A Day Trip to Meis Kastellorizo Island From Kas

Situated just off the southern coast of Turkey, the enchanting island of Meis, also known as Kastellorizo, beckons travelers seeking a captivating day trip from the nearby town of Kas. Ferries whisk visitors across the azure waters, delivering them to a realm steeped in rich history and natural splendor. From the Museum Mosque and Castle of the Knights of St. Jean to the mesmerizing Blue Cave, Meis offers a multitude of mesmerizing experiences that immerse the senses. Yet, the island’s charm extends beyond its iconic landmarks, inviting visitors to uncover its unique heritage and dependence on a delicate island economy.

Key Points

• Take a short ferry ride from Kas, Turkey to Meis (Kastellorizo) Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site with captivating natural beauty and rich historical sites.

• Explore the 16th-century Ottoman Museum Mosque and the Castle of the Knights of St. Jean, offering stunning views of the turquoise waters.

• Discover the ancient Lycian tombs and visit the Archaeology Museum to learn about the island’s cultural heritage.

• Experience the mesmerizing Blue Cave, a natural wonder with its striking aquamarine glow and clear, turquoise waters.

• Visit historical churches, relax on the tranquil Aya Georgia Beach, and gain insight into the island’s dependent economy reliant on tourism and limited resources.

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Exploring Meis (Kastellorizo) Island

Although Meis (Kastellorizo) Island is small, visitors can’t help but be captivated by its rich history and stunning natural beauty.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the island boasts an array of fascinating historical landmarks. Highlights include the Museum Mosque, a 16th-century Ottoman structure, and the Castle of the Knights of St. Jean, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding turquoise waters. Visitors can also explore the island’s Lycian tombs, archaeological museum, and the picturesque Blue Cave, accessible only by boat.

Beyond the cultural attractions, the island’s rugged landscapes and charming seaside villages provide ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration. From hiking trails to serene beaches, Meis (Kastellorizo) Island offers a truly unique and rewarding experience.

Museum Mosque and Castle

The Museum Mosque, a 16th-century Ottoman structure, stands as a testament to the island’s diverse cultural heritage.

Nearby, the Castle of the Knights of St. Jean commands sweeping views of the surrounding turquoise waters, inviting visitors to explore its historic walls and battlements.

The highlights of the island’s attractions include:

• Examining the intricate architecture and decorative elements of the Museum Mosque
• Climbing to the top of the Castle of the Knights of St. Jean for panoramic vistas of Kastellorizo
• Discovering the Lycian tombs, which offer a glimpse into the island’s ancient past

These sites offer a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty that make Kastellorizo a must-visit destination on any day trip from Kas.

Lycian Tomb and Archaeology Museum

Along With the Museum Mosque and Castle of the Knights of St. Jean, visitors to Kastellorizo can explore the island’s ancient Lycian tombs and the Archaeology Museum, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s rich past. The Lycian tombs, dating back to the 4th century BC, are carved into the rocky cliffs and offer a glimpse into the burial practices of the Lycian civilization. The Archaeology Museum, housed in a charming stone building, showcases an impressive collection of artifacts, including pottery, tools, and jewelry, that have been unearthed on the island over the years.

Lycian Tombs	Archaeology Museum
4th century BC	Impressive artifact collection
Carved into rocky cliffs	Pottery, tools, jewelry
Glimpse into Lycian burial practices	Housed in stone building
Ancient civilization remains	Island’s rich history on display
Captivating historical site	Informative and educational

Experiencing the Blue Cave

One of the highlights of visiting Meis (Kastellorizo) Island is the opportunity to explore the mesmerizing Blue Cave, a natural wonder that captivates visitors with its breathtaking display of vibrant blue hues.

To experience the Blue Cave, visitors can book a guided boat tour, which takes them into the cave’s enchanting interior. The tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the cave’s remarkable features:

• The cave’s walls reflect the sun’s rays, creating a stunning, aquamarine glow that bathes the entire space.
• Visitors can swim or snorkel in the clear, turquoise waters, allowing them to fully enjoy the cave’s serene beauty.
• The cave’s unique geological formation and lighting conditions make it a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visiting Historical Churches

Alongside the natural wonders of Meis (Kastellorizo) Island, visitors can also explore its rich historical and religious heritage by visiting several notable churches.

The island’s most famous is the Church of St. Constantine and St. Helen, a 13th-century Orthodox church that features stunning Byzantine-style architecture and intricate frescoes.

Another significant site is the Church of St. George and St. Haralampos, which houses ancient catacombs that provide a glimpse into the island’s early Christian history.

These historic religious structures offer visitors a chance to delve deeper into Meis’ cultural and spiritual legacy, complementing the island’s natural beauty and archaeological treasures.

Discovering Aya Georgia Beach

Although the Church of St. Constantine and St. Helen and the Church of St. George and St. Haralampos captivate visitors with their historical and architectural significance, another highlight of Meis (Kastellorizo) Island is the picturesque Aya Georgia Beach, which offers a serene escape from the island’s bustling attractions.

Accessible by boat, Aya Georgia Beach boasts crystal-clear waters and a tranquil ambiance, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation.

Visitors can also:

• Explore the nearby sea caves and rock formations
• Enjoy a leisurely picnic on the beach’s sandy shores
• Indulge in a rejuvenating swim in the refreshing waters

Dependent Island Economy

Meis (Kastellorizo) Island’s economy heavily relies on tourism, fisheries, sheep, and goat farming, as the small population of 425 residents depends on these industries for their livelihoods. The island’s remote location and limited resources make it challenging to sustain a diverse economy, leading to its classification as a "dependent island economy." This dependency is evident in the following breakdown of the island’s primary economic activities:

Industry	Contribution
Tourism	Significant
Fisheries	Moderate
Sheep/Goat Farming	Minor
Other	Negligible

Despite these constraints, the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage continue to attract visitors, providing a vital source of income and employment for the local community.

Arriving and Departing Meis

Travelers journeying to Meis (Kastellorizo) Island depart from the Turkish town of Kas, with ferries making the roughly 30-minute crossing several times daily.

Depending on the ferry schedule, the trip typically departs Kas between 8:45 and 9:00 AM, arriving in Meis around 9:20 AM.

For the return journey, the ferry leaves Meis at 4:00 PM, allowing visitors ample time to explore the island’s highlights:

• Visiting the Museum Mosque, Castle of the Knights of St. Jean, and other historical sites
• Exploring the natural wonder of the Blue Cave
• Discovering the island’s catacombs and churches

This convenient ferry service makes it easy for day-trippers to experience the unique charm and culture of this picturesque Greek island.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There ATMS or Currency Exchange Facilities on the Island?

Yes, there are ATMs and currency exchange facilities available on Meis (Kastellorizo) Island. Visitors can easily access cash and exchange currencies during their stay on the island, which is an important consideration for planning and managing expenses.

What Is the Best Way to Get Around the Island During the Day?

The best way to get around Meis (Kastellorizo) Island during the day is by walking. The island’s small size and compact layout make it easy to explore on foot, allowing visitors to discover its historical sites and scenic spots at their own pace.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks or Are There Restaurants on the Island?

Visitors can bring their own food and drinks, as there are several restaurants and cafes on Meis (Kastellorizo) Island. However, locals recommend trying the island’s traditional cuisine and seafood options available at the various dining establishments.

Are There Any Hiking Trails or Scenic Viewpoints on the Island?

There are several scenic hiking trails on Meis (Kastellorizo) Island, offering panoramic views of the island’s picturesque harbor, rugged coastline, and surrounding blue waters. Popular trails lead to historical sites and viewpoints like the Castle of the Knights of St. Jean.

What Is the Dress Code or Attire Recommended for Visiting the Island?

The dress code for visiting Meis (Kastellorizo) Island is casual and comfortable. Visitors should wear lightweight, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes, as the island’s terrain can be uneven. Swimwear is also recommended for those planning to visit the Blue Cave or Aya Georgia Beach.

Recap

Meis Island offers a captivating day trip from Kas, allowing visitors to enjoy its rich history and natural beauty.

From exploring the Museum Mosque and Castle to marveling at the mesmerizing Blue Cave, the island provides ample opportunities to discover its architectural and archaeological wonders.

With historical churches, Aya Georgia Beach, and a dependent island economy, Meis Island is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic cultural experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: