Nisyros is one of the youngest volcanic islands in the Aegean Sea, located between Kos and Tilos. According to ancient Greek mythology, it was formed during the battle of the gods with the giants: Poseidon broke off a piece of the island of Kos and threw it at the giant Polybotes, creating Nisyros.
A brief history
The island’s history dates back to prehistoric times. In the classical era, Nisyros was part of the Delian League under the rule of Athens. In the Middle Ages, the island belonged to Byzantium, and later it was captured by the Knights Hospitaller of Rhodes. In 1522, Nisyros came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, and in 1912 – by Italy. In 1948, the island became part of Greece.
Individual transfer from/to Kos airport.
Tickets online – fly cheaper – look for flights marked with an offer.
City tours ordered here.
Today, Nisyros is known for its active volcano, authentic villages, and rich cultural heritage.
What to see
Mandraki
The main town of the island, where all ferries arrive, enchants with its authentic atmosphere: narrow cobbled streets, snow-white houses with blue shutters, traditional Greek taverns and a picturesque promenade overlooking the Aegean Sea.
What is worth visiting in Mandraki:
Panagia Spiliani Monastery
This is the main sanctuary of Nisyros, located on a cliff above the town of Mandraki. The monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and its name translates as “Theotokos of the Cave”. Inside, a valuable icon of the Virgin Mary is kept, which is over 600 years old and is believed to have miraculous powers.
What’s special:
- Panoramic view of the sea and the town of Mandraki.
- Atmospheric cave church inside the monastery.
How to get there: You have to climb 130 steps on foot. The monastery is open to visitors, and admission is usually free.
Ilikiou Square
A cozy traditional square in the heart of Mandraki, paved with volcanic stone mosaics. It reflects the local style and atmosphere of the island of Nisyros. Here you can experience real Greek life, watching the locals and tourists.
What’s special:
- Unique volcanic stone mosaic.
- Ancient plane trees that create a pleasant shade.
- Authentic cafes serving Greek coffee and traditional sweets.
Tip: Stop here for a break, try local desserts such as kataifi or baklava, and enjoy the atmosphere of the Greek island.
If you want to stay longer, we recommend staying overnight and enjoying Nisyros in the evening without the crowds of tourists. You can choose a hotel here, where proven accommodation is collected for every taste and budget.
Nisyros Folklore Museum
This small but interesting museum in Mandraki introduces visitors to the traditions, culture and lifestyle of the island’s inhabitants. The exhibition covers the daily life of the Nisyriots, displaying artifacts that reflect local crafts and customs.
What to see:
- Traditional clothing and household items.
- Kitchenware and agricultural tools.
- Reproduction of the interior of a typical Nisyros house.
Tip: The museum is small, so it will take about 30-40 minutes to visit. It is an ideal place to gain a deeper understanding of the island’s culture before visiting other locations.
Stefanos Crater
This is the main natural attraction of Nisyros and one of the largest and best-preserved hydrothermal craters in the world. The diameter of the crater is about 300 meters, and the depth is up to 30 meters. Here you can go down directly into the crater and see fumaroles – holes from which hot gas and steam come out. The surface temperature can reach 100°C, and the air has a characteristic smell of sulfur.
What to know:
Entrance fee: about €5 (free for children).
When to visit: It is best to go in the morning or evening to avoid the heat.
Tip: Take closed shoes – the ground in the crater is hot and unstable in some places.
By tour bus: Departs from Mandraki (cost ~10-15 € as part of a group tour, lasts about 3-4 hours).
By rented car or scooter: The road from Mandraki to the crater takes about 20 minutes (7 km). The roads are well marked, there is convenient parking at the crater.
On foot: There are several hiking trails for hikers, but the path is quite steep and takes 2-3 hours.
Tip: In summer, bring water, sunscreen, and a hat – there is almost no shade in the crater area.
Nikia Village
This is a picturesque village, located at an altitude of 400 meters above sea level, from where one of the best panoramic views of the crater of the Stefanos volcano opens. It is one of the most beautiful villages on the island, which has preserved its traditional Greek flavor.
What to see:
Porta Square is the central square, paved with volcanic stone mosaics. Around it are traditional houses and cozy taverns.
Church of St. John (Agios Ioannis Theologos) – built in the Byzantine style, with a snow-white facade and bright blue accents.
Viewpoint – from the outskirts of the village, a fantastic view of the volcano and the Aegean Sea opens.
Tip: Come here in the evening – the sunset over the volcano creates an incredible atmosphere.
Emporios Village
A small authentic village located 400 meters above sea level. It impresses with its panoramic views of the volcano crater, the Aegean Sea and the neighboring islands. Once an important trading settlement, today it is a quiet place where you can enjoy the atmosphere of traditional Greece.
What to see:
Viewpoint – it offers one of the best views of the volcanic landscape of Nisyros.
Church of Archangel Michael – located on the edge of the village, with a snow-white facade and characteristic blue accents.
Geothermal caves are natural steam caves that create a mini-sauna effect due to hot gases coming out of the ground.
Tip: Check out the local taverna To Balkoni tou Emporiou – it is famous for its authentic dishes and wonderful views.
Nysyros is not only about volcanic landscapes and ancient villages. There are many unique places here that will give you unforgettable impressions. Relaxing on black beaches, swimming in natural thermal springs and getting acquainted with the local cuisine are the three main things to try on the island.
Holiday on black volcanic beaches
Due to the volcanic origin of Nisyros, its beaches are covered with black pebbles or sand, which creates a special atmosphere.
Best beaches:
Pachia Ammos (Pachia Ammos) – a remote beach with fine black sand, which can only be reached on foot or by boat.
Lutra (Loutra Beach hotels near the springs) – a beach near the thermal springs, where hot water mixes with sea water.
Pali (Pali Beach) is an ideal option for a relaxing holiday, with soft black sand and several taverns nearby.
Swimming in thermal springs
Volcanic activity has made Nisyros a real thermal area. The most famous hot springs are:
Thermal baths of Loutra (Loutra Nisyrou) – located near the village of Pali. The water here contains sulfur, has a temperature of up to +45°C and is considered healing.
Tasting local cuisine
Greek cuisine on Nisyros is a blend of traditional Mediterranean dishes with local specialties. The island is famous for its cheeses, baked goods and desserts.
Must try:
Sfougato – a casserole made with zucchini, cheese and herbs.
Kaparosalata – a caper paste spread on bread.
Pittia – fried chickpea flour balls, similar to falafel.
Best Taverns
To Balkoni tou Emporiou (Emporios) is a cozy restaurant in the village of Emporios, which enchants guests not only with authentic Greek cuisine, but also with stunning views of the Nisyros volcano and the Aegean Sea. Real Greek cuisine – prepared from local products according to traditional recipes. Authentic atmosphere – wooden furniture, stone walls and the hospitality of the hosts create a special mood.
What to try: Baked meat with local spices. Greek salad with the freshest vegetables and feta cheese. Local wine and homemade snacks.
Oxos – Restaurant – is an authentic taverna on Nisyros, famous for its traditional Greek cuisine and picturesque views. The establishment is located in a cozy corner of the island, where you can enjoy delicious dishes made from local products, including fresh seafood, tender lamb and homemade wine.
What to try: Sfugato. Local goat cheese – aged and very aromatic. Baked meat in traditional herbs – a special taste thanks to the unique marinade.
The perfect place for dinner after a busy day exploring the island.
Geusea Seafood Restaurant – The restaurant is known for using fish and seafood caught in the waters around Nisyros by local fishermen. Located in the heart of Mandraki, the restaurant offers a pleasant atmosphere for lunch or dinner. In addition to seafood, it serves classic Greek dishes prepared with local ingredients.
What to try: Grilled octopus, fried squid.
Getting there
The ferry from Kos Island is the most convenient way to get to Nisyros. Departures are from the port of Kos Town or Kardameni. Here are the main options:
Regular ferry services
Travel time: 50–70 minutes depending on the type of vessel.
Ticket price: from 10 to 20 euros one way.
Ports of arrival: Mandraki port on Nisyros.
Ferry companies: Dodekanisos Seaways, ANEZ Ferries and other seasonal operators.
One-day organized excursions
Many travel agencies in Kos offer full-fledged tours to Nisyros. They include:
- transfer to the port;
- ferry tickets;
- bus on the island itself;
- guide support;
- visit to the crater of the Stefanos volcano;
- free time in Mandraki.
Tour cost: 20 euros per person. Buy a tour online, entrance ticket to the volcano (€5 per person, paid on site at the volcano)
Tip: If you are traveling on your own, it is better to buy tickets in advance, especially in the season (May-September), when the number of passengers increases significantly.
From Kardamena
There are also daily excursion boats from the village of Kardamena (southern coast of Kos). This is a convenient option for those who live closer to this area.
Nisiros is an ideal day trip from Kos, offering a unique experience and introduction to the volcanic wonder of the Aegean Sea.
Conclusions and advice
Nysyros is a small but unique island where you can see a real active volcano, feel the authentic atmosphere of Greek villages and enjoy the silence of the sea without crowds of tourists.
An ideal option for a day trip from the island of Kos – you will have time to see the main locations, walk by the volcano, drink coffee on the mosaic square in Nikia and taste dishes made from local products.
Shoes – definitely comfortable! Especially for a walk in the crater, where the surface is uneven and there is a lot of dust.
Local cuisine – be sure to try traditional dishes such as sfugato (zucchini pie) or seafood meze.
Best time to visit – May-June and September-October, when it is still warm but not so hot.
Tip: If you have more time, stay on the island overnight. After the day tourists have left, the true peace and charm of Nisyros sets in. You can watch the sunset on the edge of the crater or have dinner overlooking the dark sea.
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