Créé par Romane, le 7 mai 2026
Votre guide Ryo
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Nestled in the Dodecanese, off the Turkish coast, the island of Kos is one of the most captivating Greek destinations in the Aegean Sea. Just 40 kilometers long and 8 wide, this island offers exceptional richness: ancient ruins bearing witness to millennia of history, crystal-clear beaches, picturesque mountain villages, and vibrant nightlife. Visiting Kos means strolling between Roman ruins and shaded tavernas, cycling along a spectacular coastline, or conquering Mount Dikaios. Whether you're passionate about history, a beach lover, or simply seeking a change of scenery, visiting Kos will not disappoint you. Here are the 8 absolutely essential things to do during your stay.
1. Get lost in the town of Kos and its ancient remains
The capital of the island, the town of Kos is itself a true open-air museum. Wandering through its streets, you'll discover layers of superimposed history: Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman civilizations can be read at every street corner. This is where your adventure to visit Kos truly begins.
Among the must-see sites in the town, the Ancient Agora of Kos (Kos 853 00, Greece, rated 4.3/5 on Google for 468 reviews) constitutes one of the largest archaeological excavations in the city. This vast open-air space reveals the foundations of a public market that animated the city in antiquity, with its standing columns, paved streets, and ruined temples. A few steps away, the archaeological museum of Kos houses a beautiful collection of sculptures and mosaics found on the island.
Don't miss the Roman odeon either, a small semi-circular theater still remarkably preserved, nor the Casa Romana, a 3rd-century Roman patrician residence whose mosaics and frescoes are surprisingly fresh. The city reveals remains at every step — a rare characteristic that makes walking through its streets fascinating even for those less passionate about history.
2. Discover Neratzia Castle, medieval fortress of the Knights
Standing proudly facing the port, Neratzia Castle (Akti Miaouli 4, Kos 853 00, Greece, rated 4.2/5 on Google for 835 reviews) is one of the strongest symbols of Kos. Built in the 14th and 15th centuries by the Hospitallers of Saint John — the same ones who built the famous fortress of Rhodes — this medieval castle offers a striking dive into the island's history.
Its imposing ochre stone ramparts, built partly with materials recovered from the ancient ruins of the city, tell the story of the island's resistance against the assaults of the Ottoman Empire. Once inside, the site presents itself as a set of ruins scattered with sculptures, capitals, and architectural fragments, with the panorama over the port of Kos and the Turkish coasts of Bodrum as a backdrop. Entry is free, which makes it an even more appreciable stop during your visit to Kos.
The castle is open Wednesday to Monday from 8:30 AM to 3 PM (closed on Tuesday). Allow an hour to tour it leisurely and enjoy the views over the port.
3. Visit the Asklepieion, cradle of Western medicine
About 4 kilometers west of the town, perched on a wooded hill that offers a splendid view of the Aegean Sea and Turkish coasts, the Asklepieion of Kos (Kos 853 00, Greece, rated 4.4/5 on Google for 9,552 reviews) is one of the most important archaeological sites in ancient Greece. It was here that Hippocrates, the father of medicine, is said to have studied, practiced, and taught the art of healing.
This sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, god of medicine, was simultaneously a place of worship, a care center, and a medical school that attracted patients and students from all over the Greek world. The site unfolds on three terraces connected by monumental staircases. One can admire Doric and Ionic colonnades, the foundations of a temple to Apollo, purification basins, and a theater. The museum adjacent to the site perfectly complements the visit with explanations of ancient medical practices.
The Asklepieion is open every day from 8 AM to 8 PM. To get there from the town of Kos, you can rent a bike (about 10 minutes travel time), take the little tourist train that tours the island, or walk there in about an hour along a shaded road.
4. Reflect under Hippocrates' plane tree
At the heart of the town, on Plane Tree Square, stands one of the most famous trees in the world: Hippocrates' plane tree (Plane Tree Square, Kos 853 00, Greece, rated 4.3/5 on Google for 11,489 reviews). Greek legend has it that Hippocrates himself taught medicine to his disciples in the shade of this centuries-old tree.
Scientifically, the current tree — an oriental plane whose crown reaches 12 meters in diameter — is not from the 4th century BC: scientists estimate it to be about 500 years old, and it would therefore be a descendant of the original tree. No matter, because this place charged with meaning deserves the detour. Backed by the Gazi Hassan Pasha Mosque (transformed into an art gallery), framed by an Ottoman fountain and the ramparts of Neratzia Castle, the ensemble forms a unique historical tableau.
Hippocrates' plane tree is accessible for free, at any time of day or night. A few steps away, you'll find cafes and tavernas where it's good to stop for a well-deserved break after your tour of the old town of Kos.
5. Explore the picturesque villages of the island's center
From the town of Kos, a winding road climbs in a few minutes towards the island's interior, revealing a completely different face of the island. Perched on the mountainside, the villages of the Asfendiou massif constitute one of the most beautiful surprises of Kos: here, no mass tourism, but flowery streets, whitewashed houses, and welcoming inhabitants.
The village of Zia (Lagoudi Zia 853 00, Greece, rated 4.6/5 on Google for 10,019 reviews) is undoubtedly the most visited and most charming of these mountain villages. An eagle's nest overlooking the plain and sea, it is particularly renowned for its breathtaking sunsets. The tavernas on the central square serve authentic Greek cuisine while shops offer local products: thyme honey, olive oil, aromatic herbs, and artisanal jewelry.
Further east, the abandoned medieval village of Paleo Pyli deserves a short hike (about 4 km from the road) to discover its ruined houses, fresh water fountains, and the Byzantine church of Christos. The summit of Mount Dikaios, the island's highest point at 847 meters, is reached from Zia via a hiking trail of about an hour, rewarded with a panoramic view over the entire Dodecanese archipelago. Another village of interest: Antimachia, with its traditional house transformed into a museum and its restored windmill.
These mountain villages represent the authentic soul of Kos and are well worth half a day of discovery.
6. Enjoy the paradise beaches of Kos
Kos is unanimously recognized for the quality of its beaches and the purity of its waters. Whether you're seeking animation, tranquility, or the clearest waters of the Aegean Sea, you'll find your happiness on one of the numerous beaches that border the island around almost its entire perimeter.
In the northeast of the island, the beaches of Lambi, Psalidi and Agios Fokas are easily accessible from the town of Kos, ideal for a quick swim. At Agios Fokas, natural hot springs mix with the sea, offering a unique thermal experience — locals regularly come here for the supposed virtues of these waters.
On the north coast, Tigaki and Marmari offer long fine sand beaches with shallow sea, ideal for families with children. Further east, the beaches of Mastichari and Kardamena mix lively tavernas and translucent waters. For the wildest and most preserved ones, you have to look towards the peninsula of Kefalos, at the extreme southwest, where the beach of Agios Stefanos — with the ruins of a paleochristian basilica in the background — is one of the most beautiful and most photogenic in all of Greece.
The beach of Paradise Beach, near Kefalos, lives up to its name: turquoise waters, immaculate white sand, and preserved natural setting. To access it, the road is sometimes difficult but the result is well worth the effort.
7. Cycle around the island
Kos is one of the most bicycle-friendly Greek islands, and it's no coincidence that the two-wheeler has become a true tourist emblem. The north of the island is almost entirely flat, which allows cycling on the coastal roads without particular effort, enjoying the sea breeze and panoramas over the Aegean Sea.
Numerous bike paths connect the town of Kos to neighboring villages and beaches. You can thus reach the Asklepieion by bike in about ten minutes, or pedal to the beaches of Tigaki (about 15 km) and Marmari (about 20 km) along the coast. Bike rental shops are numerous in the town of Kos, and rates are very accessible (from 5-8 € per day for a classic bike, or 15-20 € for an electric bike).
For a more sporty experience, mountain bike enthusiasts can tackle the trails that climb into the central hills, particularly towards Zia and Mount Dikaios. This mode of transport is also the most ecological and most pleasant way to go from beach to beach: just park your bike, dive into incomparably blue waters, then hit the road to the next cove.
8. Take a boat excursion to neighboring islands
Kos's geographical position, at the heart of the Dodecanese, makes it a formidable starting point for boat excursions to neighboring islands. These maritime escapes often constitute one of the best memories for travelers visiting Kos.
Nisyros, the volcanic island, is the most spectacular: just 30 minutes by boat from Kardamena, it houses one of the most accessible active volcanoes in Europe. You can descend into the Stefanos crater to find yourself facing an absolutely striking sulfurous lunar landscape — a unique experience in all of Greece. Day excursions depart regularly from Kos ports during high season.
Kalymnos, nicknamed the island of sponges and climbers, is accessible in about 1h30. Its colorful port, white limestone cliffs, and warm inhabitants make it a destination of choice for a day. Pserimos, tiny preserved island between Kos and Kalymnos, offers a wild beach and absolute tranquility, ideal for a day of lounging away from crowds.
From the port of Kos, it's also possible to reach Bodrum in Turkey in half an hour by ferry — an original excursion to discover another continent and visit the castle of Saint Peter, a fascinating underwater museum. Cruise boats also offer circuits combining several Dodecanese islands: Rhodes, Symi, Leros or Patmos can thus be added to your program.
Besides these 8 must-sees, Kos still reserves many activities: scuba diving sessions around the island (the seabeds of the Dodecanese are remarkably rich), days at Aquatica Water Park (Kardamaina 853 02, Greece, rated 4.2/5 on Google for 1,180 reviews) for families, or lively evenings in the bars and clubs of the nightclub street in the town of Kos.
In conclusion, visiting Kos means embracing several millennia of history while delighting in the simple pleasures of Mediterranean life — swimming in turquoise waters, tasting Greek gastronomy in a shaded taverna, or watching the sunset from the village of Zia. This Dodecanese island, often underestimated in favor of Santorini or Mykonos, well deserves its place among Greece's flagship island destinations.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about visiting Kos
What's the best time to visit Kos?
The best time to visit Kos extends from May to October. The months of June, September, and October are ideal: the weather is beautiful, the sea warm, and tourists fewer than in July-August. High season (July-August) corresponds to the highest temperatures (up to 35°C) and the highest influx on beaches and tourist sites. Spring (April-May) is excellent for hiking and visiting archaeological sites, with lush vegetation and mild temperatures.
How to get around on the island of Kos?
Several options are available to get around Kos. Bicycle is ideal for the northern part of the island (flat terrain) and getting around town. Car or scooter rental allows exploring the entire island, especially southern beaches and mountain villages (from 30 €/day for a car). The KTEL bus connects the town of Kos to main villages and beaches. A tourist train also runs through the town of Kos and to the Asklepieion. For excursions to neighboring islands, ferries depart daily from the ports of Kos and Kardamena during season.
How many days are needed to visit Kos?
A stay of 5 to 7 days minimum is recommended to fully enjoy Kos. This will allow you to dedicate one day to visiting the town of Kos and its ancient sites, half a day to the Asklepieion, one day to mountain villages, two days to beaches and cycling, and at least one day for a boat excursion to Nisyros or Kalymnos. For an express stay, 3 days suffice to cover the essential points with the help of the Ryo audio-guided circuit.
Is Kos an island suitable for families with children?
Yes, Kos is a very family-friendly destination. The numerous fine sand beaches with shallow waters (Tigaki, Marmari, Mastichari) are ideal for little ones. The Aquatica Water Park in Kardamena will please children of all ages. The flat terrain of the northern part facilitates family bike rides. Archaeological sites, accessible free for under-18s for most, can also awaken young people's curiosity with the right explanation tools — like those offered by the Ryo audio-guided circuit.
Can you visit Turkey from Kos?
Absolutely! Kos is located just 4 kilometers from the Turkish coast. A fast ferry connects Kos daily to Bodrum (Turkey) in about 30 to 45 minutes. Connections are provided several times a day during high season by different ferry companies. Remember to have your valid passport (ID card alone is not sufficient to enter Turkey for nationals of many countries). This excursion to Bodrum, with its Saint Peter castle and lively market, is a very popular experience among Kos visitors.