Discover Kos

The Capital of Kos

The City of Kos is the capital and harbour of Kos located on the northeast side of the island. The modern city of Kos is built on the area of the ancient town of Kos. This gives a unique atmosphere to the area, as it combines culture, heritage and history from various architectural styles. Venetian mansions, traditional houses and archaeological monuments are scattered through the shady plantation of the city. Kos Town is considered as one of the greenest areas of the Dodecanese end. It is worth noting that the town of Kos along with the town of Lakki in Leros are unique in the Dodecanese, as they have been designed from Italian urban architects and planners influenced from eclecticism, modernism and rationalism. One of the most beautiful parts of the city is the cobblestone path passing along the coastal road of the city. The most important monuments of the city include the Castle of Neratzia that stands on the east part of the harbour connected through a bridge to the rest of the town that crosses the palm tree avenue. Other monuments include the Asclepeion, the Tree of Hippocrates, the Ancient Agora, the Roman Odeon and the Archaeological Museum.

The Asclepeion of Kos

The Asclepeion of Kos is one of the most important archaeological monuments of the country located on the slopes of a verdant hill on the northwestern side of the Town of Kos. Asclepeion served as a place of worship to the God of Asclepius and a school of medicine in the ancient times. Asclepeion was regarded as one of the greatest hospitals of Ancient Greece. According to tradition, Hippocrates have received his medical training the place of the Medical School of Hippocrates used to be.

The Beach of Paradise

The Beach of Paradise is a golden sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is a secluded beach with exotic sceneries ideal for those looking for tranquillity. Paradise is one of the most beautiful beaches of Kos and perhaps the best naturist beach of the island.

The Castle of Neratzia

The Castle of Neratzia is a typical example of the fortification architecture of the 14th century constructed from the Knights of Saint John that is connected to the Square of the Plain Tree of Hippocrates through a bridge in the Avenue of Palm Trees. The name of the castle owes its name to the sour orange trees that were planted in Kos, as Neratzia means sour orange trees in the Greek. The castle consists from two fortified walls and four high towers. It was built in order to control the sea passages towards the area of Ancient Halicarnassus during the period of the Knights. Since the construction of the castle took more than a century, the influence of various architectural styles is evident. on the northern area of the castle, one will have the opportunity to visit the museum of the Knights exhiting various altars, inscriptions and sculptures.

The Hippocratia Festival

The Hippocratia Festival is one of the most important festivals of the Dodecanese. The festival takes place in Kos every summer. It hosts a series of cultural special events including exhibitions, music concerts and theatrical shows for a period of four months. The events are held within the historical monuments of the island that makes the festival itself so unique.

The Village of Asfendiou

The Village of Asfendiou is a mountainous village located on the north side of the island. Characterized as one of the most beautiful villages of Kos, the charming settlement has a traditional character with stone houses and narrow alleys within enchanting landscapes. Asfendiou has a unique architectural ensemble keeping intact the history of the modern character of the villages of the island. The special architecture of the village is distinguished for its imposing two storey mansions with their fortified architecture that has managed to preserve the authentic image of the settlement. In fact, Asfendiou has been declared as a protected settlement from the Ministry of Culture. The surrounding area of the village is blessed from lush vegetation of olive groves and vineyards, an ideal place for hiking and nature lovers. One of the most interesting routes is the one that leads to the chapel of Christ with panoramic views of the island.

The Village of Zia

The Village of Zia is a mountainous village located on the central part of the island. Lying on the mountain slopes of Dikeos, the settlement is the highest village of Kos. Zia is distinguished for its traditional atmosphere with its stone houses and its cobblestone alleys. The surrounding area is blessed from lush vegetation of cypress, olive and pine trees, and an ideal place for nature lovers.  The sunset from Zia should not be missed, as the view to the endless blue and the astonishing colours of the sunset is a great spectacle. In fact, the sunset in Zia is considered to be one of the most beautiful views of the Aegean.

The Tree of Hippocrates

The Tree of Hippocrates is one of the oldest trees of Europe located in the Town of Kos. According to tradition, this tree is the historical tress of the father of Medicine that was planted from Hippocrates twenty-four centuries ago.

The Altar of Dionysus is located close to the Ancient Agora of Kos. The altar is a typical example of an altar of the Hellenistic period. The large altar dates back to the 2^nd century BC. However, a massive earthquake caused damages to the temple in 142 A.D. The frieze of the altar is decorated with scenes from the battle of the Amazons and Dionysian satyrs.

The Ancient Agora of Kos was one of largest commercial centres of Ancient Greece. The agora hosts the remains of the fortifications of the city, the Sanctuaries of Aphrodite and Hercules, foundations of the houses and a part of the ancient harbour of Kos. However, the biggest part of the Ancient agora lies under the modern city of Kos. The Ancient Agora of Kos is located in the Town of Kos

The Ancient Stadium of Kos is located opposite the church of Agia Anna in the town of Kos. The stadium dates back in the first half of the 2^nd century BC. Today, fragments of marble columns, architectural parts of Doric style and column heads made of white marble

The Asclepeion of Kos is one of the most important archaeological monuments of the country located on the slopes of a verdant hill on the northwestern side of the Town of Kos. Asclepeion served as a place of worship to the God of Asclepius and a school of medicine in the ancient times. Asclepeion was regarded as one of the greatest hospitals of Ancient Greece. According to tradition, Hippocrates have received his medical training the place of the Medical School of Hippocrates used to be.

The Roman Odeon of Kos is believed to be one of the most important public buildings of Ancient Kos. The auditorium was originally designed for hosting musical competitions but it was also used as the seat of the local senate. The inner galleries of the auditorium were decorated with marble statues that are now exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Kos. Today, the Odeon hosts numerous cultural happenings in the summer.

The Temple of Hercules is located close to the Plane Tree of Hippocrates. The temple was built upon a trapezoid shaped mound and the only surviving parts include the foundations of the temple and some stone blocks built in the lower portion of the wall. Among the remains, inscriptions and objects testify that the temple was dedicated to Hercules.

The Tomb of Harmylos is one of the most interesting archaeological sites of Kos located at the village of Pyli. Harmylos was the ruler of Kos. The tomb consists from a semi circular building that dates back to the 3^rd century BC. It served as a temple in its time.

The Castle of Antimahia is located in the village of Antimahia. It is a remarkable medieval fortress that hosts traces of the old settlement of the village along with four churches. The castle of Antimahia was built along of a hill with a view of the southern coastline of the island. The castle served as a prison for condemned knights. Today, the external fortification stand strong while the sole entrance is found on the northern side of the castle protected from double gates. The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

The Castle of Kefalos is an imposing castle located in the village of Kefalos. The castle was built from the Byzantines while it was stronger fortified from the Knights of Saint John. Today, the majority of the parts of the castle are ruined. It is worth ascending on foot from the settlement of Marpissa as the route offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

The Castle of Neratzia is a typical example of the fortification architecture of the 14th century constructed from the Knights of Saint John that is connected to the Square of the Plain Tree of Hippocrates through a bridge in the Avenue of Palm Trees. The name of the castle owes its name to the sour orange trees that were planted in Kos, as Neratzia means sour orange trees in the Greek. The castle consists from two fortified walls and four high towers. It was built in order to control the sea passages towards the area of Ancient Halicarnassus during the period of the Knights. Since the construction of the castle took more than a century, the influence of various architectural styles is evident. On the northern area of the castle, one will have the opportunity to visit the museum of the Knights exhibiting various altars, inscriptions and sculptures.

The Chapel of Agios Nikolaos is a charming chapel in the shades of white and blue located on the islet of Kastri. It is one of the most romantic chapels of the island. The sunset from the beach of Kefalos should not be missed, as the view to the isle and the astonishing colours of the sunset is a great spectacle.

The Church of Hypapante is a charming church standing on the traces of a Byzantine fortress in the village of Pyli. The walls of the church are embellished with amazing frescoes while significant findings are displayed in the Archaeological Museum of Kos. The church offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

The Monastery of Agios Ioannis is built on the hill above the bay of Kefalos. The monastery distinguishes for its traditional white and blue architecture and the verdant vegetation. Within the main church, one can admire amazing icons and beautiful frescoes. The monastery celebrates in honour of the saint on August 29. Here, one can admire panoramic views to the endless blue of the Aegean.

The Casa Romana is one of the most interesting monuments of Kos. The architectural style of the Roman House showcases the architectural style that used to dominate during the Hellenistic and Roman times in Kos, which resembles the houses in Pompeii. The whole island was destroyed from a strong earthquake in 1933, and the Italians reconstructed the building plan of the city. The Casa Romana was fully restored from the archaeological team of Italy on the remains of an earlier Hellenistic house. It is one of the most beautiful monuments of Kos.

The Defterdar Mosque is located at the square of Eleftherias in the center of the town of Kos. The mosque was built in 1780 from the finance minister of the Ottoman Sultan, Ibrahil Afendi. Although it does not operate today, the mosque remains an architectural and historical landmark of the Ottoman Occupation. The mosque distinguishes for its beautiful tall minaret.

The Lozia Mosque is located at the square of Lozia close to the Plane Tree of Hippocrates. The mosque was built from Gazi Hasan Pasa in 1786. For the construction, several building materials from the ruins of the ancient city were used.

The Jewish Synagogue is located in the center of the town of Kos. The synagogue functions as a municipal cultural center, while it attests the continuous presence of the community of the Jewish of the island since the second century BC.

The Traditional Flourmill of Antimahia is one of the landmarks of the island. The folklore museum of the village is located at the same square representing the architecture of the area in a traditional house of the village.

The Archaeological Museum of Kos is housed within a protected monument of the era of the Italian occupation in the city of Kos. The museum exhibits a rich collection of findings including sculptures and mosaics, statues of the Hellenistic period with the impressive statue of Hippocrates and a mosaic found in the Casa Romana.

The Folklore Museum of Antimahia, else known as the Stone House of Antimahia, is located at the central square of the village. The museum presents the folklore tradition and heritage of Kos through an exhibition of traditional furniture, old appliances and tools.

The Cultural Center of the Ancient House of Hippocrates Garden is an important monument located in the village of Mastihari. It is an exact replica of an ancient Greek settlement of the 5^th century BC specializing in the revival of the ancient way of living in Greece, the time when Hippocrates lived. The cultural center consists from an exact replica of a house of the period, an arcade of the philosopher and a stone theatre. All the areas of the cultural center are open for visitors who can participate in the happenings organized throughout the year.

The Hani Building is located in the city of Kos. It hosts an exhibition of the modern history and the history of the Italian architecture of the island.

The Cave of Aspri Petra, else known as the cave of the White Stone, is located on the hill of Zini close to the village of Kefalos. It is one of the oldest monuments of the island that was used as a place of residence and later on as a place of worship. Numerous artefacts were found in the cave dating back to the Bronze Age while other objects were used up to the Roman times.

The Forest of Plaka is an idyllic pine forest located close to the village of Antimahia. The forest has an ideal location within a gorge blessed from the dense shade of the trees. The forest creates a rejuvenating atmosphere and refugee of free roaming peacocks. The forest is ideal for those looking for natural explorations.

The Isle of Kastri is located opposite the beach of Kefalos. It is a rocky island with little vegetation. The jewel of Kastri is the chapel of Agios Nikolaos, the saint protector of sailors. Kastri can be reached either by swimming or by short boat excursions.

The Mount Dikaios is the highest mountain of Kos with an altitude of 846 above the level of the sea. The mount is an ideal destination for hiking lovers. On the top of the mountain, one can hike to the chapel of Christ with panoramic views over the Aegean Sea.

The Salt Lake of Tigaki is located between the villages of Marmari and Tigaki. The area is protected under the European Network of Natura 2000 as an important area for a variety of flora and fauna including migratory birds such as flamingos and pelicans as well as aquatic animals such as water snakes and water turtles.

The Thermal Springs of Therma are located on the southeast side of the island. It is a landscape of wild beauty with steep slopes and dark pebbles, which resulted from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. The area was named from the hot springs gush water into the sea. The spring is rich in calcium, potassium, sodium, sulfur and magnesium while it has healing properties for arthritic, rheumatic and skin diseases. The temperature of the spring ranges between thirty to fifty degrees of Celsius.

The Tree of Hippocrates is one of the oldest trees of Europe located in the Town of Kos. According to tradition, this tree is the historical tress of the father of Medicine that was planted from Hippocrates twenty-four centuries ago.

The Wetland of Psalidi is located on the eastern side of the Town of Kos. The area is protected under the European Network of Natura 2000 and the State of Greece as an important wildlife reservoir with a rich flora and fauna.

Antimahia is a traditional village located on a verdant plateau in the central part of the island. The village is distinguished for its beautiful neighbourhoods, its traditional house and its beautiful sceneries. Antimahia is famous for the preservation of the local traditions and especially for its musical and dancing traditions. One of the most interesting sights of the village is the traditional house that represents the traditional house of Antimahia along with the traditional windmill of the area. On the southeast side of the village, one can visit the traces of the castle of Antimahia. The honey festival of the island takes place in the village every summer.

Asfendiou is a mountainous village located on the north side of the island. Characterized as one of the most beautiful villages of Kos, the charming settlement has a traditional character with stone houses and narrow alleys within enchanting landscapes. Asfendiou has a unique architectural ensemble keeping intact the history of the modern character of the villages of the island. The special architecture of the village is distinguished for its imposing two storey mansions with their fortified architecture that has managed to preserve the authentic image of the settlement. In fact, Asfendiou has been declared as a protected settlement from the Ministry of Culture. The surrounding area of the village is blessed from lush vegetation of olive groves and vineyards, an ideal place for hiking and nature lovers. One of the most interesting routes is the one that leads to the chapel of Christ with panoramic views of the island.

Asomatos is a mountainous village located on the central part of the island. Lying on the mountain slopes of Dikeos, the village is one of the quietest settlements of the island with an authentic traditional character. The whitewashed houses, the cobblestone alleys and the verdant vegetation emit a picturesque atmosphere. The surrounding area is overflown from lush vegetation of olive groves and vineyards, an ideal place for hiking and nature lovers.

Kardamena is a seaside village located on the south side of the island. Lying amidst verdant sceneries, the traditional fishing village has evolved into a cosmopolitan resort attracting thousands of travellers. Kardamena is a beautiful village with traditional houses and lush vegetation spreading around the mountain slopes. The small harbour of the settlement has excursion boats operating routes to the neighbouring island of Nisyros. Although the infrastructure of the area is well developed, the village retains its traditional character. One of the most interesting sights of the village is the exhibition halls of the town hall, the beautiful church of Panagia along with the archaeological site of the temple of Apollo and an ancient theatre. The Alasarnia festival is held in the village every summer hosting a series of cultural special events.

Kefalos is a seaside village located on the southwestern part of the island. The charming settlement has managed to preserve its authentic traditional colour with the beautiful houses, the charming churches and the cobblestone alleys. The village consists from the uphill settlement and the seaside settlement known as Kamari. One of the most interesting sights of the village is the folklore museum that depicts the rural way of life of the island, the remnants of the Christian basilica of Agios Stefanos along with the charming island of Kastri, one of the most iconic landmarks of the island. It is worth visiting the castle of Kefalos for the panoramic views of the Bay of Kefalos. The area is known for some of the most beautiful beaches in the country that are often awarded with blue flags. The Ouzo and Sardine festival is held in the village every summer hosting a series of cultural special events.

Kos Town is the capital and harbour of Kos located on the northeast side of the island. The modern city of Kos is built on the area of the ancient town of Kos. This gives a unique atmosphere to the area, as it combines culture, heritage and history from various architectural styles. Venetian mansions, traditional houses and archaeological monuments are scattered through the shady plantation of the city. Kos Town is considered as one of the greenest areas of the Dodecanese end. It is worth noting that the town of Kos along with the town of Lakki in Leros are unique in the Dodecanese, as they have been designed from Italian urban architects and planners influenced from eclecticism, modernism and rationalism. One of the most beautiful parts of the city is the cobblestone path passing along the coastal road of the city. The most important monuments of the city include the Castle of Neratzia that stands on the east part of the harbour connected through a bridge to the rest of the town that crosses the palm tree avenue. Other monuments include the Asclepeion, the Tree of Hippocrates, the Ancient Agora, the Roman Odeon and the Archaeological Museum.

Lagoudi is a mountainous village located on the central part of the island. Perched on the mountain slopes of Dikeos, the charming settlement is blessed with beautiful sceneries of lush vegetation. The village has managed to retain its rural character, an ideal destination for those looking for tranquillity. One of the most interesting sights of the village is the church of Agios Ioannis Theologos that stands on the massive rocks. Due to the elevated location of Lagoudi, one can admire panoramic views to the island of Kalymnos and the coast of Asia Minor.

Mastihari is a seaside village located on the north side of the island. Renowned for one of the most beautiful beaches of Kos, the charming settlement is an ideal destination for those looking for tranquillity. One of the most interesting sights of the village is the castle of Antimahia and the waterpark of Lido. Excursion boats operate routes to the imposing island of Kalymnos and the pristine island of Pserimos. The wine festival of the island is held in the village every summer hosting a series of cultural special events.

Platani, else known as Kermentes, is a mountainous village located on the east side of the island. The charming settlement is distinguished for its unspoilt traditional character and the beautiful plane tree on the square of the village. The main attraction of Platani is the delicious Asia Minor delicacies offered in the traditional taverns. One of the most interesting sights of the village is an Ottoman mosque.

Pyli is a mountainous village located on the central part of the island. Characterized as the most fertile settlement of Kos, the settlement is distinguished for its charming square and the traditional character. One of the most interesting sights of the village is the house of Pyli that represents the layout of a traditional house and the tomb of Harmylos. The surrounding area is blessed with olive trees and verdant gardens, an ideal place for nature lovers. The carnival of the island is held in the village every year hosting a series of cultural special events.

Zia is a mountainous village located on the central part of the island. Lying on the mountain slopes of Dikeos, the settlement is the highest village of Kos. Zia is distinguished for its traditional atmosphere with its stone houses and its cobblestone alleys. The surrounding area is blessed from lush vegetation of cypress, olive and pine trees, and an ideal place for nature lovers.  The sunset from Zia should not be missed, as the view to the endless blue and the astonishing colours of the sunset is a great spectacle. In fact, the sunset in Zia is considered to be one of the most beautiful views of the Aegean.

Spot: Beach of Agios Theologos, Southwest Kos

Spot: Beach of Mastihari, North Kos

Spot: Castle of Pyli, Central Kos

Spot: Chapel of Christ, North Kos

Spot: Village of Zia, Central Kos

Boat Trip: The Island of Kalymnos is an island with rare natural beauty strongly tied with myths and adventures combines the charm of the wild mountainous landscapes with the authentic hospitality. Characterized as the island of sponge for its long tradition in sea sponge harvesting, Kalymnos is an island with sceneries of virgin natural beauty. If you observe it from a distance, Kalymnos resembles a brownish and reddish rock emerging from the dark blue waters of the Aegean. Undoubtedly, Kalymnos is ready to excite every imagination! The beauty of Kalymnos is exceptional. The unique geomorphology of the island is blessed with sceneries of bare mountainous, steep slopes, imposing rocky formations, giant vertical rocks and volcanic valleys. Blessed with the finest of wild nature, Kalymnos is surely a natural climbing field! Hosting more than 1300 climbing tracks, Kalymnos is a paradise for rock climbers. However, the surprises are not yet uncovered! The rich marine life of Kalymnos hides outstanding cape slopes, underwater caves, ancient shipwrecks, vibrant colour reefs and a thriving aquatic life! Proud for the authenticity of its island character, Kalymnos is waiting for you to discover her million beauties!

Boat Trip: The Island of Nisyros is a mysterious island of the Dodecanese that was captured from pirates, conquered from the knights and subjugated from the Turks, an island that hypnotizes the traveller from the captivating contrast between the lunar volcanic scenery of the inland and the surrounding fertile area of dark beaches and thermal springs. Nisyros shapes an exceptional character with its unique mystical beauty embellished with diversified landscapes of a seductive and idyllic volcano atmosphere. The island emits a distinctive charm that goes beyond natural beauty, possible due to the captivating energy vibes of the active volcano. The outstanding contrast between the volcanic colours of the volcano and the whitewashed houses of the Aegean will definitely amaze you while the lunar sceneries of the crater of the volcano with the odour of sulphur will make you want to hold your breath! Evident in every little stone, the volcanic composition of Nisyros has been originated from the massive eruptions millions of years ago. Fascinating contrasts between the dark brown earth and the deep blue sea forms a succession of darken seashores of extreme wild beauty. Nisyros is a truly genuine island with an unusual beauty. The captivating landscapes, the hypnotizing landscapes and the thermal springs might even feel like you have “Nisyriasi”: a word meaning a severe addiction to the volcanic energy of the island in the world of Nisyros

Boat Trip: The Island of Pserimos is one of the smallest islands of the Dodecanese. A tear of the sky fell upon the Aegean and petrified in the sea. This is Pserimos, a mysterious island with charming landscapes of pristine natural beauty and captivating scents of caper waiting for you to explore it! The landscapes of the deep blue sea create a relaxing aura with a pure atmosphere ideal for those looking for a true escape from the world. Whether you want to swim in crystalline waters or enjoy the peacefulness of sceneries, Pserimos has it for you. Whatever Pserimos might lack in size, it replenishes in landscapes and colours; besides they say less is more. One has to indulge in new pursuits beyond the mainstream and look with a different glance around so that he can remember what has been forgotten; to live and appreciate simple moments in a real treasure of unspoilt nature like Pserimos. Will you travel to Pserimos to live a different experience?

Bicycling: The countryside of Kos is an ideal place for cycling lovers. There are numerous bicycle rentals on the island where you can rent a bicycle and discover the beaches and villages of the island. The cycling paths of Kos start from the sandy beach of Lambi and reach the street of Kanari. Continuing towards the port, one can go along until the beach of Psalidi.

Bird Watching: Kos has the perfect environment for thousands native and migratory birds. The Salt Lake of Tigaki area is protected under the European Network of Natura 2000 as an important area for a variety of flora and fauna including migratory birds such as flamingos and pelicans while the Wetland of Psalidi is protected under the European Network of Natura 2000 and the State of Greece as an important wildlife reservoir with a rich flora and fauna.

Diving: The volcanic background of Kos offers numerous exciting explorations for diving enthusiasts. The Archway Tunnel and the Thermal Springs are some of the most interesting diving spots. Others include fascinating underwater caves and colourful reefs. One will find diving centres in the villages of Kardamena and Psalidi.

Driving: The countryside of Kos is an ideal place for driving explorations with verdurous sceneries and beautiful views to the Aegean. (1) One of the most charming driving routes of the island is the one that starts from the village of Kefalos and leads to the Monastery of Agios Ioannis. (2) Another beautiful driving route is the one that starts from the settlement of Zipari and leads to the village of Zia.

Horse Riding: Destination offers invigorating experiences of riding a horse along the seashore. You can find riding schools in the villages of Marmari and Zia.

Kitesurfing: Kos is known for its ideal conditions for lovers of kitesurfing, as the island gets really windy especially in the summer. The beaches of Mastihari, Kohilari and Psalidi are ideal for practising kitesurfing.

Mountain Biking: The rich natural diversity of Kos is highly suitable for mountain and road biking. Exciting trails from rural roads to specially designed cycling routes are available in various parts of the island. Numerous bike associations provide mountain biking experiences. Make sure you always check the maps of the destination before you hop on your bicycle!

Sailing: Kos is an ideal destination for sailing enthusiasts. Although the coastline of the island is long enough, it is easy to sail around Kos owing to the ports that are available while it is also possible to visit the neighbouring islands. The main anchorage point is the harbour of Kos that is protected from all weather conditions. Other ideal spots include the jetty of Mastihari that protects boats against northern and southeastern winds and the port of Kardemena. Keep in mind that Kardemena gets really crowded in the summer, and it is hard to find a spot. The small harbour of Limnionas on the northwest is also an ideal spot protected from all weather conditions while the port of Kamari on the southwest offers protection against the northern winds.

Thermal Springs: The thermal springs of Therma are located on the southeast side of the island. It is a landscape of wild beauty with steep slopes and dark pebbles, which resulted from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. The area was named from the hot springs gush water into the sea. The spring is rich in calcium, potassium, sodium, sulfur and magnesium while it has healing properties for arthritic, rheumatic and skin diseases. The temperature of the spring ranges between thirty to fifty degrees of Celsius.

Windsurfing: Kos is known for its ideal conditions for lovers of windsurfing, as the island gets really windy especially in the summer. The beaches of Agios Theologos, Kardamena, Mastihari and Psalidi are ideal for practising windsurfing.

Agios Fokas is a long sandy and pebbled beach with blue waters located close to the town of Kos. The beach is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and taverns. Agios Fokas offers panoramic views of the Aegean.

Agios Stefanos is a long sandy and pebbled beach with blue waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and taverns. The beach offers beautiful views towards the charming island of Kastri.

Agios Theologos is a secluded beach with turquoise waters and scenic coves located on the southwest side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Kos ideal for those looking for seclusion. The charming chapel of Agios Ioannis Theologos is located at the beach with amazing sunset views.

Camel is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and water sport facilities.

Labi is a long white sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and taverns.

Limnionas is a sandy cove with emerald waters located on the west side of the island. It is an isolated beach ideal for those seeking for seclusion. In the surrounding area, there are many delicious fish taverns.

Kamari is long a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the west side of the island. It is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, and taverns. The small port of Kamari is an ideal mooring place for sailboats.

Kardamena is a white sandy beach with emerald waters and cedars and dune tress located on the southwest side of the island. The beach is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and water sports facilities. It is one of the most well known spots of the island and it gets crowded during the summer.

Kefalos is a sandy beach with the coldest waters of the island located on the west side of the island. The beach is well organized with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, water sports facilities, beach bars and taverns.

Kohilari is a long sandy beach with blue waters located on the north side of the island. The beach is one of the best spots for kitesurfing and windsurfing lovers. There is a kite center at the beach.

Marmari is an endless white sandy beach with emerald waters located on the north side of the island. It is well organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and taverns. It is one of the most well known spots of the island and it gets crowded during the summer.

Mastihari is a long white sandy beach with emerald waters located on the northwest side of the island. The beach has an exotic atmosphere. Mastihari is well organised with numerous amenities including sunbeds and umbrellas, water sports facilities and taverns.

Paradise is a golden sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is a secluded beach with exotic sceneries ideal for those looking for tranquillity.

Therma is a black-pebbled beach with blue waters located on the east side of the island. It is one of the most idyllic beaches of the island that is known for its thermal springs. The thermal springs of the Therma are rich in calcium, magnesium, sodium and sulphur and have healing properties for arthritic, rheumatic and skin diseases reaching temperatures from thirty to fifty degrees of Celsius.

Tigaki is a long white sandy beach with emerald waters located on the northeast side of the island. It is well organized with sunbeds and umbrellas, beach bars and taverns. The most beautiful way to access the beach is bicycling from the coastal road that connects the town of Kos with Tigaki.

Coffee Corners

Aplo Beach Bar: Coffee, Mastihari

Ciao Cafe Bistro: Coffee, Kos Town

O Neromylos tis Zias: Coffee, Zia Village

Lofaki: Coffee, Kos Town

Mr Gelato: Ice Cream, Kefalas

Skala Cafe: Coffee and Snacks, Kos Town

Valia: Coffee, Kos Town

Gastronomic Delights

Agkyra: Seafood, Kos Town

Ambeli: Greek Cuisine, Tigaki

Alis: Greek Cuisine, Platani

Barbouni: Greek Cuisine, Kos Town

Elia: Greek Cuisine, Kos Town

Garden: Greek Cuisine, Kardamena

Istros: Greek Cuisine, Kos Town

Manos: Greek Cuisine, Kardamena

Mummy’s Cooking: Greek Cuisine, Kos Town

Nikolas o Psaras: Seafood, Kos Town

Oromedon: Greek Cuisine, Zia

Pelagos: Greek Cuisine, Kardamena

Petrino: Greek Cuisine, Kos Town

Platanos: Greek Cuisine, Kos Town

Romeo: Greek Cuisine, Psalidi

Serif: Greek Cuisine, Platani

Spitaki: Greek Cuisine, Psalidi

Ta Adelfia: Seafood, Kardamena

Zia No Stress: Greek Cuisine, Zia

Cocktails Inspirations

Alchemion: Cocktails and Drinks, Zia

Camel: Cocktails and Drinks, Kos Town

Galatea: Cocktails and Drinks, Kos Town

Lofaki: Cocktails and Drinks, Kos Town

Mylos Beach Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Lampi

Starlight Beach Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Kardamena

The local products of the island include krasotyri, a type of goat milk cheese with a peppery taste, fresh honey and tomato sweet spoon.

The local specialties of the island include katimeria, a type of mizithra cheese pie, lampropita, a cheese pie, pitaridia, meat noodles, hismata, a local wheat bread and kanelada, the locals’ favourite refreshment made from sweet cinnamon and sweet tomato, the traditional sweet spoon of Kos.

Every 23^rd of April, the celebration in honour of Agios Georgios takes place in the village of Pyli. The festival hosts horse races accompanied from traditional music and food.

Every summer, the International Health Film Festival takes place in the island of Kos.

Every summer, the Hippocratia Festival takes place in Kos hosting a series of cultural special events including exhibitions, music concerts and theatrical shows for a period of four months. The events are held in the historical monuments of the island that makes the festival itself so unique.
Every summer, the Alarsania Festival is held in the village of Kardamena. The festival hosts numerous cultural events including folklore dances, photograph exhibitions and musical concerts.

Every July, the Festival of Dikaia takes place in Kos. The festival hosts hosting a series of cultural events including folklore dances, exhibitions, sport games and theatrical shows for a period of two months.

Every July, the Festival of Heraklia takes place in Kos. The festival hosts a series of cultural events including folklore dances, exhibitions, sport games and theatrical shows.

Every August, the Wine Festival takes place in the village Mastihari. The feast is followed from traditional music, food and dance.

Every August, the Ouzo and Sardine Festival takes place in the village of Kefalos. The feast is followed from traditional music, food and dance.

Every August, the Honey Festival takes place in the village of Antimahia. The feast is followed from traditional music, food and dance.
Every 8^th of September, the Dance of the Cup Festival, one of the longest surviving traditions of Kos, takes place in the village Kardamena.

Every 29^th of August, the traditional celebration in honour of Agios Ioannis takes place in the village of Kardamena.

Every 21^st of October, the traditional celebration in honour of Agios Dimitrios takes place in the village of Asfendiou.

Mythology

According to mythology, Poseidon, the god of the sea, chased the titan Polyvotis and he buried him by throwing him a rock cut from the island of Kos during the war between the Gods and the Titans. The legendary rock of Kos created the beautiful island of Nisyros. Kos is also believed believed that is the sacred island of the legendary god of healing named Asclepius.

History

Archaeological findings show that Kos was inhabited from the Carians, the Dorians joining the Delian League. During the Persian Wars, Kos was dominated from tyrants under an oligarchic political system was established. Democracy was instituted in 366 BC and the island saw a great economic and cultural prosperity on the Hellenistic years. Afterwards, Kos was dominated from the Macedonian and the Roman Empires while it was declared as an independent land in 53 AD. Kos flourished as a region of the Byzantine Empire whereas the island was despoiled from the Arabs and the Francs. Kos was then conquered from the Venetians, the Genovese and the Knights of Saint John, who constructed the wonderful fortresses of Kos that can be seen up until today. However, the Ottomans took over the island for almost four centuries, till the Italians drove them away. In 1934, a disastrous earthquake destroyed almost all the island. When Kos was dominated from the Germans, Kos entered a dark period of deprivations and suffering followed from the British rule. Kos was reunited with Greece in March of 1948.

By Air: Kos has a national airport operating flights on a daily basis from the International Airport of Athens. The journey usually lasts from forty five minutes to one hour.Book your tickets with AirTickets.com!

By Boat (186 Nautical Miles): Kos is accessible by boat from the harbour Piraeus. The journey lasts eleven to twelve hours. Kos is also connected with the islands of Kalymnos, Leros, Nisyros and Pserimos amongst others. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !