{"id":54337,"date":"2025-09-18T09:11:20","date_gmt":"2025-09-18T07:11:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/greece-moments.com\/?p=54337"},"modified":"2026-03-14T20:05:29","modified_gmt":"2026-03-14T19:05:29","slug":"kos-tours","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/greece-moments.com\/en\/kos-tours\/","title":{"rendered":"Kos excursions: 3-island tour, jeep safari & more"},"content":{"rendered":"

With an east-west extension of only 42 km, the island of Kos can be explored wonderfully in a few days. Experienced individualists discover Kos on their own. For everyone else, it is worth taking one of the numerous organized excursions on Kos<\/strong> offered by local organizers.<\/p>\n

“There is a wide range of excursions in Kos. After 15 years, we haven’t explored every corner of the island yet.”<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\"Kos
Excursion to the neighboring islands of Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Anyone who wants to guided tours in Kos<\/strong> you will learn more about the country and people of the Greek island with a local guide. So you can easily discover the idyllic neighboring islands of Kos by boat trip, even if you are not an organizational talent.<\/p>\n

Many holidaymakers who visit the island usually only have a week or ten days to explore the sights of Kos. To help you make the most of your holiday, we give you recommendations which Kos tours<\/strong> are really worth it.<\/p>\n

#1 Kos 3 Island Tour<\/h2>\n

Price for the Kos 3 Island Tour:<\/em> approx. 30 \u20ac p.p. – bookable directly on GetYourGuide* \u2193<\/p>\n

\u27b2 To the day trip 3 islands*<\/a><\/p>\n

One of the most popular Kos Day Trips<\/strong> is a boat trip to the three surrounding islands of Kos. The start is at 10 a.m. in the port of Kos Town. Several operators offer the so-called 3-island tour. With a pretty sailboat you will sail to the islands of Kalymnos, Plati and Pserimos.<\/p>\n

\"kos
Excursion boats in the port of Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The first stop of the Kos 3 Islands Tour<\/strong> in the beautiful Esperidon Fjord of Vathi on Kalymnos invites you to swim and relax. In the small harbour town of Rina there are some taverns with delicious Greek dishes and cool drinks.<\/p>\n

\"Kalymnos
Valley of Vathy on Kalymnos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After Kalymnos, the next stop is at the rocky island of Plati. There is a beautiful bay with turquoise blue water here. Perfect for refreshing yourself in the cool water. By the way, lunch is included in the price and is served on board. Drinks are usually available for an extra charge on the tours.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/div>
Get Our Kos Travel Guide<\/strong>
Discover Kos like a local \u2014 our guide is full of insider tips, highlights, and hidden gems.<\/div>
To the Kos Travel Guide \u2192<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n

The last stop is the small Neighboring island of Pserimos<\/strong>, just a few hundred meters opposite Kos. Here it is mostly tranquil, there is a harbor promenade with taverns and a beach for sunbathing. In the high season, it is quite crowded on the island during the day.<\/p>\n

\"Pserimos
Dream stand on the island of Pserimos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

After almost 7.5 hours, the boat finds itself back in Kos Town. The Three Islands Tour<\/strong> remains in the best memories of many holidaymakers because of the fantastic bathing bays, the all-day all-round service and the good atmosphere on board.<\/p>\n

\u2192 Our partner GetYourGuide* offers more information about the 3-island tour<\/strong> and if needed you can book directly here: Day tour to 3 islands*<\/a><\/p>\n

\"Tours<\/a>
*Advertisement<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

#2 Jeep safari in Kos<\/h2>\n

Price for the Kos jeep safari:<\/em> approx. 95 \u20ac p.p. – bookable directly on GetYourGuide* \u2193<\/p>\n

\u27b2 To the organized jeep safari*<\/a><\/p>\n

For those who want a little more action and still want to explore the island off the beaten track, a guided Jeep safari on Kos<\/strong>\u00a0is recommended.<\/p>\n

This adventurous Kos tour lasts about 7 hours and you will be picked up directly from the hotel in most places on Kos. With an off-road vehicle we go to the original mountainous region of Kos.<\/p>\n

\"jeep
Discover the island cross-country<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A detour to the remote regions of the Dikeos Mountains is particularly appealing. Hardly any other holidaymakers get lost up here and you can enjoy the beautiful view of the island quite undisturbed.<\/p>\n

In the Kos tour is lunch included<\/strong>, which usually takes place in a Greek tavern in the mountain village of Zia on Kos. Holidaymakers praise the friendly crew and the numerous information about the country and its people. The guides speak English and German and know how to entertain the guests well.<\/p>\n

\"Kos
View from Zia to the salt lake of Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A off-road tour to the hinterland of Kos<\/strong> is definitely not for the faint-hearted and small children, because the driving style in the Land Rover\/Jeep on the gravel roads is correspondingly bumpy and fast, and some serpentines have to be overcome.<\/p>\n

\u2192 More Information about the Kos jeep safari<\/strong>and the possibility to book can be found on GetYourGuide*: To the full-day jeep safari*<\/a><\/p>\n

\"Tours<\/a>
*advertisement<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

#3 Boat trip to the volcanic island of Nisyros<\/h2>\n

Price for the tour to Nisyros:<\/em> from 30 \u20ac p.p. – bookable directly on GetYourGuide* \u2193<\/p>\n

\u27b2 To the guided volcano tour*<\/a><\/p>\n

The picturesque volcanic island of Nisyros is a must-see on any Kos Holidays<\/a> and can also be explored individually. If you join a boat trip to the island of Nisyros<\/strong> then we can recommend the following excursion.<\/p>\n

In the morning, you will be picked up by the bus at your hotel and driven to the port town of Kardamena in the south of Kos. The crossing by excursion boat takes about an hour from Kardamena to Nisyros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"Kos
With the pirate boat we go to Nisyros<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

From the port in Mandraki it goes by bus to the volcanic crater of Nisyros<\/strong>. There is even the possibility to go inside the crater, as long as you can stand the strong smell of sulfur. There is also a small snack bar and sanitary facilities on site. After visiting the volcano, you will return to Mandraki.<\/p>\n

\"Nisyros
Mandraki: White houses and pretty alleys<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

In the harbour town there is still time to explore the pretty alleys. Also visit the magnificent white Monastery of Panagia Spiliani<\/strong> on the outskirts of Mandraki. From up here you have a wonderful view of the town. In Mandraki there are numerous taverns and cafes to stop for and small shops and boutiques to shop.<\/p>\n

\"nisyros
In the alleys of Mandraki<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

For many Kos holidaymakers, the day trip to Nisyros Volcano<\/strong>, especially because of the English-speaking guide and the original beauty of the volcanic island, is one of the highlights of your holiday. The bus transfer to the volcano and the entrance fee to the volcano of Nisyros are extra.<\/p>\n

\u2192 More Information about the volcano tour on Nisyros<\/strong> and the possibility to book is available via our partner GetYourGuide*: Boat tour to the volcanic island*<\/a><\/p>\n

\"Tours<\/a>
*Advertisement<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Kos Excursions on your own<\/h2>\n

You don’t feel like bus tours and want to see the explore the island of Kos individually<\/strong>? Then we recommend a wheeled vehicle and off you go! The best way to get from A to B in Kos is with a rental car. There are countless car rental companies on the island that offer cars of all categories.<\/p>\n

\"Costas
Car rental from Costas Car Rental<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Our recommendation for car hire on Kos<\/strong> is Costas Car Rental<\/em> – a friendly family business that we have known and appreciated personally for years. Well-maintained cars, uncomplicated service and top ratings on Google speak for themselves. From small cars to family cars, everything is there. Click here for the desired vehicle for Kos:<\/p>\n

\u27b2 Book Kos Car Rental<\/a><\/p>\n

Beautiful places and hikes on Kos<\/h3>\n

The most beautiful sunset of Kos<\/h4>\n

In the far west of Kos on the Kefalos peninsula<\/a>, the landscape is wild and beautiful. You can enjoy the lonely bays on the rugged coast almost all to yourself. In the evening you will experience in Agios Theologos Restaurant<\/em> for many holidaymakers probably the most beautiful sunset on Kos<\/strong> right by the sea.<\/p>\n

\"kos
Romantic evening atmosphere on Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Excursion to the Dikeos Mountains<\/h4>\n

In the mountains of Kos, between dense coniferous forests, there are small sleepy villages and numerous hiking trails. The hike on the Dikeos<\/strong>, the highest mountain on Kos (864 m).<\/p>\n

\"kos
View from the Dikeos Summit<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

On the flanks of the Dikeos Mountains, you can walk from Amaniou via the mountain villages of Lagoudi, Zia, Asfendiou and into the ghost village of Agios Dimitrios<\/strong> drive. You will be accompanied by a beautiful island panorama and find a little relaxation and peace far away from the tourist hustle and bustle. The residentCaf\u00e9 Chaichoutes<\/em> is only open in the evening.<\/p>\n

\"kos
Time out in the ghost village<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If hiking is not your thing and you are looking for a little more action, we recommend a quad bike tour through the mountainous hinterland of Kos. Or you can drive an off-road vehicle over lonely gravel roads to the remote mountain regions of the island.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 Everything you need to know for\u00a0<\/span>visiting\u00a0Zia<\/span><\/strong> you will learn in this article: <\/span>Zia Kos<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

At lunchtime, it is worth taking a break visit to the mountain village of Zia<\/strong> (Tip<\/em>: Magic Mountain) before continuing to the Paleo Pyli fortress in the late afternoon. For the long discovery tour, you will be rewarded with magnificent panoramas of the island. If that’s too much planning for you, you can take part in an organized jeep safari: Jeep Safari with Lunch<\/a><\/p>\n

Our Kos tips on Google Maps<\/strong>
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\ud83c\udfd6\ufe0f Dream beaches & hidden bays
\ud83c\udf7d\ufe0f Restaurants, tavernas & caf\u00e9s
\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f Must-see highlights & ancient sites
\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f Worthwhile spots & insider tips
\ud83d\ude98 Practical info like rentals & parking
\u267e\ufe0f Lifetime access & updates<\/div>
To Kos Map \u2192<\/a><\/div><\/div>
\"\"<\/div><\/div>\n

Hike to Aspri Petra Cave<\/h4>\n

On the Kefalos peninsula in the far west of Kos you will reach the Aspri Petra Cave<\/strong>, which is hidden on the slope of Mount Zini. Here the oldest traces of human life on Kos were found. From the rock window above the cave you have a beautiful view of the western tip of Kos and the Aegean Sea.<\/p>\n

\"Aspri
Aspri Petra Cave of Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Cape Krikelos: Loneliness in the southwest<\/h4>\n

The area in the southwest around Cape Krikelos on Kefalos is particularly scenic and completely lonely. The most remote sights, such as the blue and white chapel of Agios Mamas, can only be reached by off-road vehicle.<\/p>\n

\"kos
Agios Mamas at the end of the island<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The tasty thyme honey is also extracted in this region. Here you can enjoy the silence far away from the tourist hustle and bustle. For the adventurous, a drive to Kavo Paradiso<\/strong>, the most beautiful beach of Kos, which is located at the end of the bumpy gravel road.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 All information about the best Kos beaches<\/strong> can be found in this article: Kos Beaches<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\"Kos
Kavo Paradiso: Dream beach at the end of the gravel road<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Peacock Forest Plaka<\/h4>\n

In the interior of the island, it is worth taking a trip to Plaka Forest<\/strong>, a cool pine forest with colorful wildlife. Hundreds of peacocks have their home here. As soon as you arrive, you will hear the shrill sounds from everywhere.<\/p>\n

\"Plaka
A shady spot in Plaka<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Many cats live in Plaka and are cared for by a local animal welfare association. In a small wetland biotope, turtles and frogs swim. The Peacock Forest Plaka<\/strong> is located about 4 km south of the airport in the direction of Kefalos.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 More information about the Peacock Forest of Kos<\/strong> can be found in our article: Plaka Kos<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Psalidi Wetlands<\/h4>\n

In the east of Kos, near Cape Psalidi, there is a small biotope. In winter, the lagoons are filled with water and are home to migratory birds and Flamingos on Kos<\/strong>. A footpath leads through the lonely grounds, which are numerous overgrown with reeds.<\/p>\n

There are two observation cabins from which you can watch birds until spring. In summer, the lagoons have dried up. Nevertheless, a detour to this untouched spot of nature is worthwhile. You can walk down the path to the beach and enjoy the peace and quiet on site.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 The 12 best excursions with children in Kos<\/strong> we will tell you in our article: Kos Island with children<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Alikes Salt Lake<\/h4>\n

On the north coast of Kos near Tigaki is the Kos Salt Lake<\/strong>. The Greeks also call him Alikes. This small nature reserve is home to numerous bird species. In spring, the lake still has water and you can watch some flamingos.<\/p>\n

Until the 90s, salt was still mined here. After the salt works were closed, nature reclaimed the region around the salt lake. In summer, the Lake Alikes<\/strong> usually dried up and the smell of the brackish water lake does not invite you to stay here for long.<\/p>\n

Kos Travel Guide \u2013 The 10 Best Day Trips<\/strong>
Explore Kos at your own pace: scenic beaches, the best restaurants and handpicked insider tips are waiting for you.

\ud83d\uddfa\ufe0f 10 road trip routes with maps
\ud83c\udfd6\ufe0f Beautiful beaches & swimming spots
\ud83c\udfdb\ufe0f All top sights & attractions
\ud83e\udd2b Unpublished insider tips
\ud83c\udf7d\ufe0f Accommodation, tavernas & caf\u00e9s<\/div>
To Kos Travel Guide \u2192<\/a><\/div><\/div>
\"\"<\/div><\/div>\n

Embros Thermal Baths Kos<\/h4>\n

Lovers of hot thermal springs should check out the Embros Thermal Baths on Kos<\/strong> to watch. Due to the volcanic origin of the island of Kos, thermal water flows into the sea below the cliffs. The natural bathtub, which can reach temperatures of up to 50 degrees, is freely accessible and is a worthwhile destination, especially in the early hours of the morning.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 All information for a tour to Kos Thermal Springs<\/strong> can be found in this article: Embros Thermal Baths<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Excursions to historical sights in Kos<\/h3>\n

Asklepieion of Kos<\/h4>\n

That Asklepieion of Kos<\/strong> is an ancient sanctuary and the most important archaeological site on the island. In the years before Christ, the Asklepieion Kos was a kind of spa clinic and medical therapy center. It was named after Asclepius, the god of healing. In its time, it was considered the largest sanatorium in ancient Greece<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 All the details for your excursion to the Asklepieion<\/strong> can be found in our article: Asklepieion of Kos<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\"Asklepieion
The famous Asclepieion of Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Today, the Asklepieion is the most famous attraction of Kos and attracts numerous visitors every year. Especially from the top level of the complex you have a wonderful view over Kos Town and Asia Minor. The Asclepieion of Kos will also be presented as part of the interesting Kos Island Tour<\/strong> viewed, bookable at GetYourGuide<\/em>*:<\/p>\n

\u27b2 To the organized island tour*<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

Agora in Kos Town<\/h4>\n

The Agora is the largest archaeological site in Kos Town and was the centre of public life in ancient times. In the ruin garden there are some marble columns of ancient temples as well as information boards that explain the composition of the complex. One visit to the Agora of Kos<\/strong> is particularly worthwhile for holidaymakers interested in history.<\/p>\n

\"Greece<\/div>
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Our free packing list for your Greece holiday \u2013 print it out or save it to your phone.<\/div>
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Paleo Pyli Fortress<\/h4>\n

Paleo Pyli is a former village with a Byzantine fortress built to protect against pirate attacks. Only ruins remain of the complex, but the laborious ascent to Paleo Pyli<\/strong> Well worth it just for the fantastic view of the coastal plain of Kos. Undemanding individualists then return to the rustic Tavern Oria<\/em> opposite.<\/p>\n

\"Paleo
Paleo Pyli at sunset<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Castle of Antimachia<\/h4>\n

The mighty fortress is located outside the village of Antimachia on a hill above the bay of Kardamena<\/a>. The thick foundation walls are still well preserved. The Antimachia Castle<\/strong> as an important defensive structure in the 13th century. After an earthquake around 1493, in which a large part of the complex was destroyed, the fort was rebuilt in the following years.<\/p>\n

\"Antimachia
View from Antimachia Castle<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The interior of the complex is now overgrown by nature. Two small chapels, Agios Nikolaos and Agia Paraskevi, as well as a cistern are still preserved. From the southern tip you have a magnificent view over the Kardamena below, as well as the neighboring island of Nisyros. Especially at sunset it is worth a trip to Antimachia Castle<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

Neratzia Castle<\/h4>\n

The former Knights of St. John Fortress in Kos Town<\/strong> served primarily for defence and is still home to cannons, ancient statues, coats of arms, columns and an open-air theatre where events took place from time to time. The facility has been allowed to enter again since 2021 and offers a magnificent panorama of the Mandraki port of Kos Town.<\/p>\n

Roman Odeon<\/h4>\n

The small Amphitheatre in Kos Town<\/strong> can be visited free of charge. It was probably built in the 2nd century and was used for events and meetings. Below the steps, there is an underground tour in a vault where more information about the Odeon is exhibited.<\/p>\n

Kos City Tour<\/h4>\n

You have the opportunity to take a round trip with the classic Hop-On Hop-Off Bus on Kos<\/strong> or you can explore part of the city with the tourist train, ELMA-KOS<\/em> Families with children in particular get a first insight into the island. More information is available at the port of Kos Town or at your hotel.<\/p>\n

\"Kos
Hop-On Hop-Off Bus from Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Excursions to the neighboring islands of Kos<\/h3>\n

Excursion to the volcanic island of Nisyros<\/h4>\n

The neighboring island of Nisyros basically consists of only one volcano on which beautiful white villages are spread. The impressive volcanic island next to Kos<\/strong> you can visit on your own and even descend into the crater with its sulphur fumaroles. In short: A trip to Nisyros should not be missed on a holiday in Kos.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 Numerous tips for a excursion to Nisyros<\/strong> you will get in our article: Nisyros Highlights<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\"Nisyros
Insight into the Nisyros volcano<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The slopes of the island are green and terraced. On the edge of the volcano are the two picturesque mountain villages of Nikia and Emporios, where time seems to have stood still. Those who are traveling individually can stay in the villages for as long as they like. Everyone else is satisfied with the classic short day trip: Volcano Island Tour<\/a><\/p>\n

\"nisyros
In the village square of Nikia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

At the foot is the port town of Mandraki, where the ferries from Kos dock. The best starting point for a ferry crossing is Kardamena on Kos. You can explore Nisyros on your own, an overnight stay in a Nisyros Hotel<\/a> is a good idea.<\/p>\n

Excursion to the island of Kalymnos<\/h4>\n

The sponge diver and climbing island is located just 35 minutes north of Kos, which Kalymnos an ideal day trip destination<\/strong> power. The best way to reach Kalymnos is from Mastichari in the north of Kos. You can get a brief taste of the island on a 3-island tour by sailboat from Kos Town. You can find out more information here: Day tour to 3 islands<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 Numerous tips for a excursion to Kalymnos<\/strong> you will get in our article: Kalymnos Highlights<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\"Massouri
Resort Massouri on Kalymnos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Excursion to the island of Pserimos<\/h4>\n

In about an hour, you can cross from Kos Town to the small island with its 40 inhabitants. Pserimos is barren and there is not much to see. There is hustle and bustle on the small island when the tour boats from Kos to Pserimos<\/strong> come. Afterwards, however, peace returns and those who spend the night here can enjoy the idyll and seclusion of this spot extensively.<\/p>\n

\"griechische
In the evening, peace returns to Pserimos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

On Pserimos you will not find cars and paved roads. There is a beautiful sandy beach right in the only village Avlakia and some tavernas to linger. You can get a good impression of Pserimos during a short sailing trip around Kos or on a 3 Islands Tour from Kos Town<\/strong>. More information can be found here: Day tour to 3 islands<\/a><\/p>\n

There is more in the following articles tips for excursions in Kos<\/strong>:<\/p>\n