Attractions in Kos

Kos Town is the main port on the island, and its picturesque whitewashed buildings stand out against the bright blue sea. Kos Town features plenty of popular restaurants serving seafood and local specialities as well as more familiar flavours. Eating out is part of the Greek culture so you won’t run short of al fresco restaurants and typical Greek dining. You can be as British as roast dinner and Yorkshire pudding or as Greek as olives and ouzo – Kos caters for every type of diner.

It is no secret that one of the big attractions of holidays in Kos is the lively nightlife and clubbing scene, which can be found particularly at the resort of Kardamena, while those looking for easy access to a quieter atmosphere should head for tranquil Tingaki.

For those less interested in the party scene, the modern marina of Kos Town is guarded by a 14th century fortress built by the Knights of St John of Rhodes. The island is awash with historical buildings and pretty mosaics, and a visit to the ruins of the Roman baths and amphitheatre are an attractive sight. From the beautiful ruins of Asklepion to the mysterious spring at Pyli and the ancient chapels of Asfendiou, you will find plenty of history here which attracts holidaymakers of every kind.

The Asklepion ruins are the most impressive on the island, formerly the site of a healing spa and medical school where ancient physician Hippocrates studied his trade. Hippocrates was thought to have been born on Kos and his influence can also be seen at the Hippocratic Museum and the mysterious Plane Tree (“dream temple”) where he taught and healed.

Local’s tip: For an easy trip further afield, catch a short ferry to Bodrum, Turkey in the ancient Anatolian region of Caria. Bodrum was home to one of the Seven Wonders of the World, which has sadly been destroyed, but visit the spectacular Bodrum Castle and ancient Theatre of Halicarnassus for a taste of the area’s past glories.