Kos

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get to Kos?

Kos is a major travel hub, making it one of the easiest islands to reach in the Aegean.

• By Air: Kos International Airport (KGS) receives daily flights from Athens and Thessaloniki year round. In the summer, it becomes a busy destination for direct charter flights from all over Europe.

• By Ferry: Large Blue Star ferries connect the port of Piraeus to Kos Town daily. The journey usually takes between 10 and 13 hours. Kos also has excellent boat connections to neighboring islands like Rhodes, Kalymnos, and Nisyros.

2. Is Kos a good island for cycling?

Yes, Kos is widely known as the "Cycling Island" because of its flat landscape around the main town.

• Infrastructure: There are dedicated, paved bicycle lanes that run along the coastline and through the streets of Kos Town.

• Rentals: You can find bike rental shops on almost every corner. It is a very cheap and eco-friendly way to reach nearby beaches like Lambi or Psalidi without needing a car.

3. What is the Asklepion?

The Asklepion is the most significant archaeological site on the island, located about 4 km from Kos Town.

• The History: Built in the 4th century BC, it was an ancient medical center and temple dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing. Hippocrates taught and practiced medicine here.

• The Site: It is built on three levels on a lush hillside. The top level offers a spectacular panoramic view of the sea and the Turkish coast. You can reach it via a local bus or a fun "mini train" from the harbor.

4. Which are the best beaches for families?

Kos is famous for its long, sandy coastlines with shallow waters, making it ideal for children.

• Tigaki and Marmari: Located on the north coast, these are long stretches of fine sand with very shallow water. They are well organized with sunbeds, cafes, and restaurants.

• Agios Stefanos: This is one of the most photographed beaches in Greece. You can swim out to the tiny islet of Kastri or explore the ruins of two 5th century Christian basilicas right on the sand.

5. Where can I go for windsurfing or kitesurfing?

The island has very reliable wind conditions, especially on the northern and eastern coasts.

• Psalidi: Located just south of Kos Town, this is the main hub for windsurfers. There are several professional centers here that take advantage of the local "jet" wind effect.

• Kohilari: On the western side of the island near Kefalos, this beach is a favorite for kitesurfers due to its wide open bay and consistent cross shore winds.

6. Can you drink the tap water in Kos?

No, it is generally advised to drink bottled water on Kos.

• While the water is safe for showering and brushing teeth, it has a high mineral content that many visitors find unpalatable.

• Bottled water is very inexpensive and sold in bulk at all supermarkets.

7. What is the village of Zia famous for?

Zia is a small mountain village on the slopes of Mount Dikaios, and it is the most popular spot on the island for sunset.

• The View: From its elevated position, you can see across the entire island and out to the surrounding islets as the sun goes down.

• Shopping and Food: The village is full of colorful shops selling local products like "Kanelada" (cinnamon syrup) and honey. It also has many traditional tavernas with rooftop terraces.

8. Do I need to rent a car?

It depends on your plans, but a car is very helpful for exploring the whole island.

• Public Transport: The KTEL bus system is excellent for reaching major resorts like Kardamena or Mastichari.

• When to Rent: If you want to visit the remote beaches of Kefalos, the thermal springs at Therma, or the mountain villages at your own pace, a car or scooter is much more convenient.

9. What is the "Platanos" of Hippocrates?

Located in the center of Kos Town near the Castle of the Knights, this is a massive oriental plane tree.

• Local legend says that Hippocrates taught his students under the shade of this very tree 2,400 years ago.

• While the current tree is about 500 years old, it is believed to be a descendant of the original. Its heavy branches are now supported by a massive metal structure.

10. How many days should I stay?

Because of its size and variety, Kos deserves more than a quick stop.

• 3 to 4 Days: Enough time to see Kos Town, the Asklepion, and spend a day at the beach in Tigaki or Kardamena.

• One Week: The ideal time if you want to take day trips to the volcano of Nisyros or the sponge island of Kalymnos, while still having plenty of time to relax.