Our adventure in Greece began on the island of Kos in 2008, and since that very first encounter, it feels like coming home every time we land. We now know our second home like the back of our hand, yet we still discover new Kos sights every time we visit the island.
“What to do on Kos? There is so much to discover across 295 km², and even after more than 15 years of holidays on Kos, we never get bored.«
We have summarised the most beautiful trips and the best Kos tips for your holiday in this article. We will also tell you what you absolutely must do on Kos and what things you simply can’t miss while on the island:
🏖️ Dream beaches & hidden bays
🍽️ Restaurants, tavernas & cafés
🏛️ Must-see highlights & ancient sites
🗺️ Worthwhile spots & insider tips
🚘 Practical info like rentals & parking
♾️ Lifetime access & updates
#1 Walk around Kos Town
The lively, modern capital of Kos might not enchant you at first glance. But if you take a little time, stroll leisurely through the alleys, and let the oriental influences and ancient buildings work their magic on you, you might just give Kos Town a second chance.
Wander through the shopping streets of Apellou and Ifestou, and then check out the Market Hall at Eleftherias Square, which is packed with a variety of island-typical souvenirs (thyme honey, olive oil, and much more). Afterwards, take a well-deserved break at one of the many cafés and restaurants lining the streets.
Just a little further on, you will come to the Ancient Agora of Kos, the oldest excavation site in the city. In ancient times, this was the absolute centre of public life. Right behind this lies the Plane tree of Hippocrates, an ancient giant tree with a trunk diameter of over four metres, which now has to be supported by pillars.
Opposite the plane tree, you can enjoy the most beautiful view of the bulbous pier of Mandraki Harbour from Kastro Neratzia. However, the massive fortress from the times of the Knights of St. John is currently closed for renovation work.
Right down at the harbour, you will not only find numerous excursion boats ready to take you to the neighbouring islands (which can be booked on GetYourGuide*: 3-Island Tour*), but also the incredibly photogenic blue and white alley of Kos, situated right next to the Sitar Bar. On your way back, you should definitely stop by the Lemon Café, where you can grab a great coffee, small snacks, and delicious ice cream in a wonderfully cosy atmosphere.
→ Want to know what else to discover in Kos Town? Find out here: Kos Town
#2 Asclepieion of Kos
History buffs absolutely have to visit the Asklepieion of Kos, which is located just a few kilometres outside of Kos Town. This is the most important archaeological site on Kos and was an incredibly significant sanctuary and sanatorium in ancient times. People actually made pilgrimages to the island from all corners of the country.
Hippocrates of Kos, the island’s most famous doctor, alongside his scholars, pioneered ground-breaking therapeutic procedures here. A visit to the site is particularly worthwhile during the early morning hours. Even those who aren’t history buffs will be thrilled by the picturesque scenery and the magnificent view that awaits after climbing the rather sweaty stairs.
→ All the details about the most important archaeological site on Kos can be found in this article: Asklepieion of Kos
#3 Beaches in the north of Kos
For us, the coast stretching between Marmari and Mastichari, with its bright, light sand, is one of the most beautiful bathing spots on Kos. This dune-like stretch of beach runs for miles along the north coast. The dream beach is only occasionally interrupted by hotel complexes. Nevertheless, many sections still remain largely natural.
In many places, the fine sandy beach slopes very gently into the sea, making it incredibly popular with families and children. The quietest beaches are found around the Alikes Salt Lake (e.g. Golden Beach) and to the west of Mastichari. However, during strong northerly winds, you should probably avoid the northern beaches, as the waves can sometimes get quite extreme!
→ We reveal the most beautiful beaches on the island of Kos in this article: Kos Beaches
To a Freddo at Tam Tam Beach
Tam Tam Beach and its eponymous restaurant have become absolute institutions on the island of Kos. Hardly any holidaymaker leaves without visiting this incredibly pretty spot on the north coast.
The Tam Tam Beach Restaurant is idyllically located on a dune just above the beach. The Lido Water Park is situated directly on the other side of the road and is highly recommended for families with children. If you manage to avoid visiting during the afternoon rush hour, you will find a wonderful place of peace and relaxation here.
Grab a cool drink, enjoy the view of the sea, and then walk down the striking wooden walkway directly to the water. A wonderful holiday moment in Greece is guaranteed for every single visitor here. A real Kos highlight for us! If it’s too crowded at the Tam Tam Bar, you can always head over to the Aplo Beach Bar in Mastichari instead.
→ Looking for the perfect hotel for your holiday in Kos? Take a look at our article: The best hotels in Kos
#4 Agios Dimitrios: Ghost village of Kos
If the hustle and bustle down on the coast gets a bit too much for you, you should drive up into the mountains and visit Agios Dimitrios. It is a typical mountain village filled with old stone houses, which has been almost completely abandoned since the middle of the last century. However, some life is slowly returning, not least thanks to the Paradosiako Kafeneio Chaichoutes (also spelled Xaixoutes).
The young team here serves drinks and mezedes (appetisers) from typical Greek cuisine in complete seclusion – there is absolutely no mobile phone reception up here. Nevertheless, it is well worth strolling through the Ghost village of Kos. Even in the peak of summer, there are only a few people around, so you won’t have to share the place with countless other holidaymakers.
From the white church and bell tower, you can enjoy a fantastic view right across the valley floor. A very special highlight in Agios Dimitrios: From time to time, there are live music evenings with atmospheric Greek sounds under a breathtaking starry sky. Just ask the owners of Xaixoutes for the next date.
🗺️ 10 road trip routes with maps
🏖️ Beautiful beaches & swimming spots
🏛️ All top sights & attractions
🤫 Unpublished insider tips
🍽️ Accommodation, tavernas & cafés
#5 Zia outside rush hour
If you continue along the road hugging the flanks of the Dikeos mountain, you will come to the incredibly lively village of Zia. At lunchtime and around sunset, crowds of tourists are unloaded from coaches, completely flooding the small village. Some people have already suffered a bit of a trauma from it and told us that they found Zia quite terrible.
Therefore, a visit in the early morning or late evening is highly recommended. Then there are far fewer people on the road, and you can actually relax in the many small shops (tip: Aegean Blue Art Shop).
In the East Blue Juice Bar, you can enjoy a Greek coffee or a cool drink in a wonderfully cosy atmosphere. The incredibly popular café Watermill of Zia has had a new owner since 2023, and its colourful design had to make way for much more modern furnishings. However, the view from this new café remains absolutely fantastic.
You definitely shouldn’t miss the upper, much quieter part of Zia with its beautiful church, Kimissis tis Theotokou, which is well worth seeing. From up here, you can enjoy a truly magnificent view of the north coast and the Dodecanese Islands of Pserimos and Kalymnos. By the way, the hike up Dikeos, the highest mountain on Kos, starts right at the upper village square next to the old fountain.
→ More information about the mountain village of Zia can be found in our article: Zia Kos
#6 Hike up Dikeos
From Dikeos, the highest mountain on Kos (846 m), a fabulous panorama of the island and the neighbouring islands awaits you. The 8 km long hike up Dikeos begins in the mountain village of Zia, right at the old village fountain. Ideally, you should tackle this hike on a clear morning, and you should plan about 3 hours in total for the ascent and descent.
Follow the signs for “Dikaios Mountain”, and later on, you will find smaller signposts with the inscription “DIKAIO”. On the way, you will likely meet some goats and, with a bit of luck, tortoises, which have made their home here in the mountains. Much of this moderately difficult Kos hike leads above the tree line, opening up great views time and time again.
On the summit stands a picturesque blue and white Christ Chapel, while a stone pillar marks the absolute highest point on the island of Kos. When the sky is clear, the view extends over the entire Dodecanese archipelago, making this tour one of the most beautiful hikes on Kos. Sturdy shoes, headgear, and plenty of water are absolutely essential.
#7 Panorama of Paleo Pyli
This old fortress is somewhat hidden away in the mountains near the village of Pyli and is a real Kos highlight. A road leads up to a small parking bay with a natural spring. From here, you have to go uphill on foot to reach the castle ruins. Not much is left of the entire complex, which was originally built to protect against pirate attacks.
However, you can enjoy a truly beautiful panorama right over the coastal plain of Kos from the Paleo Pyli Fortress. On the way back down, it is well worth taking a quick detour to the abandoned village and the Tavern Oria. In addition to simple, tasty Greek dishes and a rather curious open-air toilet, you will experience one of the most spectacular sunsets on Kos here.
#8 Plaka: Peacock Forest of Kos
If it gets too crowded on the beach, it’s really worth taking a detour to the cool, shaded forest near the airport, just before the Isthmus of Kefalos. Plaka is especially great for families with children and animal lovers. The Peacock Forest of Kos is completely tucked away in a small, hidden valley. The moment you drive in, you will hear their shrill calls.
Countless wild peacocks and turtles have found a home here in the idyllic pine forest of Kos. Animal welfare organisations care for the animals, while incredibly committed locals ensure the Plaka Forest is kept clean.
→ More information about the Kos Peacock Forest can be found in our article: Plaka Kos
#9 Kefalos Peninsula
Kos is extremely well known for its numerous swimming spots and miles of sandy beaches. One of the most beautiful bathing sections is located right on the southwest coast of Kos, on the Kefalos Peninsula. One beach sign follows the next, and you won’t even know where to stop first.
→ In this article, we reveal absolutely everything there is to discover on Kefalos: Kefalos Kos
Personally, we really love Magic Beach and Psilos Gremos Beach, although the beaches hardly differ in terms of quality and prices for umbrellas and sunbeds. The golden sandy beach at Psilos Gremos drops quite quickly and deeply into the crystal-clear sea.
In the far west of the Isthmus of Kefalos lies the hugely popular Paradise Beach of Kos. This is a very shallow bay that is ideal for families with young children. There is a wide range of water sports available and even a huge water bouncy castle for older kids. If you bring snorkelling equipment, you can dive for bubbles in the north of the beach, which clearly prove the volcanic origin of Kos.
→ Family holiday in Kos: We tell you the 12 most beautiful highlights and excursions that you can do with children on the island in our article: Kos Island with children
In the bay of Kefalos, just off the village of Kamari, lies Agios Stefanos Beach. From the excavations of the early Christian basilica in the north of the beach, you have the absolute most beautiful view of the offshore island of Kastri.
If you are a strong swimmer, you can actually swim across from Agios Stefanos Beach to the small Kastri Island when the sea is calm. After passing the beaches, the main island road leads up a hill to the village of Kefalos. From up here, you have a magnificent view of the entire bay.
Region around Agios Theologos
In the far west lies one of our absolute favourite places of longing, the area around Agios Theologos. It is much wilder and more pristine than most places on Kos – apart from a few blue and white churches, there is only untouched nature here. A very special highlight is the beautifully restored Monastery of Agios Ioannis Thymianos, which even houses a small café during the summer.
Along the coast of Agios Theologos, you can still find secluded bays with bright turquoise water and pristine sandy beaches. Out here, you can easily swim and relax all day completely undisturbed. This coast is highly exposed to the constant surf, meaning every year new beaches are naturally added while older ones disappear.
For a lovely dinner with a sea view, make sure you visit the Agios Theologos Restaurant – it’s actually the only place to eat in the entire area. Order some fresh Greek appetisers and watch the sun set right behind the Aegean Sea with a glass of wine. By this point at the latest, Kos will have completely enchanted you, guaranteed!
The most beautiful beach on Kos
At the very southwestern tip of Kos, there are still magical places where only a few tourists ever venture, and which are genuinely among the most beautiful corners of Kos for us. The journey over the bumpy gravel road is quite arduous. Remember to bring all your beach essentials with you, because on the secluded west coast of Kos, you have to look after yourself.
However, if you have an off-road vehicle, such as a quad bike, the road really isn’t a problem. Then, suddenly, the sea sparkles in its most beautiful shades of blue from afar. Welcome to Kavo Paradiso – the name says it all!
This elongated bay is fantastically embedded right in front of Cape Krikelos. Halfway there, you will find a viewpoint offering an incredibly impressive panorama. Downstairs, you can take a wonderful, long walk along the golden sandy beach. In the summer, there is a small beach bar and some loungers available on site.
If you drive just a little further along the gravel road, you will come to the blue and white chapel of Agios Mamas. The sweeping views of the offshore bays, the deep blue Aegean Sea, and the neighbouring islands of Giali and Nisyros are truly magnificent. The atmosphere in this incredibly lonely place could hardly be more magical.
#10 Volcanic Island of Nisyros Day Trip
You should not leave Kos without visiting the neighboring island of Nisyros. For us, it is one of the most beautiful highlights of a Kos holiday. We are often asked where on Kos you can find the white, picture-perfect villages typical of the Cyclades. You won’t find what you’re looking for on Kos – but you will find it on Nisyros.
→ In this article, we tell you which places on Nisyros are particularly worth seeing: Nisyros Highlights
A trip to Nisyros is not only worthwhile because of the pretty villages of Mandraki and Nikia. The impressive volcano of Nisyros alone is reason enough to visit this neighboring island. It’s absolutely incredible – you can even descend into the still-active Stefanos Crater and marvel at bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles.
By the way, we recommend exploring Nisyros on your own. Excursion ferries depart daily from Kardamena from 9:30 a.m. from May onwards. On Nisyros, you can rent a scooter, quad or small car at the port. There are also cozy Nisyros hotels and holiday apartments.
Through our partner GetYourGuide*, you can also book a guided excursion from Kos:
More Kos Island Travel Tips
Guided tours on Kos
We have compiled the most popular tours on Kos for you here. Click on the excursions to check their availability and prices on GetYourGuide*.
➲ To the organized jeep safari*
→ As long-time Kos fans, we have compiled the most popular activities and trips on the island of Kos. These tours are real highlights for your holiday on the island: Kos Tours
Cafés and restaurants on Kos: Our recommendations
Scattered across the whole island of Kos, you will find tavernas and restaurants offering both typical Greek cuisine and international food. There are also many cafés and bars as well as beach snack bars. In Kos Town, you should be careful, as tourist traps lurk here – think menus without prices or frozen food served at inflated costs.
Below we have put together a small selection of cafés and restaurants on Kos for you:
- Kochylari Restaurant, on Kohilari Beach
- Mr. Gelato, in Kamari
- Magic Mountain Taverna, in Zia
- Lemon Café, in Kos Town
- …
Want more restaurant tips for Kos?
→ In our Google map, you will find all our recommended cafés and tavernas on Kos: To the Kos map
Hotel tips for the island of Kos
Kos is a very popular destination for package holidays in Greece. Numerous hotel complexes have settled along the coast. Nevertheless, Kos is easy to explore independently as well.
Via Booking.com*, you will find many hotels on Kos and can check prices here:
Our top hotel recommendations on Kos
Neptune Luxury Resort, Mastichari
The Neptune Luxury Resort is located about 5 km outside the coastal town of Mastichari. The spacious grounds are designed to resemble a traditional Greek village. The resort features several pool areas, restaurants, and various leisure activities. A large playground provides fun for the youngest Kos visitors. More information on Booking.com*:
➲ Book the Neptune Luxury Resort*
Nissia Kamares Hotel, Kardamena
The apart-hotel Nissia Kamares is located in Kardamena, one of the most popular holiday resorts on Kos. The quiet, green complex houses several tasteful apartments. The Nissia Kamares Hotel features a swimming pool and a cozy bar. A delicious breakfast is also offered. More information on Booking.com*:
➲ Book the Nissia Kamares Hotel*
Horizon Beach Resort, Mastichari
The Horizon Beach Hotel is located just outside Mastichari in a quiet setting. A wide sandy beach stretches directly in front of the hotel, and the rooms are spacious and modernly furnished. The hotel has several pool areas and a very friendly team. We have stayed at the Horizon Beach Hotel several times and have always been extremely happy. More information on Booking.com*:
➲ Book the Horizon Beach Resort*
Blue Lagoon City Hotel, Kos Town
The Blue Lagoon City Hotel is located right in the heart of Kos Town, on a quiet side street. The bar scene of Kos is just a few minutes away. This city hotel with pool impresses with its modern design and high-quality furnishings. Breakfast here is highly recommended. More information on Booking.com*:
➲ Book the Blue Lagoon City Hotel*
ROBINSON Club Daidalos, Cape Helona
The ROBINSON Club Daidalos has been one of the most popular hotels on Kos for years. The club complex is picturesquely situated on the slopes of Cape Helona and is built in the style of a Greek village. It is ideal for those seeking an exclusive hotel experience on Kos. The ROBINSON Club Daidalos offers full board for its guests. More information on Booking.com*:
If you’re looking for a package holiday on the island of Kos, you’ll find great options through our partner Holidaycheck*:
➲ To package tours on Holidaycheck*
Is it worth renting a car on Kos?
Renting a car is worthwhile for anyone who wants to explore different parts of the island nearly every day during their Kos holiday and always wants to be mobile. Rental car prices on Kos are quite affordable compared to other Greek islands.
Our recommendation for car rental on Kos is Costas Car Rental – a friendly family business we have known and appreciated personally for years. Well-maintained cars, straightforward service, and top ratings on Google speak for themselves. From small city cars to family vehicles, they have it all. Click here to find the right car for your Kos trip:
Getting to the island of Kos
Kos can be reached from Germany with a direct flight in just three hours. During the high season, several airlines fly to Kos multiple times a week. Especially in the shoulder season (April and May, mid-September to October), you can find some real flight bargains – for example with Ryanair or EasyJet from Berlin. We always search for cheap flights on Skyscanner*:
➲ Search for flights with Skyscanner*
Cheap parking at Berlin Airport: From Berlin, you can find real flight bargains to Kos with Ryanair & Co. When we travel to the airport by car, we use the reliable service of our partner Dein Stellplatz*. Your car stays safe and affordable during your holiday – including a free shuttle to the terminal.
➲ To the Berlin Airport car park*
Ferry connections to Kos
From November onwards, there are no more direct flights to Kos. However, small planes continue to connect the island with Athens Airport. As an alternative, you can take the ferry from Piraeus to Kos.
→ Travelling to Kos by ferry? This article has all the information you need: Ferries in Greece
The island of Kos is served by ferry several times a week – particularly worthwhile if you are travelling with your own car. You can search and book ferry connections via our partner Ferryhopper*:
➲ Book your ferry with Ferryhopper*
→ All our articles with numerous travel tips for the island of Kos can be found here: Kos Blog
*Support our blog Greece Moments
In this post, you will find affiliate links marked with an asterisk (*). If you book or buy something through one of these links, we receive a small commission – at no extra cost to you. This helps us continue providing high-quality content for free. Did you enjoy this article about Kos and want to say thank you? Then simply buy us a Greek coffee ☕️ To the coffee fund
Bookmark this post on Pinterest!
