Kos is a stunning Greek island, located off the coast of Turkey.
Unlike the larger islands like Crete or popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos, Kos is a much quieter and more cosy place to spend a week and experience the famous hospitality and fantastic Greek food. Here are some suggestions on what you can experience while on Kos:
Asklepieion
The Asklepieion is an old medical facility outside Platani, south of Kos town and is undoubtedly one of the most interesting things to see on Kos, if you are interested in the history of the island! The Asklepieion was built in the 2nd century BC. and was built in honour of the god of health and medicine, Asklepios. If you visit on a sunny day, take plenty of water and a hat as there is little shade and the Mediterranean sun can be strong! Entrance costs around €8-10 and you'll probably want to spend 1-2 hours there once you're inside.
Kastri Island
Located around 150-200 metres from the coast of Kos, Kastri really does look like something else - with just a small church and a high hill, it's a dramatic little island that can easily be seen from the resort of Kefalos. Some people swim out to the island, but when the tide is out it can be rough, so it's not recommended unless you have experience of rough water!
Relax on the beaches
Experience the beautiful beaches of Kefalos Bay, including Agios Stefanos, Kamari and Agios Theologos. If you want to avoid the crowds, head to the beaches of Kala Paradiso or Tingaki. You can also just drive along the coast and find a cosy bay where you can take a dip and enjoy the warming sun!
Antimachia
If you want to visit a typical Greek village, head to Antimachia and explore its charming streets. Here you can feel like you've travelled back in time - it's truly idyllic! Located about 20 kilometres from Kos town, Antimachia is just right for an afternoon excursion. While you're here, be sure to visit the old chapel, stop for a typical Greek coffee and enjoy the view of the beautiful area.
Castle of the Order of St John
If you want to see something other than the beautiful coastline and beaches, visit the Castle of the Order of St. John, built between 1380 and 1514 to defend the island. You enter the castle via a drawbridge over the moat. The view from the top of the tower is fantastic!
Casa Romana
The Casa Romana, or Roman house, is located in an excavation area and has been dated to the 100th century AD. If you're a history buff, you'll love exploring the island's Roman heritage here. Don't miss the ancient frescoes and mosaics!
Tree of Hippocrates
Located next to the Castle of the Order of St John, the Hippocrates Tree is a place not to be missed while in the area! This large tree is around 500 years old and is said to be the largest in Europe! It replaced an earlier tree that Hippocrates planted and sat under to teach his students. The original tree may have been replaced more than once, as Hippocrates lived around 500 BC. We suggest you combine your visit with one of the many cosy taverns in the vicinity.
Church of Agios Theologos
The Church of Agios Theologos is located on the south side of the island, at the bottom of a road 7 kilometres from Kefalos. The church is small, but incredibly beautiful with a golden chandelier on the ceiling. From here you have an incredible view of the island!
A package tour and a linked arrangement offer travellers different booking processes but provide the same protection under the Package Travel Act, ensuring customer rights and peace of mind during the trip.
