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Kos
With endlessly long beaches, rich history, monuments from various historical eras, fantastic food, bicycle lanes and blessed with lush valleys, Kos is like no other island in the Aegean. The island boasts some of the region’s most beautiful white sandy beaches alongside a myriad of archaeological sites. For thousands of years, it has been the crossroad of cultures and civilizations and has plenty of cultural sites for exploration. Besides the attractive beaches and the interesting ancient ruins, Kos is famous for its lively nightlife, charming Old Town, lovely villages and delicious food served alongside wine from local vineyards. Moreover, it has a thermal beach that gets volcanic geothermal waters that mix with the waters of the Aegean Sea in a round natural pool forming a relaxing spa.
Like most Greek islands, Kos is at its best in summer, however it is still a delight at other times of the year too. Despite mass tourism, Kos remains one of the most authentic Greek islands. It is one of the world’s great holiday destinations thanks to the endless variety it offers in beaches, entertainment and vivid nightlife, attracting every year people from all over the world. The island attracts all types of travelers including budget travelers, nature and beach lovers, water sport enthusiasts, party animals, but also people who are after luxury hotels and all-inclusive accommodation The fact that Kos is among the first ranks of the most popular Greek vacation destinations is not a matter of chance. You just have to visit it to find out why.
Kos is the third largest island of the Dodecanese after Rhodes and Karpathos and the second most populous after Rhodes.
Kos is the birth place of Hippocrates, a Greek physician of the classical period who is considered one of the most outstanding figures in the history of medicine.
The island’s name probably derives from the daughter of the mythical King Meropas, called Kon.
Facts and numbers about the place. Get a quick view of the number of beaches, sights, footpaths and events.
Wondering what to do and see? The ALLOVERGREECE team has curated a list of must-see places and top-rated attractions to help you plan the perfect itinerary. Don’t miss the highlights—use our guide to make the most of your visit. This page is updated regularly, so check back for new attractions and experiences.
HOW TO GET AROUND KOS | Car Rental, Bus. Taxi, Scooter / ATV / Bike
On the island, you will find a good transport system, with local buses, taxis, and car rental options available to help you navigate the island. Rental: Hiring a car is an efficient way of getting around Kos. Scooters ATVs and cars can be hired from many places on the island. Road conditions are mostly good in Kos, just beware of the Greek driving style.
Bus: In Kos, there are small city buses that follow routes through the city and along the main roads that lead to the resorts on the outskirts. They can also take you to some of the local attractions like the archaeological site of the Asklepion. If you travelling further afield, the island has a reliable bus network that connects Kos Town to the airport and the bigger beach resorts. The bus company is called KTEL – an acronym used for sub urban buses all around Greece. Buses are frequent and affordable, making them a great option for budget-conscious travelers. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks and convenience stores throughout the island. Taxi: Taxis are a little expensive but still acceptable for a couple of rides. Taxis rates going to Kos Town, Mastichari or to Kefalos from the airport are fixed.
Bike: Kos is a relatively flat island, so a bike is an ideal way to explore. Unlike most areas in Greece, in Kos there is a strong cycling culture. Bicycle paths extend from Kos Town to nearby areas including Psalidi beach to the east and Tigaki beach to the west. There are several bicycle rental offices in Kos Town, and other main villages and resorts. Foot: If you like walking, you can comfortably visit all the main sights in Kos Town on foot. Do not forget to bring a hat and plenty of water with you, especially during the summer months.
On coasts and islands of central and southern Greece, where the climate is Mediterranean, winter is mild and quite rainy, while summers are sunny and hot.
On the islands, during winter the wind often blows; precipitation often occurs at night and in the early morning. On the islands, snowfalls are rare, and generally occur only in the northern ones, during the most intense cold spells.
Spring is pleasant and sunny in most of Greece. The days with some rainfall become less and less frequent. In summer, in the Aegean Sea the Meltemi, a northerly wind typical of the warmest months (July and August), often blows, and even if the sky is clear.
Kos - Day and night air Temperature °C
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