{"id":54539,"date":"2025-09-18T15:48:19","date_gmt":"2025-09-18T13:48:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/greece-moments.com\/?p=54539"},"modified":"2026-05-27T11:20:29","modified_gmt":"2026-05-27T09:20:29","slug":"kos-sights","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/greece-moments.com\/en\/kos-sights\/","title":{"rendered":"Kos Sights: The 10 best travel tips for the island"},"content":{"rendered":"

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<\/strong> every time we visit the island.<\/p>\n

“What to do on Kos? There is so much to discover across 295 km\u00b2, and even after more than 15 years of holidays on Kos, we never get bored.\u00ab<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\"Kos
Welcome to Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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<\/strong> and what things you simply can’t miss while on the island:<\/p>\n

Our Kos tips on Google Maps<\/strong>
Skip hours of research and get our Kos Map with 160+ spots:

\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

#1 Walk around Kos Town<\/h2>\n

The lively, modern capital of Kos<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

Wander through the shopping streets of Apellou and Ifestou, and then check out the Market Hall at Eleftherias Square<\/strong>, 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 caf\u00e9s and restaurants lining the streets.<\/p>\n

\"Agora
Market hall in Eleftherias Square in Kos Town<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Just a little further on, you will come to the Ancient Agora of Kos<\/strong>, 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<\/a>, an ancient giant tree with a trunk diameter of over four metres, which now has to be supported by pillars.<\/p>\n

Opposite the plane tree, you can enjoy the most beautiful view of the bulbous pier of Mandraki Harbour from Kastro Neratzia<\/strong>. However, Neratzia Castle has been closed on and off in recent years, but since 2026 you can once again visit the castle for a small fee.<\/p>\n

\"Gasse
Steps of Kos: The Most Beautiful Alley in Kos Town<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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<\/em>*: 3-Island Tour*<\/a>), but also the incredibly photogenic blue and white alley of Kos<\/strong>, situated right next to the Sitar Bar. On your way back, you should definitely stop by the Lemon <\/em>Caf\u00e9<\/i>, where you can grab a great coffee, small snacks, and delicious ice cream in a wonderfully cosy atmosphere.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 Want to know what else to discover in Kos Town<\/strong>? Find out here: Kos Town<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

#2 Asclepieion of Kos<\/h2>\n

History buffs absolutely have to visit the Asklepieion of Kos<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n

\"Kos
Asklepieion of Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hippocrates of Kos<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 All the details about the most important archaeological site on Kos<\/strong> can be found in this article: Asklepieion of Kos<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

#3 Beaches in the north of Kos<\/h2>\n

For us, the coast stretching between Marmari and Mastichari<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n

\"marmari
Dune beach near Marmari<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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<\/strong> (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!<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 We reveal the most beautiful beaches on the island of Kos<\/strong> in this article: Kos Beaches<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\"Lagoudi
View of the White Salt Lake<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

To a Freddo at Tam Tam Beach<\/h3>\n

Tam Tam Beach<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

\"TamTam
In the morning there is complete silence at the TamTam<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The Tam Tam Beach Restaurant<\/em> is idyllically located on a dune just above the beach. The Lido Water Park<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

\"TamTam
Pure holiday atmosphere at TamTam Beach<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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<\/a> 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<\/em> in Mastichari instead.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 Looking for the perfect hotel for your holiday in Kos<\/strong>? Take a look at our article: The best hotels in Kos<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

#4 Agios Dimitrios: Ghost village of Kos<\/h2>\n

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<\/strong>. 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<\/em> (also spelled Xaixoutes).<\/p>\n

\"Agios
The bell tower of the church in Agios Dimitrios<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The young team here serves drinks and mezedes (appetisers) from typical Greek cuisine<\/a> in complete seclusion \u2013 there is absolutely no mobile phone reception up here. Nevertheless, it is well worth strolling through the Ghost village of Kos<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n

\"Haihoutes
Kafenion Haihoutes in Agios Dimitrios<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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.<\/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

#5 Zia outside rush hour<\/h2>\n

If you continue along the road hugging the flanks of the Dikeos mountain, you will come to the incredibly lively village of Zia<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n

\"Zia
Main street in the mountain village of Zia<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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<\/em>).<\/p>\n

\"Zia
Aegean Blue Art Shop<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

In the East Blue Juice Bar<\/em>, you can enjoy a Greek coffee or a cool drink in a wonderfully cosy atmosphere. The popular Caf\u00e9 Watermill of Zia<\/em> has had a new owner for the past few years. The colorful, slightly kitschy design has been replaced with a modern look. However, the view from the caf\u00e9 is still fantastic, and the quality of the coffee and snacks is excellent, making it well worth a visit.<\/p>\n

\"Kos
East Blue Bar: Ideal for a short break<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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<\/a> of Pserimos and Kalymnos. By the way, the hike up Dikeos<\/strong>, the highest mountain on Kos, starts right at the upper village square next to the old fountain.<\/p>\n

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\u2192 More information about the mountain village of Zia<\/strong> can be found in our article: Zia Kos<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

#6 Hike up Dikeos<\/h2>\n

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<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

\"Griechenland
Small tortoise in the Dikeos Mountains<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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<\/strong> leads above the tree line, opening up great views time and time again.<\/p>\n

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

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<\/a>, making this tour one of the most beautiful hikes on Kos<\/strong>. Sturdy shoes, headgear, and plenty of water are absolutely essential.<\/p>\n

\"Greece<\/div>
Greece Packing List \u2013 What Goes in the Suitcase<\/strong>
Our free packing list for your Greece holiday \u2013 print it out or save it to your phone.<\/div>
To the Packing List for Greece \u2192<\/a><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n

#7 Panorama of Paleo Pyli<\/h2>\n

This old fortress is somewhat hidden away in the mountains near the village of Pyli<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

\"Peleo
View from the Paleo Pyli Fortress<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

However, you can enjoy a truly beautiful panorama right over the coastal plain of Kos from the Paleo Pyli Fortress<\/strong>. On the way back down, it is well worth taking a quick detour to the abandoned village and the Tavern Oria<\/em>. 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.<\/p>\n

\"Kos
Evening atmosphere in the Oria tavern<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

#8 Plaka: Peacock Forest of Kos<\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n

\"Kos
Inhabitants of the Plaka Forest on Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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<\/strong> is kept clean.<\/p>\n

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

\"Plaka
The forest provides wonderful cooling in summer<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

#9 Kefalos Peninsula<\/h2>\n

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<\/strong>. One beach sign follows the next, and you won’t even know where to stop first.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 In this article, we reveal absolutely everything there is to discover on Kefalos<\/strong>: Kefalos Kos<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\"Kos
Dream beaches in the southwest of Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Personally, we really love Magic Beach<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

\"insel
Magic Beach at the Isthmus of Kefalos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

In the far west of the Isthmus of Kefalos lies the hugely popular Paradise Beach of Kos<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 Family holiday in Kos:<\/strong> 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<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

In the bay of Kefalos, just off the village of Kamari, lies Agios Stefanos Beach<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n

\"Kos
Kastri and ruins of Ag. Stefano’s Church<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you are a strong swimmer, you can actually swim across from Agios Stefanos Beach<\/a> to the small Kastri Island<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\n

Region around Agios Theologos<\/h3>\n

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 \u2013 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<\/strong>, which even houses a small caf\u00e9 during the summer.<\/p>\n

\"Kos
Monastery of Agios Ioannis Thymianos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Along the coast of Agios Theologos<\/strong>, 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.<\/p>\n

\"einsame
Lonely bathing bay near Ag. Theologos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

For a lovely dinner with a sea view, make sure you visit the Agios Theologos Restaurant<\/em> \u2013 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!<\/p>\n

\"Agios
The most beautiful sunset on Kos<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The most beautiful beach on Kos<\/h3>\n

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<\/strong>, you have to look after yourself.<\/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

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<\/strong> – the name says it all!<\/p>\n

\"Kos
The view alone compensates for the journey<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

This elongated bay is fantastically embedded right in front of Cape Krikelos<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n

\"Griechische
Golden sand beach at Kavo Paradiso Beach<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you drive just a little further along the gravel road, you will come to the blue and white chapel of Agios Mamas<\/strong>. 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.<\/p>\n

\"Kos
Picture-book church of Agios Mamas<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

#10 Volcanic Island of Nisyros Day Trip<\/h2>\n

You should not leave Kos without visiting the neighboring island of Nisyros<\/strong>. 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<\/a>. You won’t find what you’re looking for on Kos \u2013 but you will find it on Nisyros.<\/p>\n

\n

\u2192 In this article, we tell you which places on Nisyros are particularly worth seeing: Nisyros Highlights<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\"\"
Porta Nikia: One of the most beautiful squares in Europe<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

A trip to Nisyros is not only worthwhile because of the pretty villages of Mandraki and Nikia. The impressive volcano of Nisyros<\/strong> alone is reason enough to visit this neighboring island. It’s absolutely incredible \u2013 you can even descend into the still-active Stefanos Crater and marvel at bubbling mud pools and steaming fumaroles.<\/p>\n

\"Nisyros
View of the volcano of Nisyros<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

By the way, we recommend exploring Nisyros on your own. Excursion ferries depart daily from Kardamena<\/a> 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<\/a> and holiday apartments.<\/p>\n

Through our partner GetYourGuide*<\/em>, you can also book a guided excursion from Kos<\/strong>:<\/p>\n

\u27b2 To the day trip to Nisyros*<\/a><\/p>\n

More Kos Island Travel Tips<\/h2>\n

Guided tours on Kos<\/h3>\n

We have compiled the most popular tours on Kos<\/strong> for you here. Click on the excursions to check their availability and prices on GetYourGuide*<\/em>.<\/p>\n

\u27b2 To the 3-island boat tour*<\/a><\/p>\n

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

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

\u2192 As long-time Kos fans, we have compiled the most popular activities and trips on the island of Kos<\/strong>. These tours are real highlights for your holiday on the island: Kos Tours<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Caf\u00e9s and restaurants on Kos: Our recommendations<\/h3>\n

Scattered across the whole island of Kos<\/a>, you will find tavernas and restaurants offering both typical Greek cuisine and international food. There are also many caf\u00e9s and bars as well as beach snack bars. In Kos Town, you should be careful, as tourist traps lurk here \u2013 think menus without prices or frozen food served at inflated costs.<\/p>\n

Below we have put together a small selection of caf\u00e9s and restaurants on Kos<\/strong> for you:<\/p>\n