The island is known for its rocky natural landscape, several rock climbing clubs, and an annual climbing festival. In addition to its lovely scenery, Kalymnos boasts a long sponge-diving tradition.

Our travel guide contains everything you need to know to plan a fantastic trip to Kalymnos in Greece, including sightseeing and other things to do, beaches to visit, accommodations, and restaurants. Also, check out our photo selection to learn more about the striking beauty of the island’s landscape!

Since Kalymnos is quite far from the mainland, the fastest way to get there is to fly to Kalymnos airport from Athens. Alternatively, you can get there by ferry from Piraeus port in Athens.

Sponges
Kalymnos is renowned for its tradition of natural sponge harvesting and processing. The sponges, a living organism, are unique in shape, color, and texture due to environmental factors. They are known for their absorbent ability, long lifespan, and hygienic properties, making them valuable for skin care. Visitors can witness the traditional processing and appreciate the value of natural sponges.

We strive to make your stay unforgettable by providing exceptional services and ensuring a memorable experience.
Following you will find some of the services provided by our Hotel…

SCUBA DIVING/ SNORKELING
Kalymnos offers a scuba diving paradise with crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, ranging from beginner-friendly to challenging dives. Home to various dive sites, including walls, caves, and shipwrecks, Kalymnos is a must-visit for all scuba divers. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the underwater world in this perfect destination.

YACHT TRIPS AROUND THE ISLAND
Kalymnos offers a breathtaking yachting experience with clear waters, sheltered bays, and charming villages. You can take a day-long yacht trip to discover secluded beaches, quaint towns, and historic landmarks inaccessible by road, offering a perfect blend of peaceful sails and adventurous excursions. Additionally, there is always the option of daily tours to nearby islands such as Leros, Patmos, Lipsi, and Marathi, where you can immerse yourself in each island’s unique culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether relaxing on a secluded beach, exploring ancient ruins, or simply taking in the stunning scenery, a yacht excursion is the ideal way to experience the wonders of the Aegean Sea. Ideal for both experienced sailors and beginners, all these excursions can be arranged by the hotel management for your convenience.

WAYS TO APPROACH KALYMNOS ISLAND
Visitors in Kalymnos can approach the surrounding islands by ferry or by plane. Regular ferry services connect Kalymnos with other nearby islands, making it easy for visitors to explore the region. The ferries are comfortable and offer stunning views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding islands. Alternatively, visitors can fly to the nearby island of Kos, which has an international airport with daily flights to and from major cities in Greece and abroad. Visitors from Kos can take a short ferry ride to Kalymnos or continue their journey by plane to Athens. Kalymnos also has its own airport, the Kalymnos National Airport, which offers limited domestic flights. Whether traveling by ferry or plane, visitors can enjoy the beauty and culture of the surrounding islands and make the most of their time in this remarkable region of Greece.

GASTRONOMY
Gastronomy in Kalymnos is characterized by fresh, simple ingredients and traditional cooking methods that highlight the local bounty of the Aegean Sea. Seafood is a staple of the Kalymnian diet.
Kalymnos is an island known for its abundance of fresh fish. The island’s location in the Aegean Sea provides access to various seafood, including red mullet, squid, and octopus. Locals often catch the fish themselves and sell it at the market or prepare it for dining in the many seafood restaurants on the island. The fish is typically grilled or fried, and served with lemon and olive oil, highlighting the fresh flavor of the seafood. Kalymnos is a popular destination for seafood lovers, and the fresh fish is a major draw for tourists.

Kalymnos is home to fertile soil and a mild climate, making it ideal for growing fresh vegetables. Each season brings a variety of fresh produce, such as tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers in the summer and leafy greens like spinach and kale in the cooler months. The Vathi Valley, in particular, is known for its rich agricultural land and is a major producer of fresh vegetables on the island. The valley is dotted with small family farms that grow an array of vegetables, including eggplant, zucchini, and various types of squash. These vegetables are sold at the local market, used in traditional Kalymnian dishes, and served in the island’s restaurants, providing a fresh and flavorful component to the local cuisine.

Kalymnos is known for its rich aromatic landscape, with various herbs growing wild throughout the island. These herbs, including thyme, oregano, and basil, are a staple in Kalymnian cuisine, lending their distinctive flavors to traditional dishes. The herbs also produce local honey and olive oil, both prized for their unique and aromatic qualities. In addition to their culinary use, many of the herbs on Kalymnos have medicinal properties and have been used for centuries in natural remedies. Visitors to the island can experience the vibrant fragrance of the herbs while exploring the countryside or trying the local dishes, which often feature a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs. Overall, Kalymnos’s herbs are important to the island’s culture, cuisine, and health practices.

* We are here to assist with any questions or requests, offering a personalized experience for your stay at the Apollonia Hotel, We look forward to welcoming you.