The third largest island in Greece’s Dodecanese, Kos is one of those Greek gems you always hear about. Soaked in history and dotted in ruins, Hippocrates’ Island really is a beautiful place for your holiday.
Quick facts
- Kos is the birthplace of the great physicist and philosopher Hippocrates, who was born in 460BC
- The island is just 45km long
- You can fly there in just under 4 hours from the UK
- Kos is only 24km from Bodrum in Turkey, and it’s well worth a boat trip there
- The temperature starts to climb in May, but the hottest months are July and August where it rarely drops below 30°
Discover Kos holidays
There’s so much to do around the island, here are six must-dos whilst you’re there.
1. Spend a day in Paradise
One of the most famous beaches in Kos, Paradise Beach really takes after its name. With fine soft sand and crystal clear waters, it’s the perfect place to spend a relaxing day under the warm Mediterranean sun or exploring life under the waves with a snorkel and mask. There are sunbeds to hire and a few restaurants when you’re ready for a bite to eat.
2. Take a dip in the hot springs
Therma beach is the place to experience some of the island’s volcanic force. People are drawn to the warm healing waters which are known to be a great treatment for rheumatism and arthritis. You’ll find it nestled in a small secluded cove about 10km from Kos Town.
3. See more of the island on two wheels
Kos is known as the island of the bicycle, and you’ll find cycling lanes throughout all the major towns. It’s a fantastic way to see the island as you can stop and pull over whenever you want (and it’s a great way to keep fit whilst you’re on holiday). You’ll find bicycle hire shops dotted everywhere, and prices start from around €5 per day.
4. Explore the history
Kos is bursting with history and you shouldn’t leave the island without exploring some of it. In Kos Town, you’ll find the impressive Castle of the Knights; a 14th century Fortress at the entrance to the harbour. There’s also Hippocrates Plane Tree, where the great philosopher is said to have sat and taught his students and the ruined remains of Kos Old Town, which comprises of an ancient city wall and well preserved mosaics.
5. Hike a Mountain
Mount Dikeos is the highest point of Kos Island, and it’s well worth digging out your walking shoes and trekking to the top. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular views for all your hard work and whilst you’re up there, you’ll be able to see some of the beautiful wild plants and flowers that grow on the island.
6. Shop for souvenirs
Explore the narrow cobbled streets of Kos Old Town and do a spot of souvenir shopping. You’ll find a few shops selling products made of olive oil (which is produced on the island), along with stores selling silver jewellery, leather goods and traditional Greek products. You’ll also find some lovely little tavernas to grab a bite to eat and a cold drink.
Have you ever been to Kos? Are there any must-dos that I’ve missed and you think should be on everyone’s list? Let me know in the comments below.
