There’s a particular kind of magic to arriving with the ferry on Kimolos for the first time. The ferry pulls into Psathi, the whitewashed houses of Chorio glow warm in the afternoon light, and you realize almost immediately that this isn’t an island that’s been polished up for tourists. Kimolos is one of our favorite islands of the Cyclades.
That untouched character is exactly why so many travelers fall for it. The small island of Kimolos lies next to its larger and better-known sibling, Milos, yet still boasts plenty of sights. But it also means finding the right place to stay takes a little more thought than a quick search would suggest. So let’s walk through where you should actually book, village by village.
Read more: Kimolos Island: a complete guide + one day itinerary
How to get to Kimolos
Kimolos has no airport, so the island is only reached by sea, with the easiest route usually being the short ferry the local ferry (Osia Methodia) from Milos to Psathi, which takes about 10–25 minutes. Check the timetable here.
Direct ferries from Piraeus in Athens also connect to Kimolos, but the trip is much longer, around 4.5 to 7.5 hours, and may stop at other Cyclades islands along the way.
We came with the slower Artemis ferry from Syros. It’s running a couple of times a week between Syros, Paros, Serifos, Sifnos, Kimolos, and Milos, making it the best and cheapest local connection in the region.
Read more: How to get to Kimolos from Milos or Athens
How to get around in Kimolos
Getting around Kimolos is easy, and honestly, it’s part of the charm. The island is small enough that you can explore a lot of it in just one day, unless you plan to hike out to some of the more secluded beaches.
The most convenient way to get around is by rental car, scooter, or ATV. You can usually arrange one in Psathi, right where the ferry arrives, or even bring a vehicle over from Milos. While many of the roads on Kimolos are paved, some beaches and hidden corners are only accessible via dirt roads. That makes a scooter or ATV a great option if you want a bit more freedom.
In summer, a small local bus links Psathi, Chorio, and a few popular beaches like Prassa and Bonatsa, but the timetable can be limited. For the more remote beaches, you can either go on foot or join a boat tour around the island.
Read more: Renting a car in Milos
Before diving into specific hotels, it helps to understand the island’s layout, because where you sleep on Kimolos really shapes your whole trip. The island is small, but each village has its own personality, so picking the right base matters more here than on bigger islands.
- Psathi: the port village, useful if you want to be near the ferry and a handful of tavernas
- Chorio: the atmospheric main town, all narrow lanes and Cycladic charm, a short walk from Psathi
- Aliki: a quieter beachfront spot, ideal if your priority is sand and sea rather than nightlife
- Goupa: known for its colorful fishing houses (syrmata) built right into the rock
- Karras: a low-key alternative for travelers who want to feel a little further off the map
Staying in Chorio and Psathi
If you want to feel like you’re truly living the island rhythm and having a morning coffee in the square, evening strolls past lit-up churches then is Chorio the best placein Kimolos to base yourself. It’s also just a short downhill walk to Psathi, so you get the best of both: village charm by day, easy port access whenever you need it.
Kymolos Vibes Suites is tucked into Chorio. It has Cycladic-style rooms with a view over the rooftops toward the sea, and an owner happy to point you toward the quieter beaches locals actually use. Book a suite with a balcony if you can. You can enjoy sunset over the town square, this view is worth the extra euros.
The Windmill Kimolos in Psathis is one of the most unique places to stay in Kimolos. This beautifully renovated traditional windmill offers a unique charm, stunning views, and a peaceful setting that make it a truly special place to stay. It is located between the port and the beach.
PS Houses Kimolos sits in the heart of Chora, just a few steps from the best things to do in Kimolos. Its excellent location, along with a lovely courtyard, creates a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
Staying Near Goupa’s Fishing Houses
Goupa is one of those places you visit for an afternoon and end up wishing you’d booked a room, thanks to its cluster of colorful syrmata, traditional fishing houses built directly into the coastal rock. A handful of small guesthouses here let you experience that scene at golden hour without the day-trip crowds.
TIP: Book well ahead for July and August, since the island’s small size means rooms disappear fast in peak season
The Elephant Beach House, and Cavo Paradise Kimolos are both beautifull boat houses in Kimolos where you can spend the night.
Staying by the beach in Aliki
If I had to pick one spot to fall asleep to the sound of waves, it would be somewhere in Aliki. You’re steps from a long sandy beach and tavernas turning out some of the island’s best grilled fish, and the pace here slows down considerably compared to Chorio.
Alisea Resort sits right by Aliki beach, and it’s the kind of place where the owners tend to know your name by day two. Ask them about the quieter coves nearby. Just know you’ll want a scooter or small car, since Aliki sits a little removed from the port. The accommodation is next to a a very good tavern, Sardis Restaurant.
Κalamitsi Rooms & Apartments is located a bit further west at Kalamitsi beach. All rooms have seaviews and a balcony. They also have their own tavern at the beach.
To Rantevou tis Alykis Rooms & Apartments has an excellent breakfast. . The rooms are located walking distance from te beach and are super clean.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Kimolos
If I were staying in Kimolos, I would personally choose Chorio. For me, it has the most charm and feels like the true heart of the island, with quiet streets, traditional Cycladic character, and that relaxed atmosphere I always love on a Greek island.
That said, I can also see the appeal of staying near the beaches if you want to be closer to the sea. Areas around Psathi, Prassa, Aliki, or Bonatsa can be a great choice if your ideal stay is more about beach time and easy access to the water. And if you’re drawn to the island’s more traditional coastal scenery, Goupa is a lovely option too, especially for its famous syrmata and photogenic waterfront setting.
No matter where you stay, you’re never too far from the beach!