{"id":17356,"date":"2026-07-12T01:29:37","date_gmt":"2026-07-12T01:29:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/in-greece.com\/index.php\/2026\/07\/12\/what-to-see-where-to-swim-and-best-places-to-eat-greek-city-times\/"},"modified":"2026-07-12T01:29:37","modified_gmt":"2026-07-12T01:29:37","slug":"what-to-see-where-to-swim-and-best-places-to-eat-greek-city-times","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/in-greece.com\/index.php\/2026\/07\/12\/what-to-see-where-to-swim-and-best-places-to-eat-greek-city-times\/","title":{"rendered":"What to See, Where to Swim and Best Places to Eat \u2013 Greek City Times"},"content":{"rendered":"


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At the easternmost point of Greece, where Europe meets Asia, Kastellorizo<\/strong> (officially known as Megisti<\/strong>) offers a slower, more authentic way of life. With its colourful neoclassical harbour, crystal-clear turquoise waters and rich history, the tiny Dodecanese island has become one of Greece\u2019s most enchanting summer escapes.<\/h3>\n

Unlike Greece\u2019s busier island destinations, Kastellorizo invites visitors to slow down\u2014enjoying leisurely coffees by the harbour, swimming from waterfront platforms and dining on some of the freshest seafood in the Mediterranean.<\/p>\n

A postcard-perfect Greek island<\/h2>\n

The heart of the island is its picturesque harbour, known locally as Kordoni<\/strong>, where brightly painted mansions line the waterfront and fishing boats gently bob in the bay. There are no large beaches here; instead, locals and visitors dive directly into the remarkably clear sea from hotel jetties and stone platforms.<\/p>\n

Despite covering just nine square kilometres, Kastellorizo boasts a fascinating history. Positioned on ancient trading routes linking Syria, Cyprus, Constantinople and Europe, it flourished as a maritime centre during the 19th century before suffering heavy destruction during the Second World War.<\/p>\n

Today, its peaceful atmosphere and beautifully restored architecture make it feel like an open-air film set.<\/p>\n

What to see<\/h2>\n

Kastellorizo is packed with historic landmarks despite its small size.<\/p>\n

The imposing Castle of the Knights<\/strong>, from which the island takes its name, overlooks the harbour and offers spectacular sunset views as its red stone walls glow in the evening light.<\/p>\n

Just below the fortress lies the unique 4th-century Lycian rock-cut tomb<\/strong>, one of the only examples of its kind in Greece.<\/p>\n

Visitors should also explore the impressive Santrapeia School<\/strong>, built in 1903 through a donation from local benefactor Loukas Santrapes, which now houses the island\u2019s Historical and Folklore Museum.<\/p>\n

For breathtaking panoramic views, hike to Paleokastro<\/strong>, the island\u2019s ancient acropolis, or climb the famous 400 stone steps<\/strong> leading to Agios Georgios tou Vounou<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Swim in some of Greece\u2019s clearest waters<\/h2>\n

Kastellorizo is famous for its electric-blue sea and dramatic coastline.<\/p>\n

The island\u2019s biggest natural attraction is the spectacular Blue Cave (Fokiali)<\/strong>\u2014one of the largest sea caves in the Mediterranean. Accessible only by boat early in the morning, the cave dazzles visitors with glowing blue waters, towering white stalactites and exceptional snorkelling.<\/p>\n

Boat excursions also visit the nearby islets of Ro<\/strong> and Agios Georgios<\/strong>, as well as secluded swimming spots including Fotsaliki<\/strong>, Kolones<\/strong>, Arnaoutis<\/strong> and Katrantzis<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

One of Kastellorizo\u2019s greatest pleasures is walking.<\/p>\n

Ancient stone paths criss-cross the island, leading through wild thyme-covered hills, abandoned terraces and dramatic coastal cliffs overlooking the Aegean.<\/p>\n

More adventurous hikers can tackle the island\u2019s 11-kilometre trail, which traverses Kastellorizo from one end to the other before ending at remote Cape Pounentis.<\/p>\n

A gateway to nearby Turkey<\/h2>\n

Due to its unique location just a short distance from the Turkish coast, many visitors also take a day trip to the nearby town of Ka\u015f<\/strong>, where they can browse local markets, enjoy Turkish cuisine and explore the ancient Lycian coastline before returning to Greece the same afternoon.<\/p>\n

Where to eat<\/h2>\n

Kastellorizo\u2019s waterfront is lined with excellent family-run tavernas serving freshly caught seafood and traditional local dishes.<\/p>\n

Among the island\u2019s favourites are:<\/p>\n