The ideal itinerary for a morning departure from Kaş and an evening return
1) Morning: Crossing from Kaş to Meis & First Impressions
You can feel the atmosphere of Meis even while waiting to board the ferry at Kaş Harbour in the morning. Leaving behind Kaş’s lively, energetic coastline, a short 20–25-minute journey transports you to an entirely different world. As the ferry approaches Meis Harbour, the island’s pastel-coloured houses, red-tiled roofs and balconies leaning towards the sea look like a scene from a painting.
Passport control is quick, and the moment you step onto the island, Meis draws you into its quiet, unhurried and peaceful rhythm.
2) A Walk Along the Harbour – Colourful Houses, Streets and Small Shops
The harbour is the heart of Meis. Taking a walk here is the best way to begin discovering the island’s character.
Along the way, you will see:
Two-storey houses painted in pastel colours
Small waterfront cafés
Fishing boats
Tiny churches tucked away in the side streets
Architectural details dating back to the Italian period
You will want to take photographs at every turn, as the light on Meis creates a soft, cinematic atmosphere, especially in the morning.
3) The Blue Cave – The Highlight of the Day
No visit to Meis would be complete without seeing the Blue Cave. More than just a natural formation, it is a captivating experience where light appears to dance across the water.
Why should you visit in the morning?
The sunlight enters the cave at the perfect angle.
The water inside turns an electric shade of blue.
It is the best time for taking photographs and videos.
A local boat operator will pick you up from the harbour and take you on a short journey to the cave’s narrow entrance. You will need to duck as the boat enters, which is all part of the experience. Once inside, you will see how the light transforms the water into a magical shade of blue. This unforgettable moment perfectly captures why Meis is often described as a small island with an unforgettable charm.
4) Swimming at Mandraki or Plakes – A Turquoise Escape
After returning from the Blue Cave, you will begin to feel the island’s heat. The perfect solution is a refreshing swim.
Mandraki:
Quieter
A small, sheltered bay
Peaceful and relaxing
Plakes:
Rocky swimming platforms
A livelier atmosphere
Exceptionally clear water
The sea is cooler than in Kaş, but remarkably clear and glass-like. As you return to the harbour after your swim, the island’s distinctive scent of sea salt and thyme, carried on a gentle breeze, will leave you feeling completely relaxed.
5) Lunch by the Harbour – Greek Meze & Seafood
The harbour restaurants on Meis may be small, but each has plenty of character. Their menus usually include:
Grilled octopus
Calamari
Symi shrimp
Fava bean purée
Stuffed courgette flowers
Lemon-roasted potatoes
Fresh fish
The dishes are simple yet delicious, reflecting the Mediterranean philosophy of creating rich flavours with just a few ingredients. Looking out over the harbour with a glass of ouzo or chilled white wine is one of the most enjoyable moments of the day.
6) Castello Rosso (The Red Castle) – The Best Panoramic View
In the afternoon, a gentle walk will take you to one of the island’s highest points. The castle is the best place to enjoy panoramic views of Meis.
At the top, you will find:
Meis Harbour
The coastline of Kaş
Endless views across the Mediterranean
A gentle breeze
Complete tranquillity
If you visit close to sunset, the sky turns shades of pink and orange, transforming the island into a scene from a fairy tale.
7) A Short Stroll Through the Side Streets – A Glimpse of Island Life
After leaving the castle, explore the streets behind the harbour. Here, you will see:
Elderly Greek women sitting outside and chatting
Cats sleeping in the shade
The open doors of small churches
Flower-filled pots decorating the fronts of houses
These streets reveal the authentic, everyday side of Meis, far removed from the usual tourist experience.
8) Afternoon Dessert & Coffee – A Relaxing End to the Day
As you stroll along the harbour, stop at a café and bring the day to a gentle close with:
Frappé
Greek coffee
Galaktoboureko
Orange cake
9) Evening Return to Kaş – A Peaceful Farewell
As the ferry departs, the lights of Meis gradually fade into the distance behind you. By the end of the day, you will probably find yourself thinking:
“It may be a tiny island, but it has an enormous soul.”
Even during a brief visit, Meis leaves a deep and lasting impression.
