KOS-MIC TOUR

Greece is not only the birthplace of ancient Greek philosophy, mythology, and historical monuments. This remarkable country is also renowned for its stunning resorts, which attract tourists with their picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and unique atmosphere. Overall, Greece boasts more than 6,000 islands and islets, of which no more than 230 are inhabited, and not all are popular as resorts. The most famous among the Greek islands include Crete, Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, Corfu, and Zakynthos. Kos holds a special place among them, famous for its ancient historical sites, beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

All Roads Lead... To Kos

Kos is relatively easy to reach thanks to its well-developed transport infrastructure and variety of travel options, making it an appealing destination for tourists from around the globe. Primarily, it is accessed by air via its own international airport (Hippocrates Airport), which is situated near the main town of Kos. There are direct scheduled flights to this airport from various locations in Europe and Greece itself. Kos Island is frequently included in cruise ship itineraries, allowing passengers to visit several Greek islands in one trip. This provides a convenient way to relax at sea while sightseeing. One of the most popular modes of transport is by sea, utilizing ferries or catamarans. Kos is connected by regular ferries and catamarans to all the main ports of Greece: Piraeus in Athens and the islands of the Dodecanese archipelago (Rhodes, Kalymnos, etc.). Traveling by ferry allows you to fully enjoy the breathtaking sea views.

The island of Kos is a favoured excursion for tourists arriving in Bodrum, Türkiye. After all, it is located only 10 nautical miles from the Turkish coast; the ferry from Bodrum covers this distance in 45 minutes, while the high-speed catamaran can do so in just 20 minutes. Additionally, the prices for these daily routes are quite reasonable—28 euros one way. The total cost for a same-day return trip is only 35 euros. If you opt for a round-trip ticket on different days, you will pay 45 euros. Identical tickets to Kos are also available from Bodrum's port of Turgutreis.

Please note that during summer months, you may have to wait at least 40-50 minutes in passport control queues in the scorching sun at both Bodrum and Kos ports. Despite having been in operation for many years, neither the Turkish nor Greek sides have created adequate conditions at the berths for passengers.

At Bodrum harbour, you can explore Kos with the help of free tourist maps. Employees from travel agencies and maritime transport companies will provide information about the sights and tourist opportunities on the island—where to go, where to shop, where to enjoy breakfast or lunch, which beaches to visit, and more.

It is essential to have a valid Schengen visa to visit Kos. If you do not possess one, you can apply through travel agencies for a short-term island visa. However, this may not be suitable for everyone. After all, processing time for the documents will take at least five days. Thus, if you arrive for a week-long holiday and submit your documents on the first day, at best you will receive your visa by the last day of your holiday. Furthermore, do not forget that a short-term island visa does not permit travel outside the island or to other Schengen countries.

The Most Interesting Walks

Kos, situated in the Aegean Sea, is one of the most appealing tourist destinations in Greece. The island has been inhabited since ancient times and became a centre of ancient Greek culture. Renowned figures such as Hippocrates, the father of medicine, were born here. Over the centuries, the island has been a meeting place for various civilizations, influencing its architecture and cultural traditions.

The island's airport is named in honour of Hippocrates, as it is here that the ancient ruins of Asklepion are located. This ancient medical temple (400 BC), where Hippocrates conducted his research and taught his students, is regarded as one of the most significant sites on Kos. It lies on a small mountain 4 km southeast of the island's capital. In the very centre, near the harbour, stands Hippocrates' sycamore tree—the oldest tree in Europe—which, according to legend, was used by him to teach medicine.

Tourists should prioritize visiting the Old Town, the historical heart of the island. Here you can experience a unique atmosphere while strolling through ancient streets and visiting sites such as the harbour, the 14th-century Ioannite knight's castle, the archaeological museum, and the church of Agia Paraskevi. The famous Haji Hasan and Defterdar mosques representing the Ottoman Empire can also be found here. In close proximity lies the Ancient Agora—the ruins of an ancient Greek marketplace that served as a hub for trade and social events.

To make your explorations around Kos much easier, mini-tourist trains operate from the harbour along various routes. There are several types of excursion trains on the island that differ in colour and route. For instance, the green train passes by main attractions in the centre and along its waterfront. The blue train offers transportation to one of the island's most significant archaeological sites—the ruins of the ancient Asklepion healing complex—after which you will have an hour to wander around the ruins and admire magnificent views from atop the hill.

The island's attractions include Neratzia Castle, Barbarossa Windmill, and Zia Village. The latter is nestled on mountain slopes amidst picturesque forests and streams and is known for its traditional narrow streets lined with blue-and-white houses, taverns, craft workshops, and shops.

The Psalidi Forest Park features unique flora and fauna and is located on the eastern side of the island. Here you can find coniferous and deciduous forests along with waterfalls and mountain trails perfect for hiking. The hot thermal spring beach of Empros Thermes lies 13 kilometres southeast of Kos. The thermal spring water is rich in calcium, potassium, sodium, sulphur, magnesium and is considered beneficial for treating skin disorders as well as arthritic and rheumatic diseases while improving skin turgor. A small lake has been created in front of the beach separated from it by large stones. This spring attracts visitors year-round.

Interestingly, Platani village is the only Turkish settlement on the island, home to approximately 1,500 Turks. The cosy restaurants in its central square serve both Turkish and Greek cuisine. The village also features a mosque alongside an Orthodox church. A visit to this village—where two peoples with a shared history coexist peacefully—will evoke feelings of calm and harmony.

For those who love sea travel, Kos offers a variety of water tours that allow you to appreciate the beauty of the Aegean Sea while exploring surrounding islands. During summer months, daily boat trips (35 euros) depart from Kos harbour to Kalymnos, Plati, and Pserimos islands. Other sightseeing tours along the coast make stops at picturesque coves and beaches. Some companies provide boat tours featuring entertainment programs that include water sports, onboard barbecues, and spectacular events.

The Most Popular Beaches

Kos is famous for its numerous beaches that provide a variety of holiday experiences—from secluded coves to lively resorts. Global media frequently highlight the island's beaches as among its key attractions. Beach reviews and ratings emphasize Kos for its clear waters, stunning scenery, and range of services offered to visitors. Holidaymakers often commend the cleanliness and upkeep of these beaches. Tourists appreciate convenient services such as sunbed rentals alongside cafes and restaurants situated right on the beach.

If you are visiting for a relaxing ferry holiday, it can be accomplished effortlessly since the beach-front begins literally right beside the harbour. There is an endless succession of beaches—both independent and associated with hotels, bars, and restaurants.

It should be noted that these beaches are not limited to this harbour; they are dispersed across the entire island. The most popular ones include Psalidi near Kos Town—renowned for its warm waters and beautiful views of neighbouring Kalymnos Island—and Tigaki Beach which offers fine sand ideal for family holidays along with water sports facilities. Kardamena Beach in the southern part of the island draws young and active holidaymakers with its vibrant evening entertainment scene featuring numerous bars and clubs. Lambi Beach offers wide sandy shores with favourable conditions for family vacations.

Prices for services vary depending on specific beaches and seasons. Sun loungers typically cost between 5 to 10 euros on average while umbrellas are priced similarly. However, bear in mind that some beaches implement rules that may interest many tourists: if you order food or drinks at a beach restaurant, access to beach amenities—including sunbeds and umbrellas—is provided free of charge.

In certain areas it is also possible to rent water scooters or go paragliding along with other rides.

Budget or Luxury?

Kos presents a variety of accommodation options ranging from simple guest-houses to luxurious hotels. The main tourist season on the island spans from April to October when many offers are available. Naturally, summer represents peak pricing during holiday season—particularly in July and August when demand for lodging is high. By booking in advance you can secure an optimal choice at an affordable price.

Family-run hotels and guest-houses are among the most budget-friendly lodging options available; they offer comfortable rooms with essential amenities while being conveniently located near beaches and tourist centres. In September, a daily stay at such properties costs around 60-80 euros for two people without breakfast.

Apartments and studios cater well to those preferring more independence along with opportunities for self-catering meals. Typically equipped with kitchens or kitchenettes these accommodations are ideal for longer stays; average pricing ranges from 70-100 euros per night.

The island also boasts several upscale hotels featuring modern facilities including spas and restaurants often located seaside providing breathtaking views; daily rates for these hotels range from 250-450 euros with breakfast included.

Kos also offers luxury villas and apartments featuring multiple bedrooms along with living rooms suitable for at least 6-8 guests; daily rates can reach up to 1150 euros.

Food and Beverage Prices

Restaurants and cafes offering diverse price categories abound throughout the island—from simple traditional tavernas to elegant seafood establishments showcasing local specialities.

Main dish prices range from 15 to 25 euros per portion featuring various types of meat or seafood options; salads and appetizers usually cost between 6-12 euros per person. Soft drinks (water juices or beer) typically range from 2-7 euros per glass while cocktails are priced at 10-12 euros depending on restaurant location (those closer to tourist centres tend to charge higher), ratings or culinary offerings; inexpensive food options (such as shawarma or gyros) available centrally start at around 5 euros while ice cream sold on streets costs about 2.5-3 euros; coffee prices hover around 2-3 euros; free taps providing cool water can be found throughout several locations within city limits; one popular souvenir among tourists includes local olive oil priced around 7 euros for 250 grams.

Several traditional delicacies stand out within local restaurants; Kakavia—a typical fish soup made using various seafood cooked alongside local spices—is among them; sardines (Sardelles) remain highly favoured across Greek islands including Kos served either fried or pickled; among meat dishes Souvlaki—Greek cuisine served skewered pork or chicken accompanied by tzatziki sauce—merits mention along with Mousaka—a local dish composed typically using aubergines potatoes ground meat (beef/lamb) baked together topped off using béchamel sauce; sweet favourites include baklava (Baklava)—a popular dessert similar yet distinct from Azerbaijani versions—alongside Loukoumades doughnuts drizzled generously using honey nuts cinnamon.

Seaside taverns typically offer fresh seafood alongside delightful atmospheres perfect for enjoying dinner while overlooking sunsets; local cafes provide authentic Greek breakfasts featuring cream paired harmoniously together using honey nuts.

The island of Kos serves as an ideal destination catering toward those seeking cultural experiences outdoor activities relaxation by beachside vistas—its ancient landmarks picturesque shores welcoming ambiance create lasting impressions upon every visitor."