Kos is a beautiful Greek island in the Dodecanese archipelago, just off the coast of Turkey. With its crystal-clear waters, glorious sandy beaches and rich ancient history, Kos is a fantastic destination for a Mediterranean escape.
When it comes to things to do in Kos, the island offers a range of natural and historical attractions. From exploring archaeological sites to discovering quaint villages and relaxing in natural hot springs, there are many adventures awaiting those who visit this diverse region.
Whether you’re seeking a fun-filled family holiday, a romantic couples getaway or a solo adventure, there’s something for every traveller to enjoy in Kos. Dive into this article where we uncover the very best that Kos has to offer, including our top recommendations and travel tips!
The Old Town is a lively area in the heart of Kos Town, offering a mix of historical landmarks, quaint shops and traditional tavernas. As you wander through the cobbled streets, explore the range of boutique shops that sell handmade jewellery, ceramics and artwork. There are many Kos Old Town restaurants that serve traditional Dodecanese cuisine, including cheese pies and indulgent loukoumades – tasty Greek doughnuts!
The Roman Odeon in Kos is a beautifully preserved ancient theatre in the centre of the Old Town. Dating back to the 3rd century AD, it’s one of the most impressive archaeological sites on the island and is considered one of the top Kos attractions. Explore the semi-circular stage where orchestras once played to hundreds of spectators, or wander through the underground chambers where musicians and performers would practice. Early morning is typically the best time to experience the Roman Odeon in all its glory, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures for a more pleasant experience.
Make your way to the Old Town harbour to discover the Ancient Agora, one of the most popular things to see in Kos. The site features many beautiful shrines and temples dedicated to ancient Greek gods, including Aphrodite and Hercules. Admire the Roman baths, fountains and houses, offering an insight into the daily lives of ancient civilisations. Completely free to visit, the Ancient Agora is one of the best things to see in Kos Town on a budget.
The Tree of Hippocrates is one of the most famous landmarks on the island, symbolising a connection to the ancient Greek physician who is often referred to as ‘the Father of Medicine.’ Visitors can explore the beautiful fountains and cobbled walkways that surround the 700-year-old plane tree, or if you’re seeking immersive activities in Kos, take a historical walking tour to learn more about its historical significance.
Built-in the 4th century BC, the Asklepion served as a religious and medical centre where people came to seek healing. It was part of a network of Asklepia across the ancient world, where rituals and holistic therapies were practised. Today, the Asklepion is a well-preserved archaeological site that offers a window into the island’s ancient past.
The Ancient Asklepion is considered one of the best things to see in Kos for its rich history and fantastic views. Situated only 4 kilometres outside of Kos Town, the site is easily reachable by car or taxi, making it a convenient addition to your Kos itinerary!
The Asklepion is a beautiful structure laid out on three terraces, each connected by grand staircases. Featuring temples, altars and baths, the terraces provide stunning views of the surrounding area, including Kos Town and the Aegean Sea. If you’re seeking fun things to do in Kos with family, visiting the Asklepion is a great way to blend adventure with education.
Kos is renowned for its selection of stunning beaches, offering everything from fun watersports to secluded coves. Whether you’re seeking a romantic sandy stretch or a family-friendly spot, Kos’ coastlines offer something for every traveller. Here are three of the best beaches in Kos that you should visit on your Greek getaway.
Situated on the south of the island near Kefalos village, Paradise Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Kos. Featuring soft golden sand and crystal-clear waters, it’s a picture-perfect coastal spot. This beach has a lively atmosphere, with plenty of water sports activities like jet skiing, banana boats and paddleboarding, making it ideal for adventure enthusiasts. If you’re seeking things to do in Kos with family, visiting Paradise Beach is a must!
Famous for its breathtaking views of the Kastri Islet just offshore, the Agios Stefanos Beach offers a blend of natural beauty and ancient history. Enjoy a peaceful ambience with sweeping ocean views, perfect for couples seeking a quiet coastal escape. Whilst the beach is around 37 kilometres from Kos Town, the journey is worth it to see the views of Kastri – one of the best places in Kos for photography opportunities.
Tigaki Beach is a long sandy stretch with calm waters and family-friendly facilities, including sunbeds, umbrellas and showers. This beach is around 11 kilometres west of Kos Town, and with its occasional breezes, it’s perfect for windsurfing! After a day snorkelling in the turquoise waters, venture to the beachfront cafés, tavernas and bars for a bite to eat before watching a vibrant sunset.
Kastri Island, a small, picturesque islet near the village of Kefalos, is one of the most charming places to visit in Kos. Sitting in the calm teal waters of the Aegean Sea and framed by the rugged coastline, Kastri Island offers breathtaking scenery and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it irresistible to visitors.
Only around 150 metres from Agios Stefanos Beach, visitors can easily kayak or take a small boat to the island. The shallow waters around Kastri make it ideal for snorkelling and swimming. If you’re seeking the best places in Kos for spotting marine life, the waters around Kastri are teeming with underwater wonders. Starfish, crabs, octopuses and even dolphins have been spotted here!
Climb up to the highest point on the island to see the small chapel, a traditional blue and white structure where many wedding ceremonies are held. As you reach the top, you will be rewarded with fantastic panoramas of the surrounding coastline.
Zia is one of the most enchanting places to visit in Kos, famed for its breathtaking sunsets. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Dikaios, around 16 kilometres southwest of Kos Town, it offers a tranquil escape from the more livelier touristy areas.
This quintessential Greek village features narrow cobbled streets, white-washed buildings and vibrant bougainvillaea spilling over walls and balconies. Stroll through the peaceful streets lined with inviting tavernas where you can sample authentic Dodecanese cuisine, like creamy mizithra cheese and the island’s unique krasotyri wine. For foodies, exploring the culinary scene in Zia is one of the best things to do in Kos.
For nature lovers and adventurers alike, hiking up Mount Dikeos is a must. Begin the hike in Zia village, climbing through lush pine forests, olive groves and wildflower fields. As you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with views of nearby islands such as Kalymnos, Nisyros, and even the Turkish coastline shimmering in the distance.
The natural hot springs of Kos are the result of volcanic activity, creating warm, mineral-rich waters that flow into rocky pools by the sea. For those seeking unusual things to do in Kos, soaking in the healing waters of a natural hot spring overlooking the Aegean Sea has to be on the list!
Therma Beach is one of the most popular places to experience this natural phenomenon. Enjoy views of towering limestone cliffs as you relish in the warm volcanic waters. Whether you’re seeking wellness, tranquillity or a memorable experience, the springs provide a wonderful escape from the island’s busier areas.
There are many ways to reach Therma Beach, including a 30-minute taxi, or a public bus from Kos Town or, for adventurous hikers, it’s possible to walk from nearby areas like Agios Fokas.
When it comes to things to do in Kos, there’s an endless list of fantastic experiences, from historical tours to scenic hikes and boat trips. Whether you’re embarking on a romantic getaway, a fun-filled family holiday or a peaceful solo venture, Kos truly has something for everyone.
I hope this article has inspired you to visit Kos and experience some of its wonders. Be sure to include some of the destinations, activities and experiences mentioned above for an unforgettable Greek getaway in the Dodecanese!
Kos is beautiful all year round, and each season has a unique charm. For a classic summer getaway, June to September is an ideal time. But remember that these are the peak travel months, so you should expect larger crowds and higher prices. For a quieter, more affordable experience, spring or autumn are the perfect time to visit Kos, with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists.
The ideal length of stay in Kos depends on your interests and travel style. If you’re on a tight schedule or island hopping, 2-3 days will enable you to explore Kos Town, as well as time to relax on the beaches. Between 5 and 7 days is the ideal time for a mix of sightseeing, cultural activities and boat trips, and 10+ days is great for slow travellers wanting to deep dive into Kos and the surrounding islands.
Yes, there are plenty of things to do in Kos with family! Whether you’re seeking fun-filled adventures, educational experiences or time to relax, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy in Kos. Visit Paradise or Tigaki Beach, both with shallow calm waters that are perfect for children to splash and play. Discover the history of Kos with a trip to its fascinating landmarks like the Asklepion, or introduce the family to traditional Dodecanese dishes at a friendly taverna!
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.
© 2009-2025 – BACKPACKERBOY
WEBSITE DESIGN BY SEO TRAVEL
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.
The 6 Best Greek Islands to Visit in September 