Kos — Local services in Municipality of Kos

Kos is a large island, convenient because of its airport, which avoids long ferry trips from Athens, and an excellent gateway to the Dodecanese, allowing you to then hop over to Kalymnos, Leros, Patmos, Samos, Astypalea. On the positive side, it is rich in ancient ruins, including the Agora, the Asklipeion, the Gymnasium, the Roman Odeon and a reconstructed Roman house. We also found the stark white imagery of Alikes salt lake mesmerizing. Hippocrates garden is not worth seeing; on the other hand Plaka forest was a surprise, with a large population of cats and peacocks. On the other hand it is a mass tourism destination. The main town of Kos has a main shopping and bar street that gets rowdy at night. The other towns such as Kardàmena or Kefalos are ok, but disappointing if you are used to charming islands. We found a great Armenian pastry shop and café, Varouz in Kos, a good place to take a break from the heat after seeing the historic sites. There are some good restaurants in Kos town, and one we enjoyed very much called Oromedon, with a beautiful view of the sunset from the mountain, located in Zià (a tacky touristy village). There are some excellent resorts that will get you away from the crowds, in particular on the North coast beaches (we stayed at Diamond Deluxe, and Lango). We think we made the best use of this island. We flew in and out of here, stayed at top resorts both on arrival and departure, enjoyed visiting the historic sites, and island...

A beautiful little island. Some of the most beautiful beaches I've ever visited, calmer water on the south coast particularly paradise beach which is stunning and offers plenty to do. I recommend paradise restaurant on the top of the hill. The staff are so friendly, the food was the best we had on the island and the view from the balcony is amazing. I recommend the seafood platter with a bottle of ice cold Alfa. For the more adventurous there are some challenging walks, especially the highest point on the island Mount Dikeos. You set off from the beautiful village of Zia which has views to the north of Turkey. There are loads of shops selling a range of goods from traditional souvenirs to modern clothing and well known brands. On the whole the food on Kos is great, I wasn't disappointed with any of the food I was served. Almost everyone speaks English to a high standard so you can easily communicate any allergies which was a relief to my partner who is allergic to cows milk. Try to find the local markets not the tourist trap markets that are extortionate. The difference is massive, 1 litre of water is 80 cents normally where it can be 2.50 at a tourist market.

I look forward to returning to this little gem of an island. The locals are so friendly, the views are stunning and there is something for...

Was over in Kos Island recently for a conference, and I’ve to say, it’s a smashing place altogether. Even with a packed schedule, I managed to steal a bit of time to explore, and I’m glad I did. The island’s full of gorgeous beaches - honestly, you’re never too far from the sea - and Kos Town itself is well worth a wander. The harbour’s lively, with all sorts of boat trips heading out daily, from gentle cruises to a bit more adventure if that’s your thing.

There’s no shortage of places to eat or grab a drink, and the whole place has this relaxed, welcoming vibe. What surprised me most, though, was how much history is packed in - from ancient Greek temples and Roman mosaics to the castle at the harbour and the famed tree of Hippocrates. You don’t have to be a history buff to appreciate it - it’s all there in the open, woven into daily life. All in all, Kos has that perfect balance of work, wander, and a bit of wonder - I’d go back in a heartbeat, conference or...