10-Day Dodecanese Islands Tour Packages
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Insider tips: Recommended 10-day Dodecanese Islands tour itineraries
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MelissaDodecanese Islands travel expert at TourRadar
10 Day Greek Islands Itinerary, incl. Kos and Patmos
The comprehensive ten-day itinerary includes four nights in Kos, two each in Kalymnos and Leros, and one in Patmos. Each stay reveals Dodecanese heritage, plus an optional volcanic adventure to Nisyros.
- Days 1-2
Kos
Begin in Kos Town. Visit the Asklepieion medical center first thing in the morning at 8:00 AM to avoid the heat since there's little shade at this hillside site. Local buses run every 30 minutes from Kos Town terminal. On your second day check out Neratzia Castle which links to town through a beautiful palm-lined avenue. Visit the castle in the afternoon since the stones can be slippery from morning dew. Wear shoes with good grip.
- Days 3-4
Kalymnos
Take the morning ferry from Kos to Kalymnos. The ride takes 45 minutes. Get to Pothia port 30 minutes early as it can get busy and watch the board for your ferry. While Kalymnos is a rock climbing hotspot even non-climbers should visit the climbing shops in Massouri village for incredible views. Stop by the Sponge Factory Museum to learn about local diving history. "The sponge diving demonstration was fascinating - the traditional equipment they used is mind-boggling. Don't miss the elderly divers' stories."
- Days 5-6
Leros
Take the 9:00 AM ferry to Leros. The trip takes 30 minutes. The main town Platanos sits on steep hills so consider staying in Agia Marina for easier walking. Make time for the War Museum in the Leros tunnel network. Rent a scooter to find hidden beaches like Vromolithos and Alinda. The roads wind a lot so less experienced riders should use taxis instead.
- Day 7
Patmos
Catch an early ferry to Patmos. The trip takes 2 hours. You'll need modest dress for the UNESCO-listed Monastery of St. John. Bring a scarf to cover your shoulders. Visit the Cave of the Apocalypse before 10:00 AM or after 4:00 PM to avoid crowds. "The walk up to the monastery is steep but the sunset views make it worthwhile. Bring water and wear good walking shoes."
- Days 8-9
Back to Kos
Take the 3-hour ferry back to Kos. Consider a day trip to see Nisyros's active volcano crater for €45. The boat leaves Kos harbor at 8:30 AM. The crater gets hot and sulfurous so bring water and a hat. Skip this if you have breathing problems. Spend your last full day at the beaches. Tigaki Beach has gentle waters perfect for swimming.
- Day 10
Departure
Book afternoon flights if possible since morning traffic from Kos Town to the airport can take 45-60 minutes. The airport gets crowded in peak season. Book your taxi transfer a day ahead since they're limited.
- Days 1-2
Rhodes:
Start in Rhodes town and explore the medieval old town's cobblestone streets during cooler morning hours. On day 2, visit Apollona village for local food experiences. Small vendors often only take cash, so come prepared. The cooking class takes 3-4 hours - wear comfortable shoes and light clothing. You can spend the afternoon exploring at your own pace. If you're planning to visit the Lindos Acropolis, go early or late to avoid the crowds and heat.
- Days 3-4
Symi:
Take the morning ferry from Rhodes to Symi (1.5 hours). Pack light for the Kali Strata - you'll climb 500 steps to reach Chorio under the Mediterranean sun. You'll stay in the quiet Pedi Beach area, which offers great swimming spots. The pine forest trail needs sturdy shoes with good grip. The kaiki boat barbecue is a local highlight. Bring a light jacket since evenings on the water can get cool, even in summer.
- Days 5-6
Tilos:
The ferry to Tilos takes about an hour from Symi. The coastal walk to Mikro Chorio needs reasonable fitness levels. Bring plenty of water and sun protection since there's little shade. Watch your step in the ghost village where loose stones are common. For the Megalo Chorio hike, start early to beat the heat and catch the best morning views of Nisyros.
- Days 7-8
Return to Rhodes:
The ferry back to Rhodes takes about 2.5 hours. Spend your last evening in Rhodes' old town when it's quieter and cooler. Book an afternoon flight on day 8 to avoid morning traffic delays to the airport.
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Rhodes Greece
24 miSymi Greece
