Nisyros Volcano Day Trip
Explore the youngest active volcano in Greece, Nisyros, a volcanic island offering surreal landscapes and charming villages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
Nisyros Volcano Day Trip
Best Time
Beat the midday heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the youngest active volcano in Greece, Nisyros, a volcanic island offering surreal landscapes and charming villages.
"An unforgettable adventure with amazing volcano views and a charming Greek island experience!"
🚢 Boat Trip Comfort
Most day trips include a boat ride; opt for tours with comfortable vessels and friendly crews for a smooth journey.
👟 Volcano Trail Shoes
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for exploring the volcano's uneven and sometimes slippery terrain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nisyros Volcano Crater
Laki
Step into a surreal landscape of steaming fumaroles and vibrant colors within one of the world's largest hydrothermal craters.
Mandraki Village
Northwest coast
Explore the charming main village with its whitewashed houses, narrow alleys, and the impressive Monastery of Panagia Spiliani.
Volcanic Beaches
Various locations
Relax on unique black sand beaches, a direct result of the island's volcanic activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Nisyros Day Trip in Advance
Prepare for the Volcano's Unique Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Boat Trip Comfort
Most day trips include a boat ride; opt for tours with comfortable vessels and friendly crews for a smooth journey. +1
👟 Volcano Trail Shoes
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for exploring the volcano's uneven and sometimes slippery terrain.
👃 Embrace the Smell
The volcano has a strong sulfur smell; it's part of the unique experience!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially when exploring the volcano under the Greek sun.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Boat Trip Comfort
Most day trips include a boat ride; opt for tours with comfortable vessels and friendly crews for a smooth journey. +1
👟 Volcano Trail Shoes
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes for exploring the volcano's uneven and sometimes slippery terrain.
👃 Embrace the Smell
The volcano has a strong sulfur smell; it's part of the unique experience!
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially when exploring the volcano under the Greek sun.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for dramatic volcanic landscapes and picturesque village scenes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Nisyros volcano day trip for its unique geological wonders and the charming atmosphere of Mandraki village. The boat journey is often described as smooth and enjoyable, with many highlighting the friendly and professional service of tour operators. Some minor drawbacks include the strong sulfur smell at the volcano and the potential for crowded tours during peak season.
"We recently visited kardamena for our holiday and visited the harbour one evening where we were given information about the trip to Nisyros and booked the following day. The trip was fantastic from start to finish. The boat trip over to Nisyros was smooth and felt less than an hour. There was a guide available for our tour of the island and the volcano visit. We enjoyed the day so much and would recommend others to book through Enetikon travel 🥰 easy booking and amazing value for money. The company is a family run business and the people we met were very friendly and helpful. Would love to visit again one day and would definitely book another trip through yourselves ☺️"
Ashleigh Jones
"⸻
I went on this amazing trip to Nisyros, and it was truly unforgettable. We took a wonderful boat ride and saw the island’s amazing volcano. The captain was kind, gentle, and very well organized, and he worked together with his whole team to make everything perfect. The journey was full of laughter and warm memories. I visited stunning places and explored the island’s breathtaking landscapes. The friendly and lovely people I met, along with the captain and his team, made the trip even more special. It was truly an amazing adventure that I will never forget."
Ban Matlob
"It was a very nice cruise to Nisyros. Thank you - Kostas and Sophia - for a lift from the hotel. Everything went smoothly and we could inquisitively explored the greek island. I&E"
Aga W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to visit Nisyros is via a day trip from Kos. Ferries and organized boat tours depart regularly from ports like Kardamena and Kos Town. The journey typically takes around an hour.
Yes, you can take public ferries from Kos or other nearby islands. However, day trips often provide a more convenient and comprehensive experience, including transport to the volcano and village.
Day tours usually include bus transport to the volcano and Mandraki. On the island, you can rent scooters or ATVs, or use local taxis for more flexibility.
While you can drive to Nisyros if you bring your car on a ferry, it's generally not recommended for a day trip. Organized tours handle transportation efficiently.
The boat trip from Kos to Nisyros is usually less than an hour, making it a manageable day trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee to access the Nisyros volcano crater. This fee is often included in organized day trip packages.
The volcano is generally accessible during daylight hours. Organized tours will adhere to specific timings for entry and exploration.
Organized day trips often bundle the boat journey, volcano entrance, and sometimes a guided tour of Mandraki, offering good value.
It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee your spot and avoid disappointment.
Prices vary, but expect to pay around €30-€50 for a day trip from Kos, which usually includes boat transport and volcano access.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on uneven volcanic terrain. A light jacket might be useful as it can be cooler inside the crater.
Yes, the volcano is active and emits a strong sulfur smell due to fumaroles. It's a unique sensory experience.
Day tours typically allocate about 1-1.5 hours for exploring the volcano crater and its surroundings.
Mandraki, the main village, offers charming streets, traditional tavernas, shops, and the historic Monastery of Panagia Spiliani.
Many day trips include a guide who provides information about the island's geology, history, and culture.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Mandraki offers numerous traditional tavernas serving local Greek cuisine. Many day trips include time for lunch.
Greek tavernas typically have a good selection of vegetarian dishes like salads, vegetable pies, and dips.
It's best to bring your own water and snacks, as facilities directly at the volcano crater are limited.
Look for fresh seafood, local cheeses, and traditional Greek mezes in the tavernas of Mandraki.
Dining in Mandraki is generally reasonably priced, especially compared to more tourist-heavy islands.
📸 📸 Photography
The volcano crater itself offers dramatic, otherworldly shots. Mandraki's narrow streets and the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani are also very photogenic.
Yes, as long as you stay within designated paths and follow safety guidelines. Be mindful of the sulfur fumes.
A standard digital camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for the expansive crater views.
Drone regulations can be strict in Greece. Check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
While dedicated photography tours are rare, many day trips offer ample time for capturing stunning images.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
In Mandraki, families can enjoy exploring the charming village, perhaps stopping for ice cream or a kid-friendly meal at a taverna. The black sand beaches offer a unique place to play. While the sulfur smell at the volcano might be strong, it's generally a manageable and memorable experience for most children.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at inflated tourist prices on the island. While renting a scooter or ATV offers flexibility, it adds to the cost. If your day trip includes guided transport to the main sites, you might not need additional rentals. Enjoying a simple meal at a local taverna in Mandraki can be more economical than opting for restaurants with prime sea views.
💑 Couples
Afterward, wander hand-in-hand through the charming alleys of Mandraki, perhaps enjoying a quiet coffee or a sunset drink at a seaside taverna. Consider booking a tour that allows for some free time in Mandraki, giving you the opportunity to discover hidden corners of the village together. The black sand beaches also offer a serene setting for relaxation and enjoying each other's company amidst stunning natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Nisyros Volcano
Visitors can walk along designated paths within the crater, getting up close to these geothermal features. It's a powerful reminder of the earth's raw energy. The hydrothermal activity is what makes Nisyros so spectacular, with ten craters found in the caldera's bottom, the largest being 300 meters in diameter.
Remember to wear sturdy shoes, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. The air can be warm and humid, so staying hydrated is key. While the volcano is active, it is closely monitored, and visits are considered safe when following guidelines. The experience is both educational and awe-inspiring, offering a glimpse into the powerful forces that shape our planet. Many visitors describe it as a surreal and unforgettable landscape.
The Charm of Mandraki Village
A must-visit in Mandraki is the Monastery of Panagia Spiliani, a significant religious site built into the rock face. The monastery offers not only spiritual solace but also breathtaking panoramic views of the Aegean Sea and the surrounding coastline. Exploring Mandraki provides a wonderful contrast to the raw, volcanic landscape of the crater, offering a taste of authentic island life.
Many day trips from Kos include a stop in Mandraki, allowing visitors time to explore its beauty, perhaps enjoy a meal, and browse local craft shops. It's a place where you can truly feel the rhythm of island life and appreciate the simple beauty of the Dodecanese.
Volcanic Beaches and Island Exploration
Beyond the volcano and Mandraki, Nisyros offers other small villages and scenic spots to discover. If you have more time, consider visiting the charming village of Nikia, known for its traditional architecture and stunning views, or exploring the ancient archaeological site of the island's former capital.
For those seeking a more active exploration, renting a scooter or ATV allows you to traverse the island's scenic roads at your own pace, discovering hidden coves and breathtaking viewpoints. The island's compact size makes it ideal for a day trip, but its diverse landscapes offer plenty to captivate visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit