iLoveIsland · Dodecanese
KosDodecanese island guide: villages, beaches & ferries
Flat, bike-friendly island with long beaches and ruins in the middle of town.
- Ferry
- From Piraeus 10–12h; from Rhodes 2.5h
- Villages
- 4
- Beaches
- 3
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Villages & towns
What to see
Beaches
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Food
Restaurants in KosSee menus and book a tableGetting there & around
From Piraeus 10–12h; from Rhodes 2.5h
Map
Common questions
How do I get to Kos?
From Piraeus 10–12h; from Rhodes 2.5h
Where should I stay on Kos?
Popular bases include Kos Town, Kefalos, Zia, Kardamena. Pick based on the beaches and ferry port you want close by.
What are the best things to do on Kos?
Highlights include Asklepieion of Kos, Castle of the Knights.
What are the best beaches on Kos?
Well-known beaches include Paradise Beach, Tigaki, Agios Stefanos. On windy days, choose a beach on the side facing away from the wind.
Is there Uber or taxis on Kos?
Uber does not operate on Kos; use the local taxis. Rank by Kos Town harbour; buses are good for main resorts.
Can ferries to Kos be cancelled because of wind?
Yes, it can happen. Strong north winds (the meltemi, mostly July and August) can delay or cancel sailings, smaller fast boats first. Check the wind forecast for your travel day and confirm with your ferry company or the port authority before leaving.
Which islands are near Kos?
Other islands in the Dodecanese include Rhodes, Symi, Patmos, Karpathos, Kalymnos. Check the island-hopping tool to see which ones have direct ferries.
Is Kos in the Dodecanese?
Yes. Kos is part of the Dodecanese island group in Greece.
Guides about Kos
Photos from Wikimedia Commons. Map © OpenStreetMap contributors. Lists are highlights, not every place on the island.