Things To Do
in Kos
Kos is a beautiful island in the Dodecanese group in the southeastern Aegean Sea. It is known for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and its rich history, including ancient ruins such as the Asklepion and the Castle of the Knights. The island offers a mix of relaxing beach resorts and vibrant nightlife in Kos Town, where you can explore charming streets lined with shops and restaurants.
With its Mediterranean climate and picturesque landscapes, Kos is a popular destination for tourists seeking both relaxation and cultural experiences.
- "Kalimera" - Good morning
- "Efharisto" - Thank you
- "Parakaló" - Please/You're welcome
- "S'agapo" - I love you
- "Mia mera" - One day
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Tigaki Beach. Enjoy the golden sands and clear waters as you soak up the sun.
Grab lunch at a beachside taverna, sampling local seafood dishes. Afterward, relax on the beach or try your hand at some water sports.
Watch the sunset over the Aegean Sea while enjoying a cocktail. Savor a traditional Greek dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Visit the Ancient Agora of Kos and explore the ruins that date back to the 4th century BC. Marvel at the historic structures and learn about their significance.
Head to the nearby Asklepion, the birthplace of medicine. Wander among the ancient ruins and enjoy the stunning views of the island.
Dine at a local restaurant in Kos Town, savoring regional specialties. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town's charming streets.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning beaches with clear waters suitable for swimming and water sports.
- Rich historical sites and archaeological treasures, including ancient ruins and the Asclepius Healing Center.
- Vibrant nightlife and a variety of restaurants offering delicious Greek cuisine.
- Mild Mediterranean climate ideal for outdoor activities and tourism.
- Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the travel experience.
- Tourist crowds can make popular areas feel congested, especially during peak season.
- Higher prices for accommodations and dining in tourist hotspots compared to other Greek islands.
- Limited public transportation options may lead to challenges in accessing less-visited areas.
- Some areas can be impacted by overdevelopment, affecting the natural landscape.
- Seasonality in business can lead to closures of shops and restaurants outside peak tourist months.
Best Activities in Kos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the highest mountain on the island offering stunning panoramic views, diverse flora, and various trails suitable for all hiking levels.
Visit the beautiful beaches of Kos such as Paradise Beach, Tigaki Beach, and Mastichari Beach for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Rent a bike and traverse the picturesque countryside and coastal paths of Kos, suitable for both casual riders and serious cyclists.
Engage in a variety of watersports including windsurfing, kitesurfing, and jet skiing in the crystal-clear waters of Kefalos Bay.
Visit the ancient ruins of Asklepion and other archaeological sites, while enjoying the scenic outdoor surroundings.
Take a boat trip to nearby islands such as Nisyros and Pserimos for a day of beach exploration and local culture.
Discover the underwater beauty of Kos' marine life by going snorkeling or diving at various spots around the island.
Experience the island's landscapes by going horseback riding through rural paths and along the coastline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kos
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning sunset views and panoramic vistas of the island.
Offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscape and the Aegean Sea.
Famous for its beautiful beach and cliffs that provide excellent photo opportunities.
Food in Kos
Kos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled skewers of meat, typically pork or chicken, served with pita bread, salad, and tzatziki sauce. Found at various street food vendors and tavernas throughout Kos.
Must-Try!
Fried cheese, often made with kefalotyri or graviera, drizzled with lemon juice. Available at many traditional Greek restaurants on the island.
A classic Greek dish consisting of layers of eggplant, potato, minced meat, and creamy bechamel sauce, baked to perfection.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local cheeses, olives, and traditional Greek delicacies. Ideal for sampling local flavors and picking up picnic supplies.
Explore the charming village of Mastichari to discover street food stalls serving up delicious seafood, gyros, and mezes amidst a vibrant atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting religious sites, it's important to dress modestly. This often means covering shoulders and knees, especially in churches and monasteries, to show respect for local customs.
Greeks often greet each other with a handshake, but close friends might greet with a kiss on both cheeks. It's respectful to greet people warmly and maintain eye contact.
If invited to a local's home for dinner, it's polite to bring a small gift, such as sweets or wine. During the meal, it’s customary to wait for the host to start eating before you dig in.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kos
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kos, Greece, it is customary to tip service staff such as waiters, taxi drivers, and hotel personnel. While tipping is not mandatory, it is appreciated. A typical tip ranges from 5% to 10% of the bill, depending on the level of service. In more casual settings, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common. It is considered polite to acknowledge good service with a tip.
Payment practices in Kos typically involve using cash or credit/debit cards. While many establishments accept cards, especially in tourist areas, it is advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors or rural areas. The Euro is the official currency, and ATMs are widely available. Some restaurants and shops may impose minimum purchase limits for card payments, so having cash on hand is beneficial.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather, blooming flora, fewer crowds, ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and exploring archaeological sites.
Warm to hot weather, peak tourist season, bustling beaches, vibrant nightlife, perfect for swimming and water sports.
Pleasant temperatures, quieter atmosphere, harvest season, suitable for cultural events and peaceful beach days.
Cool and rainy, fewer tourists, opportunity for off-season deals, great for indulging in local cuisine and visiting historical attractions.
Kos at Night
Hiking in Kos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hiking trail that leads from the village of Zia to the summit of Mount Dikeos, offering stunning views of the island and the Aegean Sea.
A scenic hike that takes you to the ancient site of Asklepion, where you can explore ruins and enjoy panoramic views of Kos.
An easy coastal hike starting from Lambi Beach, leading you back to Kos Town with picturesque views of the sea and beach.
A moderate hike from Kefalos to the beach of Agios Theologos, passing through beautiful landscapes and traditional Greek villages.
This trail leads to the village of Palio Pyli, providing great insights into local history and views of the castle and surrounding areas.
A tranquil hike through the Plaka forest, home to many pine trees and friendly deer, perfect for nature lovers.
A serene walk through the valley that attracts butterflies in the summer, ideal for a peaceful hike amidst nature.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kos through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kos by plane.
The main airport serving Kos, Greece, primarily for international flights.
Located on the island of Rhodes, about 50 nautical miles from Kos, it serves as a significant international gateway.
Located in Turkey, approximately 85 nautical miles from Kos, it serves many international flights, especially during the summer season.
Situated on the island of Kefalonia, around 130 nautical miles from Kos, it serves both domestic and international flights.
An international airport located on the island of Santorini, about 140 nautical miles from Kos, popular for tourists.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group, consisting of individuals who identify as Greek by nationality, language, and culture.
A minority group that has historical ties to the island, primarily consisting of individuals of Turkish descent.
Includes individuals from various European countries who have moved to Kos for work or retirement.
This group includes immigrants from countries such as Albania and Bulgaria, often involved in local labor markets.
Includes individuals from conflict areas seeking safety and asylum in Greece, some of whom may reside in Kos.
The Soul of Kos
Discover the essence of Kos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Kos, with many local teams and a strong following among fans.
Basketball enjoys significant popularity in Kos, with various clubs and youth programs fostering local talent.
Tennis is widely played in Kos, with several courts available and growing interest in competitive play.
Given its beautiful beaches, water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and snorkeling are very popular among locals and tourists alike.
Athletics is well-regarded, with local events and participation in marathons and fun runs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Kos offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including stuffed vine leaves, Greek salads, and various vegetable-based mezes.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free options such as grilled fish, Greek yogurt, and fresh fruit throughout Kos. It's advisable to communicate dietary requirements clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kos with these cultural adventures.
