Getting from Astypalaia to Kalymnos

If you are heading to Kalymnos from Astypalaia you are making your way from a butterfly-shaped island between the Cyclades and the Dodecanese to an island in the same group, known above all for its sponge diving tradition and its status as one of the premier rock climbing destinations in Europe.

Take the ferry

There is a seasonal direct ferry from Astypalaia to Kalymnos running in summer on the wider Blue Star and Dodekanisos Seaways routes. The service runs a limited number of times per week and takes around 2 to 4 hours with stops along the way. It is one of the most natural sea connections from Astypalaia and keeps the journey entirely within the Dodecanese without going through Athens.

Getting there by air

Kalymnos has its own small airport with connections from Athens. Astypalaia has its own small airport with connections from Athens. Flying from Astypalaia to Athens and then Athens to Kalymnos takes around 1 hour on the second leg. Total journey time is around 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively fly to Kos and take the short ferry from Mastichari to Kalymnos, which takes around 30 to 45 minutes. In Greece, airlines do not operate direct inter island flights.

Your best option

Take the seasonal direct ferry from Astypalaia to Kalymnos when the schedule works for your dates. It is the most natural connection and keeps the journey entirely within the Dodecanese. If the timing does not align, fly from Astypalaia to Athens and then fly to Kalymnos or Kos. If you are traveling with a car, take the ferry from Astypalaia to Piraeus and board the overnight Piraeus to Kalymnos ferry, which takes your vehicle and arrives in the morning.