Kos
· GR

Kos

Kos, Notio Aigaio, Greece

Kos, a captivating island nestled in the Nótio Aigaío region of Greece, is a dream destination for travelers seeking a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Steeped in rich historical significanc…

#Greek island#Nótio Aigaío region#Tourist destination#Historic sites#Beach resorts
1/12

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kos.

Top Hotels in Kos

Top Flights to Kos

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kos.

Tours

Ancient Agora of Kos

Explore the archaeological site of the Ancient Agora, featuring ruins from the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

Kos Town Castle

Visit the Castle of the Knights in Kos Town, built by the Knights of St. John.

Asclepeion of Kos

Discover the sanctuary of Asclepius, one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece.

Neratzia Castle

Visit the well-preserved Neratzia Castle with dungeons and tales of knights.

Zia Village

Experience local culture and panoramic views at the charming village of Zia.

Shopping

Kos Old Town

Stroll through the historic streets of Kos Old Town, filled with shops and traditional architecture.

Eleftherias Square

Visit the bustling Eleftherias Square, the heart of Kos Town with cafes and shops.

Outdoor

Tigaki Beach

Relax on the stunning Tigaki Beach, known for its soft sand and clear waters.

Therma Beach

Experience the unique thermal springs at Therma Beach, where hot waters mix with the sea.

Lido Water Park

A fun-filled day at one of Greece's biggest water parks, perfect for families and friends.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kos.

Currency
€ | EUR | Euro
Population
34,000
Languages
Greek, Greek, English, German
Average weather
Kos
Jan
rain
14°8°
Feb
rain
14°8°
Mar
cloud
16°9°
Apr
clear
19°12°
May
sun
23°15°
Jun
hot
28°19°
Jul
hot
31°22°
Aug
hot
31°22°
Sep
sun
28°19°
Oct
clear
24°16°
Nov
cloud
19°12°
Dec
rain
16°10°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kos.

What people love

Kos, located in the South Aegean region of Greece, offers a variety of attractions and activities that make it a popular destination for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Kos include:

  1. Historical Sites: Kos is rich in history and home to several ancient ruins and archaeological sites such as the Asklepion, an ancient healing center, and the Castle of the Knights of St. John. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring these sites and learning about the island's past.

  2. Beaches: Kos boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters and sandy shores. Visitors can relax on the beach, swim, sunbathe, or try water sports such as snorkeling, windsurfing, and sailing.

  3. Natural Beauty: The island of Kos is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including lush greenery, scenic mountains, and picturesque villages. Travelers can enjoy hiking, biking, or simply taking in the breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.

  4. Local Cuisine: Kos offers a variety of delicious Greek cuisine, including fresh seafood, traditional dishes like moussaka and souvlaki, and local specialties such as pitaridia (a type of pasta dish) and honey from the island's beekeepers.

  5. Nightlife: Kos has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy live music, dancing, and socializing. The island is known for its lively atmosphere and entertainment options for all tastes.

Overall, traveling to Kos offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors, from exploring ancient history to relaxing on beautiful beaches and enjoying the local culture and cuisine.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Kos, Greece could include:

  1. Crowded tourist areas: During peak tourist seasons, Kos can become crowded with tourists, especially in popular areas such as the beaches and historical sites. This may result in longer lines, crowded restaurants, and less peaceful surroundings.

  2. High prices: Like many tourist destinations, prices for accommodations, meals, and activities in Kos may be higher than in other parts of Greece. Travelers on a budget may find it challenging to stick to their financial plans while visiting Kos.

  3. Limited public transportation: While there are some public transportation options available on the island, they may not be as frequent or reliable as in larger cities. Renting a car may be necessary to fully explore the island, which can add to the overall cost of the trip.

  4. Language barrier: While many locals in Kos may speak English, there can still be a language barrier for some travelers, especially in more remote areas. It's always a good idea to learn some basic Greek phrases or carry a translation app to help with communication.

  5. Weather conditions: Like many Mediterranean destinations, Kos can experience extremely hot temperatures during the summer months, which may be uncomfortable for some travelers. It's important to stay hydrated and take precautions against heat-related illnesses.

Please note that these are general cons that some travelers may experience when visiting Kos, and individual experiences may vary.

Kos is a Greek island in the southeastern Aegean Sea, part of the Dodecanese island chain. It has a rich history that spans several millennia, marked by various cultural influences and significant events.

Ancient History

  • Early Settlements: The island has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with archaeological evidence of settlements dating back to the Bronze Age.
  • Classical Period: In the 4th century BCE, Kos became a prominent center of learning and medicine. The island is notably linked to Hippocrates, the "Father of Medicine," who was born here around 460 BCE. The Asclepeion, a healing temple dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine, was established and became one of the most important medical centers of the ancient world.

Hellenistic and Roman Periods

  • Hellenistic Era: During the Hellenistic period, Kos was a thriving cultural hub, known for its schools of philosophy and art.
  • Roman Rule: The island came under Roman control in the 2nd century BCE, maintaining its status as a center of learning and culture.

Byzantine and Medieval Periods

  • Byzantine Period: Kos remained an important part of the Byzantine Empire, suffering periodic raids and attacks from Arab forces.
  • Knights of St. John: In 1315, the island was captured by the Knights of St. John, who fortified it extensively. The Castle of the Knights in Kos Town is a significant landmark from this period.

Ottoman and Italian Rule

  • Ottoman Period: The island was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1523 and remained under Ottoman control until the early 20th century. During this time, Kos experienced economic decline and population changes.
  • Italian Occupation: Following the Italo-Turkish War, the island was ceded to Italy in 1912. The Italians invested in infrastructure and architectural development, leaving a legacy of buildings that reflect Italianate style.

Modern Era

  • World War II and Aftermath: During World War II, Kos was occupied by the Germans after Italy's armistice in 1943. The island suffered significantly during this period.
  • Union with Greece: After the war, Kos, along with the rest of the Dodecanese, was formally united with Greece in 1948.

Notable Landmarks

  • Asclepeion: The ancient medical center, now an archaeological site, is a testament to Kos's historical significance in medicine.
  • Hippocrates Plane Tree: Located in Kos Town, this tree is said to be a descendant of the one under which Hippocrates taught his students.
  • Castle of the Knights: A well-preserved fortress in Kos Town, built by the Knights of St. John.
  • Roman Odeon and Casa Romana: Examples of the island’s Roman heritage, showcasing impressive mosaics and architecture.

Significant Figures

  • Hippocrates: The most famous figure associated with Kos, Hippocrates is considered one of the greatest figures in the history of medicine.

Kos today is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful beaches, historical sites, and vibrant culture.