Things to do in Kos

Updated 23 October 2026

What to see on your own, by kind, and what to book with a local.

History

The sanctuary where Hippocrates taught, and the castles of the Knights. Antimachia and Old Pyli are free to enter.

Asklepieion

Near Kos Town · History

The ancient healing sanctuary where Hippocrates taught, on three terraces above Kos Town.

Neratzia Castle

Kos Town · History

The Knights' castle at the harbour entrance, reached by a stone bridge from the Plane Tree square.

Antimachia Castle

Antimachia · History

A triangular castle of the Knights on a plateau above the south coast, with free entry.

Old Pyli

Pyli · History

The ruins of a Byzantine castle town on a hilltop above Pyli, abandoned in the early 19th century.

Villages and views

Zia for the sunset. The path to the top of Dikaios starts in the village.

Zia

Mount Dikaios · Villages & views

The mountain village on the slopes of Dikaios, known for its sunset over the coast and the nearby islands.

Mount Dikaios

Zia · Nature

The highest point of Kos at 846 m, with a chapel on top and views over the islands.

Nature

Peacocks in a pine forest, flamingos in spring and autumn, and a hot spring that runs into the sea.

Plaka Forest

Antimachia · Nature

A pine forest near Antimachia where dozens of peacocks roam free, among them a white one.

Tigaki Salt Lake (Alykes)

Tigaki · Nature

A protected wetland between Tigaki and Marmari where flamingos stop in spring and autumn.

Therma hot spring

South-east coast · Nature

A hot spring that runs into the sea, held in a pool of stones on the beach.

Beaches near Kefalos

Bubbles from the seabed at one, early Christian ruins by the sand at the other.

Paradise Beach

Kefalos · Beaches

A beach near Kefalos where gas bubbles rise from the seabed as you swim.

Agios Stefanos beach

Kefalos · Beaches

A beach beside the ruins of two early Christian churches, facing the islet of Kastri.

With a local

Booked with us, with a host, a set time and a price.

Book with a local Fishing trip with Captain Tasos Three hours fishing off Kos Town on a family boat, with rod, bait and help included – and your catch cooked for free at Noah's Ark. Book with a local Mini-cruise with Captain Tasos One hour along the coast of Kos from the sea, 14:00–15:00, on the Captain Tasos fishing boat – no rods, just the view.

Getting there

Collect from the shop in Lambi, or the rental shop picks you up from your accommodation (hotel or apartment) and takes you back at the end. Pick-ups are confirmed by message after you book.

Scooters Bikes Cars