Vacation to the Island of Kos, Greece

Discover Kos's Wonders

Kos belongs to the Dodecanese group of islands, in the Aegean Sea. The island boasts long sandy beaches with large hotels and secluded villages. The town has a 14th century fortress at the entrance to its harbor, erected in 1315 by The Knights of Saint John of Rhodes. The ancient physician Hippocrates is thought to have been born on Kos, and in the center of the town you can fine the Plane Tree of Hippocrates.

Current Weather

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Trips

Hotels

Activities

Transfers

Description

Kos offers an immense selection of superb beaches, which are usually found on the south coast. Naturally, most activities on the island are based around the water. The swimming possibilities are plenty and it is a great place for diving or snorkelling as well. Moreover, Kos is an excellent place for windsurfing, jet-skiing or even sailing in your own yacht. There are plenty of day-tripper boats which can take you to other nearby islands, as well as to Turkey if you wish. The mountain villages on the island possess a remarkable beauty and they can easily be visited either by car, bus or bicycle. Kos is also a place for some of the world’s most fascinating historical sites that are all worth a visit. Many of the structures were built somewhere between 4th and 3rd century B.C.

Useful information

Population:

21,817 (2025)

Currency:

Euro, € 1 = 100 cent

Emergency Info:

Emergency 112
Ambulance: 166
Police: 100
Fire brigade: 199

Opening Hours:

Shops on Kos open from 8am to 2:30pm. Most businesses close for siesta and re-open again from 5:30pm to 8:30pm from Monday to Saturday. Many shops are closed on Sunday, but it depends on the area and the season.

Do & See

Agios Theologos

Agios Theologos is one of the beautiful beaches on Kos island. Also known as 'Wave Beach', this is the preferred spot for surfing and kiting.

Ancient Agora

Experience an Ancient Greek Market by taking a stroll around this well-preserved archaeological site. The ruins include the shrines of Aphrodite and Hercules.

Archaeological Museum of Kos

Famous Greek monuments and splendid artworks from different historical periods are exhibited at The Archaeological Museum of Kos. The most extraordinary displays here include beautiful mosaics, statues from the ancient site of Asklepeion, an extensive collection of prehistoric pottery and metallic objects, exhibits from a tomb of a young athlete dating back to the 3rd century B.C, coins, anaglyphs with various representations and many other items.

Asklepieion

In ancient Greece, an Asklepieion was a healing temple, sacred to Asclepius, the god of medicine and healing. Legend has it that Hippocrates undertook his training there. Settled atop a hill, this is a perfect place to enjoy a panoramic view of Kos Town.

Casa Romana

An ornately decorated Hellenistic-period mansion, this famous house retains some of the 3rd century architectural features of the building which stood here before it. Inside, there is a treasure trove of ornaments and statues.

Castle of Antimachia

The fortress of Antimachia sits on top of a small hill in the village of Antimachia, offering amazing coastal views. Inside you will find two Venetian churches known as Agios Nikolaos, 16th century, and Agia Paraskevi, 18th century.

Dolphin Fountain

The Dolphin Fountain is a popular tourist spot on Kos, situated on a small square along the harbour.

Embros Thermae

For an invigorating swim, Embros Thermae, also called The Therma, is an enormous pool with thermal springs, surrounded by circling rocks.

Dining

Aegli

Aegli is situated in the main square of Kos and is run by women on low or no income to help support themselves and their families. The cafe/restaurant is donated to them by the town of Kos. They serve very good traditional Greek meals. The place is perfect for a late evening coffee.

Broadway

Broadway is one of the most popular restaurants located at the heart of Kos Town. They are known for their inviting and sweet-smelling, home-cooked, American, Mediterranean and Greek cuisine. You will surely enjoy your food with a glass of the restaurant's own wine and great service. You would definitely want to visit the place again.

Cuvee Restaurant

Cuvee Restaurant is not only known for its delicious food and gorgeous ambience, but also for its elite blends of grapes and wines. Their scrumptious dishes include Caprese salad, baby lamb plate and Halva. We suggest you choose a table near the window to watch the gorgeous sunset over Bodrum.

Delon Pub Restaurant

If you are looking for a venue where the atmosphere is cosy, come to Delon Pub. They offer the best English cuisine in town from early morning to late night. The whole staff teams up to make sure every customer is served excellently. They also have pizza on their menu.

Elia

This place is known to be one of the great family restaurants in town. At Elia, you can enjoy an authentic Greek way of dining from their uniquely decorated ambience to their fantastic selection of many small dishes. Their prices are very reasonable paired up with an excellent service.

Far East

If you feel as if you need a change of food, then Far East invites you to a delicious Chinese dinner. They offer an extensive menu of high quality food with reasonable prices and great service. This place is definitely a perfect break from Greek food.

H2O Bar - Restaurant

Lounge cafe during the day, gourmet restaurant during the evening and a bar during the night. The talented staff perfectly combines a charming combination of Greek cuisine with international dishes. The wave-front tables make the experience unforgettable.

Ioanna Caravelle Restaurant

Caravelle offers an extensive menu of different mezze, supplemented with Turkish starters. Occasionally they have a live band playing both Turkish and Greek music. If you are not in the mood for mezze, then their seafood dishes come highly recommended.

Cafes

Aegli

Aegli is situated in the main square of Kos and is run by women on low or no income to help support themselves and their families. The cafe/restaurant is donated to them by the the town of Kos. They serve very good traditional Greek meals. The place is perfect for a late evening coffee.

Agios Fokas Beach Bar

Situated in Agios Fokas, around 7 kilometres south of Kos Town, the bar/cafe is a little tropical paradise next to the sea with shades from palm and native trees. The perfect destination to enjoy the Mediterranean with its relaxing atmosphere.

Ciao Cafe Bistro

Ciao Cafe is not only known to be the best coffee bar in town, but also for extending excellent cocktail drinks, meals and snacks. They have a wood-fired oven for cooking pizza, which is quite traditional and amusing.

H2O Bar - Restaurant

Marina Cafe

Marina cafe is located in the beautiful marina of Kos. Enjoy coffee, snacks and cocktails in a luxurious environment next to the yachts. It is open every morning until late in the evening.

PortoEye Cafe Bar

PortoEye is the perfect place to enjoy a coffee while listening to the waves. Modern, unique and with excellent music that puts you in a relaxed vacation mood. During the night, it is a lively bar with great atmosphere and colourful cocktails.

Rendezvous

Rendezvous is situated in the small village of Tigaki. They offer great snacks, coffees and cocktails. If you are a sport enthusiast, this place is great for you. The staff is friendly and kind.

Senses Café Bistro

The Senses Cafe is a friendly and elegant place where everybody can enjoy a coffee, a delicious breakfast, drinks, salads and desserts. Excellent service and a great location, it is a great place for a break after a long day of exploring.

Bars & Nightlife

Arco Experience

Arco Experience, formerly Avra Project, is one of the most luxurious and elegant cafes in Kos. Even the most demanding customers are going to be more than pleased by the excellent staff. They offer a great variety of coffees, snacks, soft drinks, wines, champagnes, spirits and many more. A place for the day or the night.

Artemis Heaven Beach Bar

Artemis Heaven Beach Bar, a modern and cool bar where to relax both day and night. Enjoy the beautiful beach of the Aegean Sea while sipping a cocktail, served by the friendly and attentive staff. If you are feeling hungry, do not worry, they serve food too. Free sunbeds are provided on the beach.

H2O Bar - Restaurant

Harem Beach Bar

Harem Beach Bar is located between Lambi and Kos town and is decorated to resemble a harem. It has colourful drapes, velvet cushions, atmospheric lightning and plays good music. You can choose between a cushion on the floor or the more traditional seating in chairs. This bar also has an outdoor area by the beach.

Jackson's Beach Bar

Jackson's Beach Bar has a wooden setting that functions both as a bar and restaurant along the beach. It serves excellent snacks and meals during the day and a fantastic bar experience during the night. You will definitely have a good time with its warm and friendly service. Open from July to October and closed during winter.

King Size

The King Size beach bar is a private beach and bar in Tigaki. It is a buzzing place of fun and activities during summer as locals and tourists enjoy the site of the beach and the sun. At night, its sunny ambience transforms into neon lights as people enjoy sipping their fresh drinks, superb cocktails and delicious snacks.

Mylos Beach Bar

Mylos is a fantastic bar with an open-air disco right by the beach. You can anticipate a comfortable atmosphere of sea breeze while good music is playing in the background. This place is a centre of attraction for hundreds of locals and tourists every night and day.

PortoEye Cafe Bar

Shopping

Art Studio Delfis

Delfis opened its doors to the public in 1997 as an artistic gift and tourist shop. The highlights of the workshop are Greek handmade items such as colourful wooden magnets, ceramics, and other miniature decorations. All of these products are carefully crafted and painted by the shop owner to meet the taste of a Greek tradition.

Diakogiannis

Diakogiannis is a famous family-run jewellery shop on the island. Since 1885, it has offered beautiful handcrafted jewels made through a high quality of meticulous workmanship. This shop promotes precious pieces from inspired Greek jewellery designers such as Katerina Ioannidis, Margarita Meitani, and Dolly Boukoyiannis. You also find an extensive collection of exclusive watch labels, including Swatch, Seiko and Dolce & Gabbana.

Kos Municipal Market

Kos Municipal Market, also known as Μercato delle Erbe, is a compact indoor market housed in an impressive Italian building on Eleftherias Square. You can find traditional touristy gifts, fruits and vegetables, oils, herbs, honey and much more.

Limnoupoli Toy Shop

Limnoupoli Toy Shop is an entertaining toy store for kids and everyone with a childlike mind. They have all sorts of international toy brands like Lego, Playskool, Mattel and a lot more. Get yourself some board games or playing cards to play at the beach.

Olive Wood

For wooden knickknacks, visit Olive Wood. They offer handmade wooden items, jewellery and traditional games. Besides that, they also sell cosmetics like soaps, lotions and shampoos, all made with organic olive oil.

The Imaginarium

The Imaginarium is a magical store brimming with bespoke, handmade gifts and souvenirs. Tucked away near the iconic Tree of Hippocrates on Platanou Square, this shop is a treasure trove of extraordinary keepsakes. From a vibrant blue jellyfish to an octopus frame and exquisite pottery vases, each piece goes beyond the usual cliche souvenir. Easily accessible near Castle Square and run by a friendly owner, you'll leave with more than just memories.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

There are two main seasons in Kos, the cold and warm season; here you will experience dry hot summers and mild winters. The summer in Kos is from May to October and the high tourist season on the island is from June to August. If you want to avoid the crowd and travel cheaper, then May and September are good months to visit. The cold season starts in the beginning of December and ends in March. During these months, the average temperature stays below 15°C (60°F).

Passport & Visa

Citizens of European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Greece, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.

Kos Airport (KGS)

Kos Island International Airport, also known as Hippocrates Airport, is located near Andimachia village and lies about 26 kilometres from Kos Town. The easiest way to get to the city is to catch a taxi, available at the airport arrival gate. The journey from the Airport to Kos takes about 30-35 minutes. If you prefer the local transport, then head over to the big roundabout outside the airport gate and catch the orange and cream coloured KTEL bus. The bus service is offered between the Airport and the city of Kos, Mastichari, Kardamena and Kefalos The tickets have very reasonable prices and are available on board. It usually takes about 25 minutes for the bus to travel between the city centre and the airport.

Public Transport

The bus service on Kos is very well organised and ticket prices are reasonable. The public transport KTEL travels between cities and their tickets are available on-board on the bus or at the station. You can find the main bus station on Kleopatras Street in Kos Town. The island can easily be explored by bike, as it is relatively flat. If the weather is too hot or you don't like biking, you can choose to navigate by scooter or car.

Taxi

Taxis on Kos are metered, making it easy to keep track of your fare. You'll find them stationed at local offices or cruising along the streets. If you need a ride right away, you can call a taxi, though bear in mind it may carry an extra fee. Kos Taxi is one of the most dependable companies serving the island.

Electricity

Greece uses the Type F electrical plug with two round pins, same as in many countries in Continental Europe. The standard voltage is 230 volts, but some hotels have special plugs for 110 or 120-volt shavers.

Pharmacy

There are several pharmacies in Kos Town and generally they can also be found in the resorts. Greek pharmacies are rarely open in the afternoon or at weekends.

Post

Stamps can be bought in most tobacco shops and kiosks selling postcards. There are a few post offices around the island and in Kos Town.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Kos?

The best time to visit Kos is from late spring to early autumn, particularly between May and September, when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities and exploring the island.

What are the must-see attractions in Kos?

Must-see attractions in Kos include the ancient Asklepion, the Castle of the Knights, and the Roman Odeon. Don't miss the beautiful beaches like Tigaki and Paradise Beach.

How can I get to Kos from mainland Greece?

You can reach Kos from mainland Greece by taking a flight from Athens to Kos International Airport or by ferry from Piraeus, which is the port of Athens.

What local dishes should I try in Kos?

In Kos, try local dishes such as moussaka, souvlaki, and pitaridia, a traditional pasta dish. Fresh seafood is also abundant and highly recommended.

How many days should I spend in Kos to see the main sights?

Spending 3 to 4 days in Kos is ideal to explore the main sights, enjoy the beaches, and experience the local culture without feeling rushed.

What is the best way to get around Kos?

The best way to get around Kos is by renting a car or scooter, which gives you the flexibility to explore the island at your own pace. Public buses and taxis are also available.

Are there any worthwhile day trips from Kos?

Yes, consider taking a day trip to the nearby islands of Nisyros or Kalymnos, both offering unique landscapes and cultural experiences.

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