What makes Kos an unforgettable travel destination?
One of Greece's enchanting Dodecanese islands, Kos is just a short boat ride from Bodrum and is known for its lush landscapes, historic sites and beautiful beaches. As the birthplace of the famous physician Hippocrates, this island offers a rich mix of culture, history and nature. With its relaxed atmosphere, picturesque villages and lively capital, Kos is a perfect location for travelers wanting to experience the authentic island feel of the Mediterranean.
How does Kos tell his story?
The history of Kos is marked by various cultures, from the ancient Greeks, Romans and Byzantines to the Knights of St. John and the Ottomans. The island is full of archaeological sites, including the Asklepieion, ancient agoras and medieval castles, which testify to its rich past. The different eras have left a clear mark on the island's architecture, traditions and cuisine, making Kos a fascinating place for history lovers and culture travelers.
What can you experience on Kos?
- Archaeological Sites: Visit the Asklepieion, the ruins of the ancient Agora and the fortress of Kos.
- Beach enjoyment: Relax on the numerous beaches or discover secluded bays by boat.
- Bike tours: Explore the island on the many cycle paths and enjoy the picturesque landscape.
- Culinary discoveries: Try local delicacies in the taverns and enjoy the fresh fish and seafood.
Sights on the Greek island of Kos
The Greek island of Kos is a popular travel destination and offers a wealth of sights and attractions for visitors. Here are some of the notable sights on the island of Kos:
- The Asklepieion: This is one of the most famous ancient sites on Kos and a striking example of an ancient Greek healing site. The famous doctor Hippocrates is said to have taught and practiced here.
- The Roman Odeon: This well-preserved Roman amphitheater offers a glimpse of the architectural splendor of the Roman era. It was used for musical and theatrical performances.
- The Johanniter Fortress: The Knights of the Order of St. John built this impressive fortress in the 14th century. It offers wonderful views of Kos town and the sea.
- The ancient agora: This historic market square was once the center of public life on Kos. Here you will find ruins of temples, statues and other buildings.
- The Casa Romana: This is a Roman mansion that is lavishly decorated and features well-preserved frescoes, mosaics and bathhouses.
- The Tree of Hippocrates: This gnarled plane tree in the center of Kos Town is associated with Hippocrates and is a popular spot for photos and relaxation.
- The Archaeological Park of Kos: This park covers much of Kos town and offers numerous archaeological remains and ancient sites to explore.
- The Agios Stefanos Basilica: This early Christian basilica dates back to the 5th century and is an impressive example of early Christian architecture.
- The beaches of Kos: The island of Kos offers a variety of beautiful beaches including Tigaki Beach, Paradise Beach and Kardamena Beach. Here you can soak up the sun and swim in the crystal clear water.
- The hot springs of Agios Fokas: These natural hot springs are known for their supposed healing properties and offer the opportunity to take a relaxing bath.
- The Monastery of Agios Ioannis: This monastery is perched on a hill and offers impressive views of the Aegean Sea. It is a quiet place of reflection.
- The island of Nisyros: From Kos, you can take a boat tour to the volcanic island of Nisyros, where you can visit the active volcano and explore the picturesque town of Mandraki.
These sights make Kos a diverse and interesting destination in the Aegean. The rich history, ancient sites and breathtaking nature offer visitors a wide range of activities and experiences.
Admission, opening times, tickets & tours: Where can you find the information?
Information about entrance fees, opening times and guided tours can be found at local tourist information centers in Kos or online on tourism websites. Many historic sites charge entrance fees, and there are often combined tickets for multiple attractions.
How to get to Kos from Bodrum and what should you know about public transport?
Kos is regularly accessible by ferry Bodrum can be reached from, with the crossing taking around 20 minutes to an hour. Check timetables and fares in advance and take passport and visa requirements into Greece into account. On Kos itself there are buses, taxis and rental options for bicycles, scooters and cars to explore the island.
A trip from Bodrum to the Greek island of Kos is a popular option for day trips or longer stays. Here are some important information and tips if you want to travel from Bodrum to Kos:
- Ferries and boat trips: The most common way to get from Bodrum to Kos is to use ferries and boats. There are various shipping companies that offer regular connections between Bodrum and Kos. The journey time is usually around 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the route chosen.
- Visa and travel documents: As a Greek island within the Schengen area, Kos is part of Greece. Make sure you have the necessary visas and travel documents to enter Greece.
- Booking in advance: It is recommended to book your ferry or boat tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure you get a spot on the ship you want.
- Departure times: Find out about ferry or boat departure times from Bodrum to Kos. Times may vary depending on the season, so it is advisable to plan in advance.
- Luggage: Please pay attention to the baggage restrictions and policies of the respective shipping company to avoid unnecessary inconveniences.
- Currency: The currency on Kos is the euro. Make sure you have Euros in cash as not all places accept credit cards.
- Border controls: When entering Greece you will likely have to go through border controls and customs formalities. Make sure your papers are in order.
- Activities on Kos: There are many activities to do in Kos including visiting ancient sites, exploring the old town of Kos Town, relaxing on the beaches and exploring the island by bike or scooter.
- Return journey: Please note the return times from Kos to Bodrum to ensure you arrive back in Bodrum on time.
- Respect the local culture: Make sure to respect local customs and traditions and protect the environment while visiting Kos.
A trip from Bodrum to Kos offers the opportunity to explore the island's Greek culture, history and beautiful landscapes. Enjoy the picturesque villages, ancient ruins, delicious Greek cuisine and hospitable locals during your stay in Kos.
What tips should you keep in mind when visiting Kos?
- Travel preparation: Find out about the current situation and entry requirements.
- Sun and heat protection: Pack sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water, especially in the summer months.
- Respectful behavior: Pay attention to the local culture and historical sites.
- Local currency: Don't forget that Greece uses the euro, so plan expenses accordingly.
Conclusion: Why should Kos be on your travel list?
Kos is an island that enchants every visitor with its natural beauty, relaxed atmosphere and rich cultural and historical attractions. It offers a perfect mix of beach relaxation, cultural discoveries and culinary delights. The easy accessibility from Bodrum makes it an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer stay. With every visit to Kos, you will delve deeper into the heart of the Aegean Sea and experience the warm hospitality and beauty of the Greek islands. Pack your bags and set sail for Kos to start your own Mediterranean adventure!
