Kastellorizo: The Eastern Outpost of the Aegean
Kastellorizo (Megisti) is a place of profound beauty and isolation. As the smallest and most remote of the Dodecanese islands, it sits just 2 kilometers from the Turkish coast. In 2026, Kastellorizo remains a destination for the true romantic and the seeker of silence. It is an island of vibrantly painted neoclassical houses, deep blue waters, and a history that is much larger than its small size suggests.
Things to know about Kastellorizo
Geographically, Kastellorizo is a rocky island with no sandy beaches. Historically, it was a major maritime hub in the 19th century with a population of over 10,000, before war and migration left it with only a few hundred residents today. An ideal trip length is 3-4 days. It is famous for the ‘Blue Cave’ (one of the largest in Europe), the film ‘Mediterraneo’ (which won an Oscar), and its proximity to the Turkish town of Kaล.
Top attractions in Kastellorizo
Kastellorizo Harbor
The harbor is the heart and soul of the island. Every single house is a restored neoclassical masterpiece painted in bright shades of pink, yellow, and blue. Since there are no beaches, locals and visitors alike dive directly into the deep, clear water from the stone platforms in front of the cafes.
The Blue Cave (Galazio Spilaio)
This is one of the most stunning natural wonders in Greece. Accessible only by a small boat during low tide, the cave is filled with a light that turns the water a surreal, glowing neon blue. It is an experience of pure magic that must be seen to be believed.
Castle of the Knights (Castello Rosso)
The 14th-century fortress built by the Knights of Saint John gives the island its name (Red Castle). Perched on a rock above the harbor, the ruins offer a commanding view of the sea and the Anatolian coast of Turkey.
The Lycian Tomb
Located just below the castle, this is the only Lycian-style rock-cut tomb in Greece. It is a direct link to the ancient cultures of Asia Minor and a testament to the island’s unique position at the crossroads of East and West.
Saint George of the Mountain (Agios Georgios tou Vounou)
To reach this monastery, you must climb 400 stone steps. The effort is rewarded with a panoramic view of the harbor and the nearby Turkish coast. The monastery features a beautiful courtyard and a hidden ‘catacomb’ with a natural spring.
Ro Island (Day Trip)
A small islet nearby, famous for the ‘Lady of Ro’ (Despina Achladioti), who lived there alone for decades and raised the Greek flag every single day until her death. It is a site of great national pride and emotional significance.
The Ottoman Mosque and Museum
A beautifully restored 18th-century mosque at the edge of the harbor now serves as a museum. It houses artifacts from the island’s long history and provides a look at the multicultural past of this border island.
Paleokastro
The island’s ancient capital, located on a high plateau. You can see the ruins of the Doric acropolis, ancient cisterns, and a series of small chapels. It is a quiet, atmospheric place that offers a sense of the island’s antiquity.
The Mandraki Neighborhood
The island’s second, smaller harbor is a quiet area where you can see the traditional shipyards and the small local cemetery. It is a peaceful place for a stroll away from the main harbor social scene.
Gastronomy and Local Life
Life in Kastellorizo moves slowly. Enjoy the local ‘Salami’ (traditional sweet) and fresh seafood at the waterfront taverns. The islandโs connection with the nearby Turkish town of Kaล means the food often has a wonderful blend of Greek and Anatolian flavors.
Island-hopping from Kastellorizo
Kastellorizo is primarily connected to Rhodes, with the ferry taking 3-4 hours and the small plane taking only 20 minutes. There are also daily local boats to Kaล, Turkey (20 mins), making it a popular route for those exploring the Lycian coast. During the summer, larger ferries connect the island to Piraeus and the rest of the Dodecanese.
