Kos, Greece Travel Guide

Discover the perfect mix of history, nature, and nightlife on the Greek island of Kos. From ancient ruins to stunning beaches, Kos offers a memorable experience for every traveler.

Kos, a beautiful island in Greece, is a perfect blend of rich history and stunning natural beauty. Known for its pristine beaches, ancient ruins, and vibrant nightlife, this island offers something for every type of traveler. The town of Kos, with its charming streets and friendly locals, is a great place to start your journey. One of the main attractions in Kos is the Asklepion, an ancient healing center dedicated to the god Asclepius. Here, you can walk among the ruins and imagine what life was like in ancient times. The Roman Odeon and the Castle of the Knights are also must-see historical sites that offer a glimpse into the island's past. For nature lovers, the island's beaches are not to be missed. From the popular Paradise Beach with its crystal-clear waters to the more secluded Agios Stefanos Beach, there's a spot for everyone. The island's lush landscapes also offer opportunities for hiking and exploring. Kos is also known for its lively nightlife. The town comes alive in the evening with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants offering delicious local cuisine and entertainment. Whether you prefer a quiet evening by the sea or a night of dancing, Kos has it all. Lastly, don't forget to explore the island's local markets and shops. Here, you can find unique souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local delicacies to take home with you. Kos is an island that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a longing to return.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kos.

Rent a bike to explore the town and nearby beaches easily.
Visit the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and unique finds.
Try the local specialty, 'Pitaridia,' a type of homemade pasta, at traditional tavernas.
Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the ancient ruins.
Plan your beach visits in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday sun.

Neighbourhoods in Kos

Kos Town

Kardamena

Marmari

Tingaki

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Kos

Explore Kos: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Kos

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Bodrum Castle

Explore the enchanting Bodrum Castle, a historic fortress rich in culture and breathtaking coastal views, perfect for any traveler seeking adventure.

4.5

Hippocrates Plane Tree

Discover the ancient Hippocrates Plane Tree in Kos, a historical landmark where legend and nature intertwine, offering a serene escape and rich cultural heritage.

4.3

Asclepieion at Kos

Explore the Asclepieion at Kos, a historical landmark revealing ancient Greek medicine's roots amidst stunning scenic beauty.

4.4

Knidos Ancient City

Uncover the ancient wonders of Knidos, a historical landmark in Turkey with breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage.

4.6

Best landmarks in Kos

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Plane Tree of Hippocrates

Explore the legendary Plane Tree of Hippocrates in Kos, Greece, a historical landmark where ancient medicine meets timeless beauty.

4.3

Traditional Windmill Of Antimachia

Discover the Traditional Windmill of Antimachia, a historic gem in Greece, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into island heritage.

4.4

Συνοικία Λιμένος - Αρχαία Αγορά Κω

Discover the ancient treasures of the Συναίκια Λιμένος - Αρχαία Αγορά Κω, where history and culture come alive on the beautiful island of Kos.

4.4

Traditional House of Pyli

Explore the rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty of the Traditional House of Pyli, a unique museum in the heart of Greece.

4.4

Best restaurants in Kos

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Hirodion

Discover delicious traditional Greek dishes at Hirodion in Kos - where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.8

Elia

Discover Elia in Kos: where authentic Greek flavors meet delightful tapas in an inviting atmosphere.

4.6

Broadway Restaurant

Experience authentic Greek flavors at Broadway Restaurant in Kos – where tradition meets innovation in every dish.

4.8

Avli Traditional Restaurant

Discover the essence of Greece at Avli Traditional Restaurant in Kardamena – where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.6

Best bars in Kos

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Mylos Beach Bar & Restaurant

Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delight at Mylos Beach Bar & Restaurant, where breathtaking views meet exquisite Mediterranean cuisine.

4.4

Jacksons bar/pub/restaurant/beach/suites

Discover Jackson's Bar in Kos - A vibrant blend of dining, cocktails, and entertainment by the sea, perfect for your island getaway.

4.5

Camel Bar

Camel Bar in Kos: A vibrant nightlife destination offering stunning waterfront views, delicious cocktails, and an unforgettable atmosphere for all visitors.

4.5

Tarzan beach Restaurant Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Tarzan Beach Restaurant Bar, where delicious Mediterranean cuisine meets stunning Aegean Sea views in Kos.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Kos

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Mylos Beach Bar & Restaurant

Experience the best of coastal dining at Mylos Beach Bar & Restaurant in Kos, where great food meets stunning sea views.

4.4

Camel Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kos at Camel Bar, where excellent drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

4.5

The Stone Roses Bar

Experience nightlife like never before at The Stone Roses Bar in Kardamaina, where great drinks meet a vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

Malibu Beach Bar

Discover the idyllic Malibu Beach Bar in Kardamena, Greece, where relaxation meets the vibrant beach atmosphere for a perfect getaway.

4.6

Best shops in Kos

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Best Shops

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Kos Municipal Market

Explore Kos Municipal Market: A vibrant shopping haven showcasing local produce, artisanal goods, and authentic Greek flavors in the heart of Kos.

4.4

Turgutreis Market

Experience the vibrant Turgutreis Market in Bodrum, where local flavors, crafts, and culture come together in a lively atmosphere.

4.1

Hondos Center

Explore Hondos Center in Kos for a diverse shopping experience featuring fashion, beauty, and home essentials in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

OLIVE WOOD

Explore Olive Wood in Kos - a unique shopping destination for exquisite handmade olive wood crafts and local souvenirs.

4.2

Explore Kos on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kos, mapped for you.

Kos Essentials

Kos is accessible via Kos Island International Airport (KGS), which has direct flights from major European cities, especially during the tourist season from April to October. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Piraeus (Athens' port) or other nearby islands like Rhodes and Santorini. Ferries are frequent and offer a scenic journey across the Aegean Sea.
Kos has a well-connected public transport system with buses run by KTEL that cover the main towns and tourist spots. Taxis are readily available and reasonably priced, but make sure to agree on the fare beforehand. Renting a car, scooter, or bicycle is also a popular option for exploring the island at your own pace. Kos Town is particularly bicycle-friendly with dedicated bike lanes.
The official currency in Kos is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful, especially in tourist areas, but be aware of potential fees for international withdrawals.
Kos is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, like any popular tourist spot, be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially in Kos Town and at major attractions. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists, but standard travel precautions are always advisable.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Kos has a hospital located in Kos Town and several medical clinics around the island. Pharmacies are also available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing suitable for a Mediterranean climate, but remember to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing outfits. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in churches and monasteries. Cover your shoulders and knees, and remove your hat when entering. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good evening). A handshake is common, and a smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy local cuisine and try traditional dishes like moussaka and souvlaki. Don’t rush meals; dining is a relaxed and social affair in Greece.
To experience Kos like a local, visit the village of Zia in the Dikeos Mountains for stunning sunsets and traditional tavernas. Explore the local markets in Kos Town where you can buy fresh produce, local honey, and handmade crafts. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don’t miss the ancient ruins of Asklepion, an important healing center in antiquity, and the Castle of the Knights in Kos Town for a glimpse into the island’s medieval past.

When is the best time to visit Kos?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kos

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kos. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
- GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
- YesΝαι
  [Ne]
- NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
- Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
- Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
- Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
- How are you?Τι κάνεις;
  [Ti kanis?]
- Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;
  [Kala. Esi?]
- Do you speak English?Μιλάς Αγγλικά;
  [Milas Agglika?]
- I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
- I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
- Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Yia]
- I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]
- Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
- Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fige!]
- Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astynomia!]
- Call a doctor!Καλέστε ένα γιατρό!
  [Kaleste ena giatro!]
- I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
- I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]
- I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
- I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
- How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
- That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
- Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να χαμηλώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na hamilosete tin timi?]
- What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
- It's one o'clockΕίναι μία η ώρα
  [Ine mia i ora]
- Half past (10)Μισή (δέκα)
  [Misi (deka)]
- MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
- AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
- EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
- YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
- TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
- TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
- 1Ένα
  [Ena]
- 2Δύο
  [Dyo]
- 3Τρία
  [Tria]
- 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
- 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
- 6Έξι
  [Exi]
- 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
- 8Οχτώ
  [Ochto]
- 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
- 10Δέκα
  [Deka]
- Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
- What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για....)
  [Ena isitirio (gia....)]

History of Kos

Kos, a gem in the Dodecanese archipelago, boasts a history stretching back to the Neolithic era. Archaeological discoveries, such as tools and pottery, indicate that the island has been inhabited since 3000 BCE. Kos was known in ancient times for its fertile land and strategic position, making it an important hub for trade and culture.
In the 11th century BCE, Kos was settled by the Dorians, who established one of the six Dorian cities that formed the Dorian Hexapolis. The island became a significant center for the worship of Asclepius, the god of healing, which laid the groundwork for its future as a medical hub.
Kos is famously known as the birthplace of Hippocrates, the 'Father of Medicine,' who was born around 460 BCE. The island's Asklepieion, an ancient healing temple dedicated to Asclepius, became a renowned medical school where Hippocrates himself is said to have taught. His legacy continues to influence modern medicine.
During the Hellenistic period, Kos flourished under the rule of the Ptolemies, who turned it into a cultural and intellectual center. The island's prosperity continued under Roman rule, with impressive infrastructure developments such as aqueducts, baths, and theaters. The Roman elite frequently visited Kos for its therapeutic hot springs and medical expertise.
Kos remained an important island through the Byzantine period and saw the construction of numerous churches and fortifications. In the 14th century, the Knights of St. John took control of the island, fortifying it further to protect against Ottoman invasions. The impressive Castle of Neratzia, located at the harbor, stands as a testament to this era.
Kos fell to the Ottoman Empire in 1523 and remained under Ottoman control for nearly four centuries. This period saw a blend of cultures and architectural styles, with significant contributions like the Defterdar Mosque and the Ottoman fountains that still decorate the island.
In 1912, Kos was seized by Italy during the Italo-Turkish War and became part of the Italian Dodecanese. The Italians invested in infrastructure and restored many ancient sites. However, during World War II, the island faced significant turmoil, including bombardments and occupations by German forces after Italy's surrender in 1943.
After World War II, Kos became part of Greece in 1947 with the rest of the Dodecanese islands. The latter half of the 20th century saw rapid development in tourism, transforming Kos into a popular travel destination. Today, visitors can explore its rich history through well-preserved archaeological sites, medieval castles, and vibrant cultural festivals.