Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Kastelorizo. Kastelorizo Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of KZS:
- Can you legally enter Greece? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Local Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Kastelorizo Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Taxi | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Local Taxi is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Kastelorizo:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at KZS aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Kastelorizo itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What’s Worth Seeing in Kastelorizo
If you head into Kastelorizo, here are two things worth checking out:
Kastelorizo Harbour Stroll is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Kastelorizo Castle is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
If you’d rather stay inside KZS — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- KZS Quiet Waiting Area
- Runway & Island Viewpoint
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Kastelorizo: Restaurant Alexandra and Old Time Stifis. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for KZS Terminal Cafe & Bar or Local Snack Selection. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Sleep & Lounge Options at KZS
Long overnight layover? Your options at KZS include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Greece also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
WiFi at KZS should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Greece and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Kastelorizo with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Kastelorizo may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.