Information about Kos Island
Kos has so many places to discover that, whether your needs are for sun and swimming, ancient history, peaceful relaxation or a mixture of everything, they will always be satisfied.
Hippocrates founded his medical school, the Askeplieion, here on Kos in the 4th century BC and it is a major tourist attraction today. In the shade of Platanos tree just opposite the Castle of Knights, another key attraction, Hippocrates is said to have taught his classes. Other ancient sites include both Greek and Roman remains such as the Casa Romana, the Agora and Odeion.
Apart from its commercial and busy port activities, Kos Town has several municipal beaches within walking distance, most of which also offer water sports. The small village of Zia, just under Mount Dikeos offers astounding views of the nearby islands and Turkey just opposite. Platani, the Turkish village just a couple of kilometers from Kos is a great place for lunch or dinner. Pyli is also a delightful village resting on the slopes of Mt Dikeos. It looks over a green valley, at the end of which is Marmari with its new hotel complexes. The village of Antimachea with its magnificent fort is close by the airport and only a short distance away is the seaside village of Mastichari, with sandy beaches and traditional taverns. Kardamena, 25 kilometers from Kos is a popular seaside resort in the summer.
Furthest from Kos Town is the picturesque whitewashed village of Kefalos, built high on a hilltop overlooking a long sandy beach. Directly North of Kefalos is Limionas, a small fishing harbour with a small enclosed beach and excellent seafood restaurant. At the southeastern end of the island and very popular for bathing, is a small beach below the cliffs where volcanic hot springs, Thermes, bubble at the sea’s edge. Tigaki beach is perhaps one of the most beautiful and popular beaches. Less organised and less accessible, but nonetheless popular beaches are found below the cliffs between Kardamena and Kefalos.