Kalymnos Sights & Attractions

Kalymnos had a long tradition of sponge diving, but today there are only a few sponge factories in Pothia. There, you can get informed on collecting and processing sponges.

Perched on a steep hill opposite Chryssocheria Castle, the medieval Castle of Chora encloses a castle-town which was Kalymnos’ former capital. It can be reached through a trail with 235 steps, which starts at Pothia and affords magnificent views of the island and the sea.

Located opposite Myrties village, the islet of Telendos is a top rock climbing destination. It also boasts hiking trails with stunning views, which take visitors through all the sights and the island’s pristine beaches. It is connected to Myrties via frequent water taxis.

Pserimos is a tiny rocky islet with dazzling beaches. Untouched by mass tourism, it is a hidden gem that lends itself both for serene holidays by the sea and for a short day trip from Kalymnos.

The beautiful monastery of Agios Savvas is located on top of a hill, so it offers an amazing view of the town and the port. It is made of stone in the shape of a cross and has round domes.

The Archaeological Museum of Kalymnos takes you on a journey through the island’s storied past, showcasing a collection of ceramics, tools, statues, sculptures, and treasures from various historical times.

This castle with commanding views of Pothia and Chorio was built by the Knights of Saint John. A little chapel to Panagia Chrysochera can be found on the inside, while underneath the hill stand three picturesque windmills which lend themselves for great pictures.

The Valsamidis Sea World Museum was founded by sponge diver Stavros Valsamidis and is situated in Vlychadia. Its remarkable collection consists of items that are related to the marine world.

This private Folklore Museum is located on the way from Pothia to Vothoni. It is a representation of a traditional Kalymnian house with agricultural tools, traditional clothes, kitchen utensils, and other items.

This church in Pothia has wonderful frescoes and icons made by local artists. The iconostasis is the work of a famous artist from Tinos, Yannoulis Chalepas.

The Monastery of Agioi Pantes is located on a hill 2 km south of Pothia, close to the church of Agios Savvas. They give a great view of the town. The church is white in color and has red tiled round domes.

The Church of Panagia Kyra Psili is a charming religious landmark inside a cave on the side of the mountain, providing visitors with gorgeous panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous landscape.

The Maritime Museum of Kalymnos showcases the island’s rich sponge-diving history through a collection of traditional sponge-diving equipment, processing tools, suits, historical photographs, and antique items.

Often considered one of the most stunning natural wonders in the Dodecanese, the Grande Grotta is a top rock climbing destination, attracting people from all over the world.

Standing close to the port entrance, this is an imposing 19th-century basilica with a magnificent blue dome and remarkable interior decorations.

The Church of Panagia Kecharitomeni dominates the village. It is distinguished for its imposing bell tower and beautiful, gold-plated iconostasis.

The Monastery of the Holy Cross lies on the side of a hill overlooking the seaside settlement of Panormos, offering gorgeous panoramic views of the sea and one of the most beautiful sunsets in the area.

The cave of Skalia is the biggest in all of Kalymnos, featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and unique natural formations as well as a mesmerizing atmosphere unlike anything else you will experience on the island.

The ruins of the Castle of Kasteli stand as a vestige of the island’s rich history. The Castle is nestled atop a beautiful seaside cliff and offers views of Telendos Island.

The Chapel of Prophet Elias lies on the highest summit of Kalymnos, offering unparalleled panoramic views of the island’s lush landscapes and the endless blue of the Aegean.

The Church of Panagia of Kasteli is humble in size but offers visitors a serene natural escape atop a rugged seaside cliff right next to the ruins of Kasteli Castle.