FAQs ABOUT KASTELLORIZO

The ferry journey from Kas to Kastellorizo is extremely short, taking between 7 to 25 minutes depending on the vessel type. High-speed ferries complete the crossing in as little as 7 minutes, while conventional ferries take around 20-25 minutes.

This is one of the shortest international ferry crossings in the Mediterranean, as the distance between the two ports is only 1 nautical mile (approximately 2 kilometers).

You may also check How to Get to Kastellorizo section for detailed information.

Ferries typically depart from Kas to Kastellorizo at 09:20 in the morning, with the return ferry from Kastellorizo departing at 18:00. During peak summer season (June-September), there may be up to 3 daily crossings with additional departure times.

Evening ferry services are also available on select days (Wednesdays and Saturdays), departing Kas at 18:00 and returning at 23:00. Schedules vary by season and operator, so always verify current times before traveling.

Please also check Kas Kastellorizo Ferry Departures for detailed information.

Ferry ticket prices for the Kas-Kastellorizo route 25€ for one-way and daily return tickets for adults. Round-trip tickets typically cost 33€ for adults.

Children discount is also available for 0-5 and 6-12 ages.

Please check Kas Kastellorizo Ferry Tickets for ticket rates.

The main ferry operators on the Kas-Kastellorizo route are Meis Ferry Lines and Meis Express. Both companies provide regular services with modern, high-speed vessels designed for short international crossings. These operators use both fast ferries and conventional vessels depending on the season and demand.

Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Turkish citizens with ordinary (red) passports require a valid Schengen visa to enter Greece, including Kastellorizo. However, Turkish citizens with green (service) or special passports can enter without a visa.

EU citizens can travel with just a valid ID card or passport. Non-EU citizens should check Schengen visa requirements for their specific nationality. Note that Turkish citizens with Northern Cyprus (TRNC) stamps in their passports may be denied entry.

From June to September, there are about 24-39 weekly crossings, while from October to May, the route operates with around 3-4 sailings per week.

You may check Kas Kastellorizo Ferry Departures for more information.

No, ferries operating between Kas and Kastellorizo do not have car decks and cannot transport vehicles. The route is served exclusively by passenger ferries designed for short crossings.

However, this isn't a disadvantage as Kastellorizo is a very small island (only 9 km²) where all points of interest are within easy walking distance from the main port and village.

It's strongly recommended to arrive at least 60 minutes (1 hour) before your scheduled departure time. This allows sufficient time for passport control, customs procedures, and check-in.

During peak summer season, the port can become very busy, and longer queues may form. Some operators require you to check in and complete formalities even earlier, particularly for evening departures.

Yes, you can easily buy ferry ticket online through our website.

All passengers must carry a valid passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond travel date) for this international crossing. EU/Greek citizens may use their national ID card instead. Non-EU citizens need a passport and may require a Schengen visa depending on travel direction and nationality.

You'll also need your ferry ticket confirmation (printed or digital). Turkish citizens whose passports contain entry and exit stamps for the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) are not permitted to enter Greece by the Greek authorities.

Yes, ferry operators allow pets on board. You'll need to carry necessary pet documentation, including a pet passport with required vaccinations. If traveling with a pet, you must inform the ferry company in advance, carry all necessary documentation, and take full responsibility for your pet.

Due to the very short journey time (7-25 minutes), ferries offer basic but comfortable amenities. You'll find air-conditioned seating areas, open decks for viewing the Mediterranean Sea, and snack bars on some vessels serving light refreshments and drinks.

Cabins are not available given the brief crossing time. All ferries provide comfortable deck-lounge seating included in your ticket price.

Absolutely! Day trips are extremely popular and convenient due to the short crossing time. The typical schedule allows you to depart Kas at 09:20, spend approximately 6-8 hours exploring Kastellorizo, and return at 18:00, giving you plenty of time to visit the island's attractions including the Blue Cave, Red Castle, colorful harbor, and charming streets.

While planning your trip to Kastellorizo, you may find our Kastellorizo Island Guide section very helpful for planning your day or short stay.

The Kas ferry port is conveniently located just a short walk from the town center, right by the harbor. It's easily accessible on foot from most hotels and accommodations in Kas.

The port area is surrounded by seaside cafés, restaurants, bars, and shops, with local attractions like the Kas Amphitheater nearby. The port facilities include passport control, customs, and basic amenities.

Yes, there is a 1-hour time difference. Greece (Kastellorizo) is 1 hour behind Turkey (Kas). When it's 10:00 in Kas, it's 09:00 in Kastellorizo. Remember to adjust your watch when crossing the border to avoid confusion with return ferry times and scheduling your day on the island.

Ferry companies operating this route have flexible luggage policies with no strict size or weight restrictions. You can bring your luggage with you and either keep it beside you or store it in designated luggage areas on board.

While there are no explicit limits, it's recommended not to bring more than 50 kg of luggage per person to ensure smooth boarding and a comfortable journey.

While same-day ticket purchases are possible at the port, it's strongly discouraged, especially during summer months (June-September). Ferries can sell out quickly during peak season, and advance booking ensures you secure your spot.

The best time depends on your preferences. Summer (June-September) offers the most frequent service, warm weather ideal for swimming, and a vibrant atmosphere, but expect crowds.

Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and a more peaceful experience. Book 1-2 months in advance for summer travel, or a few days ahead for shoulder season trips.

Yes, Turkish citizens born in Northern Cyprus (as mentioned on their passport) or those with Northern Cyprus entry stamps may be denied entry to Chios due to international disputes between Greece and Northern Cyprus. Check your passport carefully before booking to avoid refund issues.

Ferry services may be delayed or canceled due to adverse weather conditions, particularly strong winds, rough seas, or storms. Winter months (November-February) see the highest risk of weather-related disruptions.

Ferry operators prioritize passenger safety and will notify passengers of cancellations in advance when possible. In case of cancellation, tickets can typically be rescheduled for the next available sailing at no extra charge.

Ferries arrive at the main port of Kastellorizo in Megisti Bay, located on the island's northeastern coast. The port is right in the heart of the island's only settlement, with the colorful harbor surrounded by neoclassical houses, restaurants, cafés, shops, and hotels.

Everything is within easy walking distance, and you'll immediately be immersed in the island's charming Mediterranean atmosphere.

Our cancellation and refund policy depends on when you notify us of your cancellation.

Please kindly check "Legal Notes" section.

Our cancellation and refund policy depends on when you notify us of your cancellation.

Please kindly check "Legal Notes" section.

Generally, Kas Kastellorizo ferry tickets are non-refundable. The terms explicitly state that passengers have no right of withdrawal and tickets are non-refundable.

Please kindly check "Legal Notes" section.

Yes, you may request a one-time free date change up to 24 hours before the departure time. Changes requested within 24 hours of departure may be subject to restrictions. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to modify your booking.

Yes, you can change your Kas Kastellorizo ferry tickets to open ticket by contacting us at least 24 hours before the departure time. However, these tickets must be used within the same calendar year.

Refunds are always issued to the same credit card that you used for your booking. Depending on your bank, it usually takes 2-7 business days for the refund to be processed and for the funds to appear in your bank account.

Generally, tickets are company-specific, so you would likely need to cancel and rebook with a different operator.

Yes! Children discount is also available for 0-5 and 6-12 ages.

Please check Kas Kastellorizo Ferry Tickets section for more details.

If you are studying in a higher education institution, you can have the relevant discount during your booking. Please note that you will be asked to show your student card before check-in, so make sure that you bring it with you on the day of your trip.

The trip may be canceled or postponed due to reasons beyond the Company's control, such as bad weather and sea conditions, strikes, technical malfunctions, war, natural disasters, or official decisions. In this case, the passenger can only change their ticket to a different date, subject to availability; no refund or compensation will be paid.

Meander Feribot collaborates with ferry companies operating routes throughout the Aegean Sea. We currently offer:

ferry to Lesvos from Ayvalik,
ferry to Lesvos from Aliaga,
ferry to Chios from Cesme,
ferry to Samos from Kusadasi,
ferry to Kos from Bodrum,
ferry to Kos from Turgutreis,
ferry to Rhodes from Marmaris
ferry to Kastellorizo from Kas.

You can book ferry tickets online on meanderferibot.com in just a few quick and easy steps. Booking a ferry has never been simpler! Here’s how it works:

1. You choose departure and destination ports, one-way or return tickets and travel dates. You can also select the number of passengers. Click on the 'Search' button to proceed to step 2.

2. In step 2, all available ferry crossings and itineraries will be displayed. Please select the itinerary that you prefer and click 'Buy Your Ticket'.

3. In step 3, uou will have to provide contact details for the lead passenger and enter the passenger details along with credit card details. Now you will click 'Pay Now' button. You will be redirected to our bank's secure payment gateway to complete your booking.

Your ferry tickets are booked! We will send you a booking confirmation email with your booking details and all the necessary information for your trip. Enjoy your holidays!

Yes, it's recommended to buy Kas Kastellorizo ferry tickets early and make advance reservations to guarantee your booking, especially during peak summer season.

Once you have made a payment and your booking has been successfully completed, you will be redirected to the booking confirmation page, where you will find your booking details. You will also receive a booking confirmation email with all the necessary information for your trip.

You can book ferry tickets through our website or by visiting our office up to 1 hour before departure.

No, it is not necessary to confirm the departure time of your ferry, as it is uncommon for ferry schedules to change. We thus recommend that you check your email once on the day before your departure and once on the day of your ferry trip.

You can also contact us the day before your trip to get the latest information on schedule changes and delays.

Yes, we offer special rates for group bookings, but advance booking is required, especially during the peak summer season (July-August), to ensure availability and secure the best rates.

For tailored group rates and assistance, please contact us and our team will get back to you promptly.

You can use e-tickets on your phone.

Passengers should arrive at least 60 minutes before departure Kas to kastellorizo (All Ports). During busy summer periods, arriving at least 1 hour early is highly recommended. Please make sure that you allow enough time for check-in and other procedures on international ferry routes.

It is important to note that if you arrive late for check-in or boarding, you may not be allowed to travel. In this case, you will most likely not get a refund.

You can easily make a request for the confirmation email to be re-sent to you by contacting us.

Ferries to Kastellorizo depart from the small port of Kas, just a short walk from the town center. The port area features seaside cafés, restaurants, small shops, bars, and attractions like the Kas Amphitheater.

Be prepared to present a valid travel document (ID or passport). The company reserves the right to deny boarding if these documents are not provided. You will first go through check-in at the operator's office and you will continue with custom and passport control procedures before boarding.

Ferry tickets are nominative and require personal details including full name, gender, nationality, and date of birth for issuance. Ferry companies are required by law to record specific details of every passenger traveling for international crossings for customs and immigration purposes.

Kastellorizo is most famous for its stunning Blue Cave, one of the largest and most impressive sea caves in the Mediterranean.

The island gained worldwide recognition as the filming location for the 1991 Oscar-winning Italian film "Mediterraneo." Its picturesque horseshoe-shaped harbor, lined with colorful pastel neoclassical mansions, makes it one of the most photographed spots in the Aegean.

Located just 800 meters from the Turkish coast, it's Greece's easternmost and most remote inhabited island.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Kastellorizo.

The Blue Grotto is a vast sea cave measuring 75 meters long, 40 meters wide, and 35 meters tall. It's accessible only by small boat through a narrow opening when the sea is calm, and features stunning stalactites.

Named phokiali (seal's refuge) by locals, when viewed at the right angle, the sun lights up the cave in spectacular shades of blue. Many visitors swim inside the cave, which contains hundreds of stalactites.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Kastellorizo.

Blue Cave tours typically cost around €10-15 per person and often include a visit to St. George Island beach where you can spend time swimming before being picked up. The entire tour usually takes about an hour, with boat captains providing plenty of time inside the cave for swimming and photos.

The cave has a very short entrance, and to get inside you must lie flat on the floor of the boat so it can pass through the narrow opening. If there's even a small wave, you can't enter by boat but can dive into the sea and swim in instead. The best time to visit is around 11 in the morning when the blue color is most spectacular.

The Red Fortress was built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century and overlooks the harbor, giving the island its name "Kastellorizo" (Red Castle). The castle was built on a reddish rock above the port with high double walls and battlements. It now houses the archaeological museum and offers breathtaking views of the harbor below.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Kastellorizo.

The museum displays sculptures from the early Christian period, stone anchors and amphorae found in the sea, early Christian sculpture, texts by travelers, detached frescoes from the church of St. Nicholas, portable icons, miniature objects, traditional costumes, embroidery, ceramics, and folk art.

The Lycian tomb dates from the 4th century BC and is cut into the rock face with a temple-style façade, originally decorated with carvings and paintings. Although there are similar tombs in Turkey, this is the only one found in Greece.

It has an Ionic façade that overlooks the sea and serves as proof of the close relationship between local people and the Lycians of Asia Minor.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Kastellorizo.

Kastellorizo doesn't have any real beaches, but there are plenty of places to swim, including the harbor itself with ladders into the water. The island has no sandy beaches, but its crystal-clear waters are ideal for diving from rocks or small platforms found in many parts of the island.

The most popular swimming spots are at the two ends of the settlement.

St. George is a small islet just off Mandraki harbor featuring a little chapel and a great bay with turquoise waters. It's an ideal place for swimming and snorkeling, with a snack bar available. You need to hire a daily water taxi service from Kastellorizo's harbor to reach it. Most Blue Cave tours include a stop here.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Kastellorizo.

Yes! Look out for sea turtles swimming by in the waters around Kastellorizo. Endangered loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) breed across the bay in Kas, Turkey, so you often see them in the waters around the island.

Paleokastro is an early settlement with ruins including ancient churches dating back to the 3rd or 4th century AD. The hill features the ruins of the ancient acropolis with impressive Cyclopean walls, ancient water tanks, and ruins of buildings and temples. A stone-built path with steps leads up to this important cultural attraction, offering impressive views.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Kastellorizo.

The island is ideal for hiking trails ranging from 1.5 to 5.5 km. All paths are accessible on foot, and old paths remain to this day. You can walk along the entire 19-kilometer coastline. Popular hikes include routes to St. George Monastery, Paleokastro, and the Monastery of Agios Georgios tou Vounou.

The Monastery Agios Giorgis Vounou is a deserted monastery located above Mandraki harbor with fortified architecture. The stone-built main church features a carved iconostasis and impressive mosaic floor.

According to inscriptions, it was renovated by Agios Anthimos from Kefalonia in 1759 and offers panoramic views.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Kastellorizo.

The 1755 mosque with its minaret and red dome houses the Historical Collection of Kastellorizo, showcasing documents, heirlooms, and pictures from the island's history (19th century up to mid-20th century).

There's also the Archaeological Museum inside the castle and a Folk Art Museum in the old mosque.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Kastellorizo.

Mandraki is a neighboring area east of the main harbor of Kastellorizo. It takes just 15 minutes to walk there following the stone path around the headland next to the mosque, with views out to the tiny islet of Psoradia with its ruined buildings. Mandraki was once the island's second harbor and shipyard.

Yes, you can take a day trip to the small resort of Kas on the south Turkish coast. Ferries run regularly between Kastellorizo and Kas, making it easy to explore both sides of the border. The ferry journey takes about 20-30 minutes, and you'll need your passport for border control.

Ro is a small islet located southwest of Kastellorizo. The "Lady of Ro" was Despoina Achladioti, whose mother and husband were the only inhabitants in the modern history of the islet. Today it's used as a border outpost, continuing the Lady of Ro's tradition of raising the Greek flag.

The horseshoe-shaped harbor is lined with pretty red-roofed, pastel buildings. At one end is the island's former mosque and ruined castle, and at the other is a row of small hotels. The colorful stately houses are built on the hillside in Dodecanetian architectural style with cobblestone alleys and staircases.

The Oscar-winning Italian WWII drama "Mediterraneo" (1991) was set and filmed in Kastellorizo, bringing the island international fame. The film won the Best Foreign Language Film Academy Award in 1992 and significantly boosted tourism to the island.

The island's waters teem with vibrant sea life, attracting scuba divers and marine enthusiasts from around the world. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling, diving, and swimming. You can rent boats to explore the coastline and visit hidden coves and smaller islands.

Popular diving and snorkeling locations include Plakes, Faros, and Kavos. The waters are full of fish and a variety of submarine creatures, providing unforgettable underwater experiences. The Blue Cave is also said to be inhabited by rare Mediterranean monk seals.

The best time to visit Kastellorizo is between May and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. The island has a mild climate, making it pleasant almost year-round. Visit in the early morning for the best Blue Cave experience when the lighting is optimal.

Kastellorizo is accessible by air via Kastellorizo Public Airport (KZS), with small aircraft flights from Rhodes taking about 30 minutes.

Ferry services operate from Rhodes (4-5 hours) 2-3 times per week. You can also take a ferry to Kastellorizo from Kas which takes just 20 minutes, making it a popular option for day-trippers.

The best time to visit is from May to October, with peak season in July and August. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Winter can be quiet with limited services and ferry connections, though the island maintains its authentic charm.

Kastellorizo is part of Greece and the EU Schengen zone. EU citizens need only a valid ID card. Visitors from the US, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

The Euro (€) is the official currency. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels and restaurants, but the island is small, so it's highly recommended to bring sufficient cash as ATM availability is limited and can run out during peak season.

Greek is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, as the island is very tourism-oriented. Many locals also speak some Turkish due to proximity to Turkey.

Kastellorizo is tiny (only 9 km²), and the main settlement is compact and easily walkable. There are no car rentals available, and none are needed. Water taxis operate to nearby beaches and the famous Blue Cave. Everything in the main town is within 10-15 minutes walking distance.

No, absolutely not necessary. In fact, car rentals don't exist on Kastellorizo due to the island's tiny size. The entire main settlement is walkable, and water taxis can take you to beaches and attractions around the coast.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Kas-Kastellorizo.

There is typically one ATM in the main harbor area, but it can run out of cash during peak season or experience technical issues. It's strongly advised to bring sufficient euros with you, as the nearest alternative is a flight or ferry ride away.

Shops generally open from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Restaurants open for lunch around noon and dinner from 7:00 PM onwards. During off-season, hours are more flexible and some establishments may close. Many places close on Sunday afternoons.

Tap water is generally safe but may have a slightly different taste due to the island's water supply system. Most locals and visitors prefer bottled water, which is readily available. It's wise to stay well-hydrated, especially in summer.

Kastellorizo uses Type C and Type F plugs with a standard voltage of 230V and frequency of 50Hz. Visitors from the US, UK, and other countries will need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter.

Yes, Kastellorizo is extremely safe. It's a small community where everyone knows each other, and crime is virtually non-existent. The island has a peaceful, friendly atmosphere. Standard travel precautions apply, but you'll find it very secure.

Pack light summer clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. Bring a light jacket for boat trips and evening breezes. Modest clothing for visiting churches. Important: bring any prescription medications and a basic first-aid kit, as medical facilities are limited.

Kastellorizo has a small medical center for basic healthcare and emergencies. For serious medical issues, patients are transported to Rhodes by helicopter or boat. The nearest full hospital is in Rhodes. EU citizens should bring their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Travel insurance is highly recommended.

The European emergency number is 112.

Specific numbers include:

Police: 100
Ambulance: 166
Fire Department: 199
Coast Guard: 108

Most tourist accommodations have emergency contact information readily available.

Mobile coverage is generally good in the main settlement and harbor area. Coverage may be weaker in remote coastal areas. Major Greek carriers include Cosmote, Vodafone, and Wind. EU visitors can use their phones without roaming charges.

Tourist information is available at travel agencies near the harbor, hotels, and guesthouses. The local municipality office can provide information. Given the island's small size, locals are very helpful and happy to provide directions and recommendations.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, leaving 5-10% or rounding up the bill for good service is customary. For water taxi services, rounding up the fare is appreciated. Given the small community, good service is personal and tipping is a nice gesture.

Drone use in Greece requires registration and adherence to strict regulations. Kastellorizo has a castle and archaeological sites where drone use is prohibited. Given its proximity to Turkish territorial waters, extra caution is needed. Always check current regulations and obtain necessary permissions.

Kastellorizo has limited beach access due to its rocky coastline. Most swimming areas are accessed by water taxi. The main swimming spots are free, though you may rent sunbeds at some locations. Popular spots include Mandraki and Plakes beach, both accessible by boat.

Standard EU customs regulations apply. If arriving from Turkey, declare purchases and be aware of duty-free limits. Antiquities cannot be exported. Prescription medications should be accompanied by a doctor's note. Be mindful of restrictions when crossing between Greece and Turkey.

Accessibility can be challenging. The harbor area is relatively flat, but many accommodations require climbing stairs. The waterfront promenade is accessible, but boats to beaches and caves are not wheelchair-friendly. Streets are narrow with uneven surfaces.

Travelers with mobility issues should research specific accommodations carefully and contact them in advance.

You may also visit Kastellorizo Island Guide for planning your trip to this island.

Kastellorizo's traditional costumes were elaborate and richly decorated, made with brilliantly colored fabric featuring heavy gold embroidery. Women wore multiple necklaces, unique ring-brooches, pendants, and earrings fashioned from ancient Venetian or Byzantine gold coins. There were at least three types of women's dress, partly influenced by Muslim traditions.

The complete costume included a chemise (poukamiso), pantaloons (kontovrakes), vest (zeponi), sleeveless jacket (kavathi), button brooch (mpoukles), sash (zosma), coat (gouna), hat (pappazi), shawl (mandili), and slippers (kontoures).

Jewelry was critical to the traditional Kastellorizian economy and social life. Notable pieces include the "Stravoflouri" (gifted to newborns, showing images of birth and resurrection) and the "Boukla," which represents Kastellorizo more than any other piece.

Women would display their wealth by wearing bracelets that often reached up to their elbows and wearing multiple rings on each finger.

Traditional dishes include young goat stuffed with rice and fragrant herbs (oven-baked, especially during Easter), goat stuffed with breadcrumbs called "saytia" (pilaf with onions, mint, and tomato), "salantourmasi" (onions stuffed with rice and aromatic herbs spiced with cumin), octopus meatballs, stuffed squid, and chickpea meatballs (vrithopites).

If you plan to visit Kastellorizo, you may like to take a look at the Kastellorizo Island Guide for the itineraries we have prepared for you.

Katoumari is a signature sweet from Kastellorizo - a round sweet pastry made of dough spirals coiled snail-like into one another, pan-fried and sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon-clove powder. It is considered a "labour of love" and, although time-consuming in preparation, remains a favorite today among Kastellorizians.

Easter is the most significant festival on Kastellorizo, beginning with a midnight church service followed by fireworks and a feast. The entire island is decorated and the atmosphere is electric. According to custom, the resurrection of Christ is celebrated by the priest chanting the gospel in the courtyard and not being admitted back into the church until he shouts "Open the door" three times.

On Easter Sunday, the gospel is read aloud in several different languages and women dance together in the church's courtyard.

If you are interested in participating the celebration and plan to visit Kastellorizo, you may like to take a look at the Kastellorizo Island Guide for the itineraries we have prepared for you.

The Resurrection celebrations last for three days in total, as locals of Kastellorizo have singing and dancing in their blood. Violins and flutes accompany traditional dances, while local treats and delicacies that have the aroma of the Aegean are served.

Papa-Yorgis (Father George) and his shack, Paragka, stand as a symbol of tradition, offering local dishes and drinks. This Easter tradition originated from ship workers celebrating Easter over six days.

Name Days, not birthdays, are celebrated in Greece. Great significance is attached to the name given a child, and the process follows fairly rigid conventions.

Children are never named after parents, but the eldest son is often called after his paternal grandfather and the oldest daughter after her paternal grandmother. Names are usually of religious origin, and each saint has a special feast day.

Following Kastellorizo tradition, both bride and groom embrace the enchanting touch of instrumental music played by local folk musicians during their marriage ceremony.

Known as 'The instruments' in Greece, these music processions accompany them as they walk to the church, creating a memorable journey surrounded by friends and family. Traditional Kastellorizian wedding songs are sung at the Savatovratho (pre-wedding ceremony).

The real name of the Lady of Ro was Despoina Achladioti. She made the islet of Ro famous by raising the Greek flag over the island every day in a symbolic act of resistance during the Nazi Occupation until she died in 1982.

Her patriotic act lasted for 40 years while she lived completely alone on the islet. Today, a statue of the Lady of Ro stands in the main square of Horafia as a monument to her dedication.

The island's gastronomy primarily hinges on fresh fish and seafood abundantly caught in its waters - anchovies, sea bream, red mullet, grouper, swordfish, as well as exceptional tiny shrimp, octopuses, squids, lobsters, and prawns. Fresh fish is delivered daily by local fishermen directly to the tavernas each morning at the harbor.

The 1991 Oscar-winning film "Mediterraneo" was shot on Kastellorizo, catapulting the island from obscurity to world fame. Audiences were entranced not only with its beauty but with the open-heartedness, laid-back ambience and positive energy that shone through on celluloid.

The film highlighted the island on the worldwide tourism map and Platania Taverna, featured in the movie, remains a popular dining spot.

Locals are warm and welcoming. It is customary to greet people with a friendly "Kalimera" (Good morning) or "Kalispera" (Good evening). The island is predominantly Greek Orthodox, and religious traditions play an important role in daily life.

If you would like to experience local island life in Kastellorizo, take a look at the itineraries we have prepared for you in Kastellorizo Island Guide before planning your visit.

Two-storeyed houses painted with vivid colors - not white - climb the hill behind the harbor like tiers in an amphitheatre, with the sea as the stage. These handsome old houses represent Dodecanese architecture at its finest. The Italian influence is evident in the neoclassical mansions that line the waterfront.

The Feast of St. George, the island's patron saint, is celebrated with a grand church service and a procession, featuring traditional music, dancing, and food. Held in August, the Cultural Festival showcases local arts, crafts, and performances, including music concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions.

Many Kastellorizians migrated to Australia, particularly to Perth and Darwin, where a strong diaspora still exists. Today it is estimated that more than 30,000 Australians are of either Kastellorizian origin or parentage. The diaspora has worked to preserve traditional customs, costumes, and food traditions.

Violins and flutes accompany traditional dances during celebrations. Locals of Kastellorizo have singing and dancing in their blood, with festivities featuring traditional music that reflects the island's cultural heritage. Music has always been connected with Greek life - for love, nuptials, festivities, and feasts.

The island is predominantly Greek Orthodox, and religious traditions play an important role in daily life. Church attendance is high, and religious festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm.

The Horafia district serves as Kastellorizo's religious and cultural center, with four churches including the Saint Constantine and Saint Elena cathedral built in 1835.

According to local legend, the Blue Grotto was once inhabited by sea nymphs who would lure sailors with their enchanting voices. Today, it's one of the island's main attractions, known for its mesmerizing blue light.

Another tale tells of a mysterious ghost ship that appears near the island on foggy nights, said to be an Ottoman vessel doomed to sail forever.

The Archaeological Museum exhibits stone anchors, traditional costumes, diver equipment, and religious icons. The last preserved shipyard shows how fishing vessels were made with simple tools, demonstrating the island's inextricable connection with shipbuilding.

The maritime tradition remains central to the island's identity.

Learn more about the must-see sights and experiences on the island in our guide: Places to Visit in Kastellorizo.

Most women on Castellorizo had formal garments, usually received when they came of a certain age and were thought to have reached womanhood. They were also worn during match-making processes and as bridal costumes. Several specialist seamstresses and embroiderers were involved in handmaking these pieces.

Greek food is well-known in Australian culture; however, Kazzie (Kastellorizian) food can differ and include dishes that are not normally part of standard Greek cuisine. Kazzie sweets can be unique, with recipes passed down through generations. The observance of food customs continues in the diaspora communities worldwide.

The observance of customs continues today with many weddings, christenings, and funerals. These reflect Kastellorizian character and origins regardless of where people reside.

Communities continue to cherish traditional wedding songs, Greek Easter celebrations, and other treasures passed down through generations. Cultural associations work to preserve and promote Kastellorizian heritage both on the island and in diaspora communities.