Kos Island, Greece is one of the most popular Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, attracting tourists with its picturesque beaches, rich history and gastronomic experiences. It is known as the birthplace of Hippocrates, as well as an ideal place for a relaxing holiday and excursions.
Brief History
Kos has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The island was an important center during the rule of the Hellenes and Romans. It was here that Hippocrates, the “father of medicine”, was born. In the Middle Ages, Kos was under the control of the Venetians and the Knights Hospitaller, who left behind fortresses and defensive walls. Later, the island was part of the Ottoman Empire, and later passed to Italy, until it became part of Greece in 1947.
Where to stay
Kos is often visited on day trips from Bodrum, but we recommend staying here for at least a night or two to fully enjoy the local flavor and leisurely pace of life.
Individual transfer from/to the airport Kos
Tickets online – fly cheaper – look for flights marked with offer.
City tours booked here.
Budget options
If you need economical but comfortable accommodation, you should pay attention to these hotels:
Hotel Sonia – A family-run hotel in the centre of Kos with a welcoming atmosphere, friendly owners and good value for money.
Captain’s Hotel – A simple but comfortable hotel near the port, ideal for those who plan to walk a lot and travel around the island.
Intermediate level
For those looking for a little more comfort, a beautiful view, and additional amenities, the following options are suitable:
Kos Aktis Art Hotel – A stylish city hotel with modern rooms, panoramic sea views and a beautiful terrace restaurant.
Dimitra Beach Hotel & Suites – A wonderful resort hotel on the first line, offering swimming pools, a private beach and a variety of activities for guests.
Premium Vacations
If you’re looking for a luxurious vacation with first-class service, these hotels are a great choice:
Mitsis Blue Domes – An elite resort complex with an all-inclusive system, exquisite restaurants, bars, swimming pools and direct access to the beach.
Lango Design Hotel & Spa – a luxurious boutique hotel for adults only with designer rooms, a magnificent spa complex and an exclusive atmosphere.
Beaches
The island of Kos is known not only for its rich history, which we will tell you about later, but also for its beautiful beaches that will satisfy any traveler. Here you can find both wide sandy coasts with developed infrastructure and quiet bays for a secluded holiday. Some beaches have unique features, such as natural thermal springs or views of ancient ruins. If you rent a car, you can visit beaches in different corners of the island, discovering even more picturesque places and hidden gems. Below are the best beaches of Kos that are worth seeing.
Tigaki Beach
One of the best sandy beaches on the island of Kos, known for its long coastline and shallow water. The beach is ideal for families with children and those who love a quiet holiday. There are sunbeds and umbrellas for rent, several taverns, cafes and bars along the coast. Entrance to the beach is free, sunbeds cost from 5 to 10 euros.
Paradise Beach
One of the most famous beaches of Kos, known for its clear water and unique underwater springs that create the effect of “sea bubbles”. This is a great place for snorkeling and swimming. The beach has sunbed rentals (about 10 euros), water activities (catamarans, water skiing) and several cafes.
Marmari Beach
A quiet beach with fine sand and a gentle slope into the water. Ideal for families and those looking for a less crowded place. The infrastructure includes several hotels, restaurants and beach bars. Sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented for 5–7 euros.
Camel Beach
A picturesque small beach surrounded by rocks, with soft golden sand and clear water. It is a great place for a secluded holiday and swimming. There is no big infrastructure here, but there is a small tavern and sunbeds for rent (about 5 euros).
Paralia Kardamena
One of the most popular beaches on the island of Kos, located in the resort town of Kardamena. It is known for its wide coastline, soft golden sand and crystal clear water. The gentle entrance to the sea makes it ideal for families with children. The beach is well equipped: there is a rental of sun loungers and umbrellas, showers, changing rooms and toilets. Along the promenade there are numerous cafes, taverns and beach bars where you can taste local dishes or simply enjoy the sea view. In the evening, Kardamena turns into a center of nightlife with bars and clubs open until late at night.
Agios Stefanos Beach
A special beach with a view of the ruins of an early Christian basilica. This is a great place for history lovers and beautiful landscapes. The water here is clean and transparent, which makes the beach popular with snorkelers. There are several cafes on the shore and the possibility of renting sun loungers.
Embros Thermal Springs (Therma Beach)
A natural spa resort on the coast, located about 12 km from Kos Town. Hot mineral water, rich in sulfur and other beneficial trace elements, flows from the ground and mixes with cool seawater, forming a natural pool. The water temperature ranges from +30°C to +50°C, making this place ideal for relaxation and healing. Surrounded by cliffs and picturesque nature, Therma Beach attracts both locals and tourists looking for an unusual vacation in harmony with nature.
Agios Fokas Beach
A picturesque beach near the Therma Beach thermal springs. It combines sandy and pebble areas, has crystal clear water and a calm atmosphere. Suitable for those looking for a vacation away from the crowds. The beach has a cafe and sun loungers for comfortable relaxation.
What to see in Kos Town
Fortress of the Knights Hospitallers (Castle of the Knights)
An impressive medieval citadel towering over the town of Kos. It was built in the 15th century by the Knights of the Order of St. John to protect the island from Ottoman attacks. Massive walls, powerful bastions and narrow passages create the atmosphere of a real fortress. From here you can see a magnificent view of the Aegean Sea and the coast of Turkey. Inside you can see ancient cannons, stone coats of arms of the knights and the ruins of ancient structures that existed here before the construction of the fortress.
Bridge to Neratzia Castle (Bridge to Neratzia Castle)
A historic stone bridge connecting the central part of Kos Town with the fortress of the Knights Hospitallers. It once spanned a moat that protected the castle, and today is one of the key architectural landmarks of the island.
Hippocrates plane tree (Hippocrates Tree)
An ancient tree standing in the center of Kos town. According to legend, it was under this tree that the great physician Hippocrates taught his students the basics of medicine. This tree, considered a symbol of wisdom and knowledge, has an impressive age, and today is one of the main historical monuments of the island. Its huge branches create coolness on hot days, and its historical value attracts tourists from all over the world.
Kos Town Hall (City Hall of Kos)
A historic Venetian-style building located in the city center. Built by Italians in the early 20th century, it combines elements of medieval and Moorish architecture. It is one of the most striking buildings in the city, giving it a special flavor.
Municipal services of Kos (Kos Municipal Services)
An administrative building that plays an important role in the life of the island. It houses the main local government bodies dealing with issues of development, improvement and maintenance of the city. The architecture of the building combines traditional Greek elements with Italian influence, which gives it a special charm.
Defterdar Mosque
The Ottoman Mosque is located in the center of Kos Town on Eleftherias Square. It was built in the 17th century in honor of Defterdar Ibrahim Pasha, one of the high-ranking officials of the Ottoman Empire. The building is distinguished by its traditional Ottoman architecture, with a tall minaret and a spacious courtyard. After the 2017 earthquake, the mosque was damaged and is no longer used for religious purposes, but remains an important cultural symbol of the island.
Municipal Market
This is a traditional market located in the city center, in Eleftherias Square. It is a popular place for locals and tourists looking for fresh produce, spices, olive oil, honey, local cheeses and souvenirs. The atmosphere of the market is lively and colorful, with many stalls where you can try authentic Greek delicacies. It is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture and buy gastronomic souvenirs from the island of Kos.
Ancient Agora
This is one of the main archaeological sites of the island, located near the port. It was once the heart of city life in ancient times, with temples, shopping areas, residential buildings and Roman baths. Among the ruins you can see the remains of the Temple of Aphrodite, columns and mosaic floors. This place allows you to imagine the grandeur of ancient Kos and walk among historical artifacts in the open air. Entrance to the complex is free, making it a must-see during a walk around the city.
Southwest Bastion of the Medieval Castle
The fortified part of the Neratzia Castle, built by the Knights Hospitaller in the 15th century. The bastion served as a defensive structure, protecting the city and the harbor from attacks. From here, a magnificent view of the Aegean Sea and the port of Kos opens. The ruins have preserved massive walls, cannon loopholes and the remains of defensive structures.
Church of Agia Paraskevi
One of the most beautiful and famous Orthodox churches on the island of Kos. Located in the center of the town, this bright blue and white building was built in the 20th century, but retains traditional Greek religious motifs. Inside, the temple is decorated with impressive frescoes, icons and a carved iconostasis. The church is dedicated to Saint Paraskeva – the patron saint of the sick and needy.
Ancient Odeon
A well-preserved Roman-era theater used for musical and poetic performances, as well as public gatherings. Its marble pews and acoustics are still impressive today, allowing you to experience the atmosphere of ancient performances.
Altar of Dionysus
The altar was dedicated to the god of winemaking and revelry, Dionysus. It is one of the important cult monuments of ancient Kos, which testifies to religious practices in the era of Ancient Greece. The altar was part of a temple where religious ceremonies dedicated to the god were held. The remains of the altar consist of stone blocks, which testify to the grandeur and importance of this place in ancient times. Here you can also see the ruins of several other cult structures used for rituals and celebrations.
Roman House
This house was part of a luxurious Roman estate, which can be attributed to the period of Roman rule on the island. The main highlight of the Roman House is its mosaic floors, depicting various scenes from life and mythology, as well as well-preserved architectural elements, which allow us to better imagine what the residential buildings of wealthy Romans looked like.
Museums
Archaeological Museum
The main museum of the island, located in the city center. Its exposition presents unique finds from different historical periods – from antiquity to the Roman era. Among the most valuable exhibits are statues of Hippocrates, Hermes and Aphrodite, mosaics, ceramics, as well as artifacts found in the Asklepion. The museum is located in a neoclassical building that was built in the 1930s during the Italian rule.
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday from 08:30 to 15:00. Closed on Sundays
Cost: 6 euros (may vary depending on the season). Discounts may be available for students, pensioners and group visitors.
The Ecclesiastical Museum of Kos and Nisyros
The museum is dedicated to the religious history of the islands of Kos and Nisyros. It houses valuable religious artifacts, icons, sacred vessels, ancient manuscripts, as well as objects illustrating important moments in the history of Christianity on these islands. The museum is an important cultural object for understanding the spiritual life of the local population over the centuries.
Opening hours: Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 to 14:00 and from 17:00 to 20:00
Cost: €5, discounts may be available for students and pensioners.
What to see on the island itself
We recommend renting a car, as it is the most convenient way to explore the island. There are many rental offices in Kos Town, where you can find a car for any budget. You can also book a car in advance online to guarantee availability and choose the best option. With a car, you can easily reach the most interesting corners of Kos and discover its true beauty.
Asclepius Sanctuary
Ruins of an ancient medical center dedicated to the cult of Asclepius, the god of medicine and healing in ancient Greek mythology. This is one of the most significant archaeological sites on the island, where in ancient times healing methods were practiced that combined medicine, religion and spiritual practices. It was believed that Asclepion had the divine ability to heal the sick, so people from all over Greece came here for treatment and restoration of health. On the territory you can see ancient temples, medical buildings and steles reflecting the medical practices of the time.
Traditional villages of Zia and Pyli
Traditional Greek villages that have preserved the authentic atmosphere of the island of Kos. Zia is located on the slopes of Mount Dikeos and is famous for its picturesque streets, artisan shops and, most importantly, stunning sunsets with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Pili is a less touristy but no less charming village, where you can see traditional stone houses, ancient ruins and visit a natural spring, which, according to legend, has healing properties.
Antimachia Castle
A medieval Venetian fortress located on a hill near the village of Antimachia in the center of the island of Kos. It was built in the 14th century by the Knights Hospitaller to protect the island from Ottoman raids. The fortress impresses with its massive defensive walls, which are well preserved and offer panoramic views of the Aegean Sea. Inside are the ruins of ancient buildings, as well as two small Byzantine churches – St. Nicholas and St. Paraskeva. The atmosphere of the Middle Ages is felt at every step, as you can still see the remains of former dwellings and defensive structures. The fortress is open to visitors throughout the day, and admission is free. It is best to get here by rented car or scooter, but there is also a bus service to Kos town.
Alyki Salt Lake
This is the salt lake of Aliki, which is an important nature reserve. In the fall and spring you can see pink flamingos and other migratory birds here. In the summer the lake dries up, leaving a bizarre white landscape with salt crystals. It is a great place for walking and wildlife watching.
Entertainment for children
The island of Kos offers a lot of entertainment for children, which will make their vacation interesting and rich. In addition to beach holidays and excursions, there are water parks, entertainment centers and natural locations that will appeal to the little ones.
Aquatica Water Park
One of the best water parks on the island, located near Kardamena. It has a variety of water attractions for children of all ages, including slides, wave pools and play areas. For the youngest there is a safe children’s area with small slides, and for the older ones there are rapids and water tunnels. There are cafes, relaxation areas and sun loungers on the territory.
Lido Water Park
Another large water park located in the Mastichari area. It has a wide range of water attractions, including a lazy river, large pools, extreme slides and a children’s water playground. This place is great for families, as there are restaurants, cafes and comfortable relaxation areas.
In addition to the water parks, children will love the Plaka Farm, where you can see peacocks in their natural habitat.
ZOO Plaka Forest
This is a picturesque natural park near Kos Airport, known for its dense pine forests, secluded trails, and the abundance of peacocks that roam freely. It is a great place to relax in nature, where you can have a picnic, walk among the tall trees, and watch for turtles and other animals.
Greek cuisine in Kos is particularly delicious, with a wide selection of seafood and traditional dishes. The island is famous for its tavernas where you can taste homemade recipes, as well as stylish restaurants with gourmet cuisine. Here are some of the best places to visit.
Restaurants and taverns
Avanti (Kos Town) is a modern restaurant famous for its seafood. Here you can taste fresh fish, mussels, octopus and other seafood, prepared according to traditional recipes with a modern presentation. The atmosphere is stylish, an ideal place for a romantic dinner.
Barbouni (Kos Town) is one of the best restaurants on the island for tasting Greek cuisine. Located on the seafront, it offers a wide selection of fish and seafood dishes. It is worth trying the grilled sea bass or the traditional Greek salad with local feta.
Taverna Oromedon (Zia village) is the perfect place for lovers of traditional Greek flavors. The tavern is located in the picturesque village of Zia and offers classic dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki and grilled lamb. And the main highlight is the fantastic sunset view from the terrace.
Beach restaurants and bars
Mylos Beach Bar (місто Кос) – затишний пляжний бар, розташований біля старого млина. Ідеальне місце для легкого обіду чи коктейлів із видом на море. Вечорами тут проходять вечірки з живою музикою.
Ammos Beach Bar (Lambi Beach) is a stylish establishment with comfortable sun loungers, refreshing cocktails and light Mediterranean cuisine. Suitable for daytime relaxation by the water or evening events with DJs.
Tamaris Beach Bar (Tigaki Beach) is a place where you can combine a beach holiday with delicious food. A large selection of snacks, seafood, cocktails and sun loungers for guests.
H20 Beach Bar & Restaurant (Kos Town) is a combination of a fine dining restaurant and a beach club. An exquisite menu, a wide selection of wines and cocktails, a stylish interior and a magnificent view of the Aegean Sea.
Unusual and must-see excursions on Kos
Kos is not just about beach vacations, but also about discovering unique places, history, and natural wonders. Here is a selection of unusual and must-see excursions that are worth a visit.
Lake Pili and the thermal springs of Ambros
What’s interesting:
A natural open-air thermal pool with water at +40°C, rich in minerals.
A lake with healing mud near the traditional village of Pili.
Evening baths in the thermal baths are one of the best ways to relax after a busy day.
Duration: 3-4 hours
Estimated price: free or excursion ~20-30 €
Evening in Zia Village – Sunset and Greek Dinner
What’s interesting:
Authentic village in the mountains with the best sunset view on the island.
Traditional taverns with home cooking, music and dancing.
Souvenir shops with honey, spices, soap and natural cosmetics.
Duration: 4-5 hours
Estimated price: from 35-50 € (with dinner)
One-day cruise to the islands of Nisyros, Kalymnos and Pserimos
What’s interesting:
Nisyros is an island with an active volcano, where you can go down directly into the crater.
Kalymnos is a center for diving and traditional sea sponge fishing.
Pserimos is a small island with fabulous beaches and turquoise water.
Duration: all day
Estimated price: €30-50
A trip to Bodrum (Turkey) – another country in 30 minutes
What’s interesting:
The opportunity to change Greece for Turkey for one day.
A walk through the oriental bazaars, historical monuments, the Bodrum fortress.
A great opportunity to combine Greek culture with Turkish traditions.
Duration: 1 day
Estimated price: €20-35 (ferry)
How to get to the island of Kos
By plane
Kos International Airport (KGS) accepts flights from various cities:
Domestic flights from Athens (Aegean Airlines, Sky Express), Thessaloniki, Heraklion and other Greek cities.
International flights in the summer season direct flights from many European cities, including Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Poland, France. Airlines: Ryanair, EasyJet, Lufthansa, Wizz Air.
How to get from Kos Airport (KGS) to Kos Town
By bus (KTEL Kos)
The cheapest way to get from the airport to Kos town and other towns on the island.
Travel time: approximately 30 minutes.
Ticket price: ~3.5 € per passenger.
Schedule: Buses run 5–6 times a day depending on the season. In the summer period (May–October) there are more flights, in the low season there are fewer. You can check the current schedule on the KTEL Kos website.
Bus stop: in front of the terminal exit.
Route: airport – Kos town (central bus station, next to the port).
Tip: if the flight arrives late in the evening or at night, the buses may no longer run. In this case, it is better to use a taxi or rented car.
Taxi
The most convenient, but more expensive transfer option.
Travel time: 25–30 minutes.
Price: from €35 during the day, at night (after 00:00) the rate may be €5–10 more expensive.
Where to find a taxi: The taxi stand is located near the terminal exit.
How to book in advance: You can use the services of Welcome Pickups, Kos Airport Taxi or through the hotel.
Tip: taxi to reduce the cost.
Car Rental
If you plan to actively explore the island, the best option would be car rental.
Car rental in Kos: how and where to rent a car
There are many international and local car rental companies operating on the island, often offering more attractive conditions.
Kos Airport (KGS) is the most convenient place to rent a car if you are arriving by plane. It is home to major international companies and has the widest selection of cars.
Kos Town – There are many car rental offices in the city center and near the port. This is ideal if you have arrived by ferry or are planning to spend the day in the city first.
Resort areas (Tigaki, Kardamena, Psaldi, Lambi) – There are also rental offices in popular tourist areas where you can pick up a car after checking into your hotel.
You can reserve a car in advance through Booking or Discover Cars, which will allow you to get the best price and guarantee the availability of the desired model.
The cost depends on the season, car class and rental conditions. For example, Economy class from €30-40 per day, medium cars from €45-60 per day, convertibles and premium class from €80-120 per day.
Useful tip: For the best price, book in advance, especially in high season (June-September).
Ferry
The island of Kos has convenient ferry connections to mainland Greece and neighboring islands.
Ferry from Bodrum (Turkey)
The ferry service between Bodrum and Kos is one of the most convenient ways to get to the island from Turkey. It is a fast and comfortable route, especially popular among tourists traveling in the Aegean Sea or who want to combine a vacation in Turkey with a visit to Greece.
Travel time: from 20 to 45 minutes depending on the type of vessel (high-speed or standard ferry). Regular flights run daily, more often in the summer season (May–October).
Departure from Bodrum Cruise Port, arrival at Kos Port, which is located in the city center.
Prices and tickets: from €20 one way, depending on the company and ticket class.
It is possible to book a round-trip ticket, which may be more profitable (~€35–40).
Children under 5 often travel for free, and children 5–10 years old have a 50% discount.
You can buy tickets on the official websites of the carriers. At the ticket offices in the port of Bodrum or Kos.
What do you need for the trip?
For non-EU countries, a Schengen visa or a Greek national visa to enter Greece. Ukrainians with a biometric passport are visa-free. Customs control is a standard check at the entrance to the port, as well as upon exit to the territory of Greece.
Important! A Turkish visa is not required to return to Bodrum if you have a multiple-entry Schengen, you are from an EU country, for Ukrainians a biometric passport or ID card is enough.
Conclusion and tips about Kos
The island of Kos is the perfect place to relax if you want to combine history, beaches and gastronomy. It is one of the best Greek islands for those who like active holidays but do not want the hustle and bustle. Kos offers ancient monuments, luxurious beaches, authentic cuisine and the atmosphere of traditional Greek villages.
What you need to know before you go?
- Rent a car or scooter is the most convenient way to explore the island. The roads here are good and the distances are short.
- Money – cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is better to have cash in small taverns and souvenir shops.
- Beaches – in high season (July-August) popular beaches can be crowded, so it is worth coming in the morning or visiting less well-known places.
- Sunscreen – be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat and water, especially if you plan to stay on the beach for a long time or go surfing. car/scooter.
- Shopping – the best souvenirs from Kos are olive oil, local wines, Greek spices and handmade soap. Kos is one of the places where natural sea sponges are traditionally produced, which are used for body and heel care.
- Restaurants and cafes – don’t limit yourself to touristy places, but visit traditional taverns in villages (for example, in Zia) to taste authentic Greek cuisine.
- Language – most locals speak English well, especially in tourist areas.
- Entertainment – for families with children there is the Aquatica Water Park, the Plaka Forest Zoo, and for history buffs – a multitude of archaeological sites.
Is it worth going to Kos?
Kos is perfect if you are looking for:
A balance between relaxing on the beach and exploring historical sites.
A less crowded island compared to Mykonos or Santorini.
Hospitality, authentic atmosphere and excellent cuisine.
If you want to see more, you can easily combine a holiday in Kos with a visit to the neighboring islands or even with a trip to Turkey – Bodrum is just 30 minutes away by ferry.
Kos is an ideal choice for those who want experience the real Greece without the tourist crowds.
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