Where to stay in Kimolos: The best areas and 14 accommodations

Kimolos is one of the few Cycladic islands that has managed to retain its authenticity, despite its increasing popularity in recent years. It is located next to Milos, but has a completely different character, quieter and less touristy.

The choice of area to stay mainly depends on whether you prefer to be near the port, in the picturesque Chorio with its alleys, or in one of the quieter coastal areas like Aliki and Goupa.

Below you will find a detailed presentation of the island's four main areas, with advantages, disadvantages, and specific accommodation suggestions to help you plan your stay.

What to see and do in Kimolos

Kimolos covers an area of approximately 38 square kilometres and is located at the southwestern edge of the Cyclades, just 1.5 nautical miles from Milos. The short distance allows for an easy day trip between the two islands, with a small boat completing the journey in about 20 minutes. Its name is linked to the word 'chalk', as the island was known for its deposits of chalk since antiquity.

Historically, Kimolos has been inhabited since the Neolithic era, with significant archaeological finds uncovered in the Ellinika area, where the ruins of an ancient city are partly submerged in the sea. The medieval Kastro (castle) in the centre of Chorio, built in the 15th century for protection against pirate raids, remains one of the island's most distinctive features, with houses built close together and internal courtyards.

Access to Kimolos is exclusively by sea, either by direct ferry from Piraeus, a journey that takes approximately four and a half to five hours, or via Milos with the small local boat from Pollonia. There is no airport on the island, so the most common route for many visitors is to fly to Milos and then take the small caïque to Kimolos.

The island's beaches are among its greatest assets, with Chrissi Ammos and Mavro Spilio standing out for their unusual colours and formations due to the volcanic origin of the terrain. Prastou beach is more organised, while several smaller beaches remain accessible only by boat or after a hike.

Regarding food, Kimolos has its own tradition with local cheeses such as xinomyzithra, as well as fresh seafood from local fishermen. In Chorio and Psathi, you will find most tavernas, and the local cuisine strongly maintains its Cycladic character with few influences from neighbouring Milos.

Seasonality is pronounced, with July and August seeing the highest traffic, mainly due to the island's growing reputation as an alternative destination. June and September offer better prices and fewer crowds, while in winter the island returns to the slow pace of local daily life with very few shops open.

The island is approximately 87 nautical miles from Piraeus, a distance that explains the long duration of the sea journey with a direct route. Its small size and limited population, around 900 permanent residents, have kept Kimolos away from the mass tourist development that neighbouring Milos has experienced in recent years, even though the two islands are separated by a narrow strait of just 1.5 miles.

Beyond the well-known beaches, Polyegos is also worth a visit; an uninhabited island opposite Kimolos with impressive rock formations and crystal-clear waters, accessible only by daily boat trips in summer. The trip around Polyegos is one of the most popular activities for those staying in Kimolos for more than two or three days and seeking something different from the beach.

Distances within the island are short, which facilitates getting around even without a car: from Psathi to Chorio is about 1 km, while to Aliki it is 4 km. Many visitors choose to rent a moped or ATV to reach more easily the remote beaches of the north, such as Mavro Spilio, where the road is partly a dirt track.

The best areas to stay in Kimolos

Psathi

Psathi is the port of Kimolos and sees the most arrivals and departures. It has its own small beach within the settlement and several dining options right by the water.

It is a good choice for those who want direct access to the port, without losing the Cycladic atmosphere, as Chorio is just a few minutes' walk away.

Advantages:

• Close to the port, ideal for easy arrival and departure
• Beach within the settlement
• Several tavernas with sea views

Disadvantages:

• Less picturesque than Chorio
• Some areas can be busy during ship arrivals

Recommended accommodations:

1. Psathi Beach House
A traditional house right on Psathi beach, with views of the Aegean and Polyegos. A few steps from tavernas and cafés.

• Average cost: approximately €140 per night

2. Milaki Kimolos
Simple and clean accommodation near the port, a good choice for those seeking a practical base without high costs.

• Average cost: approximately €95 per night

3. Psathi Blue Alpha
An apartment with excellent reviews, in a quiet spot near the beach, ideal for couples.

• Average cost: approximately €110 per night

4. Themonia Studios Kimolos
Studios with very good reviews, in a quiet location near Agios Mamas, a few minutes from Psathi.

• Average cost: approximately €105 per night

Chorio

Chorio is the capital of Kimolos, built around its 15th-century medieval castle. The white houses, narrow streets, and small squares offer an authentic image of a Cycladic settlement, without extensive tourist development.

It does not have direct beach access, but it is an excellent base for evening strolls, dining, and visiting the local museum.

Advantages:

• Authentic Cycladic atmosphere
• Many good restaurants and cafés
• Close to the castle and sights

Disadvantages:

• No beach, requires transport
• Limited parking spaces in summer

Recommended accommodations:

5. Kambos House
An apartment in a traditional building near Chorio, with excellent reviews and a quiet environment.

• Average cost: approximately €120 per night

6. Alisea Resort
Modern accommodation near Chorio, with spacious areas and good access to the surrounding beaches.

• Average cost: approximately €130 per night

7. Echinousa Kimolos Katoikia No5
A ground-floor residence with full amenities, near the island's centre, suitable for families.

• Average cost: approximately €115 per night

8. Sirma Beach House
A traditional house with modern comforts, near Chorio, ideal for couples seeking tranquillity.

• Average cost: approximately €125 per night

Aliki

Aliki is located on the southern side of the island and takes its name from the old salt pans that operated there. It features one of Kimolos's largest sandy beaches, with shallow waters suitable for families.

It is a quieter area compared to Psathi, with fewer but quite good accommodation and dining options.

Advantages:

• Large sandy beach with shallow waters
• Quiet atmosphere
• Good choice for families with children

Disadvantages:

• Distance from Chorio and the port
• Fewer options for nightlife

Recommended accommodations:

9. Alikaki Kimolos
An apartment near Aliki beach, with a simple layout and good value for the area.

• Average cost: approximately €100 per night

10. KR Apartments
Apartments a few metres from the beach, suitable for families who want direct access to the sea.

• Average cost: approximately €105 per night

11. Evita Apartments
A beachfront accommodation with a simple but functional layout, ideal for small families.

• Average cost: approximately €110 per night

Goupa

Goupa is a small fishing village, known for its so-called Goupa houses, small storerooms carved into the rock that were once used for fishermen's boats. Today many have been converted into holiday homes.

It is a quieter and more picturesque corner of the island, suitable for those looking for something different from the classic settlements.

Advantages:

• Unique architecture and photographic interest
• Quiet, authentic atmosphere
• Close to Chorio

Disadvantages:

• Very limited accommodation options
• No organised beach

Recommended accommodations:

12. Thalassa Beach House
A seaside residence near Zacharia beach, with simple aesthetics and a quiet environment, close to Goupa.

• Average cost: approximately €135 per night

13. Seaside Residence Kiki Prassa
An apartment with sea views, in a quiet location near Goupa, suitable for couples.

• Average cost: approximately €115 per night

14. Thalasea Kimolos
Accommodation with a simple layout, near Aliki and Goupa, a good choice for a short stay.

• Average cost: approximately €100 per night

Practical tips for your stay

• Organise your trip via Milos. If you don't find a direct ferry from Piraeus, travelling via Milos and a small caïque is the most common solution.
• Book early for August. Demand for accommodation has significantly increased in recent years, especially during peak August.
• Consider renting an ATV or car. Several beaches are far from the settlements and only accessible by vehicle.
• Try local products in Chorio. Xinomyzithra cheese and local sweets are among the island's most characteristic products.
• Visit Milos for a day. The short distance allows for an easy day trip with the local boat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Kimolos?

By direct ferry from Piraeus, taking approximately four and a half to five hours, or via Milos with a small local boat.

Do I need a car in Kimolos?

It's not essential for Chorio and Psathi, but it helps a lot to reach more remote beaches.

Which area is best for families?

Aliki, due to its large sandy beach with shallow waters.

Is there an airport in Kimolos?

No, access is exclusively by sea, mainly via Milos.

When is the best time to visit?

June and September offer good weather with fewer crowds compared to July and August.

Where should I stay if I want to be near the port?

Psathi is the best option, as it is right next to the island's port.

The conclusion

Kimolos remains one of the most authentic Cycladic islands, ideal for those who want to avoid large tourist crowds without sacrificing the beauty of the Aegean. The choice of area mainly depends on whether you prefer the practicality of the port or the tranquillity of the smaller settlements.

Whichever area you choose, the island's small size allows for easy transport, while its proximity to Milos offers the opportunity to visit another island within the same trip.

See also our guides on where to stay in Sikinos and where to stay in Zacharo.