Top Things to Do in Kos

Kos is one of the most relaxed islands in the Dodecanese. Its flat terrain, reliable sunshine and long sandy beaches make it a favourite with families, cyclists and history lovers alike, and its main town holds more ancient and medieval heritage than many visitors expect. Whether you have a few days or a full week, these are the experiences worth planning around.

Visit the Asklepion

Perched on a hillside a few kilometres outside Kos Town, the Asklepion was one of the most important healing sanctuaries of the ancient Greek world. It was dedicated to Asklepios, the god of medicine, and was closely associated with Hippocrates, who is traditionally linked to the island. The site consists of terraced levels, colonnades and the remains of temples and healing facilities, with views stretching across the sea. Allow a couple of hours to explore properly, and wear sturdy shoes, as the paths are uneven in places. Go early in the day to beat the midday heat and the larger tour groups.

Sit Under Hippocrates' Plane Tree

Beside the Asklepion stands a very old plane tree, which local tradition says is the spot where Hippocrates taught his students. Whether or not the story is literally true, the tree is a shady and atmospheric place to pause, and it is one of the most photographed spots on the island. It is often visited as part of the same trip as the Asklepion, so you can combine the two without any extra travel.

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Explore the Castle of the Knights

In Kos Town, the imposing Castle of the Knights (also called the Neratzia Castle) was built by the Knights Hospitaller of St John, who held the island during the medieval period. Its walls, towers and gateways reflect centuries of changing rule, and the castle offers good views over the harbour. Inside the grounds you will also find the remains of a Roman-era structure and the ancient agora nearby, so it is easy to see several layers of the island's past in one walk.

Wander the Ancient Agora and Town Ruins

Kos Town itself is an open-air museum in places. The ancient agora, a large public space from the Hellenistic and Roman periods, sits close to the centre and is surrounded by columns and fragments of buildings. The old town's streets, lined with cafes and small shops, make it pleasant to wander in the late afternoon. Look out for remnants of Roman mosaics and columns scattered through the area, and for the Odeion and other ruins that sit close to the waterfront.

Relax on Paradise and Kefalos Beaches

Kos is known for its beaches, and two stand out for different reasons. Paradise Beach, on the southern coast near the resort of Kardamena area, is a long stretch of sand with a lively, sociable atmosphere, good facilities and watersports. Kefalos, on the quieter southwestern side of the island, is more laid-back, with calmer conditions and a slower pace. Both are excellent for swimming, and the variety means you can choose between a buzzing day on the sand or a quiet afternoon with space to yourself.

Cycle or Take the Bus Around the Island

Because the island is largely flat, cycling is one of the most enjoyable ways to get around. Bike paths and quiet roads link Kos Town with the coastal villages, and rental shops are easy to find in town. For longer distances, local buses connect the main towns and beaches. Start early on warm days, carry water, and plan routes that let you stop at beaches, villages and viewpoints along the way.

Take a Day Trip to Nisyros

A short boat ride from Kos takes you to Nisyros, a small volcanic island with a dramatic crater. The Stefanos crater is one of the highlights, with its wide rim and views down into the caldera, and the island's villages offer a quieter contrast to Kos. Day trips are popular, so it is worth checking boat schedules and ferry options locally before you go, as timetables change with the season.

Getting to Kos

Kos International Airport (KGS) receives frequent domestic flights from Athens and a range of seasonal international charters, which makes it straightforward to reach in summer. If you are travelling by sea, the port in Kos Town is a major hub with regular ferry connections to Piraeus, Rhodes and other Dodecanese islands. Once on the island, a well-maintained road network links the main town to the coastal resorts.

Practical Tips

• Visit the Asklepion in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and quieter paths.
• Wear comfortable shoes for the ancient sites and the castle, which involve a lot of walking.
• Carry water and sun protection, especially if cycling in summer.
• Check ferry and bus timetables locally, as schedules vary by season.
• Book accommodation early for July and August, when the island is at its busiest.
• Allow at least a half day for the Nisyros excursion once you factor in travel time.