is picturesquely perched on a slope that you can zigzag up via a steep trail.
From up here, the view of the Aegean Sea and the western side of Kalymnos is breathtaking. At the bottom of the hill, Kantouni Beach is the perfect spot to cool off, or you can head to one of the many restaurants nearby (tip: Kapadiko). Alternatively, a detour to Platis Yialos Beach north of Panormos is well worth it.
#6 Resorts of Massouri and Myrties
The villages of Massouri and Myrties, located in the west of Kalymnos, form the tourist center of the island. Here you will find numerous accommodations for all budgets, excellent restaurants, shops and shopping facilities, as well as providers for diving and climbing tours.
The sandy beaches of both villages are elongated and offer umbrellas and sunbeds for a long day at the beach. From the small harbour jetty of Myrties, taxi boats sail several times a day to the neighboring island of Telendos, which you should definitely visit during your stay.
Especially in the evening, a visit to one of the tavernas in Massouri right on the coast is worthwhile. When the sun sets behind Telendos, the atmosphere here is particularly romantic and you can end the day in a relaxed way.
Grande Grotta
Kalymnos captivates not only climbers from all over the world with its many grottos, caves and bizarre rocky landscapes. The most spectacular Kalymnos Cave can even be hiked to. Above the Philoxenia Hotels, a steep goat path winds its way up. In less than 20 minutes you can reach the Grande Grotta, a huge rock cathedral with a view of Telendos.
With a bit of luck, you can watch climbers scaling the spectacular overhangs of Grande Grotta at sunset. This is where you can truly feel the magic of Kalymnos. Be careful on the descent — it gets dark pretty quickly! Climbers can find all the information about the island and its routes here: climbkalymnos
#7 Telendos Day Trip
In many corners of Kalymnos you will still experience a very authentic Greece, especially on the offshore island of Telendos. From May to October, excursion boats run from Myrties to Telendos at least every half hour.
The island, with its huge mountain ridge called Rachi, is truly an absolute gem. There is no traffic or asphalt roads here. Instead, you will find pretty blue and white houses, climbing Bougainvillea, and many cats on the pathways. It is a peaceful place that above all gives you a sense of calm and strength.
You can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or try delicious traditional food in the local taverns. Hiking trails lead to idyllic bays, such as Hohlakas. The sea between Telendos and Kalymnos is also a popular diving area — this is where an earthquake submerged the ancient city of Pothea.
In the evening, a detour to Telendos to visit the Chapel of Agios Georgios in the southwest of the island is well worth it. In this tranquil spot, a beautiful sunset over the Aegean Sea awaits you. The perfect place for a marriage proposal or a romantic getaway for two.
#8 Emporios in the North
From Massouri we continue along the coast and pass the striking rocky spur Kasteli, at the foot of which there is a small chapel by the sea. A great photo spot! Afterwards, you will pass below the rocky cliffs of Kalymnos, where climbers eagerly practise in the off-season.
Shortly afterwards you reach the small hamlet of Arginontas, which impresses with its stunning turquoise bay. Here you can refresh yourself on the narrow pebble beach and eat at one of the local taverns (tip: Katerina Restaurant).
In the far north of Kalymnos you come to the secluded village of Emporios (also Emborio). Several taverns line the beach promenade and you can take a leisurely stroll along the harbour. From the top of the church of Agios Georgios you have a great panoramic view over the bay of Emporios.
On the way back, it is worth stopping at Pirates of Kalymnos. Chilled music plays on the beach and waiters in pirate costumes serve cool drinks and delicious snacks. The best part: everything is available at fair prices! At the two beach bars here you can relax and enjoy the view of the sea.
Palionisos Beach
The Palionisos Beach was once an insider tip that only a few holidaymakers ever stumbled upon. The beach is best visited in the low season. Sailors still like to use the wind-protected bay as a refuge, and in summer some locals come to spread their beach towels under the tamarisk trees.
For a few years now, a large beach bar has taken over the entire beach. Loud music, generous club sandwiches and numerous sun loungers cater especially to Greeks, who seem to love this concept. If you’re looking for peace and quiet, this is not the place for you.
Hiking tip: Shortly before Palionisos, a trail leads to the secluded Sikati Beach and its Sikati Cave, which is popular with climbers. On this pebble beach with its crystal clear water, you can swim undisturbed even in high season. You can find even more tips for Kalymnos in our Kos travel guide.
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🏖️ Beautiful beaches & swimming spots
🏛️ All top sights & attractions
🤫 Unpublished insider tips
🍽️ Accommodation, tavernas & cafés
#9 Vathy: Kalymnos’ green oasis
Unlike the rest of the island, the fertile Valley of Vathy is wonderfully green. Orange and lemon trees grow everywhere, and colourful bougainvilleas decorate the alleyways. The beautiful monastery of Agia Triada in the middle of the valley is hard to miss, thanks to its striking blue dome.
On the way to the port you will come to the fishing village of Rina, which is usually sleepy — unless hordes of tourists from excursion boats from Kos stream ashore. Then the small village buzzes with activity and the restaurants around the harbour fill up quickly.
If you want to watch the hustle and bustle along the harbor pier, then it’s best to sit in the tavern Little Port of Vathy, run by two lovely sisters, and enjoy delicious comfort food or treat yourself to a freshly squeezed orange juice.
Above the harbour bay, it is worth making a short climb to the white chapels of Agios Georgios. From up here you have a magnificent view of Esperidon Bay on Kalymnos. The fjord stretches from the sea deep into the valley of Vathy. When all the day-trippers are gone, the fjord-like bay invites you to cool off.
On a day trip from Kos you can get to know the beautiful village of Vathy on Kalymnos. You can find more information about tours and booking options via GetYourGuide*: Day trip to 3 islands from Kos*
On the way back to Pothia, it is worth stopping at Akti Beach. The small bay with a pebble beach offers crystal clear shallow water and is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
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🏖️ Beautiful beaches & swimming spots
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🍽️ Accommodation, tavernas & cafés
#10 Hiking on Kalymnos
Above all, springtime on Kalymnos is wonderful for hiking. At this time of year, temperatures are still moderate and even on this sparsely vegetated island, the few plants that grow here are in bloom.
One of the most famous hiking trails is the Italian Road, a paved path from the port city of Pothia into the green valley to Vathy. It was built by the Italians during the occupation and consists of loose stones stacked together to form a path.
The four-kilometer route takes about three hours, so make sure you have sturdy shoes, sun protection and plenty of water. Avoid the midday heat, as there is not a single shady tree along the way.
We did the challenging hike in July and completely underestimated the ascent to the plateau in particular. Fortunately, there are regular buses from Rina in Vathy back to Pothia.
#11 Island of the Sponge Divers
Kalymnos is known as the ‘Island of Sponge Divers’. The island has a long and fascinating, if sometimes tragic, history when it comes to the search for these precious natural resources. In the past, many men risked their lives free-diving for sponges.
Nowadays, natural sponges are rarely used for personal hygiene or cleaning. Alongside a few small stalls in Rina, the port of Vathy, you can find sponges for sale in almost every tourist spot on the island.
In the main town of Pothia, there are several shops selling natural sponges, some of which now come from the Far East. The Kalymnos Sponge Warehouse offers countless items for sale as well as an insight into the history of sponge diving. Alternatively, a visit to the Naval Museum of Kalymnos next to the town hall is well worth it.
Click on the GetYourGuide* link for more information about the Kalymnos tour:
More travel tips for your Kalymnos holiday
Kalymnos restaurants: Our recommendations
On Kalymnos you can truly indulge in culinary delights. Many taverns offer traditional Greek cuisine and typical island dishes. Our restaurant favourites are listed below:
Fountagio Fish Tavern – Melitsachas
In this ouzeri you can enjoy delicious fish from Kalymnos and other Greek dishes. The owner Georgios is very polite, speaks perfect English and has plenty of excursion tips for Kalymnos up his sleeve. The sunset at the small harbour of Melitsachas is one of the most beautiful on the island. In the kitchen, mom is still at the stove, preparing all dishes fresh and with a lot of love.
Avra Aigaioy – Massouri
A real treat and personally one of the best Greek tavernas we have visited so far. From the delicious moussaka to eggplant with feta in tomato sauce, everything is a true delight for the palate. The staff is very friendly and attentive, and the prices are excellent for the quality on offer.
Aegean Tavern – Massouri
The Aegean Tavern is located right next to Avra Aigaiou and also offers top quality. The Greek dishes are beautifully presented and simply delicious. The restaurant is always busy, so it is advisable to book in advance during summer. Prices are slightly higher than average for Kalymnos.
Mpakalogatos – Pothia
This modern mezedopoleio can be found on a quiet side street in Pothia. Georgios and his team serve Mediterranean cuisine and a wide selection of Greek meze. The ambience is really appealing both indoors and outdoors, making it perfect for a cosy evening.
Is it worth spending the night on Kalymnos?
Kalymnos is definitely worth a visit. On a day trip to Kalymnos from Kos Island, you will get a first taste of what awaits you on this rugged island.
We recommend hiring a rental car on Kalymnos and driving from Pothia via Chorio towards Massouri. From here, follow the road towards Arginontas. If you have enough time, you can make a detour north to Emporios.
From there, the route heads over the mountains to the east towards Vathy. After passing through the green oasis, take a break in the harbour hamlet of Rina for a snack before heading back to Pothia.
If you find yourself wanting more, we recommend planning a full week on this peaceful island. That way you can explore the great beach bars, excellent restaurants and secluded bays at a relaxed pace. And of course you will also have the chance to witness the beautiful sunset from Telendos in person.
Hotel tips for Kalymnos
On Kalymnos, you can choose from a very good selection of apartments and smaller hotels. There is something for almost every taste and budget on this neighboring island of Kos. Particularly attractive are accommodations in Massouri and Myrties, which are situated at higher altitudes and offer a view of the offshore island of Telendos.
In contrast to Kos, accommodation prices on Kalymnos remain moderate even in summer. Bargain hunters are well catered for on Kalymnos anyway — studios for 50 to 60 euros are easy to find in July and August. Via Booking.com* you can browse and book suitable accommodations on Kalymnos directly:
➲ To beautiful accommodations on the island*
Our hotel recommendations for Kalymnos (links to Booking.com*):
➲ Kantouni Beach Boutique Hotel*
➲ Spongia Hotel Spa and Suites* ➲ Petra Boutique Homes*
➲ Chez Yaya Sea Lodges* – Glamping on Kalymnos
Here’s where we stayed on Kalymnos
Maria’s Studios – Melitsachas
We stayed in a small, simple apartment at Maria’s in Melitsachas, quiet and away from the tourist hustle and bustle. The apartment was very affordable even in the high season in July. From the balcony we enjoyed a beautiful view of the sea and Telendos. Melitsachas is also a great base for exploring the whole island.
→ On Booking.com* you will find many more accommodation options in Kalymnos and you can check prices here:
How to get to the island of Kalymnos
The easiest way to reach Kalymnos is by ferry from Mastichari on Kos. The crossing takes between 30 and 50 minutes and ships depart several times a day during the season. Tickets can be purchased directly at the ticket offices at the port of Mastichari or online at Ferryhopper*. More information and timetables at:
From Kos Town and the neighboring island of Leros, the fast catamarans of Dodekanisos Seaways head to the island several times a week. In addition, the large car ferries of Blue Star depart from Piraeus to Kalymnos. You can find current ferry connections here:
➲ Book your ferry with Ferryhopper*
If you’re coming from Germany or Northern Europe, a direct flight to Kos is your best option. A stopover at Athens airport is also possible, from where the airline SkyExpress continues to Kalymnos. You can find suitable flights via the Skyscanner* portal:
Kalymnos Youtube Video
Impressions of the island can be found in the video by Robert Polasek ©:
→ Even more inspiration and travel tips for the neighbouring islands of Kalymnos and for island hopping along the archipelago can be found here:
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