Welcome to Tilos
Tilos is a small Greek island located in the Aegean Sea, between the islands of Rhodes and Kos. With a population of only around 500 people, Tilos is a peaceful and unspoiled destination that offers visitors a chance to experience authentic Greek island life.
The island of Tilos is famed for its natural beauty, boasting pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rugged landscapes. In fact, over two-thirds of the island has been designated as a protected nature reserve, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a serene and tranquil escape.
One of the most popular attractions on Tilos is the stunning Agios Antonios beach. This picturesque beach is characterized by its soft sands and turquoise waters, making it the ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Other must-visit beaches on the island include the secluded island of Eristos and the pebbled beach of Plaka.
Tilos also has an interesting history, with ruins and archaeological sites dating back to ancient times. The most impressive of these is the Castle of the Knights, a medieval fortress that sits atop a hill overlooking the island’s main village of Livadia. Other notable historical sites include the Monastery of Agios Panteleimonas, the ancient acropolis of Tilos, and the ruins of the ancient city of Mikri Policastro.
How to reach it
The easiest way to reach Tilos island is by ferry. There are regular ferry services from the nearby islands of Rhodes and Kos, as well as from the mainland port of Piraeus in Athens.
If you are coming from Athens, you can take a ferry from the port of Piraeus to Rhodes, and then transfer to the Tilos ferry. The journey from Athens to Tilos takes around 12-14 hours, depending on the route and the ferry timetable.
Alternatively, you can fly to Rhodes or Kos, and then take a ferry or a smaller sea taxi to Tilos island. From Rhodes, the journey takes around 2 hours by ferry or 45 minutes by sea taxi. From Kos, it takes around 2.5 hours by ferry.
During the summer months, there are also direct ferry services to Tilos from other nearby islands, including Kalymnos, Symi, and Nisyros.
It’s worth noting that ferry timetables can be subject to change, so it’s important to check the most up-to-date schedules before you travel. It’s also a good idea to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the peak summer season when demand can be high.
Where to stay
Tilos is a small island, but there are several accommodation options for visitors to choose from. Here are some suggestions:
1. Livadia:
Livadia is the main village of Tilos and the most popular destination for tourists. There are several hotels, guesthouses, and apartments to choose from, as well as tavernas, cafes, and bars. Livadia is also home to the island’s main beach, making it a convenient choice for visitors who want to be close to the sea.
2. Megalo Chorio:
Megalo Chorio is the highest village on Tilos and offers stunning views of the island and the Aegean Sea. There are a few traditional guesthouses and villas in the village, providing a more authentic and peaceful experience.
3. Eristos:
Eristos is a quiet and secluded area on the south of the island, with a beautiful sandy beach. There are a few self-catering apartments and studios in the area, as well as a couple of restaurants and cafes.
4. Tilos Camping:
For those who prefer a more budget-friendly option, Tilos Camping is located in the north of the island, near the village of Mikro Chorio. They offer tents for rent, as well as a few bungalows and caravans. The campsite is situated in a scenic location, surrounded by olive groves and with views of the sea.
No matter where you choose to stay on Tilos, you can expect a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, with friendly and welcoming locals.
Highlights: what to see/what to do
There are several highlights of Tilos island that make it a must-visit destination:
1. Nature:
Tilos is known for its natural beauty, with stunning sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rugged landscapes. The island is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna, including rare bird species and endangered endemic plants. There are several hiking trails around the island that offer breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding islands.
2. History:
Tilos has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, with many archaeological sites and ruins to explore. The most impressive of these is the Castle of the Knights, a medieval fortress that sits atop a hill overlooking the island’s main village of Livadia. Other notable historical sites include the Monastery of Agios Panteleimonas, the ancient acropolis of Tilos, and the ruins of the ancient city of Mikri Policastro.
3. Authentic Greek island life:
Tilos is a peaceful and unspoiled destination that offers visitors a chance to experience authentic Greek island life. The island has a laid-back atmosphere, with friendly locals, traditional tavernas, and a relaxed pace of life. It’s the ideal destination for those seeking a quieter and more off-the-beaten-path Greek island experience.
4. Beaches:
Tilos has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Aegean Sea, with soft sands and crystal-clear waters. The most popular beaches include Agios Antonios, a stunning sandy beach with turquoise waters, and Eristos, a secluded and peaceful beach on the south of the island.
5. Food:
The cuisine on Tilos island is delicious and based on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. There are several traditional tavernas and restaurants serving up fresh seafood, grilled meats, and local specialties such as pasteli (a sesame and honey snack), and fava (split pea puree). The island is also known for its homemade wine, olive oil, and honey.
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