Island of Kos

Welcome Island of Kos 

Kos is renowned for its pale, fine sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, lush vegetation and impressive medieval architecture as well as its lively nightlife.

Kos is the third largest island of the Dodecanese archipelago and has an impressive history stretching back to Neolithic times. It is known as the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of medicine - you can still see the ancient plane tree, in the shade of which he used to teach. It is now more than 2500 years old and overshadows the whole square. After Hippocrates died, an Asclepion or infirmary was built here in the 4th century BC, which was once the most famous in the whole of Greece.

Those with a keen interest in history will enjoy visiting its remains and the ancient city which was once the capital of the island, where you can see the market, the Hellenistic Doric temple, Dionysus’ altar, the port sanctuary and the Roman baths, and luxurious Roman mansions.

During the 14th century Kos was conquered by the Knights of St. John, followed by the Ottomans and later the Italians before being officially united with Greece in 1948. Many of its fortifications and magnificent Italianate public buildings date from these times. The Medieval moated Castle of Nerantzia is located at the entrance to the port, and dates back to the Byzantine period.

These days Kos is better known for its fantastic beaches. On the north side of the island you will find Tigaki beach with its white sand and shallowwaters. It was awarded a prestigious Blue Flag for the quality of itsfacilities and cleanliness. It is ideal forwind surfing and there are plenty of other watersports on offer, and aselection of friendly tavernas, restaurants and bars.

Kos is relatively flat which makes it convenient to get around by bike, with handy cycling paths right around the island. It’s very easy to hire a bike and explore at your own pace.

Connections :

There are regular ferry and/or catamaran services between Kos and the port of Piraeus (Athens), Santorini (on set days), Rhodes, Leros, Patmos, and Bodrum (in Turkey), daily domestic flights to Athens and charter flights to the UK.
 

Average Temperatures in Dodecanese Islands