Kos, Greece

Kos is a stunning Greek island known for its golden sandy beaches, rich history, and archaeological sites. Located close to the Turkish coast, it offers visitors a mix of sun, sea, and culture.

Note: It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.

There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. These are local guides who can help you plan a personal tour and get you back to your ship on time. You can check out [Rome2Rio](https://www.rome2rio.com/) for transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.

Location & Transportation

The ships dock at Kos Town right by the impressive Castle of the Knights. It’s very convenient as the pleasant town center is only about 200 meters from the dock. The terminal building is mainly used for ferries traveling between Turkey and the Greek islands and includes a charming indoor/outdoor cafe where you can relax before or after your cruise.

If you’re flying in, Kos Island International Airport is only about 3 km away from Kos Town, making transfers quick and easy. Taxis and local buses can whisk you directly from the airport to the port area.

Nearby Lodging

Kos Town offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget—from quaint guesthouses to modern hotels, many of which are within walking distance of the port and main attractions.

Sightseeing

Kos is a beautiful island bursting with history and culture. Beyond its famous golden sandy beaches, you can explore:

The imposing Castle of the Knights of the Order of Saint John. This historic fortification stands at the entrance of Kos harbor. Its two defensive precincts, complete with circular towers, battlements, and a drawbridge over a large moat, provide a fascinating glimpse into medieval military architecture.
The path along “Phoinikon (Palm Trees) Avenue,” where you’ll cross the old bridge that once linked the castle to the town.
The Hippocrates Tree, a legendary site where the ancient physician Hippocrates is said to have taught his students in the tree's shade.
Archaeological sites within town that showcase relics of the island’s storied past.

Museums

The Archaeological Museum of Kos is located on Eleftherios Square in the heart of Kos Town. The museum hosts fascinating exhibits from the archaic, Hellenistic, and Roman periods that will captivate history enthusiasts.

Tours & Excursions

Kos is a haven for adventure and exploration:

If you love the water, the island is a paradise for windsurfing and offers some of the best beaches in the region. There are plenty of excursion options to explore hidden coves and outlying islets such as Pserimos, Plati, Nisyros, and Giali.
Daily boat trips are available at the harbor. Notably, there are boats to Bodrum, Turkey—with departures around 08:30 and returns at about 16:00—so check the local offers when you arrive.
For a relaxed tour of the island’s rich history, hop aboard the local tourist train. Running Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 6 PM (departing on the hour), the train makes a stop right at the waterfront near the Asclepion.
Renting a bike is also a great option, as Kos is relatively flat and features dedicated cycle lanes over much of the island.

Shopping

Kos Town offers a variety of shops where you can pick up local souvenirs, handmade crafts, and traditional Greek products. Wander through the charming streets to find boutique stores and markets that showcase the island’s artisanal offerings.

Dining

There’s no shortage of delightful dining options around Kos. The cafes and restaurants in town serve up authentic Greek cuisine with warm hospitality. Whether you’re in the mood for a lazy lunch at a seaside taverna or a quick bite on the go, you’ll find fresh local ingredients in dishes ranging from Greek salads and freshly grilled seafood to traditional meze platters.

Culture & Local Events

Kos blends ancient history with modern Greek culture. A few local insights and handy tips:

Greece is part of the Eurozone, so you’ll be using the Euro. Along the coast, especially near ferry links to Turkey, you might sometimes see prices listed in both Euros and Turkish Lira.
Local service hours vary:
- Public services typically run Monday to Friday from about 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
- Retail shops and specialty stores often open from Monday to Friday (9:00 AM – 1:30 PM and then 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM) and on Saturday mornings from 9:00 AM until about 2:00 PM.
- Supermarkets are generally open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM and on Saturdays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Kos hosts several local festivities during the summer, from traditional Greek celebrations to cultural festivals that highlight music, dance, and local crafts.

Safety & Awareness

In case of emergency, always dial 112.
While Kos is generally safe for tourists, it’s always wise to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas like the port and busy markets.

Kos, Greece Guide