Kos

Kos has always had a long history of cultural exchanges due to its strategic location, blending Ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Venetian influences, all of which are visible today. It is the third-largest island in the Dodecanese, covering an area of approximately 290 square kilometers made up of lush plains, rugged mountains, and a beautiful coastline dotted with sandy and pebbled beaches.

The island’s history dates back to the Bronze Age, and it was an important centre of Mycenaean civilization. Kos later became a prominent city-state in ancient Greece, known for its strategic port and thriving economy. In the 5th century BCE, Kos gained fame as the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, and acted as a cultural and medical centre to the ancient world.
Kos flourished under Roman rule, with the construction of impressive public buildings, baths, and an extensive aqueduct system. During the Byzantine period, the island became an important center of Christianity and was fortified against pirate raids.
Kos experienced both Venetian and Ottoman rule, which shaped its architecture and culture. The iconic Neratzia Castle, near Kos Town harbour, is a testament to the island’s medieval past. The final occupiers after the centuries of invading Romans, Arabs, Turks, Venetians, and Genoese, were the Italians and Germans in the 20th Century. Descendents of these and many others still invade Kos, but peacefully with Easyjet rather than on warships.

Best For

Beaches: Kos boasts a coastline of over 112 kilometers (70 miles), offering a variety of beaches for every preference.

Paradise Beach one of the most popular spots on the island. Known for its crystal-clear waters and soft sand, it’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Tigaki Beach This long sandy beach is perfect for families, with shallow waters and plenty of amenities, including sunbeds, umbrellas, and beachfront restaurants.

 Kefalos Beach a tranquil beach with turquoise waters, offering a more relaxed atmosphere away from the crowds.

Agios Stefanos Beach features ruins of an ancient basilica right on the beach, with views of Kastri Islet just offshore.

Kardamena Beach A lively beach close to the bustling town of Kardamena, this is a great spot for those seeking entertainment, water sports, and vibrant nightlife.

Historical Sites: The Asklepion, Neratzia Castle, and Ancient Agora make Kos a paradise for history buffs.

Cycling and Hiking: Kos offers unique outdoor activities for those who enjoy cycling or trekking, with scenic routes through mountains and along the coastline.

Nightlife Kos is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with options ranging from laid-back beach bars to lively clubs.Kos Town offers the most diverse nightlife scene, with a mix of cocktail bars, pubs, and clubs. Kardamena attracts younger crowds with its energetic clubs and late-night events. DJs, themed parties, and beachfront bars ensure a lively atmosphere. For a more relaxed evening, head to Zia for traditional Greek tavernas offering live music and local wine under the stars.

Worst for:

Crowds in Peak Season: Summer months (July and August) can see large numbers of tourists, particularly in Kos Town and Kardamena, leading to crowded beaches and busy streets.

Party Scene May Not Suit All: The nightlife in places like Kardamena may not appeal to families or those seeking a quiet retreat.

Touristy Areas: Some parts of Kos Town and popular beaches feel overly commercialized, with souvenir shops and crowded bars detracting from the island’s charm.

Lack of Traditional Atmosphere in Some Areas: Unlike more remote islands, parts of Kos can feel more cosmopolitan and less “authentically Greek,”  and its more commercialized areas and summer crowds might make it less appealing to those seeking remote and untouched Greek island experiences.

Would Suit:
History Buffs: Those interested in ancient ruins and archaeological sites will find plenty to explore.
Beach Lovers: With its diverse beaches, Kos is a haven for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports enthusiasts.
Cyclists and Hikers: The island offers excellent trails for cycling and hiking.
Nightlife Seekers: Young travelers looking for vibrant bars and clubs will enjoy areas like Kardamena and Kos Town.
Families: Family-friendly beaches like Tigaki and activities such as boat trips and visiting local villages make it suitable for all ages.
Wellness Seekers: Visitors looking for relaxation will enjoy the natural hot springs at Thermes Beach.

Would not Suit:
Travelers seeking complete solitude: While there are quiet spots, Kos is relatively lively, especially in peak season.

Those disinterested in history: A significant portion of Kos’s charm lies in its historical sites, which may not appeal to everyone.
Adventure Seekers: Kos offers some outdoor activities, but it may not be as adventurous as islands like Crete or Naxos with their dramatic landscapes.

 

Don’t miss:
Asklepion: One of the most famous archaeological sites in Kos, the Asklepion was an ancient healing center dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine. Situated on a hill overlooking the sea, this site features impressive ruins of temples, baths, and medical facilities
Neratzia Castle: This medieval castle, built by the Knights of St. John, stands guard at the entrance to Kos Town’s harbor. Its walls offer stunning views of the sea and nearby Turkish coastline
Tree of Hippocrates: Located in Kos Town, this ancient tree is said to have been where Hippocrates taught his students.
Thermes Beach: The natural hot springs here provide a unique and relaxing experience.
Zia Village: Nestled in the Dikeos Mountains, Zia known for its traditional charm, authentic tavernas, stunning sunset views, and panoramic views of the island.Agios Stefanos Beach: A beautiful beach with ancient basilica ruins and views of the small islet of Kastri.
Roman Odeon This well-preserved Roman amphitheater in Kos Town is a testament to the island’s Roman heritage. It once hosted musical performances and public gatherings
Ancient Agora this archaeological site in Kos Town features Roman ruins of ancient temples, markets, and public buildings.
Kos specialities – Pitaridia: Local handmade pasta served with a rich meat sauce or cheese, Krasotyri, a unique cheese infused with red wine, and Moustalevria, a grape-must pudding often flavored with cinnamon and nuts.

Activities:
Cycle Around the Island: Take advantage of Kos’s bike-friendly roads and explore its charming villages and scenic coastline.
Take a Boat Trip: Sail to nearby islands like Nisyros (with its active volcano) or Kalymnos, or visit the Turkish coast.
Visit a Local Winery: Taste local wines and learn about Kos’s winemaking traditions.
Hike the Dikeos Mountains: Discover hidden monasteries and breathtaking views from the island’s highest peaks.
Water Sports- Try windsurfing, kite surfing, jet skiing, or paddleboarding at beaches like Mastichari and Psalidi.
High Season
Crowds and noise. Mildly windy conditions keep temperatures from getting too hot.

Low Season
A good choice for low season as summer comes early and lingers long, the international airport makes access easy, and with a population of over 30,000, things stay open .