Tilos
Island Small Dodecanese island with ecological reserves and beaches
Tilos, a small Dodecanese island, draws hikers between scrubby hills, secluded beaches and a handful of villages with stone houses; nature trails and local seafood define most visits.
Tilos is a small Greek island in the Dodecanese archipelago in the Aegean Sea, located between the islands of Kos and Rhodes. The island has a compact settlement pattern and is known for a quiet, low-density tourism profile and natural habitats.
Visitors find small beaches, walking routes across low hills and valleys, and a medieval castle and chapels around the island’s main village. The island’s landscapes include pine-covered slopes, agricultural terraces and rocky coasts that support a range of bird and plant life; parts of the island are protected for their natural value.
Historically Tilos has been inhabited since antiquity and features a mix of medieval and more recent architecture; traditional agriculture and fishing have long been important to the local economy. In recent decades tourism has grown but the island retains a relatively low-key character.
Tilos is reached by ferry connections from nearby larger islands such as Kos and Rhodes, with its main port at Livadia and the principal village often called Chora or Megalo Chorio.
- Ferry access: Part of the Dodecanese island group, Tilos is served by regular ferries from Kos and Rhodes; transport can be infrequent outside peak season.
What to See #
- Chora (Megalo Chorio): Chora (Megalo Chorio) - the island's main village with traditional stone and whitewashed houses clustered on a hillside.
- Livadia port: Livadia - the island's port and principal landing point for ferries and supply boats.
How to Get to Tilos #
Tilos is a Greek island in the Dodecanese reached principally by passenger ferry. Regular ferry connections are operated from Rhodes (and sometimes from Kos or other nearby islands) to Tilos’ port; schedules are seasonal and weather-dependent, so check ferry operators for current timetables. There is no regular commercial airport on Tilos - arrive by sea and then use local roads on the island.
Tips for Visiting Tilos #
- Ferries land at Livadia (the main port) - check the sparse ferry schedules and book crossings and any vehicle transport well in advance, especially in July-August when services fill quickly.
- Visit in the shoulder seasons (May-June or September) to avoid the height of Greek summer crowds and to have calmer seas for island hiking; also look for information about the island's renewable‑energy project, which is a notable local initiative many visitors miss.
Best Time to Visit Tilos #
Visit in late spring or early autumn for mild weather, fewer crowds and good swimming conditions.
Weather & Climate near Tilos #
Tilos's climate is classified as Hot-Summer Mediterranean - Hot-Summer Mediterranean climate with hot summers (peaking in August) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 9°C to 31°C. Moderate rainfall (724 mm/year) with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 14°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (156 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is the coolest month with highs of 14°C and lows of 9°C. Significant rainfall (122 mm).
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm).
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cool with highs of 20°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (37 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall.
Comfort
Weather
June
June is warm with highs of 29°C and lows of 20°C. Almost no rain.
Comfort
Weather
July
July is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 23°C. The driest month with just 1 mm.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is the warmest month with highs of 31°C and lows of 23°C. Almost no rain.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 20°C. Light rainfall.
Comfort
Weather
October
October is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 17°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 13°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 11°C. Significant rainfall (146 mm).
