Essential information for Kos

When to go

Kos experiences warm Mediterranean weather along with all its neighbouring Greek islands. Temperatures begin to rise in May and the hottest months are between July and August. You are almost always guaranteed good weather in the summer, with average temperatures around 29°C. Rain clouds are scarce in Kos and during spring through to October the island can see up to 13 hours of sunlight a day, so make sure to pack plenty of sun tan lotion.

If you’re looking to do a lot of outdoor activities like hiking and cycling a great time to go is in the spring and autumn months. The weather is a bit cooler then, but still in the mid 20s with plenty of sunlight. There are also fewer tourists around in this off peak season, making trails and beaches more quiet places to visit and cheap holidays to Kos even more accessible.

Health and safety

As with any holiday, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance to cover yourself and family on your trip. It’s also a good idea to apply for a free European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) before leaving the UK as this entitles you to emergency medical treatment on the same terms as Greek nationals. It won’t, however, cover you for medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment or non-urgent treatment.

If you are visiting Kos specifically to take part in sports or watersports, including hiking, you should make sure your insurance covers this. See our holiday extras page for more information and for the latest health and safety information visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece/health.

Passports and visas

British citizens don’t need a visa to enter Greece but must have a valid passport. By law, you must carry your passport with you and may need to show it when paying by credit card. For the most up-to-date passport and visa info, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/greece/entry-requirements.

Getting around

At 40 kilometres long by just 8 kilometres wide, Kos is a small island and it doesn’t take long to get from one side to the other. Kos Island International Airport is centrally located inland, meaning there’s easy access to all the resorts and most transfers take no longer than 30 minutes. Transfers are generally included in the price of your holiday, but if you prefer to make your own arrangements, taxis and buses are available outside the airport to get you to your destination.

Most resorts have public buses that run every hour to Kos’ capital city of Kos Town. Car hire is also available from larger resorts for those who want to explore the island and its various towns and beaches. If you enjoy a bit of exercise, a great way to get around is by hiring a bike. There are cycle and hiking paths along the coast between many of the small resorts and this is an easy way to take in the sights without breaking the bank.

The capital city of Kos Town has a ferry port with boats running to and from nearby Greek islands during the summer months – making this the ideal destination for those wanting to explore more of what holidays to Greece have to offer. Several of the other resorts have their own boat tour companies that sail around the island, showing off Kos’ breathtaking views and stopping at nearby beaches.

Advice for travellers with children

Holidays to Kos have become more and more child friendly over the years, catering to those travelling with their families. All seaside resorts have their own stretch of beach with watersports available and banana boats and pedalos for hire. There are plenty of day trips out that children will enjoy, including a boat trip to Nissiros to see the volcano, Lido Waterpark in Mastichari and the hot water springs at Embros Thermae. And don’t forget all the incredible ancient ruins and old castles that are scattered around Kos.

Electricity

Connector type: Generally round two-pin plugs

Voltage info: 220 volts AC, 50Hz

Emergency services

Call 112 for all emergencies and the operator will put you through to the police, fire brigade or ambulance service. The line is operated in five languages including English.

British Consulate

If you are a victim of crime, affected by a crisis overseas, or if something happens to a relative or partner, contact the British Consulate.

Address: 55 Navarinou Street, 853 00 Kos, Greece

Email: kos@british-consulate.gr

Telephone (local): (242) 21549

Hospitals

Kos General Hospital

Address: 34 Ippokratos Street, Kos Town

Tel: (003) 22420 54200

Fax: (0030) 22420 22125