Kos Archives - Insights Greece

Historical Sites on Dodecanese Islands to Receive 42 Million Euro Restorations

Rhodes, Symi, Kos and Leros are some of the Dodecanese islands that are included in a new 42 million euro project for the protection and preservation of their archaeological sites and historical monuments that date back to Medieval, Byzantine, and Ottoman times.

The Greek Minister of Culture and Sports Lina Mendoni announced the new project, that will be financed by the Recover Fund, during a recent visit to Rhodes’ Medieval Town.

“Care for our smaller islands is of utter importance. Apart from the 16,800,000 euros that we secured for the restoration and reopening of the National Theatre of Rhodes, there are now many other projects that we have secured for the Medieval City, which will be of huge benefit not only for Rhodes and the Dodecanese,” said Minister Mendoni.

Insights Greece - Historical Sites on Dodecanese Islands to Receive 42 Million Euro Restorations — Medieval Town of Rhodes

Works will be completed in Rhodes, Kos, Kalymnos, Leros, Symi, Halki and Agathonisi.

“The cultural project that’s being launched today on all our islands is unprecedented. In the first phase, works will be completed in Rhodes, Kos, Agathonisi, Leros, Kalymnos and all the other islands will follow after that with prioritisation and above all abundance of interest and care,” said Regional Governor of the South Aegean, George Chatzimarkos added.

Projects include the creation of an integrated historic centre in the Medieval settlement of Rhodes, as well as the development of an open-air museum at the Medieval port, and the maintenance and restoration of the Rejep Pasha mosque.

Kos will see a restoration of the Neratzia Castle and the early Christian baptistery of Agios Ioannis; as well as works on the Defterdar mosque and the Purification Fountain, plus reconstruction of an Italian arcade and the creation of an open-air sculpture gallery at Nerantzia Castle.

In addition, Kalymnos’ Venetian windmills will be restored; Leros will see a former hotel in Lakki restored; Symi will have its bell tower at the church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos restored; whereas the Panagia Horiani Church and Archaeological Museum in Halki will have works done. Lastly, works will also take place at Agathonisi’s Thematic Archaeological Museum.

Kos, Greece’s Bicycle Island

With numerous bicycle lanes in the main town and wonderful cycling routes around the island, there’s no better way to explore Kos’ cultural and historical sites than hopping on a bike!

From Hippocrates’ tree where the famous Father of Medicine practiced his therapies to Therma (hot springs) on the east coast of Kos or beautiful Zia where you can enjoy a fabulous meal and the stunning sunset- the adventurous cycling routes in Kos are endless!

Insights Greece - Kos, Greece’s Bicycle Island — Cycling around Kos’ port

Located in the Dodecanese, the flat terrain of the island makes cycling an easy and popular means of transport for both locals and international visitors. Here you will find locals on their bikes heading to work, school, or to the shops; and will be sharing the lanes with visitors who are exploring Kos’ main town, beaches, and historical sites along the way. It’s also the perfect way to admire the historic buildings until you reach a café, restaurant, or bar of your choice so you can sit down for a relaxing drink and some food- before you start riding again.

Just this month, Greece’s Transport and Infrastructure Minister Michalis Papadopoulos announced that Kos is emerging as a prime biking destination, and during the event, Papapopoulos highlighted Greece’s efforts to establish a National EuroVelo Coordination Center that would promote cycling tourism in Greece.

“Currently there are 6.5 thousand bikes available for rent on Kos island– a huge advantage for the development of bike tourism,” Papadopoulos said.

Exploring Kos’ main town by bike is a great experience and highly recommended. Featuring a 13km cycle lane stretching right along the waterfront, the bicycle path of Kos begins from Faros beach all the way through to the end of the beach at Psalidi, with a distance of about 13 km. With many side roads, some of which lead into the city of Kos, cyclists can choose which path they would like to discover first.

For those who are more confident cyclists, there are routes through mountains and dirt roads, overlooking the stunning nature on one side and the panoramic view of the island of Kos on the other. There are many paved roads, with limited traffic that will lead to charming villages and beaches beyond the centre of town, including some of the island’s most popular beaches- Tigaki and Marmari.

On the island, visitors can find many bicycle rental shops, with bikes suitable for all ages, levels of experience, and tastes. Ranging from road bikes to mountain bikes up to tandem bikes (for two riders); others prefer to take part in organised cycling tours, which can be booked while on the island or in advance.

Our Insiders’ Guide to ‘Hippocrates’ Island’ of Kos

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Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos

Perched high in the mountains and offering the best views of Kos and its breathtaking sunsets; international award-winning Oromedon Taverna serves up traditional Greek island cuisine using seasonal produce from its own farm and nearby producers.

If you are lucky enough to lock in a table on the vine-laced and bougainvillea-filled rooftop, you will be able to enjoy uninterrupted views of the Aegean Sea from one side and lush mountains on the other. This is all while trying to decide what to choose from their impressive menu that’s filled with secret family recipes- as well as other authentic Greek dishes that are made with the freshest local ingredients.

Insights Greece - Zia’s Award-Winning Taverna With Breathtaking Views of Kos

The famous family-run taverna first opened its doors in 1997, and since then Nikos and his wife Soula Papakonstantinou (along with their parents and children) have been welcoming locals and international visitors (including celebrities) to their restaurant.

“For nearly 25 years, we have been driven by a passion to preserve the traditional cooking style that we were taught by our ancestors- this is in a constant effort to keep the flavours pure. We feel there is a need to maintain the originality of the recipes and traditional cooking styles delivered from generation to generation. This is why we cook and bake mainly in the wood oven using only fresh ingredients,” Nikos tells IN+SIGHTS GREECE.

Sprawled over three levels, there is something special about each part of the restaurant, which includes its own wine cellar. Here you will find over 200 selected wines from Kos and other parts of Greece. And the large kitchen is run by Nikos, Soula, and their talented team who use handpicked ingredients from the family’s own fields and olive oil produced from their own olive trees each year.

For entrée we recommend you try the Possa- Kos’ traditional goat cheese; a Beetroot Salad with orange pistachio from Aegina and yogurt sauce; or the Green Salad with fig, orange, pumpkin seeds, and balsamic sauce.

For appetizers, we couldn’t go past the Xortopita (spinach pie), Dolmadakia (fresh stuffed vine leaves), Kolokithokeftedes (courgette fritters), Revithokeftedes (chickpea fritters); and a very traditional dish from Kos named Pligouri- pork with cracked wheat.

Mains include Fillet of Cod cooked in the oven with chickpeas in a lemon sauce; Oromedon Pork Tenderloins baked in the oven with fresh mushrooms, and potatoes; and Giouvetsi- Greek orzo with vegetables.

The specialty of this taverna by far is anything made in the wood oven, which is operated with the traditional mud sealing technique. Standouts are the Roasted Pork slow-cooked with avgolemono (lemon egg sauce,) Wild Boar, Roasted Lamb, and the Baby Goat, which are all cooked for 12 hours.

As well as a great range of local wines from all over Greece, the barmen can also mix up a good cocktail such as a Three Grace Greek Gin Tonic with rosemary, black pepper, and flavoured cucumber; or a Mastihito Strawberry with Mastiha, strawberries, basil, and sugar.

And yes, of course, leave room for dessert, which includes an Apple Pie with fresh apples and cinnamon; Ravani (sponge syrup cake); Galaktoboureko (custard pie); or a Pecan pie with fresh nuts straight from Zia village.

A: Epar. Od. Zipariou-Asfendiou, Lagoudi, Zia

All images by IN+SIGHTS GREECE © (Copyright)

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Visiting Kos’ Therma Hot Springs

If you are heading to Kos and looking for a unique beach experience that also offers therapeutic benefits, make sure to add the Therma Hot Springs to your list.

It should come as no surprise that Kos’ thermal springs have been well-known for their healing properties since antiquity- as it is, after all, the place where Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine was born.

Located at Agios Fokas, on the southeastern part of the island, about 12 kilometers from the centre of the capital, you will arrive at Therma (also known as Empros Thermi), the most popular thermal spring in Kos.

Insights Greece - Visiting Kos’ Therma Hot Springs

The location boasts raw, rustic, and beautiful scenery; and after a walk along the edge of a long beach filled with soft pebbles and a couple of old buildings, you will come across a small rock pool that invites people to dive straight in. Even though it’s really hot at first- especially when you initially step in- the best thing is to immerse yourself in the hot water and allow your body to relax and enjoy the experience. Keep in mind, seawater from the beach flows through the small pool and cools the therapeutic springs- creating a soothing feeling.

Facts about Therma Springs

The water originates from a hot spring in the mountains and flows down to meet the ocean at the natural sea pool. You can’t miss the Therma Springs as there are large stones surrounding the small pool that’s right next to the beach. As the hot water mixes with the seawater, it creates a lovely, relaxing bath and the amount of time you spend in there is entirely up to you, although it is said that you shouldn’t stay in for longer than 35 minutes at a time- as the water temperature ranges between 40 and 50 degrees Celsius year-round, providing a natural spa experience for those game enough to jump in.

Therapeutic Minerals

As the water originates from the mountain, it’s rich in many minerals including sulfur (the distinct smell is clearly identifiable), calcium, potassium, chloride, and magnesium. These minerals are said to provide therapeutic relief to those with ailments and muscular aches and pains. The spring waters are also considered to help those with skin and respiratory conditions.

Therma Beach

While many visitors head to Therma for the hot springs, the beach is also worth the visit. Unlike other Greek beaches that are known for their turquoise clear waters and soft sand- Therma Beach is covered with smooth pebbles and rock formations, which also makes for a wonderful foot massage. After a relaxing bath in the hot springs, it’s great to have a swim on the beach, where parts of the water are also warm. If you are there during peak season, you will also find massage therapists who offer a range of treatments at the beach.

Tips before arriving

– The Therma Springs are free of charge.

– It’s an unorganised beach with no umbrellas, toilets, or change rooms.

– As you start walking down, you will come across a cafe right at the top; they offer a light lunch menu, drinks, ice cream, and other snacks.

– To get to the hot springs you need to walk down a steep cliff, it’s a safe walk however it can be difficult to walk back up if you have young children with you. Make sure you are prepared with water, hats, snacks, sun umbrellas and wear comfortable shoes.

Getting there

Agios Fokas beach is 12 kilometres east of Kos Town and the best way to get there is by car. You can leave your vehicle at the parking and walk down the dirt road (takes around ten minutes). You can also catch a taxi or arrive by bus (which regularly depart from the centre of town).

*All images by IN+SIGHTS GREECE

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14 Greek Regional Airports Receive Major Upgrades

Many popular Greek airports are ready to welcome visitors again- as the huge upgrades are designed to greatly enhance the passenger experience of local and international travellers.

Fraport Greece launched the airport development program in April 2017, with 11 island and three mainland airports across Greece receiving major upgrades as part of the innovative €440 million airport development program.

Having finished three months ahead of schedule, the completion includes five brand new terminals, the expansion and modernisation of five existing terminals, and upgrades of four other terminals. Construction projects at airside operational areas of the regional airports included renovating 12 runways, improving ramp areas, and constructing and renovating 12 fire stations. All of the airports have also been equipped with new state-of-the-art baggage handling and security detection systems.

Construction projects were completed at the airports of Zakynthos, Chania (Crete) and Kavala. Also on the mainland, Aktion Airport’s terminal had a complete overhaul, on the island of Samos, the airport terminal was modernised and expanded and Skiathos Airport has been completely refurbished and enlarged.

Odysseas Elytis Airport in Mytilini features a new terminal and similarly the new terminal at Kefalonia offers some 10,700 square meter of space for passenger comfort, including more services, a 70% increase in the number of check-in counters, and twice as many security checkpoints and departure gates.

On Mykonos, the redesigned terminal is now 50% bigger and combines traditional Cycladic architectural highlights with modern airport facilities. As a result, there is more space for check-in counters, departure gates, as well as a unique ambiance with attractive amenities.

On Rhodes, the airport has also been upgraded to offer world-class services. The terminal has a larger check-in area, plus more security checkpoints and baggage belts, a wider choice of shopping and dining. The apron in front of the terminal was also redesigned for improved operations.

Similarly, in the second quarter of 2020 Corfu Ioannis Kapodistrias Airport opened a new terminal and the islands of Kos and Santorini also underwent major redevelopment.

Final construction works were also completed at Thessaloniki Makedonia Airport, the largest airport in Fraport Greece’s portfolio. This €100 million development has created a new terminal complex that is said to rival Europe’s most popular airports. The new terminal is linked via skyway bridges to the redesigned existing terminal – doubling the amount of terminal space available. More check-in space, twice as many departure gates, and a wide range of restaurants, cafes and shops now shape a completely new environment at the international gateway to Greece’s second largest city.

Marking the official completion of the construction program, Fraport Greece CEO, Alexander Zinell announced, “The completion of this emblematic, €440-million construction program of 2021 fills me with pride and optimism. These airports will serve as a catalyst for re-starting the vital Greek tourist industry. I am confident that these new state-of-the-art airport facilities will fully welcome and satisfy travellers wishing to explore the beauties of this magnificent country.”

*Images: Fraport Greece

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Traditional Handmade Gifts From Greece

If you are searching for some beautiful handmade gifts from Greece that are made by talented local artisans, including traditional ceramics and paintings, you can find them at Delfis Art Studio in Kos.

Delfis is an art workshop and gift store located in the beautiful mountain village of Zia. It’s doors first opened in 1997 and here you will meet owner and local artist Maria, who launched her studio with the idea of satisfying the wishes and needs of local and international visitors looking for unique handmade Greek creations that are affordable.

“The idea is for the pieces to have authenticity and Greek identity, away from the mass produced and imported “tourist” products. This is the main idea behind our work,” says Maria.

Every object is original and reflects the personality of each artist who created it. Here you will find a wonderful selection of ceramics, paintings on wood, as well as paintings on Greek marble. Maria cooperates with small workshops from Crete, Athens, Patras and other regions of Greece to ensure all the pieces in her store are different to what you will find at an average tourist shop.

Inside the studio is a ceramics workshop, where Maria herself produces a wide variety of pieces that are both made for use and as decorative pieces. The ‘Delfis‘ range is one of the most popular amongst international visitors who purchase the tiny ceramic Greek churches and homes to take home with them as a reminder of their holiday to Greece.

In the wide selection of products you will find dinnerware, coffee and tea sets (made without toxic colours and glazing) that are all available in a variety of colours and designs. Each item is painted with fire colours and baked in the oven with lead-free glazing.

Maria also works with her clients to create one off pieces that can be custom ordered in the colours and designs of your choice. Orders can also be shipped internationally.

However, if you are in Kos, we definitely recommend you pay Delfis Art Studio a visit!

Where is Zia?

Zia is a picturesque mountainous village scattered on the northern slopes of Mountain Dikeos (17 km from Kos town). It is one of Kos’ most popular spots thanks to its breathtaking sunset. The area around Zia boasts outstanding natural beauty with free-flowing springs and the village itself has been declared a traditional settlement. Here you will find restaurants, cafes and shops.

A: 85300 Zia – Kos

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Follow the Footsteps of Ancient Greek Philosophers

If you aren’t already aware of it, you will very soon come across it. Greeks and their knowledge.

Whether it’s regarding their ancient Greek ancestors, modern history, politics, or literature, they are walking encyclopedias of everything they have contributed to the world. It can be overwhelming finding yourself on the receiving end of a flurry of facts and figures. To make sure you know a thing or two about Ancient Greek philosophy, and be able to hold your own in conversation, here is a crash course on the most famous Greek philosophers- making it easier for you to discover more about the birthplace of modern philosophy during your next visit to Greece.

Aristotle

Insights Greece - Follow the Footsteps of Ancient Greek Philosophers — *Artistotle in Aristotle Square Thessaloniki*

Considered the father of Western philosophy, Aristotle was born in 384 BC Stagira, Halkidiki in Northern Greece and was the founder of the Lyceum, the Peripatetic School of Philosophy and the Aristotelian tradition. Taught by Plato, he became Alexander the Great’s teacher and was the first to develop a formal system for reasoning. He observed that the deductive validity of any argument can be determined by its structure rather than its content.

Famous quote–“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”

Visit- The Statue of Aristotle in Aristotle Square. Located in Thessaloniki, the central square is named on honour of Aristotle. The statue appears to be holding a pergamine paper in his left hand while his right hand rests with serenity on a higher marble base.

Socrates

Born in Athens in 399 BC, Socrates is considered to be the father of Western philosophy, and being the first moral philosopher of the Western ethical tradition of thought. Plato was his most famous student. Unlike many philosophers of his time, Socrates focused on ethics and how people should behave rather than on the physical world. He said that happiness came from leading a moral life rather than material possessions and encouraged people to pursue justice and goodness rather than wealth and power.

Famous quote- “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.”

Visit – The Academy of Athens is Greece’s national academy and the highest research establishment in the country. The Academy’s main building is one of the major landmarks of Athens and features the Statue of Socrates.

Plato

Born in 428 BC, Plato founded the first institute of higher learning in the Western World, the Academy in Athens. He believed that ruling a state must not be based on persuasion but on wisdom. Giving his theories a metaphysical aspect, Plato believed that two parallel worlds exist, the real world and the world we live in, which is a reflection of the real world. Like this dualism of reality, Plato also believed that humans are of a dual nature: body and mind.

Famous quote- “Love is a serious mental disease.”

Visit- The Statue of Plato in front of the Academy of Athens

Hippocrates

Not quite a philosopher, this physician features on our list because of the impact his medical philosophies made on the world. Regarded as the father of medicine, Hippocrates

was born in 460 BC on the island of Kos. He based his medical practice on observations and on the study of the human body. He held the belief that illness had a physical and a rational explanation and believed that the human body has the power to heal itself. According to Hippocrates, all is a matter of balance between the four elements of the body and people become ill when the balance was disrupted. To restore this balance, he didn’t use drugs, except for natural extracts and soothing balms.

Famous quote- the Hippocratic Oath. A modern version of the Hippocratic oath is still taken by medical students today and begins with “I swear to fulfill, to the best of my ability and judgment, this covenant. One of the promises within that oath is “first, do no harm.”

Visit- The Tree of Hippocrates in Kos is the plane tree under which, according to legend, Hippocrates taught his pupils the art of medicine. With a crown diameter of about 12 metres it is said to be the largest plane trewme in Europe.

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Six Stunning Greek Hotels to Inspire Your Home Designs

This year has proven why our home should be our sanctuary and while many of us wait to travel again, our team has rounded up six beautiful hotels in Greece that will create some serious design envy and help inspire you to makeover your own abode!

Hotel Grande Bretagne

Who doesn’t love the absolute luxury of a hotel? And when it comes to the crème-de-la-crème of accommodation, look no further than the famous Grand Bretagne. Located in the heart of Athens, it features historic Greek architecture mixed with modern interiors. Think high ceilings, black and white checkered marbled floors, Ancient Greek motifs, columns and wooden doors- combined with velvet furniture, antique candelabras, elaborate chandeliers, classic paintings and touches of gold. The stand-out feature by far is the grand marble staircase.

Insights Greece - Six Stunning Greek Hotels to Inspire Your Home Designs

Saint Santorini

Located at the edge of the village of Odi, these former homes, barns and cellars have been turned into a boutique hotel with rooms in caves. The bright white paint on the smooth arched and angled wall spaces, combine to give a sleek Greek island feel. The rooms are decorated with simple and minimal fittings. Pieces of unique furniture, such as seating pods with hinged lids and circular sunshades, give the spaces a serene feel.

Contessina Suites and Spa

Set in Zakynthos, this intimate adults-only hotel, only steps away from a private beach, is designed to provide the perfect inspiration for your dream modern abode. Contemporary sleek lines and neutral furnishings compliment the polished light timber and endless glass walls. Incorporating shades of grey, neutral colours and black for both design and décor, we love the variety of rattan chairs that are displayed in the dining and outdoor areas, providing a casual yet chic look to your space.

Lango Design Hotel & Spa

Whether you’re jumping in for a swim or lounging on the deck, a pool is a great addition to your home. If you’re thinking of getting a pool or you already have one, check out Lango’s amazing outdoor area, which will give your backyard a stunning new look. Featuring natural stone, wood and towering greenery, this is the ideal place to entertain or to get some much-needed R&R.

Istoria Hotel

The spaces in Istoria Hotel are intended to make guests feel as if they are living in an authentic Santorinian mansion. Here you will discover elements of the original estate, such as old wooden ceilings and preserved stone columns, creating a spectacular combination of original and contemporary features. Sourcing a collection of antique and new furniture from the Mediterranean, the hotel features terracotta, natural wood, and classical decorative touches.

Perianth Hotel

A neo-modernist marvel, Perianth Hotel celebrates contemporary Greek culture in the heart of its ancient capital, Athens. For the interiors, the designers incorporated terrazzo floors, slim black-metal frames, marble furniture elements, and glass-brick walls. The hotel also features custom-made furniture and lighting. In the guestrooms, a pastel palette and grey and dark green flooring provide the perfect canvas for wooden desks, brass details, and curved brass tubes and black metal pipes.

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Our Insiders’ Guide to ‘Hippocrates’ Island’ of Kos

Kos, otherwise known as Hippocrates Island, is the third-largest isle of the Dodecanese.

Suitable for families, couples, and young people there is plenty to discover here and moreover, it’s a destination where you can travel low cost by choosing apartment stays and eating at local taverns, or opt for a more luxurious experience with sophisticated boutique hotels and fine dining restaurants.

Having visited plenty of times, as my husband has relatives that live on this island, here is my insider information to help make your visit beyond memorable.

Getting There & Getting Around

You can fly to Kos from Athens, which is just under an hour flight or a 9.5-hour ferry ride from Piraeus Port. Kos is a large island so I recommend hiring a car or Vespa.

Where to stay

Kos Town is the main area with shops, cafes, restaurants, bars, and a great place to base yourself. If you prefer a spot that’s quieter Kardamena has nice beaches and plenty to offer. Kefalos, which I think is the best beach on the island is also a nice area to stay, perfect for lots of R&R.

Where to sleep

If you are after ultra-luxurious facilities and five-star service, Lango Hotel is for adults only and designed to spoil its guests. White Rock at Kefalos is also perfect for couples looking to splurge. If these are out of your price range but seeking an adults-only stay check out OKU Hotel, which is located on the beach of Marmari. For a real boutique feel Albergo Gelsomino in the heart of Kos Town is a gorgeous pick, while Costas Palace is a family-run hotel that won’t blow the budget. Hotel Agrelli in Kardamena is also a great option for apartment-style facilities, as well as More Meni in Tigaki, which is modern and minimal.

Insights Greece - Our Insiders’ Guide to 'Hippocrates' Island' of Kos — OKU Hotel

Where to eat

Let’s start off with our favourite places for seafood. Barbouni is a must not only for its ultra-cool vibe but also for its fresh fish, oysters, lobster, and all things delish! For a traditional Greek Psarotaverna (seafood tavern) Ta Votsalakia offers the most authentic dishes and local produce. Another local gem is Nestoras Taverna, where you can enjoy a late lunch right next to the water. For a farm to table experience and everything homemade from the bread, wine, and their own olive oil, Oromedon in Zia serves up great dishes and a fabulous view of the famous Zia sunset. If you are around Kefalos check out family-run tavern Maistrali and head to Mylotopi for great food, amazing wine, and a spectacular view of the island. When you are in the main town our picks are Broadway, which offers classic dishes with modern twists and meat lovers should head straight to Stavlisio Steak House for a range of grilled goods.

For Sweets & Coffee

For the best Crepes in all of the Dodecanese check out Crepa Crepa, with an amazing range of sweet and savoury options. For the widest range of homemade desserts, pastries, gelato, and bread, Zamagias Bakery is where all the locals go. One of our favourite places to sit back and enjoy a coffee is at Kaseta Café, where you can enjoy a Freddo or short black, and Select Café is also great.

Where to drink

For a drink in the sun and right next to the water head to Avra. If you are after a real Greek island feel head to Sitar. If a chic bistro is more your style make your way to Kaseta and to enjoy some live music while sipping on your wine head over to Marina. Our fave beach bars are H20, which is modern and sleek, and for tribal décor Mylos Beach Bar is perfect.

Local Delicacies & Dishes

Try the Possa– it’s a wine-cheese made from sheep’s and goat’s milk, heated and then placed in special jars with wine mud. Pitaridia is handmade pasta sheets cooked in broth. Katimeria are fried cheese pies served with syrup and the Marmarites are traditional pancakes baked on marble. To get a real taste of local beverages try the Kanelada, a handmade refreshment filled with lots of cinnamon and the Alefaskia is a local tea like herb.

Where to swim

Near the main town head to Mylos, Ammos, or Heaven Beach. And definitely make a day of swimming at Kardamena, Agios Stefanos and Tigaki which are all lovely perfect for a long, relaxed day by the sea.

Discover history

In the main town, you will find the Hippocrates Tree where the famous physician is said to have taught his students. Also, check out Casa Romana and Roman Odeon, which shows the Roman influence that dominated the island in the Hellenistic and Roman Times. The medieval castle of Neratziais is the best-preserved on the island, and definitely make time for Palio Pyli Castle, which also offers breathtaking views. The fortress of Antimachia also has a lovely Folklore Museum and make sure you get to the Archaeological Museum of Kos, which only reopened a few years back and gives a great glimpse into the island’s rich history.

Where to shop

Around the main town, you will find small alleyways full of beautiful jewellery stores and plenty of local handmade products. At Hippocrates House, you can discover traditional confectionery, sweets, and olives. Olive Wood is filled with handmade wooden decorations, jewellery, and games and at Eleftherias Square you will find indoor markets. In the beautiful village of Zia, you can also purchase a range of local products to take home with you and you must visit Delfis Art Studio where you will find gorgeous handmade ceramics, paintings and other gifts.

Can’t leave until

Having the most amazing dinner and watching the sunset at Zia
Enjoying a meal under the Hippocrates Tree at Platanos Tavern
Experiencing the holistic and therapeutic Therma Springs
Visiting Haihoutes, the abandoned village with a gorgeous cafe
Having a coffee or late lunch at Maistrali in Kefalos
Hiring a boat with Archon Yachting and cruising around Kos and nearby islands
Swimming across to Kastri Island from Agios Stefanos Beach
Visiting the Holy Monastery of Agios Ioannis in Kefalos

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