Mastichari is a unique destination on Kos — it’s both a beautiful beach AND a functioning ferry port. Getting there by bus is easy, and it opens up day-trip possibilities to nearby Kalymnos Island.
KTEL Bus Route to Mastichari
Starting point: Kos Town Bus Station (Kleopatras Street)
Destination: Mastichari Beach / Mastichari Port
Journey time: 35-45 minutes
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Frequency: Buses run several times daily, less frequently in winter.
Cost: €4.00-€4.50 (single ticket, purchased on board)
How to Get to Mastichari by Bus: Complete Guide
Starting Your Journey
Head to the main KTEL bus station on Kleopatras Street in Kos Town. The 35-45 minute journey is longer than trips to Tigaki or Marmari, so factor in extra travel time.
The Route
The bus heads northeast out of Kos Town, passing through agricultural areas and small villages. As you approach the coast, views of the sea and nearby Kalymnos Island come into view. The bus arrives near Mastichari’s main harbour and beach area.
Buying Your Ticket
Ask the driver for “Mastichari” and pay on board (€4-€4.50 in cash). The ticket covers your arrival; you’ll need a separate ticket for the return journey.
Mastichari Beach
Best for: Beach days, families, water activities
What to find here:
- Sandy beach with good facilities
- Clear, calm waters
- Tavernas and beach bars
- Sunbed rentals
- Water sports (seasonal)
The beach is less famous than Tigaki or Marmari, so it’s often quieter — another advantage of coming by bus rather than driving.
The Ferry Terminal at Mastichari
Mastichari’s main claim to fame is its ferry port. Ferries to Kalymnos Island depart from here regularly, typically several times daily.
Kalymnos Day Trip from Mastichari
If you want to combine a bus trip to Mastichari with a ferry adventure:
Ferry details:
- Duration: 30-45 minutes
- Frequency: Usually 2-4 departures daily (check schedules)
- Cost: €5-€7 per person
- What to do on Kalymnos: Explore the sponge-diving village, swim, hike, visit local tavernas
Itinerary example:
- Bus from Kos Town to Mastichari (45 min)
- Swim at Mastichari Beach (1-2 hours)
- Ferry from Mastichari to Kalymnos (45 min)
- Explore Kalymnos (3-4 hours)
- Ferry back to Mastichari (45 min)
- Bus back to Kos Town (45 min)
- Arrive Kos Town evening
This creates a full, memorable day without renting a car.
Practical Tips for Visiting Mastichari by Bus
- Ferry schedules change seasonally — if you plan to take the ferry to Kalymnos, check schedules in advance at the Mastichari port office or online.
- Return bus timing — plan your beach time so you don’t miss the last bus back to Kos Town. Ask the driver for return times.
- Longer journey — at 45 minutes, this trip requires more time commitment than nearer beaches. Budget accordingly.
- Ferry tickets — buy your ferry ticket at the port when you arrive. Ferries typically depart on set schedules, so plan your beach time around ferry times if you plan to visit Kalymnos.
- Luggage note — KTEL buses have space for beach bags and small luggage.
- Cash recommended — both bus and ferry tickets are cash-only.
Combining Mastichari with Other Destinations
Previous stops on the same route: Tigaki, Marmari (get off earlier if desired)
Nearby by ferry: Kalymnos Island (30-45 minutes by ferry)
A multi-day exploration idea:
- Day 1: Kos Town → Mastichari Beach (bus) → Kalymnos (ferry) → explore Kalymnos
- Day 2: Kalymnos → back to Mastichari → back to Kos Town (bus)
- Day 3: Relax or explore other Kos beaches
See our Kos Beaches by Bus guide for other beach combinations.
Final Thoughts
Mastichari proves that car-free Kos travel opens up possibilities beyond just beaches. A simple bus ride connects you to both a beautiful beach AND a gateway to exploring nearby islands. It’s one of the most rewarding destinations to reach by public transport on Kos.
Whether you spend the day swimming at Mastichari or venture to Kalymnos by ferry, the KTEL bus makes it all accessible and affordable.
👉 Check our complete Kos bus guide for more routes and destinations.
About Kos-Info.com
Kos-Info.com is an independent guide dedicated to helping visitors explore Kos, Greece — without necessarily renting a car. From bus timetables to hidden gems, our goal is to give you practical, honest, and up-to-date information so you can make the most of your trip.