Ferry to the Dodecanese

Eight islands of the Dodecanese have an airport. More specifically, Rhodes and Kos have international airports with flights to/from mainland Greece and other European countries. On the other hand, Astypalaia, Kalymnos, Karpathos, Kasos, Kastelorizo and Leros have state airports. Of these, only three receive direct flights from Athens - Astypalaia, Kalymnos and Karpathos. Due to the long distance between the Dodecanese and mainland Greece, most visitors prefer to travel to the islands by plane.

Ferries to all islands of the Dodecanese depart from Piraeus port in Athens. The routes are available all year round and their frequency does not change significantly during the summer. Itineraries to Rhodes and Kos are daily due to their numerous permanent residents and visitors.

We have compiled a list of the Dodecanese islands sorted by popularity. It will help you select the ideal destination for your holiday!

Rhodes and Kos are by far the most famous destinations of the Dodecanese islands, with tens of thousands of people choosing them for their vacations every year. The long history is a characteristic of both, gifting them a wealth of historical sites and points of interest. Another thing they have in common is their range of options for accommodation, dining and entertainment. Home to some of the most famous hotels in Greece, they are renowned for their deluxe accommodations, suitable for lavish vacations.
Due to their high popularity with both Greeks and foreigners, ferries to these islands depart from the port of Piraeus daily. At the same time, at least two ferries depart from one island to the other during the summer. It is recommended to book your tickets and accommodation at least 2 months in advance if you plan to visit Rhodes and/or Kos in the summer.

The Street of the Knights in Rhodes Town

Distance from Athens (Piraeus): 239 nautical miles - Average Trip duration: 18 hours
Rhodes is the largest and most visited island of the group. The island of the knights, as they call it, is one of the crown jewels of Greek tourism. With a rich past with apparent influences from Greeks, Italians, French and Turks, unreal beaches, captivating nature, excellent products and local tastes, some of the country's top hotels and endless nightlife options, the cosmopolitan island offers its guests all possible comforts! The construction of the impressive structures of the Old Town took place during the Middle Ages and, more specifically, during the rule of the Knights Hospitallers (1309-1522). The Old Town’s medieval fortification and the impressive Grand Master's Palace take walkers back in time, with the area being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Faliraki, Lindos, Afandou and Anthony Quinn (named after the famous actor) beaches are among the most beautiful and well-known on the island. Water sports like windsurfing and kitesurfing are available on almost all organized beaches. From the port of Rhodes, there are daily ferries to Kos and boats to Symi, Halki, Tilos and Kastelorizo.
Frequent ferry connections: Kos, Patmos, Symi, Leros
Suggested excursion: Symi

The Asklepieion of Kos

Distance from Athens (Piraeus): 186 nautical miles - Average Trip duration: 12.5 hours
Kos, the birthplace of Hippocrates, is an island that has invested in tourism; that is made clear by the fine accommodation and endless options for eating and drinking. Those combined with the turquoise waters that surround the island, the captivating beaches and the alternation of the old element with the new are the reasons that make Kos one of the most beloved destinations in Greece. The impressive Asklipieio, the Castle of Neratzia and the traditional village of Zia are just a few of the numerous points of interest. The most captivating beaches include Mastichari, Tigaki and Agios Fokas. The island has the longest bike path in the Aegean, allowing visitors to discover certain parts of the island by bike. The weather conditions, telluric currents and seabed’s geomorphology are also favorable for windsurfing fans.
Frequent ferry connections: Rhodes, Patmos, Kalymnos, Leros
Suggested excursion: Kalymnos

The second category includes the islands of the Dodecanese that attract thousands of travelers every summer, but without altering their landscape or the locals’ way of life to be more tourism friendly. Although each has a different feature that makes it stand out, they are all favorite destinations for vacationers looking for tranquility without being completely cut off from tourist amenities. All four islands are endowed with notable points of interest, including ancient sites, churches and museums. In addition, their beaches are stunning and feature crystal-clear waters.
Ferries to Patmos depart 6 times a week, to Astypalaia and Kalymnos 5 times a week, and to Karpathos 4 times a week (all from the port of Piraeus). In order to avoid inconvenience, it is advisable to book your stay and tickets 3-4 months in advance.

View from the Chora of Patmos

The sacred island of Patmos is one of the most important places of pilgrimage in all of Europe, as it is where the exiled Saint John the Theologian wrote the Apocalypse. The island wears a mystical veil that spellbinds visitors, but its charm is not limited to its Christian attractions. The town of Patmos (which, along with the Monastery and the Cave of Saint John the Theologian, have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO) is a well-preserved medieval settlement with labyrinthine streets and the village of Skala, which is also the port of the island, has numerous accommodations and taverns. Among the island’s charming beaches, the beach of Lampi stands out for its colorful pebbles.

View of the Chora of Astypalaia

Astypalaia is a favorite destination for both couples and lovers of alternative tourism. It is the island of the Dodecanese that is the most reminiscent of the Cyclades! It is characterized as the bridge between the two island groups and shaped like a butterfly, with a thin strip of land connecting two much larger areas. The island hosts picturesque settlements featuring white houses with blue shutters and is famous for its enchanting beaches. Its most renowned points of interest are the Municipal Library, the Archaeological Museum and the Ancient Infant Cemetery.

Kyra Panagia Beach in Karpathos

Karpathos (or the island of the Titans) is the second largest island of the Dodecanese. What wins the hearts of travelers to a large extent is its alternation of scenery - it has mountains with traditional, picturesque villages and, at the same time, captivating beaches and lands overgrown with pine trees and other plants. The island’s capital is called Pigadia and has many tourist infrastructures and points of interest. The most impressive settlement, however, is Olympos, a very picturesque mountain village that makes you feel like you've stepped into a time machine - people dressed in their traditional costumes speaking a vernacular that even other Greeks don't understand! Remarkable is the fact that Olympus is the only matriarchal society in Europe! Other memorable places are the fishing village of Diafani with its wonderful harbor and Aperi with its ancient acropolis that offers a panoramic view!

Picturesque setting in Kalymnos

Known for fishing, processing and selling sponges, Kalymnos is a top destination for lovers of nature and alternative tourism, without lacking points of historical interest. The island's landforms make it one of the best places in Greece for rock climbing. Diving is another activity that gives those who try it unforgettable memories thanks to the wealth of its seabed, which hosts shipwrecks in addition to many types of marine life. The attractions of the island include the Rina channel, a fjord starting from the port of the same name, Chrysocheria Castle in Pothia and the large Byzantine Castle in Chorio.

Finally, the group with the most members, these islands are more like retreats than tourist destinations. Their common feature is the low traffic, the wild, untouched landscape, the picturesqueness of the settlements and the relaxed atmosphere. They are perfect destinations for lovers of seclusion on vacation but also for those who wish to discover new places through hiking and admire the beauty of unspoiled nature.
Accommodation options are limited, as are the ferry routes to these islands. Thus, if these options look tempting to you, make sure to arrange accommodation and book your tickets at least 6 months in advance!

The main town of Symi island

Picturesque and impressive, thanks to its neoclassical houses in vibrant colors, the beautiful Symi looks like a set from an old Italian movie. Gialos and the main town of Symi are perched in a bay, offering unobstructed views of the deep blue waters and neighboring Turkey. Worth visiting are the Municipal Clock and the Police Building in Gialos, the Archaeological Museum in Kampos (where you can then enjoy your coffee in a traditional cafe at Kampos Square) and the Panormitis monastery on the south side of the island.

Kastelorizo

Kastelorizo, the easternmost tip not only of the Dodecanese but of all of Greece (!), is the definition of a change of scenery. The area of the island is only 9 square kilometers. It has a lovely settlement and no paved road (apart from the one that connects the airport to the port). The exploration of the island is done through paths, while the rocks surrounding the settlement allow diving in the crystal clear waters. Kastelorizo’s main attraction is the Blue Cave - a sea cave one can even swim in. The island also has an Archaeological Museum and some castle ruins.

The colours of the sea at Lipsi

In reality, Lipsi is a group of islands named after the island of Lipsi, which is the only one inhabited and consists of two masses of land joining together. The island boasts whitewashed houses and dispersed churches. Locals practice a more authentic and relaxed way of life and are very hospitable. It is an ideal destination for those seeking quiet holidays in a place where they can enjoy fresh fish and other palatable delicacies, hike and swim in transparent waters.

In reality, Lipsi is a group of islands named after the island of Leros, which is the only one inhabited and consists of two masses of land joining together. The island boasts whitewashed houses and dispersed churches. Locals practice a more authentic and relaxed way of life and are very hospitable. It is an ideal destination for those seeking quiet holidays in a place where they can enjoy fresh fish and other palatable delicacies, hike and swim in transparent waters.

The volcano of Nisyros

Nisyros hosts the most well-formed active volcano in Greece. Its soil is volcanic and fertile, while its coastline comprises rugged coasts and small bays, most of which are pebbly. Another unique feature of the island is its thermal springs, which you can enjoy at the Municipal Thermal Baths. Other impressive possessions of Nisyros include the Venetian Castle, Emporios’ Natural Sauna (a cave with warm air that has beneficial properties), the Volcanic Museum and the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani.

Nimporio village in Tilos

Tilos is the destination every nature lover is looking for! Small but surprisingly beautiful, the island is a paradise for bird watchers as its ecological park is home to over 100 species of rare birds, as well as for hikers because of its 30 trails. In the Palaeontological Museum, guests can admire thousands of fossilized dwarf-elephant bones and ceramics from the Neolithic era. The Medieval Castle of the Knights Hospitalier offers an excellent view, so it is ideal for gazing at the sunset.

Chalki is located a short distance from Rhodes, with boats transporting people from one island to another every day. Nimporio, the only settlement of Chalki, consists of beautiful colorful neoclassical houses with courtyards paved with chochlakia (sea pebbles). The Clock Tower, the Church of Agios Nikolaos and the Folklore Museum are the main points of interest of the island. The now-abandoned village of Chorio is worthy of a visit. The island is famous for its excellent quality local products but also for the festivals that take place on major religious holidays.

Kasos

Finally, Kasos is the island of the Dodecanese closest to Crete. The island has a relaxed atmosphere allowing visitors to leave their worries behind for a while. In the capital, Fri, the beautiful traditional mansions steal the show, while the harbor at Bouka is also enchanting. The island's points of interest include the Selai Cave, the Monastery of Saint George and the Monastery of Saint Mamas.

The island group’s name translates to “Twelve Islands”, but it actually includes 15 islands and almost 100 smaller rocky islets. Because of their location, they have been the crossroads of many peoples, with some elements remaining intact, especially in the architectural aspect. However, the locals have not ceased to observe the customs and traditions of their land. Even today, many inhabitants (especially in the villages) still wear traditional, local costumes in their everyday lives.

The Italian occupation of the Dodecanese lasted 31 years (1912-1943) and left behind an impressive architectural wealth. The islands are a favorite destination for Italian tourists and the Italian occupation during the Second World War played a role in this.

Reaching the Dodecanese is achievable by ferry and plane. With the ferry, voyageurs have the opportunity to admire Aegean’s seascape in all its glory as they pass through the Cyclades to reach their destinations. The crossing is magical, but due to its duration (9-22 hours, depending on the destination), many individuals prefer the plane to get to the Dodecanese.