Nisyros

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get to Nisyros?

Nisyros does not have an airport, so you must arrive by ferry.

• Via Kos: This is the easiest route. Fly into Kos and take a ferry from Kos Town (about 1 hour) or the port of Kardamena (about 45 minutes). During the summer, there are multiple daily "volcano tours" from Kardamena that function as ferries.

• Via Rhodes: Larger ferries connect Rhodes to Nisyros, usually taking about 3 to 4 hours.

• From Athens: Conventional ferries depart from Piraeus, but the journey is very long, often taking 13 to 15 hours.

2. Can you actually walk inside the volcano?

Yes, Nisyros is one of the few places in the world where you can walk directly onto the floor of an active hydrothermal crater.

• Stefanos Crater: This is the largest and most famous of the island's five craters. You can descend into it and see the fumaroles (steam vents) up close.

• Safety: The ground can be very hot and the sulfur fumes are strong. It is essential to stay on the marked paths and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, as the heat can melt thin rubber soles.

3. Do I need to rent a car?

A car or scooter is very helpful, especially if you want to visit the mountain villages at your own pace.

• The Bus: There is a public bus that connects the port of Mandraki to the volcano and the villages of Nikia and Emporios. However, the schedule is often built around the arrival of day-tripper boats from Kos.

• Scooters: These are very popular for navigating the winding roads up to the caldera, but be prepared for steep inclines.

4. What are the best villages to visit?

Nisyros has three main villages, each with a completely different feel.

• Mandraki: The capital and main port. It is a maze of narrow streets with pebble-paved squares and houses made of volcanic stone.

• Nikia: Perched on the edge of the caldera, this village offers the most famous views of the volcano. Its central square, Porta, is considered one of the most beautiful in Greece.

• Emporios: A semi-abandoned mountain village that is slowly being restored. It features a "natural sauna" (a small cave with hot volcanic steam) at the village entrance.

5. Can you drink the tap water?

No, you should drink bottled water on Nisyros.

• The island's water is primarily used for household tasks. For drinking, bottled water is available at mini markets in Mandraki and Pali.

6. Where are the best beaches?

Because of its volcanic nature, the beaches here are unique, often featuring dark sand or large black pebbles.

• Chochlaki: Located just behind Mandraki, this beach is famous for its large, smooth black volcanic stones. It’s better for sunset views than for comfortable lying down.

• Pachia Ammos: Considered the best beach on the island. It has thick, dark sand and is a favorite for free campers and those seeking total seclusion. It requires a 15 minute hike from the road.

• Pali: A long, sandy beach next to the fishing village of the same name. It is the most accessible and has plenty of tamarisk trees for shade.

7. What is the local drink "Soumada"?

Soumada is the signature drink of Nisyros, and you will see it everywhere.

• The Taste: It is a non-alcoholic, sweet syrup made from bitter almonds. It is usually served diluted with cold water and ice.

• Tradition: It is traditionally served at weddings and celebrations, but you can buy bottles of the syrup to take home as a souvenir.

8. Are there thermal springs on the island?

Yes, Nisyros has been famous for its healing waters since antiquity.

• Loutra: Located near Mandraki, the Municipal Baths (Loutra) are housed in a historic building. You can soak in the hot, mineral-rich medicinal waters which reach temperatures up to 46°C.

• Therma: There are also natural hot springs that seep into the sea along the coast near the village of Pali.

9. What should I eat?

The island’s volcanic soil produces unique flavors that define its traditional dishes.

• Pithia: Delicious chickpea fritters (similar to falafel) flavored with local herbs.

• Krasotyri: A local cheese that is cured in red wine, giving it a sharp, salty flavor and a dark red rind.

• Boukounies: Pork cooked in its own fat with local spices.

10. How many days should I spend in Nisyros?

While many people visit for just a few hours as part of a day trip from Kos, staying longer is highly recommended.

• 2 to 3 Days: This allows you to visit the volcano early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the tour groups have left, explore the mountain villages, and enjoy a quiet evening in the tavernas of Mandraki.