KimolosCyclades · Greece

All About Kimolos

If you are dreaming of spending your vacation swimming in sparkling waters and enjoying the authentic simplicity of summer in Greece, then Kimolos is definitely for you. It is an island that has managed to stay well under the tourist radar, right next to Milos, and its appeal lies in its unspoiled beaches and quintessential charm. It also boasts a rich history, the traces of which you will discover on your wanderings. Taking a ferry to Kimolos is easy, just use Ferryscanner to compare companies and book ferry tickets.

Once named Echinousa after the (harmless) viper that still inhabits the island today, it became known as Argentiera in the Middle Ages; a reference to the silver-colored rock formations to the south and intriguing tuffs from its volcanic past. One of the most well-known landmarks of Kimolos is the Skiadi; a huge mushroom-shaped stone formed by ablation that sits in a now barren valley overlooking the sea.

There are also 80 picturesque churches and small chapels on the island with the most famous being the Metropolitan Church of Panagia Odigitria, which is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Kimolos (meaning ‘chalk’ in Greek), even has its own private island – Polyaigos – the largest uninhabited island of the Aegean, where you can spend a day enjoying its turquoise beach alongside the local goats. The ruins of a Venetian Castle, an ancient necropolis, and unearthed tombs add to the island’s appeal while most visitors come here to relax, unwind and savor local delicacies such as home baked ladenia bread, honey pie, and soft cheeses.
 

Routes and Ferries to Kimolos

Kimolos is right next to Milos island and is on the main ferry routes from the port of Piraeus in Athens. You can book your ferry tickets with Ferryscanner and arrive in 7-8 hours, including stops made on the way. If you wish to get to Kimolos from one of the other islands, there are several connections to choose from during the summer season. You can sail from Andros via Folegandros or Naxos in about 11 hours and from Ios in 2.45 hrs with Zante Ferries. Alternatively, sail from Kythnos (5 hrs), Milos (1 hr), Serifos (2-3.30 hrs), Sifnos (1-2.30 hrs), Sikinos (2.10 hrs), Syros (4.30 hrs), Thira in Santorini (4.20 hrs), or Tinos (4.40 hrs).

Kimolos doesn’t have an airport but you can fly from Athens International Airport to Milos Island National Airport and catch a ferry from there. During the summer months, there are several regular flights from Athens to Milos, lasting about 45 minutes. If you choose to catch a ferry from Piraeus, you can take the X96 express bus from Athens airport and be at the port in 45 minutes. If you are already in the city center, you can get to the port by metro, bus or trolley in about 20-30 minutes.
 

Port of Kimolos

There is only one port in Kimolos known as Psathi and it is a marvelous introduction to the island, as you step off the ferry. The small settlement is fronted by white cubic-style houses adorned with blue shutters and is built in an amphitheatrical fashion around the shimmering bay.

Psathi serves ferries bringing visitors to Kimolos from the other islands and Zante Ferries offers services all year round from destinations like Folegandros, Ios, and Milos. Hellenic Seaways runs seasonal connections, including from Athens, while Blue Star Ferries and Hellenic Seaways also go from Syros to Kimolos during high season.
 

Capital & Villages

The island of Kimolos has only one main village known as Chorio and not Chora, as is common in other islands. Being the capital, it is the place where most of the permanent residents live and is a picturesque traditional settlement full of charm. You can reach it on foot from the port as it is only about 1 kilometer away, perched proudly on the foothills of Mount Xaplovouni.

Chorio

An excellent example of true Cycladic style, you can wander around Chorio’s narrow cobble-stoned streets that meander in between small dwellings, many of which have been lovingly restored to their former state. The village was built around a Venetian castle and you can still see the traces of it today in the Kastro quarter. It was built to protect the inhabitants from marauding pirates and invaders and was the only place where the islanders lived until the late 19th century. In fact, the closer a house stands to the castle, the older it is. You will also find an interesting Archaeological Museum that displays findings from the Prehistoric era up to Late Antiquity, and the Folk and Maritime Museum, which houses cultural exhibits of the island’s past.

Chorio is the hub of island life and the best place to stay if you wish to experience the traditional customs and the local cuisine while taking advantage of tourist amenities such as gift shops and artisanal produce.
 

Best Beaches

There is a good selection of beaches on Kimolos and if you have time, you can easily visit all of them. Many are accessible by road whilst others need sea transportation. You will find everything from serene, pool-like bays to turquoise diving spots in secluded caves.

Psathi

As well as being the island’s harbor, Psathi has a lovely beach that is very popular as it is extremely clean and shallow. You can spend the day soaking up the ambiance of the port’s quaint setting and savor fresh fish and local delicacies at the small taverns which literally serve on the beach itself. It’s a wonderful experience that will stay with you long after you leave!

Agios Georgios Beach

One of the most tranquil beaches on the island, Agios Georgios (or Prassa Beach as it is also called) can easily be reached through a dirt road. Upon arrival, you will notice the shimmering white sand contrast with the sparkling blue water. To the south end of the beach, there are thermal springs and if you are lucky, you will spot the famous Monachus Monachus monk seals enjoying a dip. With just a few facilities, such as a beach bar and a couple of shops open in summer, this is a perfect spot to unwind and relax away from the crowds.

Kalamitsi Beach

Kalamitsi is a large beach very close to Psathi village and is, therefore, a favorite with visitors. Its gleaming golden sand and emerald waters make it an idyllic place to spread out your towel and soak up the sun’s rays after a relaxing swim. Try out the nearby taverns or grab a cold drink from the beach bar and take a seat under the shade of a tamarisk tree as you dive into total beach bliss.

Bonatsa Beach

This beach is a firm favorite with families as it is very shallow with a sandy sea bed, offering safety and lots of fun for both parents and kids. It merges with the neighboring beach of Aliki and you can find umbrellas and sunbeds there if you like to totally spoil yourself. There are also some inviting taverns where you can try out the local cuisine while enjoying the serene sea views.

Aliki Beach

Aliki Beach carries on from Bonatsa and continues to offer a charming coastal landscape with pristine waters for swimming. There is also a salt pan that attracts a variety of migratory birds in spring and autumn, although in summer it is drained due to the heat. Aliki is mainly a place for visitors to totally chill out but if you are a keen diver, you may like to note that ruins of what is thought to have been an ancient city have been found just a few meters from the shoreline.

Ellinika Beach

This is another beach found by following a dirt track and it is well worth a visit. Ellinika Beach is a peaceful, narrow beach with sand and some rocks. It has recently become famous due to the ancient tombs and necropolis found in the area dating back to the Mycenaean civilization. The tiny island of Agios Andreas that you can spot out to sea is also thought to have been part of the ancient city, adding to the appeal of this lovely location.
 

Transportation Around Kimolos

Kimolos is so small that you can explore it on foot, and there is a good network of footpaths reaching every area of interest. If you prefer to use public transport, there is a small bus running from the port to Chorio and a handful of taxis are available. The sea buses can take you to some of the more secluded beaches around the island, as well as the sea caves, where you can stop for a quick swim. On Ferryscanner you can easily compare prices or ferry companies and book cheap ferry tickets to Kimolos.