Фотогалерея ‒ Kos, Greece

Guide to Kos

Trip to Kos

Kos is one of the Greek islands of the Dodecanese group, which also includes Rhodes and Kasos. Geographically, Kos is very close to Turkey, literally 4 km from Bodrum. The administrative center is the port city of the same name in the northeastern part of the island. Ancient Kos was part of the Doric Hexapolus, which included six cities of Asia Minor. It was destroyed by a massive earthquake in 1933, but has since recovered.

The history of Kos, like many other iconic sites, is closely linked to mythology. It is believed that it was to the shores of Kos that a storm, set by the vengeful Hera, brought the ship of Heracles on his return from Troy. Archaeological finds indicate that the first settlements here existed in Neolithic times. In the local archaeological museum you can also find artifacts from the Mycenaean period. So a weekend trip to Kos will also be educational.

There is practically no industry on the island, but agriculture, winemaking and beekeeping are well developed here. There are whole plantations of olives and citrus fruits. So Kos pleases with tasty, fresh and affordable products at pleasant prices all year round.

Tips for tourists

The most popular beaches are pebbly Kamari with crystal clear water, Kardama with active nightlife, sporty Tigaki and amazing Paradise with volcanic bubbles.
In the summer, you can catch the Hippocratic Festival - with music, poetry, plays, movie screenings, sports and other events.
Shopping lovers should visit the Agora Market for the best products and souvenirs. We advise you to pay attention to products made of olive wood.
Population
37 089
Time zone
GMT+2
Language
Greek
Currency
EUR

Tours to Kos

The island of Kos is the second most populous island in its archipelago after Rhodes. The name presumably comes from the name of the crab, which was depicted on coins in ancient times. Kos is densely forested and is characterized by fertility, a pleasant climate and a comfortable natural landscape for both recreation and living. The island is 45 kilometers long and is mostly plateaus and hilly plains. The golden beaches and gently rugged coastline attract tourists. In addition, flamingos, white-bellied seals and loggerhead turtles can be seen on the island.

Kos has become a major tourist center in recent years. Many people are attracted by the low cost of traveling to Kos, including low prices in restaurants and hotels. There are many sights and attractions, a variety of island activities and clean beaches. There is even a beach with black sand for lovers of exoticism and spectacular photos.

The climate is classic Mediterranean, with hot summers and windy, rainy fall and winter. Spring is very comfortable for traveling to Kos, and by May it is possible to swim. Keep in mind that the Aegean Sea is a bit cooler than the Mediterranean Sea and it is more often stormy, so even in the hottest summer months the water temperature does not exceed +25 degrees Celsius.

Interesting places in Kos

On a trip to Kos, the village of Zia with its picturesque houses is a must-see. The town of Andimachia impresses with its preserved mills and Venetian fortress. The abandoned Byzantine town of Palio Pili is perched on a sheer cliff with magnificent views. There's plenty to see in the island's main town too. Therefore, it is recommended to make sure to use the guidebook so that you don't miss anything interesting.

Sights

Travel budget

Flight ticket prices

Getting to Kos can be done by air or by sea. The local airport hosts domestic and international flights of several dozen airlines, including Ryanair, easyJet and local Aegean Airlines. Most flights are seasonal - roughly April through October. Ferries run regularly from Athens and other Greek cities. Ferries also run between Kos and Bodrum or Turgutreis. For example, the journey from Bodrum takes only 20-30 minutes. During the season, it is better to buy ferry tickets in advance.

The best hotels in Kos

The cost of accommodation directly depends on the location. There are almost no hostels in the classic sense, but there are small single and double rooms from 40 EUR. You can even find an option with breakfast. From 50-60 EUR you can rent an apartment for two or a higher class room. A five-star all-inclusive suite will cost from 100 EUR and more. A guest house or apartment with several bedrooms and a kitchen costs from 100-120 EUR, and this is the best option for a company or a family.

The cost of vacation

The main item of expenditure when planning a vacation on Kos is travel and accommodation. Accommodation is relatively inexpensive compared to popular resort islands. You can save money on flights if you book low-cost airlines in advance. The most budget option by airplane and ferry will cost from 50 EUR, but on average - rather from 100 EUR. This is relevant for most European cities. The cost of the road through Turkey and Bodrum is about the same.

The budget for a trip to Kos
Accommodation from 40 EUR Average check in a restaurant from 10 EUR
Transportation fare from 3.20 EUR Excursions from 2 EUR
Total: from 400 EUR for one person for 4 days with flight. But budget for a car rental or cab if you plan to travel a lot around the island.

Kos: tips for tourists

To finally plan your time and calculate how much it costs to travel to Kos, you need to take into account all the organizational formalities. Thankfully, there are not too many of them, and we have already prepared the main points.

Visa to Kos

Ukrainian citizens with a biometric passport will not need to apply for a visa to Greece. It is possible to stay in the country as a tourist for up to 90 days within six months. Also citizens of the EU, UK and USA will not need a visa. Passports must be valid for the entire period of stay in the country.

Airport

The island has its own international airport, Hippokratis, aka Hippocrates. It is located one kilometer from the town of Andimakhia and receives regular flights and seasonal charters.

Transfer

There is a shuttle bus from the local airport to Kos town center, which will take no more than 30 minutes. There are also buses to Kefalos, Mastichari and Kardamena. And if you are arriving at Athens or Rhodes airport, you can take domestic flights or ferries, which connect many Greek cities.

Car rental

Kos is a small island, so you can literally drive around it in a day. A rented car is the best way to get to all the sights in such conditions. You can rent a car right at the airport, you need a passport, license and bank card. The price is from 130 EUR per week, depending on the brand and duration.

Transportation

There are city buses on the island, which run on schedule. Ticket prices start from 1.60 EUR within the city and from 2 EUR for suburban buses. Keep the tickets until the end of the trip. There is also a developed cab network on the island with separate parking lots marked with the letter "T". Prices depend on season, day of the week and time of day.

Safety

Kos is a small, sparsely populated tourist island, so it is quite safe. There are always people here, there are no overtly disadvantaged areas and an active nightlife. So when traveling to Kos on your own, just stick to the basic safety rules.

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