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How to get from Astypalaia to Kalymnos
The only realistic way is by ferry: a few sailings a week link Astypalaia with Kalymnos, taking roughly 2 h 30–3 h 30. There are no direct flights. Departures are sparse and often at night or early morning, so plan your stay around the ferry timetable.
Best option: Ferry. Ferries are the only direct connection between the two islands.
All the ways to make the trip
| How | Time | How often | Price* | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ferry Conventional ferries between Astypalaia and Kalymnos (Pothia), operated by a few companies including Blue Star Ferries on some routings | about 2 h 30–3 h 30 | a few times a week, more in summer; fewer in winter | about €15–25 per person, extra for a car | Departure times are often very early or late at night; check current timetables. |
| flight No direct flight; Astypalaia and Kalymnos both have small airports with flights to Athens only | most of a day with a change in Athens | not practical | about €100+ for two flights | Only worth considering if no ferry runs for several days. |
*Approximate prices and times for 2026. Timetables change by season: check with the operator before you travel.
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Tips
- Build your island itinerary around the Astypalaia ferry days, as they are the bottleneck.
- Taking a car on the ferry is possible but book ahead in August.
- Kalymnos also has frequent boats to Kos and Leros if you want to continue.
- Arrive at the port well before departure, especially for night sailings.
Common questions
How often do ferries run?
Only a few times a week, with somewhat more sailings in summer than in winter. Astypalaia sits between the Cyclades and the Dodecanese, so it is served by longer routes that stop at several islands. Times are often inconvenient, such as late at night. Check current timetables well in advance and expect changes from season to season.
Is there a flight from Astypalaia to Kalymnos?
No direct flight. Both islands have small airports, but their flights go to Athens. Flying between them means a change in Athens and usually costs more and takes longer than waiting for the ferry. It is only a fallback if bad weather or schedules leave you without a sailing for several days.
Can I take my car?
Yes, the conventional ferries on this route carry cars. Car fares are considerably higher than passenger fares, and space can be limited in August, so book ahead in peak season. Many visitors instead rent a car or scooter separately on each island, which is easy in Pothia on Kalymnos and in Chora on Astypalaia.
Do I need to book ahead?
In July and August it is wise to book, especially with a car or a cabin. Outside summer you can usually buy at the port or online the day before. The bigger risk is cancellation in strong winds, so leave a spare day before any flight home and keep an eye on the operator announcements.
Compiled by TonyPlan from operator and transport information and travel knowledge; updated 2026-10-05. Anything we could not confirm is marked as approximate.