A lively part of the Dodecanese archipelago in Greece, Kos Town is home to Greek and Roman ruins, Corinthian columns, medieval castles, fountains and shrines. Sandy beaches ring the coastline, with warm Mediterranean waters and numerous tavernas and cafes along the harbour.

Things to do

Dozens of small coves and long golden beaches overflow with families, volleyball nets, sunbathers and water sports. Favourite beaches near Kefalos include Agios Stefanos, Paradise and Agios Theologos, while the south coast beams boasts the idyllic Kardamena beach. Embrace beach life with boogie boarding, windsurfing, snorkelling, sailing and kayaking.

Spend an afternoon in Kos Town exploring historical landmarks, including the 15th-century Neratzia Castle, which towers over the harbour entrance. From there, walk to the ruins of Ancient Agora to discover remnants of the Shrine of Aphrodite and Temple of Hercules.

Stroll over to the cobblestoned Plateia Platanou to find the plane tree under which Hippocrates reportedly schooled his spellbound pupils. Don’t miss seeing the ancient Asklepeion of Kos, a Hellenic healing centre and sanctuary founded by Hippocrates and named for Asclepius, the god of healing.

Travelling with young children? Spend an afternoon at Lido Water Park, home to slides, rides, pools, flumes and lazy rivers. For a nature-filled outing, visit the Natural Park of Zia where you can feed free-roaming animals and watch strutting peacocks. You can also take a boat excursion past the Dodecanese islands, then head back to Kos Town for seafood at Elia or Nick the Fisherman.

Getting around

Buses, taxis and shuttles traverse the island and you can rent a bicycle or car in Kos Town. Rental cars are also available at Kos International Airport.