Kastellorizo

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get to Kastellorizo?

Because of its remote location, travel to Kastellorizo requires a few steps but is very rewarding.

• By Air: There are daily 25 minute flights from Rhodes. The airport is small, and the planes are propeller aircraft with limited seating, so book well in advance.

• By Ferry from Rhodes: Ferries run several times a week. The high speed catamaran takes about 2.5 hours, while the conventional ferry takes roughly 4 hours.

• From Turkey: If you are visiting the Turkish Riviera, there is a daily 20 minute ferry from the town of Kaş. This is a very popular day trip for travelers in Turkey.

2. Is there an ATM or a pharmacy on the island?

Resources are available but limited to the main harbor area.

• Money: There is one ATM located at the National Bank of Greece on the harbor front. Most restaurants and hotels accept cards, but the ATM can occasionally run out of cash, so it is wise to bring a backup supply.

• Health: There is no traditional pharmacy. There is a small Medical Center on the island for emergencies, but you must bring all of your own prescription medications and basic supplies like sunblock and aspirin.

3. Do I need to rent a car?

No, a car is not necessary and there are no car rental agencies on the island.

• Walking: Almost all activity is concentrated around the harbor of Megisti. The town is completely walkable and most of it is pedestrianized.

• Transport: There is one taxi and one small bus that runs between the harbor and the airport. For everything else, you will either walk or use the local sea taxis.

4. How do I visit the Blue Grotto?

The Blue Grotto (Galazio Spilaio) is one of the most famous sea caves in the Mediterranean and is a must visit.

• Getting There: You must take a small boat or sea taxi from the main harbor. The entrance is extremely low, and you often have to lie flat in the boat to enter.

• The Experience: Once inside, the cave opens up into a massive chamber where the sunlight reflects off the water to create an incredible, glowing neon blue light. It is best visited in the morning when the light is most intense.

5. Can you drink the tap water?

No, the tap water on Kastellorizo is not potable.

• Like many small islands, the water comes from desalination or tankers. It is perfectly fine for showering and hygiene, but you should buy bottled water for drinking.

• Bottled water is sold at the mini markets along the waterfront.

6. Where are the best beaches?

Kastellorizo does not have traditional sandy beaches, but the swimming is exceptional.

• Harbor Swimming: Most people swim directly from the stone quays or from ladders located in front of the cafes and hotels. The water is deep, crystal clear, and full of sea turtles.

• Agios Georgios: This is a tiny islet just across from the harbor. You can take a sea taxi there to find a small pebble beach, a charming church, and a single taverna.

• Plakes: A series of flat rocks and marble slabs where you can sunbathe and dive into the deep turquoise sea.

7. What should I see in the town?

The town itself is a historical monument with several key landmarks.

• The Red Castle (Castello Rosso): The ruins of the 14th century Knights of St. John fortress offer the best views of the harbor and the Turkish coast.

• Lycian Tomb: Located just below the castle at the entrance of the port, this is a 4th century BC tomb carved directly into the rock.

• The Museum of Puzzles: A unique small museum founded by a local mathematician that features a huge collection of mechanical puzzles.

8. What is the local food specialty?

The island’s cuisine is a mix of traditional Greek flavors with some unique local touches.

• Symi Shrimp: These tiny, sweet popcorn shrimps are a local delicacy and are eaten whole (shells and all).

• Katoumari: A traditional sweet pastry made of thin layers of dough, fried and topped with sugar and cloves.

• Strava: A type of local baklava that is cut into oblique shapes and soaked in honey syrup.

9. Can I visit the island of Ro?

Yes, many boat tours include a stop at the nearby islet of Ro.

• History: Ro is famous for the "Lady of Ro" (Despina Achladioti), a woman who lived alone on the island for decades and raised the Greek flag every morning until her death in 1982.

• Swimming: The island has a small, beautiful bay with very clear water that is excellent for snorkeling.

10. How many days should I stay?

Kastellorizo is a place for slow living and reflection.

• Day Trip: Many people visit for a day from Kaş or Rhodes, which is enough to see the harbor and the Blue Grotto.

• 3 to 4 Days: This is the perfect stay to truly absorb the island's atmosphere, hike to the Monastery of St. George of the Mountain, and enjoy long, quiet dinners by the water.