Discover the Best of Kalymnos – One Road at a Time

Kalymnos is not your typical Greek island. Yes, it has the crystal clear waters, the whitewashed villages, and the irresistible Mediterranean cuisine you’d expect from a Dodecanese gem but it also has something far rarer: a raw, authentic character that most islands lost to mass tourism decades ago. From world-class rock climbing crags to medieval castles, fjord-like bays, and a proud sponge-diving heritage that dates back centuries, Kalymnos rewards every traveller who takes the time to explore it properly. And the best way to explore it properly? With your own wheels. Here at Red Car Rentals Kalymnos, we’ve put together this complete guide to the island’s most popular attractions so you can plan your days, hit the road, and make the most of every moment on this extraordinary island.

1. Pothia – The Capital & Port Town

Every Kalymnos adventure begins in Pothia, the island’s vibrant capital and main port. Unlike many Greek island towns that have been smoothed over for tourists, Pothia retains a wonderfully genuine atmosphere a working town with colourful neoclassical architecture, buzzing harbour-front cafés, and a deep sense of local pride. The Italian influence from their early 20th-century occupation is still clearly visible in Pothia, particularly in the neo-colonial architectural style and numerous Art Deco buildings. Greece Moments Wander the backstreets, visit the lively market, and soak up the energy of a town that hasn’t forgotten who it is.

Don’t miss: The impressive Town Hall, the harbour waterfront at sunset, and the local pastry shops serving traditional Kalymnian sweets.
Getting there: Pothia is the arrival point for all ferries your rental car will be ready and waiting for you here.

2. Monastery of Agios Savvas

Perched dramatically above Pothia on the hillside, the Monastery of Agios Savvas is arguably the most iconic image on the entire island. Dedicated to Saint Savvas of Kalymnos the patron saint of the island who preached here in the 20th century the monastery is both an important pilgrimage site for Orthodox believers and one of the most photographed landmarks in the Dodecanese. The views from the monastery over Pothia and the Aegean are simply breathtaking, especially at sunset when the whole bay is bathed in golden light. The complex includes six churches and a courtyard with a magnificently gnarled ancient tree.

Tip: Visit in the late afternoon for the best light and to avoid the midday heat on the climb up.

3. Castle of Chora (Kastro Chrysocheria)

For history enthusiasts, the medieval Castle of Chora is an absolute must. First built during the 11th century and later restored by the Knights of St John, the castle occupies a large hilltop area above the island’s old capital town and contains ten small churches, some of which feature impressive frescoes. The castle encloses what was once a castle-town Kalymnos’ former capital and can be reached via a trail with 235 steps, which starts at Pothia and offers magnificent views of the island and the sea. It’s a steep climb, but every step is worth it. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and a camera, because the panoramic views from the top are unforgettable.

4. The Sponge Factories & Maritime Museum

No visit to Kalymnos is complete without engaging with its most defining tradition: sponge diving. For centuries, the men of Kalymnos risked their lives diving to the seabed of the Aegean and Mediterranean to harvest natural sponges a tradition that shaped the island’s identity, economy, and soul. The Maritime Museum of Kalymnos showcases the island’s rich sponge-diving history through a collection of traditional diving equipment, processing tools, suits, historical photographs, and antique items. Greeka Within the same building, you can also visit the small Folklore Museum, showcasing traditional costumes, household items, and interesting photos. Entrance to both museums is free. Real Greek Experiences
Afterwards, visit one of the remaining sponge factories in Pothia to see how sponges are processed and pick up a genuine Kalymnian souvenir.

5. Rock Climbing, Grande Grotta & World-Class Crags

Kalymnos has become one of the top rock climbing destinations in Europe, and for very good reason. The island boasts hundreds of climbing routes with crags, caves, and overhangs with epic views of the Aegean, bringing enthusiasts back year after year. Often considered one of the most stunning natural wonders in the Dodecanese, the Grande Grotta is a top rock climbing destination that attracts people from all over the world. Greeka Whether you’re an experienced climber or a curious beginner, the crags around Massouri, Armeos, and Telendos offer routes for every level. Every autumn, Kalymnos hosts the famous International Climbing Festival one of the largest climbing events in the world which draws thousands of athletes and spectators to the island.

6. Telendos Islet

Just a short water taxi ride from the village of Myrties lies one of the most magical spots in the entire Dodecanese the tiny, traffic-free islet of Telendos. A rocky piece of land where nature enthusiasts can leave civilisation behind and trek through stunning hiking trails leading to mystery-covered ancient ruins and rugged mountain tops with sublime views of the sunset. Greeka
Telendos offers several good tavernas and beaches, and is easily accessible by taxi boat from Myrties village throughout the day. Tripadvisor It’s also a superb climbing destination in its own right, with massive vertical crags and organised climbing fields.

Tip: Take the afternoon water taxi, enjoy a long lunch at a harbourside taverna, and watch the sunset from the rocks before heading back.

7. Vathy – Kalymnos’ Secret Fjord

One of the island’s best-kept secrets, Vathy (also known as Rina) is a breathtaking natural fjord on the eastern coast of Kalymnos. The fjord-like bay of Vathy is one of the most distinctive natural features in the Dodecanese Discover Greece, with dramatic limestone cliffs dropping straight into calm, impossibly blue water. The bay gets crowded during the morning and early afternoon when day-trip boats arrive from Kos, so it’s best to visit after 2-3pm when you’ll practically have the whole place to yourself. Real Greek Experiences
A car is essential to reach Vathy comfortably it’s about a 20-minute drive from Pothia through spectacular mountain scenery.

8. The Beaches, Myrties, Arginonta, Kantouni & More

Kalymnos is blessed with a stunning variety of beaches, from lively organised shores to completely secluded coves accessible only by car or boat.
Myrties is one of the most popular beaches on the island, located about 8 kilometres from the capital, with shallow waters and small pebbles a good and safe place for families with small children. Arginonta, surrounded by imposing hills, is a sandy and pebbly beach with mesmerising turquoise waters. It is well organised with umbrellas and sunbeds, and if you stay until the late evening you will be rewarded with some of the most glorious sunset views on the entire island. Kantouni offers longer extensions of softer sand, while the lesser-known Akti beach provides a quieter, more intimate alternative for those wanting to escape the summer crowds.

9. The Archaeological Museum of Kalymnos

History lovers should not miss the Archaeological Museum in Pothia. This compact, well-laid-out museum takes visitors back in time with an overview of Kalymnos’ fascinating history. One of the most impressive exhibits is the massive statue of Asklepios, the Greek god of medicine and healing. The museum also contains findings from the Minoan era, large marble Cycladic statuettes, collections of old silver and bronze coins and jewellery, relief oil lamps, figurines, and metal tools.

Tip: Park near the seafront and walk to the museum, as the surrounding streets are very narrow.

10. The Caves of Kalymnos

For something truly unique, Kalymnos is home to several remarkable cave systems. The Cave of the Seven Maidens, located close to Pothia, is steeped in local legend it is said to be haunted by several local girls who were trying to escape from pirates. Kefalas Cave is another impressive option, featuring a huge corridor with stalactites and stalagmites, and six chambers that once contained items placed there to worship Zeus. These caves add a wonderful element of mystery and adventure to any Kalymnos itinerary and most are easily reachable by car.

Explore It All with Red Car Rentals Kalymnos

As you can see, Kalymnos has far more to offer than most visitors expect and the best way to discover it all is with the freedom of your own vehicle. Many of the island’s greatest treasures, from the fjord at Vathy to the remote beaches and mountain monasteries, are simply not accessible by bus or on foot.

At Red Car Rentals Kalymnos, we make exploring the island as easy and stress-free as possible:

• Free luggage transfer to your accommodation
• Island-wide vehicle delivery we come to you
• We wait for every ferry, no matter how late
• All-inclusive insurance including tyre and undercarriage cover
• Instant support via WhatsApp at +30 694 3019739

Book your car or scooter today at carrentalskalymnos.com and start your Kalymnos adventure the right way.

The island is waiting. Let’s go.