After seeing the most famous islands of the Cyclades, such as Santorini or Mykonos, why not look for a little peace of mind on one of the lesser-known islands of the Cyclades? Kimolos is one of the little—known Greek islands of the Cycladic archipelago in the Aegean Sea. Due to its proximity to Milos, you can also visit both islands during your vacation. And to help you plan your route, we’ve thought of 10 things to do and see in Kimolos! Tourists love Kimolos for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and charming little coves. Despite the high influx of tourists to the rest of the Cyclades, Kimolos is a lesser—known island with a rich local heritage.
Are you wondering what to do on Kimolos during your vacation? Here is a small selection of 10 things to do and see in Kimolos!
The city of Chorio
The city of Chorio is the only one on the island, and tourists usually spend a lot of time in it. It is located on the southwestern side of Kimolos. Very quiet, Chorio is smaller than other Cycladic cities. Super traditional, he has preserved his ancient soul. It’s nice to stroll through its narrow streets before arriving at the central squares.
Unlike other typical Cycladic villages, there is no main square in Kimolos, but there are several. The houses of Chorio are very beautiful and typical. All of them have a lime roof. This unique feature reveals the beautiful domed roofs. The doors of the houses are always painted in a beautiful bright blue color. Beautiful photos can be taken with the contrast of white and blue, characteristic of the Greek islands. We recommend you to see Kimolos and take many such photos.
Chorio Churches
Even if the village of Horio doesn’t seem big, its secret is fascinating. You will discover more than eighty small churches! Although this number is impressive, most of these religious sites are small family chapels. Most of them date back to the 16th century and are dedicated to the saint. The largest is the Church of Panagia Odigitria. It is located in the center of Chorio and has a good collection of icons. We recommend you to visit this city, built between 1867 and 1874. The local Ministry of Culture protects a small number of churches on the island of Kimolos.
There are free libraries in Chorio or on Prassa Beach, as well as in the four corners of the island. They have books in all languages. Books can be borrowed for free. They can be returned whenever you want.
Archaeological Museum
There are two museums on the island of Kimolos. The Archaeological Museum is located in the very center of the city opposite the Church of Panaggio Odigitria. Discover the fascinating history of Kimolos. Numerous images and explanations illustrate the claims and exhibits. There are beautiful statues that date back to prehistoric times. At the visiting level, a transparent glass floor allows you to see the reconstructed ancient tomb. The museum is organized on two floors, with objects and relics on the history of Kimolos. Folklore and Navy Museum
After the archaeological museum, go to the castle. A small house in the building allocates space for a museum of folklore and the Navy. This second museum presents cultural artifacts telling about the heritage and life of Kimolos. The place emphasizes the evolution of the lifestyle. Keep the traditions of the residents. To fully immerse yourself in everyday life, you can discover objects such as frames or tools. The museum is also open to local crafts, porters, and customs. On the ground floor, there is a place for the Navy and naval instruments.
Lock
Chorio has its medieval castle, as in many small Greek cities. It is called Castro and is located at the foot of the mountain. Today they are ruins, but they can still be visited. The inner part is the oldest. It dates from the 15th century and shows a courtyard, small houses, and the Church of the Nativity. It is definitely, a must-see in Kimolos.
The ministry guards this church. The external condition is better. It dates back to the 17th century and shows narrow streets and houses. In this maze, you will see that the castle was a place of protection. After the attack and fire of pirates in 1638, the building was reinforced with other buildings. The most amazing thing is that people still live behind these walls!
Piraeus ports
After Chorio, another symbolic place of Kimolos is Psati. Ferries from Milos or Piraeus arrive here. That is why the small beach of the site is quickly stormed. Swimming in these waters, walking, and shopping will be very exciting. A real atmosphere of a small seaside town! In addition, you can eat in one of the taverns. They are open for lunch and dinner. They offer very good dishes based on the fresh fish of the day.
Next to the port of Psati is the fishing port of Gupa. Fishing is simple, as is diving. To discover the seabed, you can go to Rema and see its sea caves.
Beaches
Are you still thinking about what to do and what to see on Kimolos? A little relaxation, of course, is necessary. Kimolos has very good beaches. In addition to the popular Psati beach, you can go to Bonaca. This golden sand beach has a shallow bottom. It is well equipped, there are sun loungers and umbrellas that can be rented. Next door to Aliki. This is a pebble beach with shallow water. In spring, many local birds live on the beaches. Prassa is an excellent choice for bathing. The beaches are equipped and there is an opportunity to observe corals, sea urchins, or fish.
There are other beaches, such as Monastiria and Sufi, that are worth visiting. They are located on the other side of the island and are more difficult to reach by car. A walk from Chorio is the easiest way. However, it takes more than an hour to get there. An alternative is to travel by sailboat or water taxi.
In addition, if you like to dive, we recommend the beautiful sandy beach of Hellenica, where the ancient sunken city is located. It is located on the western side of the island of Kimolos. It can be reached by car. This beach offers a look at the ruins of a sunken city. Mavrospilia Beach is located next to it. These two beaches are isolated. They can be explored and admired away from mass tourism.
Shopping on the island of Kimolos
It is easy to shop in Kimolos and bring your loved ones a pleasant souvenir from a Greek holiday. The island of Kimolos offers the opportunity to buy handicrafts or products made traditionally. For shopping, several souvenir shops are concentrated in Chorio or near the port of Psati.
Unique creations can be found in the Arzantiera boutique in Chorio. Here the sea is the center of attention with small boats made of toys. The children of the island love to play with these replicas of large sailing ships. These products have also become a trademark of the island of Kimolos. Another product that you can take with you from this Cycladic island is a small bag called dourvades. Bags with beautiful patterns are used to store items and secrets. Production is passed down from generation to generation. This is a useful and easy-to-pack gift.
Also, discover Kimolos specialties such as manouri cheese. Harder to take with you, this dry cheese is meant to be eaten on the island. It is made from sheep’s milk and aged in grape must. After aging, its black layer is discernible.
Excursions to Kimolos and Skiadi
If you want to see Kimolos, go to Skiadi. In the northeast of the island of Kimolos Skiadi is a rather rare geological formation. It looks like a large stone mushroom due to erosion. It is composed of more or less loose rocks. The Skiadi site is part of the Atlas of Geological Monuments of the Aegean Sea. To discover this place, you can walk about thirty minutes from the parking lot near the main road. If you want to extend the tour, you can start from the village of Chorio. In this case, it will take you about ninety minutes. There are many other places to walk on the island of Kimolos, and all of them are to be discovered!
Sail around the island
To get some fresh air, you can take an original excursion from Kimolos to the neighboring island of Polyegos. Departure is scheduled every morning at 9:30, and return — in the late afternoon. After stopping for a swim at Kimolos Beach, you will discover Polyegos.
It is a geologically preserved island in the Aegean Sea. It is part of the famous Natura 2000 program. You can enjoy the beach and walks. In addition, the island is an abandoned settlement with a destroyed church. Lunch is often included in the ticket price to fully enjoy the day.
Boat rental
Do you prefer to move independently without mixing with tourists? You can rent a boat from a private person and travel alone, together or with friends. With or without a skipper, you can discover Polyegos. Unless you want to explore the neighborhood.
Don’t worry, there are beautiful islands nearby. Among them are Sifnos, Milos, and Andimilos.
The second I think I can’t find a remote Greek destination I stumble upon a new gem. This was the ideal destination for me; no unnecessary crowds, crystal waters, delicious food, the setup for a vacation that actually recharges your batteries.
White and blue allover, nice vibes, I would come back for sure. For a history buff this feels like browning through thousands of years of history in a fast forward move. From the architecture to the museums, you feel engulfed into their culture, past and present. Don’t rush it, take your time and savor it. As for fun in the sun, I spent most of my free time with a kindle on the beach. Most of the time you could find me on the Mavrospilia beach, being more isolated meant more quiet time for me.
I’m not a religious person but I wanted to experience their Orthodox Churches upclose. The architecture, the painting, the whole atmosphere, there was something very peaceful about it.