2026 Kos Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

This small unknown island is found in the south eastern Aegean Sea.It is only 15 kilometers from Kos Island in the area the Greeks call the Dodecanese Islands. It is possible to reach Telendos in a day trip from Kos with either a tour operator or by local ferry. The tour operators go from Kos town and the local ferry departure from Mastichari Bay to Kalymnos. Then you need a second boat from Masouri to Telendos. Once you arrive at the tiny port village you can enjoy a delicious fresh seafood lunch in a local taverna. Afterwards it is possible to hike up to a small church on the hilltops about three hours return trip, or find a secluded sandy bay. The water is clear and warm during the summer months and I recommend bringing snorkeling equipment because it is possible to find an octopus. There are a few small studio apartments for rent if you want to stay a few nights!#greekislands #greece #octopus #seafood #beachvacation #snorkelingparadise

Kos and Bodrum are just 20 minutes apart by ferry, making it incredibly easy to experience the best of both sides of the Aegean. Whether you're staying in Kos, don't miss the chance to wander through Bodrum's charming streets, waterfront, and iconic blue doors. And if you're visiting Bodrum, hop on the ferry to discover Kos' relaxed island atmosphere, beautiful harbour, and the famous dolphin fountain. One of the things that makes this route so special is how quickly the scenery, culture, and atmosphere change. In less than half an hour, you can go from a laid-back Greek island to the vibrant energy of the Turkish coast—without spending hours traveling. It's a unique way to experience two beautiful destinations in a single journey. Crossing between Greece and Turkey has never been easier—and it's one of those travel experiences that makes your trip even more memorable. 📍Kos 🇬🇷 ↔️ Bodrum 🇹🇷 ⛴️ Approx. 20-minute ferry ride Two countries. Two unique cultures. One incredible trip. #travel2026 #turkiye #greece #summertrip

Kos is a stunning Greek island where ancient history perfectly blends with laid-back beach days, amazing cycling routes, and charming agritourism. 🏛️ What to see and do: · Roman Odeon: A fascinating ancient amphitheater dating back to the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. Admission is free, and it's open from 08:00 AM to 08:00 PM (closed on Tuesdays). The best times to visit are early in the morning or after 5:00 PM. · Cycling: Kos is a paradise for cyclists. There's a fantastic 13-kilometer dedicated bike path running along the coast—it's the perfect way to discover hidden, pristine beaches. · Architectural mix: Take a stroll through the charming streets of Kos Town, where serene Orthodox churches framed by cypress trees stand alongside historic Ottoman minarets and picturesque cobblestone streets. · Agritourism: Wander off the beaten path onto rural roads to explore endless olive groves and cozy family-owned wineries nestled at the foot of the Dikaios mountains. 🚌 Getting around: · Bus network (KTEL and DEAS): The island boasts an excellent public transit system. Intercity buses connect the capital to the airport and major resorts like Tigaki, Kardamena, Kefalos, and Zia. City buses loop around Kos Town and will drop you off right at the nearby beaches and thermal springs. · Fares: You can grab tickets at station kiosks or directly from the driver. Make sure to carry some small Euro bills and coins for the ride. · Schedules: Keep in mind that bus services run on a much more limited schedule on Sundays, so be sure to plan ahead. 💡 Travel hacks: · Choosing your ride: When cruising the coastline, renting a bike or a scooter is not only eco-friendly but also super convenient. However, if you're heading up to the mountain village of Zia to catch its famous sunset, renting a car for the day is your best bet, as bus service up there is sparse. · Food & Drink: Keep an eye out for authentic local farm-to-table tavernas. · Don't leave without tasting the local wine and "Possa," a traditional goat cheese uniquely aged in red wine must.

Geography and Location: Located in the southeastern Aegean Sea near the Turkish coast, it is part of the Dodecanese chain. The island has a diverse landscape featuring white sandy beaches in the north (Tigaki, Marmari) and rugged volcanic terrain in the west. Birthplace of Medicine: Hippocrates was born on Kos in 460 B.C. and founded his medical school there. Visitors can see the Asklepieion, an ancient, monumental healing center dedicated to the god of medicine. History and Architecture: Kos is essentially an open-air museum. The town features the 14th-century Neratzia Castle (built by the Knights Hospitaller), Roman-era mosaics, a Roman Odeon, and an Ancient Agora. Many buildings in the town were redesigned by Italian architects in the 1930s during the Italian occupation. Activities and Tourism: Known as the "island of cycling," it has dedicated cycle paths. Top activities include swimming in "Bubble Beach" (Paradise Beach) in Kefalos, relaxing in the hot springs at Therma Beach, exploring the mountain village of Zia, and enjoying boat trips to nearby islands like Nisyros and Kalymnos. Local Culture and Products: The island is known for its culinary specialties, including posa cheese (cheese boiled in wine), honey, and traditional sweet tomato preserves. 🪼 Kos offers a blend of relaxation and history, with a bustling nightlife in Kos Town and quieter, scenic villages such as Mastichari and Antimachia available. The island offers excellent, sandy beaches along its 112-kilometer coastline. 🎀🎀🎀 #beachlife #staycation #greece #myitinerary

Come with me to Kos.....🌞🏖🍹🐚🦀🐬 #springtravel Doing a day trip to Kos, Greece from Bodrum is such a beautiful and easy escape. Just a short ferry ride across the sparkling Aegean Sea and you’re greeted with whitewashed buildings, turquoise waters, and a relaxed island vibe that feels instantly calming. Strolling through the charming old town, with its cobbled streets, ancient ruins, and waterfront cafés, feels like stepping into a postcard. The views are stunning, the beaches are crystal clear, and the sunshine just hits differently. It’s the perfect mix of history, scenery, and laid-back Greek charm — all in one unforgettable day. 🌊☀️ #kos #greece

#ferrytrip I recently took a ferry trip to Kos Island in Greece, and it was such a great way to spend the day! 🚢 The ferry ride itself was around 45 minutes from Bodrum and cost about €15, which I thought was really reasonable for a round-trip ticket. As soon as we docked in Kos, I was struck by the island’s beauty—charming streets, stunning beaches, and so much history everywhere. I spent a good portion of the day exploring the ancient ruins of the Asklepion, which was fascinating. The beaches are incredible, too, with warm, crystal-clear water. I found a great little taverna by the sea for lunch, and enjoyed some delicious fresh seafood while taking in the view. After lunch, I wandered through the town, visiting the Castle of the Knights, and picked up a few local souvenirs. If you’re near the area, I highly recommend the ferry trip to Kos for a mix of history, relaxation, and island charm. #KosIsland #GreekIslands #FerryAdventure #ExploreKos #BeachLife #TravelGreece

Dimitra Beach is the ultimate summer destination in the island of Kos, where endless hours at the pool and spectacular sunrises are all part of the experience. Choose your favorite way to spend your summer vacation to create a lifetime of unique memories.

· Address - Psalidi, Kos, Greece. · Ambiance/Facilities - Gym, Spa, all inclusive, Ala-Carte restaurants, family friendly. · Highlights - Large garden and sitting areas, Spa, Private villas and Bungalows · Avg. Price per Person - starting from £225 per night per room · Rating - 5* Grecotel Kos LUX ME nestled on a 100,000m2 estate, with several infinity pools, private bungalows, dream villas and terraces with sweeping sea views! 🌊 Private villas and Bungalows set in a beautiful leafy gardens, Grecotel’s design is nicely thought out and it looks authentically natural and it has the grandness of a 5 star hotel. The main entrance and reception area spacious and luxury and when you walk out onto the outside veranda with hanging egg chairs and the tree lined water feature you feel so relaxed. 💯 The main hotel building with buffet restaurant and 2 lovely bars, shops, spa and gym. The well-kept gardens which are impressive! We stayed in Private bungalow with private swimming pool and over looking to Sea. There were a few other buildings 2 or 3 high in great positions near this pool. There is a larger pool where near to the entertainment area in the centre of the complex. 🏊‍♂️ The rooms are well appointed with large screen Tv’s that you can steam onto, good air conditioning and tea/coffee making facilities. They even have an espresso machine, just make sure you are all inclusive. 🍱 Food is great and there is a different theme every 7 days. It’s all buffet with great choice of everything, especially love the Greek salads and variety of bread, cheese, fruit and nuts. There are also several Ala-Carte restaurants in the hotel, I would highly recommend booking in advance for a table. Each restaurant offer different themed cuisines. We tried all 4 of them; Hot Stone, Asian, Greek Cuisine and Mediterranean. 🍷 All the staff are really friendly and offer a smile and greeting whenever you walk by. The hotel offers great options: Only breakfast, Half-board or All inclusive. There are 3 pools, 1 large where the entertainment is, another large one with a lazy river and swim up bar which is really nice. Other pool ideal for families with children. We have spent a lot time by the long beach and swimming. There are beach bars near by and serving drinks and food. 🏖️ Overall had a lovely time under the Greek sun. Kos centre only 10 mins drive and it’s worth visiting. 🇬🇷 The distance of the hotel from Kos airport is approx. 40km ✈️ All above drone images by me @seltravels #wecreate #Grecotelkosimperial #kos #kosisland #greekisland #luxuryhotel #luxuryresort #infinitypool #summervacation #celebratewithtrip #tripblazers #awesomepic #summervacation #beachlife #mytripvlog

Explore its rich tapestry of history, from ancient Greek ruins to medieval castles. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture as you wander through the charming streets lined with colorful bougainvillea and traditional tavernas. Kos is a haven of natural beauty, with picturesque landscapes and breathtaking sunsets. Let the warmth of Greek hospitality embrace you! #shopandtrip

We visited one of the medical sanctuary in ancient Greece in island of Kos. It was told that the Asclepeion was used by the Asclepiads (physicians and priest on that time). One of them is Hippocrates who is known as father of clinical medicine. The historical site is about 3-4km from Kos city centre and located in a hill covered by trees which overlooking to Kos City Centre. We took bus no 3 from Kos City Centre and we are quite lucky to be able to visit the site as it is closed earlier in winter time. We advise you to check the opening hours during your trip there. #greekhistory #historicalsites #winterholiday #kosisland #greece

Kos is the third biggest Greek islands of the Dodecanese island group and a place that has it all! Sandy beaches, amazing places for sightseeing, palm trees, peacocks(!), vivid nightlife, luxurious Kos hotels, water sports centers… We could go on and on! Thanks to its big size, you can find both crowded and more isolated spots in Kos Greece, depending on your mood. Geographically located between Kalymnos and Nisyros, Kos has a rich history, influenced by many cultures. Therefore, sightseeing in Kos is more than enjoyable! Asklepion, the holistic medical center of Hippocrates, Neratzia medieval Castle and Antimachia Castle are some of the best historical monuments to visit! Kos is the second most popular island of Dodecanese, after Rhodes. Known for its historical sites, beautiful beaches, and lush vegetation, Cos is visited by almost 1 million tourists every year! Kos has a 5,000 years long history and has been influenced by many cultures, such as the Romans, the Venetians, the medieval Knights, and the Ottomans. Thanks to the remains of all these cultures, sightseeing is one of the best things to do in Rhodes. The most important of them is Asklepieion, one of the top holistic healing centers of the ancient world, which followed the medical guidelines of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine. Other sights worth visiting in Kos are its churches, Neratzia medieval castle, the ancient Greek Agora, and Antimachia Castle. One of the best things to do in Kos is cycling. It’s not a surprise that the island is also known as the “Cycling island”, as bicycling is a very popular means of transportation. There’s also a 13 km long cycling road, ideal for bike strolls, starting from Faros beach and ending at Psalidi beach! Apart from the cycling road, though, there are many mountain cycling trails, ideal for cycling in nature! What can we say about Kos beaches? They are endless! Sandy, shingle, crowded, secluded, organized, unorganized… #mynovgetaway #mynovgetaway

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Barbouni Kos — seafood with a view 🌊🦐 #Greece If you’re looking for a beautiful seaside restaurant in Kos, Barbouni is definitely one to save! We came for an early dinner and had seafood pasta with mussels, clams and prawns, paired with a glass of bubbles 🥂. Fresh seafood, Greek summer and a table right by the water — such a perfect combination. But honestly, the location makes the whole experience. The restaurant is literally by the sea, with beautiful views across the water. I’d recommend coming around 7 PM, before sunset, so you can enjoy the view while it’s still light and stay as the sun goes down. 🌅 Important tip: book your table in advance and ask for a table by the sea! Those are definitely the tables you want, especially for dinner. 🌊 Waterfront dining 🦐 Fresh seafood 🍝 Delicious seafood pasta 🥂 Perfect with a glass of bubbles 🌅 Best time: before sunset 📞 Book a table in advance Good food + sea breeze + this view = my kind of Greek summer dinner. 🇬🇷 📍 Barbouni, Kos, Greece #Kos #Barbouni #KosGreece #KosRestaurants #GreekIslands #GreeceTravel #Seafood #VisitKos

Theros All Suite Hotel, Kos — a little Greek paradise 🌿 #greece #hotelbreakfast If you love boutique hotels with beautiful design and a peaceful atmosphere, Theros All Suite Hotel in Kos is definitely one to save. We paid €381 for our stay, and for the design, comfort and overall atmosphere, I think it was a really good value. The hotel is absolutely beautiful — natural stone, wood, palm trees and a gorgeous pool surrounded by comfortable sunbeds. The whole place has that effortless Mediterranean aesthetic and feels much more intimate than a large resort. One of my favourite parts was breakfast overlooking the pool. Slow mornings, coffee, sunshine and then relaxing by the pool — exactly the kind of atmosphere I want from a Greek holiday. ☀️ One thing to keep in mind: the hotel is not directly on the beach. You have to walk to get there, so if having the sea right outside your hotel is important to you, this might be a downside. For me, the real highlight of Theros was the hotel itself — the design, pool area and peaceful atmosphere. And yes, every corner is incredibly photogenic. 📸 Would I stay again? Absolutely. 📍 Kos, Greece 🇬🇷 💶 We paid €381 for one night , breakfast included #Kos #Greece #TherosAllSuiteHotel #KosHotels #GreekIslands #BoutiqueHotel #GreeceTravel

We recently stayed at Ikos, Porto Petro for nine nights, and overall, our experience was positive. The rooms were spotless, the food was fantastic, and the service was generally good, though a bit inconsistent between restaurants. The views were stunning as well. However, having stayed at Ikos Aria before, it's hard not to compare the two, and unfortunately, Porto Petro didn't quite match up. We booked a deluxe room and requested a ground-floor option because of our daughter's Autism and the safety concerns with stairs or lifts as she is a climber. However, to our surprise, the "ground floor" required us to either go downstairs or use a lift. The outdoor area was just okay with a partial sea view (as seen in our photo), so if you need direct pool access or accommodate a wheelchair, the first floor might be better. The deluxe drinks were underwhelming. The "premium" brands were not what we’d call premium, and certain items, like a red wine my husband liked, could only be accessed at Seasons, the deluxe guests' restaurant. At Aria, staff would have gone the extra mile to get it for us anywhere, which was not the case here. Similarly, breakfast was limited—our child wanted donuts one morning, but since they weren't available at the restaurant we were dining at, it simply wasn't an option. At Aria, staff would accommodate such requests, which we missed here. Another issue was the deluxe pool, which was green for the first four days of our stay. It clearly wasn't being maintained properly, and you couldn't even see your feet at the bottom. We ended up using the family pool, which was cleaner and less crowded. During our stay, it was our daughter's birthday, so we arranged for dinner by the beach and requested balloons and a cake. Unfortunately, there were no balloons upon arrival, and when they eventually brought some, they looked quite old and dull. The cake was also forgotten until the very end, when a waitress ran after us as we were leaving. Fortunately, our daughter was happy to find some balloons tied to her bed when we returned to our room. We dined out for two nights. One restaurant, Es Bergant, was fabulous, but the other in Cala D'Or was awful, so be mindful of your choices. On a positive note, our favorite restaurant at the resort was Olivia—absolutely fabulous! The Beach Club was great for lunch, and Ouzo was lovely any time of the day since we adore Greek cuisine. Shoutouts to Daniel for organizing things for us, Caitlin and Nikos from Seasons, and the English lady at the Porto Petro Bar (unfortunately, I can't recall her name). While the stay was enjoyable, there were enough shortcomings that kept it from being a five-star experience.

Zia village in Kos is giving major fairytale vibes! 😍 Imagine wandering through charming little streets, surrounded by lush greenery and cute whitewashed houses – it’s just the most peaceful experience ever. Zia is a tiny mountain village nestled on the slopes of Mount Dikeos, and it honestly feels like you’ve stepped into another world. Pro tips for your chill trip: · Address: Zia Village, Zia, 853 00 Kos, Greece (just a short drive from Kos Town!) · Best Time to Visit: Arrive just before sunset for the most magical golden hour views – seriously, the sundown here is Insta-famous! 🌅 · Don’t Miss: Try local specialties at one of the cute tavernas, and pop into artisanal shops for those must-have souvenirs. Zia is the place to vibe, enjoy fresh mountain air, and soak up stunning panoramas of Kos Island and the Aegean Sea. The atmosphere is sooo relaxing – you’ll 100% want to come back. Definitely add this chill spot to your bucket list next time you’re in Kos!

Start off in Athens—the ultimate mix of history and pure summer energy. 🏛️☀️ Sip cocktails on rooftop bars with front-row Acropolis views, soak up the sun on the Aegean coast, and get that golden hour bronzing on lock before even leaving the city! 🍹✨ Next stop? Kos 🏝️—an absolute gem of an island! Rent a car to cruise between hidden turquoise beaches, explore ancient ruins, and catch the dreamiest mountain sunsets in Zia. 🚗💨 And for the ultimate twist? Hop on a quick 20-minute ferry from Kos straight into Bodrum, Turkey 🇹🇷! Two countries, two continents (Europe to Asia), and one epic adventure. Who’s adding this route to their bucket list? ✈️👇 #Athens #Kos #Greece #GreeceTravel #TravelInspiration #AthensVibes #VisitGreece #IslandHopping #TravelReels #Bodrum #EuropeToAsia #SummerVibes

I started at Bodrum Castle (St Peter's Castle) at 4 pm: entry ₺750 (~€20 in 2026), card accepted, open till 7 pm. The Museum of Underwater Archaeology inside is decent, but the real value is the free rampart walk—view over the twin bays, the marina, and Kos island across the water. Then I took a dolmuş from Bodrum otogar to Gümüşlük (₺40, 25 min), arriving 6 pm. Gümüşlük is the ancient Leuke, where you can wade across a shallow sandbar to Rabbit Island (Tavşan Adası) at low tide—shoes off, water ankle-deep, no boat needed. The waterfront is a row of fish restaurants; I ate grilled sea bream (çipura) for ₺1,600 (~€42) with a complimentary meze plate and local white wine ₺350. Card worked, tip 10%. Mistake: I sat at the first restaurant by the dolmuş stop; walking 200 m left to the smaller family places (e.g. near the old olive press) dropped the same fish to ₺1,200. Another mistake: not checking the tide table—at high tide the Rabbit Island wade is knee-deep and less magical. Worth it? Bodrum Castle is a half-day if you like crusader history; Gümüşlük sunset is the payoff. The fish is pricier than Bodrum town but the setting—tables on the sand, Byzantine ruins behind you, pink sky over the Aegean—earns it. Question: is €42 for a fish dinner on a Roman ruin beach worth it versus €15 kebab inland, and does the place make the meal?

#worthitornot Nisyros is the sleeper. Ferry from Kos (€10–14, 45 min, Blue Star or Nissiros Express, summer twice daily). I stayed in Nikia, the white cubist village on the crater rim, and walked the 1.5 km paved path down to Stefanos—the active hydrothermal crater floor, 250 m across, ringed by pumice and yellow sulphur cones. You descend a stair into the bowl; the ground hisses, mud pots bubble at 60–80°C, and the center "boils" with steam vents. No rail, no guide mandatory, €2 donation box at the path head. I wore sandals and wished for closed shoes—pumice is sharp, sulphur stains fabric. The smell is eggy but lighter than Vulcano. Nikia itself has one kafenio (€3 Greek coffee, cash only). A mistake: I trusted the midday ferry back and missed the 15:00 departure, stranded 3h—check the printed timetable at the Nikia bus stop, not just the app. The island runs on siesta logic; shops shut 14–17. Discussion: is a walkable boiling crater with no crowds better value than the famous Santorini caldera, or does it lack the scale people expect?

#underratedspots Greece is filled with incredible ancient sites, but while places like the Acropolis, Delphi, and Olympia attract millions of visitors, the Roman Odeon of Kos often flies completely under the radar. Built in the 2nd century AD, this remarkably well-preserved Roman theatre once hosted musical performances, poetry readings, and public gatherings. Today, you can still walk through its ancient corridors, explore the underground chambers, and imagine what life was like nearly 2,000 years ago—all without the large crowds found at Greece's more famous archaeological sites. If you're exploring Kos Town, don't make the mistake of walking past it. It's free to visit, easy to access, and offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's rich Roman history. 📍 Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and the best light for photos. Don't forget to peek into the underground galleries beneath the theatre—they're one of the site's most overlooked features! #kos #travel2026 #visitgreece #greekislands

#underratedspots When people think of the Greek Islands, places like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete usually steal the spotlight. But Kos is one of Greece's most underrated islands, offering beautiful scenery, fascinating history, and a relaxed atmosphere—without the overwhelming crowds. Spend your days wandering through charming streets filled with colourful bougainvillea, admiring traditional fishing boats along the harbour, exploring ancient ruins, and soaking up the laid-back Mediterranean vibe in Kos Town. Whether you're a history lover, foodie, or simply looking for a slower-paced Greek escape, Kos has something to offer. It's the kind of destination that quietly wins you over and leaves you wondering why more people aren't talking about it. 📍Travel Tip: Visit in May, June, or September for warm weather, fewer crowds, and the perfect balance between lively and peaceful. #Kos #KosIsland #UnderratedSpots #GreekIslands #VisitGreece #Mediterranean #HiddenGem #TravelEurope #IslandEscape #TripMoments

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#europehotel Nestled along the sparkling coastline of Greece, Mitsis Norida Hotel offers a vibrant all-inclusive experience that blends comfort, scenery, and lively hospitality. The resort greets you with stunning sea views, lush gardens, and a relaxed island atmosphere that instantly sets the tone for a memorable getaway. The rooms are modern and spacious, many featuring balconies that open to breathtaking Aegean vistas. Dining is a highlight, with multiple restaurants serving everything from authentic Greek dishes to international cuisine, all fresh and flavorful. The pools are expansive and perfect for both relaxation and fun, while the beachfront provides crystal clear waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Service stands out, with friendly staff ensuring every guest feels welcome. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or family, Mitsis Norida balances energy and tranquility beautifully making it a destination you’ll want to return to.

Straight of the ferry and found a lovely little coffee shop: 1. Coffee House Beautiful coffee. Fresh orange juice. Croissant & Spinach and feta pie lovely atmosphere 5/5 Walked around harbour and checked into hotel 2. Blue Lagoon City Hotel 3. Luch at the Chasapaki Stunning butcher restaurant. 5/5 #travel2026 #kos #singlemumtravel #bodrum

#travel2026 #beachlife #naturalwonders #thingstodo #seascapes #kos #islandlife

📅 Itinerary Day1: Day2: Day3: 🏨 Accommodation 🍴 Food Recommendations 📌 Tips