Mastichari Village and Port
Charming fishing village and port on Kos, offering a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beach, and easy access to Kalymnos and other island spots.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Mastichari Village and Port
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Charming fishing village and port on Kos, offering a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beach, and easy access to Kalymnos and other island spots.
"Exceptional stay! Spotless rooms and an ideal location. Kosta and Eleni were incredibly hospitable and welcoming."
🚶♀️ Walkable Village
Mastichari is easily explored on foot. The port, beach, and restaurants are all within a short stroll. :athletic_shoe:
🚌 Public Transport Hub
Excellent bus connections to Kos town and other villages. Ferries to Kalymnos depart regularly from the port. :bus:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mastichari Port
The heart of the village, bustling with ferries to Kalymnos and local fishing boats. A vibrant hub for arrivals and departures.

Mastichari Beach
A beautiful sandy stretch just a short walk from the village, perfect for sunbathing and swimming in clear waters.

Local Tavernas
Savor fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes at the numerous waterfront tavernas. A true taste of island life.
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Planning Your Visit
Getting Around Mastichari
Best Time to Visit Mastichari
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Insider Tips
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🚶♀️ Walkable Village
Mastichari is easily explored on foot. The port, beach, and restaurants are all within a short stroll. :athletic_shoe:
🚌 Public Transport Hub
Excellent bus connections to Kos town and other villages. Ferries to Kalymnos depart regularly from the port. :bus:
🍽️ Fresh Seafood Delights
Don't miss the local tavernas for delicious, fresh seafood caught daily. :fish:
☀️ Beach Access
Mastichari beach is a 10-12 minute walk from the village center. :beachwithumbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable Village
Mastichari is easily explored on foot. The port, beach, and restaurants are all within a short stroll. :athletic_shoe:
🚌 Public Transport Hub
Excellent bus connections to Kos town and other villages. Ferries to Kalymnos depart regularly from the port. :bus:
🍽️ Fresh Seafood Delights
Don't miss the local tavernas for delicious, fresh seafood caught daily. :fish:
☀️ Beach Access
Mastichari beach is a 10-12 minute walk from the village center. :beachwithumbrella:
🚗 Car Rental Recommended
For exploring further afield, renting a car or scooter offers the most flexibility. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mastichari is praised for its ideal location, friendly hospitality, and excellent value, particularly for families. Visitors appreciate the convenience of the port and bus connections, as well as the quality of local tavernas. However, some reviews mention issues with cleanliness and air conditioning in certain accommodations.
"Exceptional stay! Spotless rooms and an ideal location. Kosta and Eleni were incredibly hospitable and welcoming, making our experience truly memorable. Highly recommend!"
Bill Amanatidis
"High-quality service and highly recommended hotel to stay with family. I have visited many European countries but I would say this the most impressive hotel by the service within budget. My husband and I stayed for 3 nights. Being a 2- star hotel, the place and service are beyond my expectations.
Location: Mastichari is a very convenient place to stay as Tegaki and Kefalos are both relatively close by private car and only take around 20 minutes. By public bus, anyone can easily travel to Kos town, Tigaki, Kefalos, and even other places, and the public transport is impressive in KOS. We traveled by public transport and enjoyed a lot.
Beach: It takes 10-12 minutes to go to Mastichari beach by walk.
Transport :The bus station and ferry to Kalymynos are about 5 minutes walking distance.
Restaurants : A lot of restaurants(also have breakfast options) are nearby (just 2 minutes walking distance) and supermarkets are also nearby(5-7 minutes walking distance) .
Hotel Service: the owner of the hotel is a very nice, helpful, and humble person. Excellent service. All the staff are nice people. Although we didn't book for breakfast, they provided an electric kettle, cups, mugs, enough water bottles, coffee, and sugar as complimentary in the room, which was enough for our 3-night stay.
Cleanliness : we were very satisfied with the cleanliness of the bedroom, toilet, and the balcony. The slippers are also provided by them which I have not seen in any 3 or 4 star hotels."
Nuzhat Aurin
"I have never stayed at such a poorly run hotel. The owner was abusive because we asked for a blanket as the nights were cool, and a clean bath towel. We only received one tea bag for our 3 night stay and were told by staff that is all we will get! The tinest piece of soap didn’t get replaced either. The room didn’t even get a sweep in three days. I DO NOt recommend staying at this hotel.
Yes. The location was good."
Debbi Cameron
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Kos Airport (KGS), you can take a taxi directly to Mastichari, which is about a 15-20 minute drive. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Kos Town and then transfer to a bus heading to Mastichari. Renting a car at the airport is also a popular option for flexibility.
Yes, Mastichari is well-connected by public bus to Kos Town and other major villages on the island. The bus station is conveniently located near the port, making it easy to travel around.
Absolutely! Mastichari Port is a key hub for ferries, most notably to the neighboring island of Kalymnos. Check ferry schedules in advance, especially during off-peak seasons.
During peak season, parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity of the port and beach. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day or be prepared to walk a short distance from designated parking areas.
While public transport is good, renting a car or scooter provides the most freedom to discover hidden gems across Kos. Many rental agencies are available in Kos Town or can be found in Mastichari itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mastichari Port is a public area and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely walk around, enjoy the atmosphere, and watch the ferries. Ticket purchases are only necessary for specific ferry journeys.
Mastichari Beach is a public beach and is free to access. You can enjoy the sun, sand, and sea without any admission fees. Sunbeds and umbrellas are usually available for rent.
Ferry operating hours vary depending on the season and the specific route. It's best to check the latest schedules with the ferry companies directly or at the port information booths, especially if you plan a day trip to Kalymnos.
Yes, you can often book ferry tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to secure your spot. Tickets can usually be purchased online or at the ticket offices located at the port.
While Mastichari itself is more of a relaxed village and port, guided tours often depart from Kos Town that may include a stop in Mastichari or focus on the surrounding areas and islands. You can inquire locally for any available excursions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Mastichari offers a charming experience with its picturesque port, lovely sandy beach, and a variety of waterfront tavernas serving delicious Greek cuisine. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the sea breeze, and soak in the local atmosphere.
Yes, Mastichari is considered family-friendly. The beach has shallow, clear waters, and the village has a relaxed vibe. Many hotels offer family accommodations, and the local tavernas are welcoming.
You'll find a few souvenir shops, mini-markets for essentials, and bakeries in Mastichari. For a wider selection of shops, Kos Town is the place to go.
Many visitors find Mastichari to be a convenient base due to its good public transport links and proximity to the port for island hopping. It offers a quieter alternative to staying in Kos Town.
Restaurants, especially those by the port, are generally open from late morning through the evening. Shops typically open in the morning and may close for a siesta in the afternoon before reopening until early evening. Hours can vary seasonally.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Mastichari is renowned for its fresh seafood. Look for grilled fish, calamari, octopus, and local specialties. Many tavernas also offer traditional Greek dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.
While waterfront tavernas can be a bit pricier, you can find more affordable options by exploring slightly away from the immediate port area. Bakeries and mini-markets also offer snacks and light meals.
Most Greek tavernas offer vegetarian dishes like Greek salad, gemista (stuffed vegetables), spanakopita (spinach pie), and various vegetable mezes. Vegan options might require specific requests, but are usually accommodated.
A main course at a waterfront taverna can range from €12-€25. More casual meals or mezes can be found for €5-€10. Prices are generally reasonable for the quality of fresh seafood offered.
Yes, many tavernas and cafes in Mastichari offer breakfast options, including Greek yogurt with honey, pastries, and cooked breakfasts. Some accommodations also provide breakfast.
📸 📸 Photography
The Mastichari Port at sunrise or sunset offers stunning light for capturing fishing boats and the sea. The sandy beach with its clear waters and the charming village streets are also great photo opportunities. Look for colorful fishing nets and traditional architecture.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most beautiful light for photography, casting a warm glow over the port and sea. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant blue of the water.
Capture the daily life of the fishermen at the port, the colorful boats, and the panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. The contrast between the traditional village and the modern ferries can also make for interesting shots.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and details. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive sea views and port. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing the blues of the sky and water. A waterproof bag is useful if you plan on beach photography.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone. Be mindful of privacy and safety, especially around the port and populated areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying in accommodation that offers family rooms or apartments. The proximity to the port also allows for easy day trips to nearby islands if your children enjoy boat rides. Packing beach toys and sun protection is essential for a comfortable family holiday.
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples Seeking Relaxation
Consider a day trip to the charming island of Kalymnos via ferry from the port for a change of scenery. Many accommodations offer sea views, enhancing the romantic ambiance. The village's quiet evenings are ideal for peaceful conversations and enjoying the starry sky.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Mastichari Village
Visitors often praise the hospitality of the locals, with many mentioning specific hotel owners or restaurant staff who went out of their way to make their stay memorable. This personal touch adds significantly to the overall appeal of Mastichari. While it may not have the bustling nightlife of other resorts, its tranquility and natural beauty are its main draws, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the simple pleasures of island life.
Mastichari Port: Gateway to Adventure
Beyond its role in transportation, the port area is lined with traditional tavernas and cafes. These establishments offer prime seating for enjoying fresh seafood while watching the boats bobbing in the harbor. The visual appeal of the colorful fishing boats against the backdrop of the Aegean Sea makes the port a picturesque spot for photography and a central gathering place for both locals and visitors.
Exploring Kos from Mastichari
For those seeking more freedom to roam, renting a car or scooter is highly recommended. This allows for spontaneous detours to discover hidden beaches, traditional mountain villages, and archaeological sites scattered across the island. The relatively short distances between key attractions mean that Mastichari can serve as an excellent hub for day trips, allowing visitors to experience the diverse landscapes and rich history of Kos.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit