History
The history of Kalymnos is parallel with the history of the other Dodecanese islands. Since pre-Minoan times, Kalymnos has been inhabited. During the Archaic period, the distance of the Dodecanese from Athens gave these islands, including Kalymnos, autonomy and freedom from the imperial Athens. With the rise of the Macedonian Empire, Kalymnos and the other islands of the group became part of it.
Top Destinations
Pothia Town Kalymnos
Pothia is Kalymnos's capital and main port. The picturesque settlement is built amphitheatrically on the slopes of two hills around the port, while a small part of it lies in the beautiful green valley. This traditional and attractive town is home to the majority of the local population, with 10,000 inhabitants, most of whom are involved in sponge fishing and tourism.
Vathy Village Kalymnos
Vathy is located in the middle of an arid and mountainous site, 13 km north-east of Pothia, the capital of Kalymnos. The beautiful settlement of Vathy is located in the most fertile part of the island. Its beautiful houses stand on the slopes of two hills, while a small part of the settlement lies on a green valley that extends to the natural gulf. There you will see a picturesque port filled with fishing boats and tourboats, which make daily trips to some of the most interesting sites in Kalymnos.
Myrties Village Kalymnos
This beautiful village is located 8 km northwest of Pothia. It is named after the many myrtle trees that adorn the village. Imposing mountains form a fabulous backdrop behind this picturesque settlement. Beautiful traditional houses are located between the narrow alleys, ideal for a long walk, during which you will find several lodgings, cafés and taverns serving delicious food.
Massouri Village Kalymnos
Massouri is a picturesque village and one of the island's most popular tourist resorts 9 km northwest of Pothia, the capital of Kalymnos and close to the village of Myrties. Imposing mountains rise across the whole settlement overlooking the natural bay. Beautiful whitewashed houses climb the steep hills with some of the best views of the surrounding mountains and the sea's azure waters.
Emporio Village Kalymnos
The picturesque village of Emborio is situated 24 km northwest of Pothia, the beautiful capital of Kalymnos. Emporio is the last village on the island at the end of the main road. About 70 inhabitants live permanently in the village, most of whom are involved in cattle breeding and farming. In ancient years, the village was the commercial center.
Top Beaches
Arginonta beach Kalymnos
This sandy and pebble beach of Arginonta is located 15 kilometers north of Pothia. You can rent out umbrellas and sun beds, as well as some accommodation and taverns near the beach or in a small hamlet just a few meters from the beach. Busses connect Pothia with Arginonta and there is a bus stop near the beach.
Myrties Beach Kalymnos
The beach extends to the natural harbor of Myrties and is an ideal place to swim and sunbathe. In the village you can find some accommodation, fine taverns and cafes. Small fishing boats sail from there to the opposite island of Telendos.
Kantouni Beach KalymnosKantouni's long sandy beach is 5 km northwest of Pothia, just a short walk from Panormos. It's the favorite beach of the locals, so it can sometimes get crowded.
Emporio Beach Kalymnos
Emporio is a beautiful and serene beach. The whole city overlooks the natural bay. The beach consists of smooth pebbles and crystalline waters, while on either side there are some rock formations. There are some umbrellas and sunbeds in the centre. Trees give good shade to those who prefer more secluded spots. There are often busses to the village of Emporio, but you can also take a boat from the village of Myrties to this beach.
Massouri Beach Kalymnos
Massouri beach is located 9 km north west of Pothia, the capital of Kalymnos. The village which lies around the beautiful sandy beach is probably the most popular tourist resort on the island with a nice variety of modern amenities and pleasant atmosphere.
Platis Yialos Beach Kalymnos
Platis Yialos is one of the most beautiful beaches in Kalymnos, 7 km northwest of Pothia, the capital of the island and in the vicinity of Panormos Village.