A Day Trip to Meis Kastellorizo Island from Kas

Planning a visit to Turkey’s southwestern coast offers plenty of options, but one experience that often catches travelers’ interest is taking a ferry from Kas to the nearby Greek island of Kastellorizo, also known as Meis. While I haven’t personally done this trip, I’ve been digging into what it offers, and I can tell you it’s a combination of scenic cruising, cultural sights, and a taste of Greek island life—all packed into a carefully timed half-day tour.

What draws many to this trip are a couple of standout features. First, the ferry ride itself—it’s a pleasant way to start the adventure, offering views of the turquoise waters and a change of scenery from the Turkish coast. Second, the ability to explore on foot means you get to wander at your own pace around an island filled with history, charming streets, and inviting spots to relax. On the flip side, a potential downside is the limited time ashore, which might feel rushed if you’re someone who loves to linger and explore every nook and cranny. That said, it’s perfect for those who want a quick, efficient taste of Greece’s Dodecanese Islands without the hassle of complex logistics.

This tour really suits travelers who appreciate value and simplicity—if you’re after a straightforward day with minimal fuss, and want to see a beautiful island with some historical highlights, this is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you’re based in Kas and looking for an easy yet enriching getaway without the need to plan each detail yourself.

Key Points

• Convenient online booking with instant confirmation, skipping long lines
• Affordable price point at $81 per person for a 6-hour experience
• Flexible timings with departures between 8:45-9:00 a.m. and a return at 4:00 p.m.
• Includes return ferry tickets, so no hidden costs for transportation
• Up to 5 hours ashore for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing
• Multiple attractions including museums, castles, caves, and churches

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Trip

This day trip is designed to balance comfort, culture, and scenic beauty. From the moment you book, the process is straightforward—your ticket is bought online, and you get instant confirmation, which means no worries about queues or last-minute hassles. The ferry departs from Kas early in the morning, around 8:45-9:00 a.m., and the boat ride itself, which lasts roughly 40 minutes, sets the tone for a relaxed day ahead.

Once you arrive in Meis (or Kastellorizo), you’ll have around five hours to explore. The island’s layout and size make it ideal for a leisurely wanders. A highlight for many visitors is walking through its quaint streets, which are dotted with centuries-old churches, Ottoman mosques turned museums, and charming cafes. The Castle of the Knights of St. Jean is a must-see for history buffs, offering a glimpse into the island’s layered past. Other attractions include the Lycian Tombs and the Museum of Archaeology, where you can get a deeper understanding of the local heritage.

For nature lovers, the Blue Cave is often mentioned as a highlight—though you’ll need to pay an extra 10 euros for a speedboat trip to visit it, which isn’t included in the main ticket. Similarly, Aya Georgio Beach is accessible by boat for an additional fee. These extras allow you to tailor your day, but keep in mind they’re not included in the basic package.

The tour’s structure is quite flexible; you can choose how long to spend at each site, and the time constraints mean you should be selective about what interests you most. The ferry ride back departs at 4:00 p.m., giving you enough time to soak in the island’s charm without feeling rushed.

The Island’s Unique Character and Sights

Meis, or Megisti as locals call it, is a tiny yet historically significant place. Its diverse past includes Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, Italian, and British influences—something you can sense walking through its streets. The St. George Monastery atop the island offers panoramic views and a sense of peace. The St. Haralampos Catacombs are also intriguing, especially for history enthusiasts.

The island’s small population of about 425 residents depends largely on tourism and local industries like fishing and farming, which helps maintain its laid-back vibe. While the island is small, it’s packed with about 20 churches of various sizes and a few museums, making it a surprisingly rich cultural stop.

For those wanting a taste of Greek cuisine, there are several taverns and eateries worth popping into during your free time, offering simple, delicious fare—great if you’re craving authentic, low-key dining.

The Practical Side: Booking, Cost, and Extras

At $81 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the transportation, the guided experience, and the convenience. Since it’s an online booking, you avoid the hassle of long ticket lines, which is a real plus in busy seasons. The price doesn’t include extras like the Blue Cave boat trip or beach visits, but these can be added if you’re keen on extending your adventure.

The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, perfect if you want a quick escape that still allows you to see highlights and soak up some Greek island atmosphere. The departure times are morning, giving you a nice chunk of the afternoon for your return or other plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for travelers based in Kas who want an easy-to-book, no-fuss way to see a Greek island. It’s ideal if you’re after culture, history, and scenery without needing a full-day commitment or complex arrangements. It’s also perfect for those who want to get a taste of Greece’s Dodecanese without leaving the comfort of a guided, organized experience.

If you’re someone who loves to explore at length or has specific sites they want to spend hours at, this brief visit might feel rushed, but for most, it offers an enjoyable snapshot of island life. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide, good value, and opportunities to see sites like the Castle of St. Jean and the Lycian Tombs make it a well-rounded day out.

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The Sum Up

Taking a day trip from Kas to Kastellorizo offers a lovely mix of scenic ferry rides and cultural exploration. The ease of booking, combined with the relatively affordable price, makes it an attractive option for travelers who want a straightforward way to experience a Greek island without the fuss. You’ll love the variety of sights—from museums and castles to churches and beaches—and the chance to explore on foot at your own pace.

While the time ashore is limited, it’s enough to get a good feel for the island’s charm and history. Be prepared for some optional extras if you want to see the Blue Cave or visit the beaches, but the core experience provides plenty of memorable moments. This tour is an especially good pick for those wanting a relaxed, informative day trip that balances sightseeing with free time.

If you’re after a practical, well-organized excursion that offers a taste of Greek island life while based in Kas, this trip hits the mark. Just remember to bring your sun protection, swimwear, and a sense of curiosity—you’ll find plenty to enjoy in those few hours.

FAQs

How long is the ferry ride from Kas to Kastellorizo?
The ferry ride lasts around 40 minutes, making for a smooth and scenic start to the day.

What is included in the tour price?
Your ticket includes a return ferry ticket and the time ashore. It does not cover additional extras like boat trips to the Blue Cave or beach visits, which are optional and paid separately.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel, especially if you plan to swim or relax on the beach.

Are there any cultural or historical sites included?
Yes, you can visit sites like the Museum of Archaeology, the Castle of St. Jean Knights, Lycian Tombs, and the Museum Mosque.

Can this tour be canceled if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

How much time do I have on the island?
You’ll have about five hours ashore, plenty of time for sightseeing, shopping, or relaxing at local cafes.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is mainly a cultural and scenic day, it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly. However, older children who enjoy exploring and walking around will likely find it enjoyable.

This day trip offers a balanced glimpse into Greek island culture, history, and natural beauty—perfect for curious travelers wanting a taste of something different during their stay in Kas.

You can check availability for your dates here: