With only 110 sq. miles, Kos Island, Greece is a fantastic place to travel for the beautiful Greece beaches, archeology, and hospitality all tied into one tiny island. Not only is Kos a great place for a Greek vacation, it is also very close to the mainland of Turkey as well as the other Dodecanese islands, which can be traveled to by ferry from the island for nice day trips.
Getting to Kos
You are able to get to Kos, Greece either by air or ferry. The airport has flights that come in from Athens, but also from other European countries as well. When you arrive to the airport, you can either take a taxi or a bus to get to Kos Town as it is over 20km from the airport. The bus is the more affordable option at only €3.20 for the 40 minute journey. If you opt to travel by ferry, there are two ports on the island and ferries come from Athens, Rhodes, Leros, and Bodrum, Turkey to name a few.
Bike Friendly
Kos is one of the most bike-friendly places I have ever traveled to. There were very few cars, but a ton of people on bikes. Renting a bike is very easy once you get to the island and a great, inexpensive way to get around. There is a 13km bike path that travels from Faros beach to Psalidi beach, but if road cycling isn't your thing, there are also a ton of mountain cycling trails on the island as well! If you aren't one for biking, you can also rent ATVs and Electric Scooters to get around the island!
Tree of Hippocrates
Located in Kos Town is the Tree of Hippocrates, where it is said that Hippocrates taught his students when he was alive. While the current tree is only 500 years old, it is believed to be the descendent of the tree that Hippocrates sat under to teach his pupils the science of medicine. Over time, the tree's branches have hollowed out, requiring the metal scaffolding to hold it up. Take a seat on the bench and bask in the history of the ancient tree above you.
Neratzia Castle
Very close to the Tree of Hippocrates is the Neratzia Castle, located at the port of Kos. The area of the castle was once its own island that was connected to the mainland by a stone bridge, which is still intact today. This castle was built between 1314 and 1522 by the Knights of St-John of Jerusalem. Since the castle took so long to construct, you can see the different architectural styles as you walk from one area to another. Unfortunately, the castle was damaged in the 2017 earthquake that hit the island and the interior is still closed to the public.
Kos Town
The capital of the island, Kos Town, has an abundance of things to do and see, and is where most tourists stay when they are on the island. Packed with gift shops, food joints, and Mediterranean flair, Kos Town was my favorite part of my time on the island. While here, be sure to walk along the harbor, visit the center of town, and meander through old town. If you are looking for a good gyro, head onto the streets of old town and you may also be met with street performers that will serenade you and others while you eat.
Roman Odeon
Located in the area of Kos Town is the Roman Odeon, where, in the 2nd century, people would gather to watch prisoners fight. The original marble is still present in the first nine rows of seats that were destined for the important people of Kos, as well as 5 rows of seats made from granite, for regular attendees. When the Odeon was full, it could hold 750 spectators total. If you are in the area, there are other amazing archeological sights nearby as well, including the remains of a Roman gym and bathhouse. While in the area, you will also most likely be visited by the stray cats of the island as well.
Kastri Islet
Right across from Kefalos Beach, on the south side of the island of Kos, is Kastri Islet, a small islet that holds ruins of an ancient castle that once guarded the bay as well as a small chapel painted in the iconic white and blue, dedicated to Saint Nicolas, the protector of sailors. This islet is able to be reached by boat, but some have been known to swim to the islet from Kefalos Beach.
Thermal Springs
Another great place to visit is the thermal springs, also known as the thermes. These thermal baths are located on a pebble beach and the pool is created by a rock ring. In the pools themselves, the water ranges from 42 - 50 celsius. The sea allows the pools to cool down at one side, so you are able to slowly build up the temperature to one that is perfect for you.
Asklepieion
Another fantastic historic area in Kos is the Asklepieion, an ancient medical center based on the teaching of Hippocrates. These ruins date back to the 3rd century BC and are generally well preserved, despite the many years of damage it has endured. These ruins include three levels which house Roman baths, temples, and a banquet hall. While the second level is the oldest, the third level allows visitors to have a panoramic view over Kos Town. The third level is not the easiest for those that may have mobility issues as there are many stairs and the terrain is a bit steep.
Nightlife
When you are done exploring the many historical sites, beaches, and shops around the island of Kos, head to one of Kos's many bars and clubs. Kos has a very lively nightlife scene, which will allow you to make your time on the island even more worthwhile. Most bars are open until 2am and then you can meander over to a disco and dance until the sun comes up.
Is there something on the island of Kos, Greece that I missed? Let me know in the comments below, and as always, travel on!
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