The best things to do from Kardamaina are the boat trip to Nisyros, a beach day, and a day in Kos town. After that, there are small-scale pleasures: a coffee in the harbour, a visit to a hill village, a sunset drive.
On the water
- Nisyros volcano. The classic day trip. See our Nisyros guide.
- Island cruises. Boats from Kos and Kardamaina visit nearby islets and bays with swimming stops. See boat trips.
- Beach time. Sunbeds and umbrellas line the main beach. More in the beaches guide.
On land
- Antimachia castle. A medieval fortress of the Knights of St John, a few minutes inland from the airport road. The view back towards Kardamaina is worth the stop.
- Zia. A mountain village on the slopes of Mount Dikeos, known for sunset views. It is busy at dusk, so go earlier for a quiet walk. A tour to Asklepieion and Zia combines it with the ancient healing sanctuary.
- Pyli. A village with a ruined medieval castle on the hill above it and shady squares. Allow an hour or two.
- Kos town. The harbour castle, the ancient agora and the Asklepieion. See the Kos town day trip.
Across the border
In season, ferries run from Kos town to Bodrum in Turkey, a short crossing. Read the Bodrum day-trip guide first: you need a passport.
Book the boat trip early in the week. Nisyros trips depend on weather and sea conditions, so leave room in your schedule in case one is moved.
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in Kardamaina besides the beach?
Boat trips from the harbour (including to Nisyros), a visit to Antimachia castle, drives to Zia and Pyli, a day in Kos town, and in season a ferry day trip to Bodrum in Turkey.
Is Kardamaina good for families?
Yes. The beach is long and the water shallow near the shore, and many boat trips are designed for families. Choose a hotel close to the sand.
How many days do I need in Kardamaina?
A week lets you combine beach days with two or three day trips, such as Nisyros, Kos town and a village loop.
Kefalos
Kefalos on Kos: the hill village, Kefalos Bay beaches, Agios Stefanos basilica and Kastri island. Distance from Kardamaina (Kardamena), how to go and what to see.
Read guide
Zia village
Zia, the mountain village on Kos: sunset views, craft shops, the walk up Mount Dikeos and how to visit from Kardamaina (Kardamena) by car, bus or tour.
Read guide
Some links are affiliate links: if you book through them we earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It funds the research behind this site.
