Discover the Enchanting Island of Kos
Kos is a top-rated destination near the Turkish coast, with one of the busiest airports in Greece. Thankfully, the remote beaches of Kos enable those who seek a quieter holiday to rent a car and drive away from the crowds to more peaceful areas. The historical town of Kos, with Venetian and Ottoman architecture, is an open museum that will take you back in time.
Rent a car in Kos and discover…
Kos town, on the northeastern part of the island
Built on the northeastern part of the island, Kos's city (and port) is also the island's capital. At the same time, it is an open museum. Take some time to walk in the wide alleys among the ruins from ancient roman and byzantine times and stop to enjoy the shade of the rich vegetation. Then, visit the square with the Hippocrates plane tree and cross the bridge over Palm Tree Avenue to get to the 15th-century Castle of the Knights of Saint John. South of the castle is the remains of the ancient Agora, revealed after a severe earthquake in 1933. If you visit Kos town by night, expect to see some bustling streets, as the bars and clubs attract visitors and locals.
The castle and the nearby beach of Kos. Photo by Chris Vlachos, licensed.
Asclepeion, 4 km southeast of Kos town
Dating back to the third century BC, surrounded by pine trees, is Asclepeion, the ancient healing temple dedicated to the Greek god of Medicine Asclepius. Here is where Hippocrates is said to have received his medical training. Built on three terraces are the remains of the Doric temple of Asclepius, a more recent Roman temple, and roman baths.
Asclepeion is the ancient healing temple dedicated to the Greek god of Medicine, Asclepius. Photo by Heiko Gorski (Moonshadow), licensed.
Wetlands of Tigaki, 11 km west of Kos town
There are two main reasons to visit Tigaki. The first one is the long sandy beach with the inviting blue shallow waters, where you can relax under the trees, or if you prefer, try some water sports. The second one is the salt lake nearby which is ideal for bird watching, especially during the migratory season in spring.
Flamingos at the wetland of Tigaki. Photo by Tracy Gymellas, licensed.
Thermal Springs, 12 km southeast of Kos
You can visit the famous thermal springs during the summer or winter. The hot springs, with their beneficial properties, blend with the salt water offering a warm bath inside the sea. Keep in mind that the space there is limited. However, if some prefer a more spacious place, there is a beautiful pebbled beach next to the springs.
Thermal springs of Kos island. Photo by Hihawai, licensed.
Kefalos, 40 km southwest of Kos town
On the western part of the island and much closer to the airport than Kos is Kefalos. In this lively town, you will find various accommodation options and travel services and staying in this area will allow you to discover beautiful beaches within only a short drive. The sandy beach of Kefalos is also famous and organised, but you will need a car to make the most of the area's beaches.
The town feels welcoming, especially the old part with the small narrow streets and stone houses. Park your car and walk to the ruins of the old castle and the famous windmill of Papavasilis. To discover more about the history of Kefalos and Kos, visit the traditional house turned into a Folklore Museum with exhibits from the villagers' agricultural life.
Only 3km away is the island's ancient capital, Astypalaia (not to be confused with Astypalaia island), with the ruins of temples dedicated to Asclepius and Dimitra.
View of Kefalos, 40 km southwest of Kos town. Photo by Nigelpm, licensed.
Agios Stefanos beach, 37 km southwest of Kos town or 4 km east of Kefalos
Take your car and drive from Kefalos to Agios Stefanos, one of the island's most beautiful beaches! Sand and pebbles, rocks by the sea (where you can climb) and the remains of an old Christian temple create a dramatic scenery, especially under the sunset colours. You can also swim or snorkel to the islet of Kastri and climb to the small church for a different view of the beach.
View of the islet of Kastri from Agios Stefanos beach, Kos. Photo by Esteban62, licensed.
Limnionas, 43 km southwest of Kos town or 5 km north of Kefalos
On the north coast above Kefalos, 43 km southwest of Kos town, is the small fishing harbour of Limnionas (Greek for harbour). Protected from the strong winds and partly organised, it provides all basic comforts, from a few sun beds to fish tavernas, while offering peace of mind away from the crowds. Unfortunately, you will need a car to get to Limnionas, as public transport for the area is unavailable.
The small beach of Limnionas, Kos. Photo by Hihawai, licensed.
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Featured photo by Michal Osmenda, licensed.