Old Pyli Castle Greece
Explore the ancient Byzantine castle and abandoned village of Old Pyli, perched atop a hill for breathtaking island views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Old Pyli Castle Greece
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the ancient Byzantine castle and abandoned village of Old Pyli, perched atop a hill for breathtaking island views.
"Possibly my favourite castle in the world. Where it is built is amazing, on a spire of rock which over looks the plains down to the coast."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The paths are rocky and can be slippery. Trainers or hiking shoes are essential for a safe climb.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. There are limited options for purchasing water on the way up.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Castle Ruins
Summit of the hill
Explore the ancient fortress and its strategic perch, offering unparalleled views of the island and beyond.
Abandoned Village
Base of the castle
Wander through the remnants of a historic village, imagining life in this secluded mountain settlement.
Panoramic Vistas
Throughout the site
Marvel at breathtaking 360-degree views stretching from the plains to the sea, including distant islands.
Taverna Old Pyli
Near the castle entrance
Enjoy a meal or drink in a unique setting with spectacular views, a perfect reward after your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hike Smart, See More
Embrace the Ruins and Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The paths are rocky and can be slippery. Trainers or hiking shoes are essential for a safe climb. +1
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. There are limited options for purchasing water on the way up.
⏰ Go Early or Late
Avoid the midday sun and larger crowds by visiting in the early morning or late afternoon.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are incredible. Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning scenery. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The paths are rocky and can be slippery. Trainers or hiking shoes are essential for a safe climb. +1
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. There are limited options for purchasing water on the way up.
⏰ Go Early or Late
Avoid the midday sun and larger crowds by visiting in the early morning or late afternoon.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic vistas are incredible. Bring your camera or phone to capture the stunning scenery. +1
💰 Ignore the Costume Guy
There's a person in costume at the bottom asking for money. You don't have to pay them to enter.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Old Pyli Castle, calling it a favorite and a 'must-visit' for its stunning historical ruins and breathtaking panoramic views. The rewarding hike and unique taverna experience add to its charm, though some note the terrain requires good footwear and preparation for the climb. +1
"Wow! Possibly my favourite castle in the world. Where it is built is amazing, on a spire of rock which over looks the plains down to the coast. You can see the salt lake in Tigaki and Pserimos and Kalimnos islands.
You park in a rough car park at the bottom and then take a 20 minute walk up through the forest, turn left for the castle at the ancient village and right for the taverna. The views were breath taking and you can see why the inhabitants built it here. The village is hidden from the coast by the rock.
We had an early start due to the heat and after coming down from the castle we went to the taverna. What an amazing tranquil setting having breakfast and marvelling at the castle and surrounding mountain landscape. The toilets have no roof and are certainly unique.
Wear trainers or some substantial footwear as the well worn rock is quite slippery and the track to the castle and taverna is quite rough. I would definitely come here again."
R Keith Sokulski (Sok)
"Visiting these ruins, you get a very good idea of the kind of very austere and cramped life the occupants lived as they watched out for assailants. Best visited in the evening, it takes around 30 minutes to walk up the hill. The path mainly takes the form of stone steps. If in doubt on the ascent, take the path that leads UP. Better to wear shoes with some grip, as the stones are well polished. The nearby village is worth a visit on the way down. Great views all round."
Rebecca Pang
"Wonderful piece of history, abandoned town ruins, a taverna, and the castle. (Not accessible, many stone uneven steps, relative fitness required!) Stunning views, great to explore."
DK Green
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Pyli Castle is located in the mountains of Kos. You can drive from Kos Town, which takes about 20-30 minutes. There's a rough car park at the bottom, and then it's a 20-minute walk up to the castle and village.
Public transport options to Old Pyli Castle are limited. Renting a car or scooter is the most convenient way to reach the parking area, from where you'll hike up.
There is a rough car park available at the base of the hill leading up to the castle. It can get busy during peak times, so arriving early is advisable.
Cycling is possible, but be prepared for a steep and potentially challenging climb. The roads leading up are winding, and the final path to the castle is unpaved and rocky.
Taxis can take you to the general vicinity, but they may not be able to drive all the way to the designated parking area due to road conditions. Confirm with your driver beforehand.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Old Pyli Castle and the surrounding ruins is generally free. You can wander around the site at your own pace.
The castle and ruins are open 24/7 as it's an outdoor historical site. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and visibility.
The abandoned village is part of the historical site and is free to explore along with the castle.
Yes, the Taverna Old Pyli is open and offers food and drinks. It's a popular spot for visitors to relax after exploring the ruins. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
While you can wander freely, be mindful of the historical nature of the site. Avoid climbing on unstable structures and respect the ruins.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the castle ruins, the abandoned village, and enjoy the views. If you plan to dine at the taverna, add extra time.
The hike is about 20 minutes from the car park and involves a moderate incline with stone steps and rocky paths. It's considered a moderate hike.
Yes, there are toilets available, notably at the taverna. Some reviews mention they are 'unique' with no roof, adding to the rustic charm.
You'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the surrounding plains, the salt lake in Tigaki, and the islands of Pserimos and Kalimnos. +1
The hike and uneven terrain might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Older children can enjoy exploring the ruins.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The most convenient option is the Taverna Old Pyli, located near the castle entrance, offering food with spectacular views.
Reviews suggest the food is good, and the setting is tranquil and memorable. It's a great place to relax after exploring the ruins.
It's highly recommended to book a table in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to secure a spot.
The nearest significant dining options would be in the village of Pyli itself, or back down towards the coast in towns like Marmari or Tigaki.
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and water, especially for the hike up. However, enjoying a meal at the taverna is a popular experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photos. Early morning also provides fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. +1
You can capture stunning landscape shots, detailed photos of the ancient ruins, and atmospheric images of the abandoned village. +1
Drone usage may be subject to local regulations. While some videos show drone footage, it's always best to check current rules before flying. +1
The highest points of the castle offer the best panoramic views. The crumbling walls and archways of the village also make for compelling shots. +1
Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially outside of peak season, will significantly reduce crowds and make photography easier.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Older children will likely enjoy exploring the ancient ruins and imagining life in the abandoned village. The panoramic views are also a great reward. Consider visiting in the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon, to make the experience more comfortable for everyone. The taverna at the top offers a nice spot for a break and a meal.
🚶 Hikers and Adventure Seekers
Remember to wear appropriate footwear – trainers or hiking boots are essential. Bring water and snacks to keep your energy up. The opportunity to freely wander through the castle and village, without strict barriers, appeals to the adventurous spirit.
📸 Photographers and View Enthusiasts
Aim for the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting. The ancient ruins themselves, with their textures and crumbling architecture, provide excellent subjects for detailed shots. Visiting during the quieter times of day will allow for unobstructed compositions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the History of Old Pyli Castle
The site comprises the remnants of a medieval castle, a village with stone houses, and a church. Wandering through the ruins, you can get a sense of the austere and cramped life the people lived. The well-worn stone steps and uneven paths are a testament to centuries of use.
While the exact founding date is debated, the castle likely dates back to the Byzantine era, with later additions by the Knights of St. John. Its abandonment is thought to be due to a lack of water and the development of the lower village of Pyli. Today, it stands as a captivating historical monument, drawing visitors interested in history, archaeology, and stunning scenery.
The Hike and What to Expect
Footwear is crucial. Many visitors emphasize the need for sturdy shoes with good grip, as the stones can be polished and slippery from years of foot traffic. Wearing trainers or hiking boots is highly recommended to ensure a safe and comfortable ascent and descent.
Be prepared for the elements. Bringing plenty of water is essential, especially during the hot summer months. An early morning or late afternoon visit is advised to avoid the peak heat and enjoy a more tranquil experience. The views along the way are spectacular, offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape and the sea.
The Unique Taverna Experience
The setting is described as tranquil and amazing, with open-air seating that allows you to marvel at the castle and the surrounding mountain landscape. Some reviews even mention the 'unique' toilets with no roof, adding to the rustic charm of the place.
While the food is generally well-regarded, it's advisable to book a table in advance, particularly during the busy tourist season, to avoid disappointment. Enjoying a meal or a refreshing drink here is considered an integral part of the Old Pyli Castle experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit