Cruises to Kos Island
Kos Island — the birthplace of Hippocrates and the jewel of the Dodecanese. This is a place where 2,500 years of medical history, crusader castles and the turquoise lagoons of the Aegean Sea coexist in one extraordinary space. The third-largest island of the Dodecanese archipelago stretches across the heart of the south-eastern Aegean Sea — just 4 kilometres from the Turkish coast of Bodrum. Here, the ruins of an ancient agora stand beside Italian colonial-era buildings, narrow medieval lanes open directly onto a harbour dotted with yachts, and the Castle of the Knights Hospitaller — the very first thing visible from the ship's deck — has guarded the harbour entrance for more than six centuries.
For the cruise traveller, Kos is one of the most convenient ports of call in the Aegean: ships dock right in the town centre, and within minutes of stepping ashore you can be standing beneath the 2,500-year-old Plane Tree of Hippocrates. The island attracts calls from MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Oceania Cruises, Seabourn, Holland America Line, Marella Cruises and many other leading brands. đĸ
đ Before going ashore in Kos, here is what you need to know:
đŦđˇ Country: Greece
đ Region: South Aegean, Regional Unit of Kos (Dodecanese archipelago)
đĨ Population: approximately 37,000 residents (2021 census)
đ Area: approximately 290 km²
đŖī¸ Language: Greek (official); English is widely spoken in tourist areas
đļ Currency: Euro (€)
đ Time zone: EET (UTC+2), EEST in summer (UTC+3)
âī¸ Climate: Mediterranean, with dry hot summers (+28…+35 °C) and mild, wet winters (+12…+16 °C)
âī¸ Nearest airport: Kos Island International Airport "Hippocrates" (KGS) — 25 km from Kos Town centre
â Port name: Port of Kos
đēī¸ Port location: in the very heart of Kos Town, north-eastern coast of the island
đī¸ History of Kos — from the Cradle of Medicine to the Pearl of the Aegean
âŗ 2,500 years of unbroken civilisation
The history of Kos is, above all, the history of human thought. It was here, around 460 BC, that Hippocrates was born — the physician whom the entire world recognises as the Father of Medicine. Long before his time, the island was already inhabited during the Mycenaean era (15th–12th centuries BC), as attested by numerous archaeological finds. In Homer's Iliad, Kos is already mentioned by name — one of the earliest written references to the island.
In the 5th and 4th centuries BC, Kos experienced a golden age: the medical school of Hippocrates flourished here, and its methods were applied throughout the Mediterranean world. After the great physician's death (around 357 BC), the islanders built the Asklepieion — a magnificent healing sanctuary and temple of Asklepios that attracted patients from across the ancient world. In 394 BC, the island joined the Athenian League, and in 335 BC it became part of the Macedonian state, experiencing yet another cultural renaissance under the Ptolemies.
âī¸ Crusaders, Ottomans, Italy and reunification with Greece
After the fall of Byzantium, the island passed to the Knights Hospitaller of the Order of Saint John. It was they who, in the 14th and 15th centuries, built Neratzia Castle — a massive fortress right at the harbour entrance, which remains one of the symbols of Kos to this day. In 1522, the Ottomans captured the island and held it until 1912, when Italian troops arrived following the Italo-Turkish War.
It was during the years of Italian rule (1912–1943) that Kos acquired its modern face: after the devastating earthquake of 1933, which destroyed most of the old town, architect Rodolfo Petracco drew up a new city plan. This gave the town centre a unique cultural layering — ancient ruins underfoot side by side with Art Deco and Mediterranean rationalist architecture. During the Second World War, the island became the scene of fierce fighting between British and German forces (the Dodecanese Campaign of 1943). Finally, in 1948, following the Paris Peace Treaty, Kos — together with the rest of the Dodecanese — was reunified with Greece. đī¸
â Port of Kos — at the Heart of an Island Town
đ Location and structure of the port
The Port of Kos is a living, organic part of the town rather than an isolated industrial complex. Cruise ships moor at the outer pier right on the Akti Koundourioti promenade — one of the main waterfront boulevards of the city. From the gangway to the central town square is literally 200–300 metres on foot, and Neratzia Castle practically looms over the berth. The passenger terminal is primarily used for ferry services to Turkey (Bodrum) and the Greek islands, and has a pleasant indoor-outdoor café.
The Port of Kos is a natural harbour with an open bay on the north-eastern coast of the island. It is part of the Central Limani port system and includes the Kos Marina — the Madraki marina zone with 80 berths for yachts and vessels up to 70 metres in length. From Piraeus (Athens) to Kos is approximately 186 nautical miles; from the neighbouring Turkish port of Bodrum — just 11 nautical miles (20 km). đ
đĸ Which cruise lines call at Kos
Kos is a port of call (not a home port) on Eastern Mediterranean itineraries. Ship stays typically last between 6 and 12 hours. The island is regularly visited by ships from MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean International, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, Seabourn, Marella Cruises (TUI), AIDA Cruises and others. In 2026, the calling season runs from May through October, with the peak in July–September. đ
đĄ Interesting facts about Kos Island
Your experience of the island will be richer if you know a few less-obvious details:
đŠē Kos is the island where medicine was born. Hippocrates (c. 460–370 BC) established the world's first rational medical school here, rejecting magical explanations of disease in favour of observation and diet. His Oath has remained the symbol of medical ethics for more than 2,400 years.
đĨ Romaine lettuce is named after this island. The leafy lettuce cultivated on Kos since antiquity was brought to Rome by travellers and then spread throughout the Mediterranean — ever since, this variety has been known as "Cos lettuce" or "Romaine".
đŗ The Plane Tree of Hippocrates is one of the oldest trees in Europe. Its trunk measures more than 12 metres in circumference and its canopy requires metal supports. Although the tree's true age is around 500 years, legend holds that Hippocrates taught his students beneath it 2,500 years ago.
đ˛ Kos is the only Greek island with a comprehensive network of dedicated cycle lanes. Thanks to the island's flat terrain, Kos is rightly considered the cycling capital of Greece — there are more bicycle rental points here than anywhere else in the country.
đī¸ Ruins right underfoot. Ancient columns, mosaics and temple fragments are embedded directly into the fabric of the modern town — some excavations can be viewed through glass panels set into the pavement.
đŽđš Art Deco in the middle of the Aegean. After the 1933 earthquake, the town was rebuilt by Italian architects — which is why Kos Town features a unique blend of ancient ruins, medieval castles and rationalist architecture from the Mussolini era.
đ Thermal springs in the sea. Near Kos, hot volcanic springs rise from the seabed — in the "Therma" area, the water temperature reaches +40 °C. Locals believe the waters cure rheumatism and arthritis.
đšđˇ Closer to Turkey than to Athens. From Kos port to the Turkish town of Bodrum is just 20 kilometres — the ferry crossing takes 30–40 minutes. Many cruise passengers use a stop in Kos as an opportunity to visit both countries in a single day.
đ Top sights of Kos — must-see for the cruise traveller
A cruise ship's stay in Kos usually lasts between 6 and 12 hours. Since the port is located right in the town, most sights are within walking distance of the pier. A full list with photos, addresses and opening hours can be found in the "Attractions and Places of Interest" section; below is a brief overview of the island's key locations.
đ° Neratzia Castle (Castle of the Knights) — a medieval fortress of the Knights Hospitaller dating from the 14th–15th centuries, standing right beside the berth. One of the best-preserved crusader castles in the Aegean, with a panoramic view over the harbour and the Turkish coast.
đŗ The Plane Tree of Hippocrates and Platanos Square — the legendary tree at the very heart of the town, in whose shade Hippocrates is said to have taught his students. Nearby stand a Venetian fountain and the walls of the Castle.
đī¸ The Asklepieion — the most important archaeological site on the island, 4 km from town. A three-tiered healing sanctuary from the 3rd–1st centuries BC, set on a wooded hillside with views over the sea towards Turkey. The very place where Hippocrates himself taught and practised.
đē The Ancient Agora and Odeon — ruins of one of the largest agoras in the ancient world, right in the centre of Kos Town. Nearby stands the well-preserved Odeon (small theatre) of the 2nd–3rd centuries AD, with its marble seating.
đ¨ The Archaeological Museum of Kos — situated on Eleftherios Square, this museum holds one of the finest collections of Hellenistic and Roman sculpture in the Dodecanese, including the celebrated mosaic of "Hippocrates meeting Asklepios".
đī¸ The Old Bar Street and the Old Mosque (Loggia) — Ottoman-era monuments in the quarter along the castle: medieval minarets, the Hassan Pasha Mosque-Loggia (17th century) and the authentic narrow lanes of an island town.
đ Therma Thermal Beach — a remarkable natural phenomenon 12 km from town, where volcanic hot springs (+40 °C) emerge directly from rocky ledges into the sea. A favourite destination for those seeking an unusual bathing experience.
â°ī¸ Zia and Mount Dikaios — a picturesque mountain village on the slopes of the island's highest peak (846 m), offering some of the finest views across the Aegean Sea. A popular excursion for passengers with a longer port stay.
⨠Why choose a cruise with a call at Kos
Kos is that rare combination of everything that makes a Mediterranean cruise truly unforgettable.
First, there is an unrivalled cultural depth: an island where medicine was born, where crusader ruins and ancient mosaics survive in the streets — something you simply cannot find anywhere else. đī¸
Second, it offers exceptional ease for independent travellers: the port is right in the town centre, with no shuttle buses, no frantic transfer queues and no need for expensive excursions — just step ashore and walk. đļ
Third, the island suits every type of holiday: looking for an immersion in antiquity — the Asklepieion and the Agora await; wanting the beach — Paradise Beach and Kardamena are at hand; craving adventure — cycle the length of the island or take a high-speed ferry to Bodrum. đī¸
The cruise specialists at Four Gates Group will help you find the ideal itinerary with a call at Kos, select the perfect ship and cabin, arrange transfers and visa support, and offer exclusive fares from MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean and other leading brands with whom we work as a priority partner. đ¤
âšī¸ Please note: the information on this page is provided for general guidance and was accurate at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, itineraries and visiting conditions may change without notice. Please verify current details with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the relevant attractions.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises from the Professionals
How to Get to the Cruise Terminal on Kos Island, Greece
Kos is one of the most beloved port calls in the Eastern Mediterranean. The island welcomes cruise passengers right in the heart of the city: ships dock just steps away from the medieval Castle of the Knights, and within 200 metres begins the lively old town with its cafés, ancient ruins, and the Hippocrates Tree. Despite the compactness of the port, getting from the international airport to the pier requires planning — especially in summer, when the island receives tens of thousands of tourists per week. Below is a tried-and-tested step-by-step guide with all transfer options, up-to-date prices, and expert tips from the cruise specialists at Four Gates Group. đ¯
đ Exact Location of the Kos Cruise Port
The port of Kos is located directly in the centre of Kos Town — the administrative capital of the island. It is one of the few Mediterranean cruise ports where ships dock literally steps away from cafés, archaeological ruins, and souvenir shops. The port combines cruise, ferry, and yacht functions in a single harbour.
â Kos Town Harbor Cruise Pier — the main and only pier for large cruise ships on the island:
• Akti Kountourioti Pier — the primary berth for cruise ships and large ferries, situated along the promenade boulevard of the same name
• Kos Marina — a marina for yachts and small cruise vessels of the "yacht cruise" class (Windstar, Star Clippers), located next to the main pier
• Passenger Terminal — a small building primarily serving ferry routes to Turkey and the Greek islands; features a café overlooking the harbour
đ GPS Address: Akti Kountourioti, Kos Town, 85300, Greece
đļ Distance to City Centre: approximately 200 metres from the pier to the centre of Kos Town; the Hippocrates Tree and the Castle of the Knights are 2–5 minutes on foot
đ° Landmark: The Castle of the Knights of Saint John (Castle of the Knights) — stands right at the entrance to the harbour and is clearly visible from the ship
â Important: Kos is primarily a port of call, not a home port. The vast majority of cruise ships visit for 1 day as part of Aegean itineraries, based in Piraeus (Athens), Rhodes, or Istanbul. Cruises departing from Kos are very rare. The exact pier and docking time are always stated in your cruise voucher — check the details 48–72 hours before arrival.
âī¸ From Kos "Hippocrates" Airport (KGS) to the Cruise Terminal
Kos International Airport "Hippocrates" (KGS) is located near the village of Antimachia, approximately 24–26 km west of Kos Town. Charter and scheduled flights arrive here from across Europe, including from Ukraine (via Warsaw, Istanbul, Vienna, and other hubs). The journey to the port takes between 30 minutes (taxi) and 45–50 minutes (bus).
đ Taxi — the Fastest and Most Convenient Option
The official taxi rank is located right outside the arrivals terminal exit. Taxis on Kos do not have a uniform colour — look for the "TAXI" sign on the roof and the driver's licence on the windscreen.
• Journey time: 30–35 minutes (up to 40 minutes in peak season)
• Fare to Kos Town / the port (as of 2025–2026): approximately 39–45 EUR on the meter
• Payment: mainly cash; some drivers accept cards — confirm before the journey
• Pre-booking: airport taxi rank: +30 22420 23333
• Apps: Beat (formerly Taxibeat) — the main taxi app in Greece; Uber is not available on Kos
đĄ Tip from Four Gates: during peak tourist season (June–September) the taxi queue at the airport can take 30–50 minutes. If you are arriving during peak season and need to reach the port by a specific time — book your transfer in advance.
đ Private Transfer — the Most Comfortable Option
If you are travelling with family, as a group, or with heavy luggage — this is the best choice. The driver will meet you in the arrivals hall with a name board, help with your luggage, and take you directly to the port at a fixed price with no queuing.
• Price: from 50–55 EUR for a saloon car (1–3 persons), from 65–80 EUR for a minivan (4–8 persons)
• Journey time: 30–35 minutes
• Advantages: fixed price, English-speaking driver, flight monitoring, no waiting in queues
đ¤ Four Gates Group arranges private transfers for its clients — simply provide your flight number when booking your cruise.
đ KTEL Bus — the Budget Option
KTEL is the Greek state bus company serving suburban routes on the island, including the Airport — Kos Town route. The stop is directly outside the arrivals terminal exit.
Route:
1ī¸âŖ Exit the arrivals terminal and head to the KTEL stop (marked with a sign, right by the exit)
2ī¸âŖ Board the bus towards Kos Town (final stop)
3ī¸âŖ Alight on the Akti Kountourioti promenade — the seafront is right next to the port
Price:
• KTEL bus airport → Kos Town: approximately 3.20–3.50 EUR one way; tickets purchased from the driver (cash only)
• Total: approximately 3.50 EUR per person
Journey time: 40–50 minutes
â ī¸ Important: KTEL buses operate until ~20:00 in season, with up to 10 runs per day in summer and significantly fewer in winter. If your flight arrives late in the evening — the only option is a taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. Current timetable available at ktel-kos.gr.
đī¸ From a Hotel in Kos Town or Island Resorts to the Cruise Terminal
If you spent a few days on the island before departure or after arrival, you have several options for getting to the ship:
đ Taxi from the Hotel — 5–15 minutes, 5–12 EUR depending on the neighbourhood. Taxi ranks are located near the port and at Eleftherios Square (Freedom Square) in the city centre. You can book by phone (+30 22420 27777) or via the Beat app.
đļ Walking from Kos Town Centre — the port is literally in the heart of the city. From most hotels in the central area — no more than 5–15 minutes on foot along the flat promenade or through the streets of the old town. Recommended when travelling without heavy luggage.
đ KTEL Bus from Island Resorts — the central bus station is on Kleopatras Street, 500–600 metres from the port:
• From Kardamena to Kos Town: ~3.80 EUR, ~45 minutes
• From Marmari to Kos Town: ~2.30 EUR, ~20 minutes
• From Tigaki to Kos Town: ~2.30 EUR, ~20 minutes
• From Kefalos to Kos Town: ~5.20 EUR, ~1 hour
đ´ Bicycle — Kos is one of the few Greek islands with dedicated cycle lanes throughout the city. Cycling into the port area is permitted. Not recommended with heavy luggage or in hot weather.
đ By Private or Rental Car — Parking Near the Port
Kos is an island ideal for independent travel by car or motorcycle. Car rental is available directly at the airport (Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and local companies) and in Kos Town.
đŖī¸ GPS Route: from the airport via the E90 road / regional highway towards Kos Town — ~25–30 km, 30–35 minutes. The port is well signposted from the town entrance.
đ
ŋī¸ Parking Near the Port — there are no dedicated covered car parks directly at the cruise pier:
• Street parking on Akti Kountourioti — paid, with limited parking time (1–3 hours); convenient for short-term passenger drop-off
• Paid car parks in Kos Town centre (~200–400 metres from the pier) — approximate cost 1.00–1.50 EUR per hour
• Long-stay parking — on streets in the neighbourhoods near the port; free or paid depending on the zone
đĄ Tip: if you are renting a car only for the journey from the airport to the port — this is generally not cost-effective. A taxi or transfer will be cheaper and hassle-free, with no need to return the vehicle. Car rental makes sense if you plan to explore the island before or after your cruise.
âĩ If the Ship Is at Anchor (Tender Port)
On days of heavy port traffic or for technical reasons, the ship may anchor in the harbour rather than dock at the pier. In this case, passengers are transported ashore and back by small tender boats that run between the ship and the port jetty.
• Tender service is generally operated by the cruise company and included in the cost of the cruise
• Information about tender operation is provided in advance — on board and in your voucher
• In tender mode, time ashore is shorter, so plan your island itinerary with the tender schedule in mind
đĄ Even if the ship is anchored, all transfers to the airport or hotels remain unchanged — the tender delivers you directly to the port jetty.
âŋ Accessibility for Passengers with Reduced Mobility
The port of Kos and the surrounding urban infrastructure are generally adapted for passengers with limited mobility:
â
Akti Kountourioti promenade — flat surface, suitable for wheelchairs
â
Official taxis on request can provide a vehicle adapted for wheelchair users — confirm when booking
â
KTEL buses are equipped with air conditioning and luggage space; some vehicles have a low floor
â
Port staff are available to assist with boarding and disembarkation — notify your cruise company of any needs in advance
â ī¸ Tender boats may have limitations for passengers in wheelchairs — always check with your cruise company before sailing
â° When to Return to the Cruise Terminal
As Kos is primarily a port of call rather than a home port, the time spent ashore is determined by your cruise schedule. Typically, ships are in Kos from 7:00–8:00 until 18:00–21:00. Recommended times to return on board:
đ MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises: 60–90 minutes before departure
đ Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Celebrity: one hour before sailing
đ Silversea, Seabourn, Windstar (luxury segment): 45–60 minutes before departure
â Boarding deadline: usually 30–60 minutes before departure — being late means you are left on the island at your own expense and must catch up with the ship yourself. All Four Gates Group vouchers include the exact return-to-ship time for your specific cruise.
đĄ Expert Tips from Four Gates Group
Over years of working with Greek islands, our cruise specialists have gathered a set of tips that will save you time, money, and stress:
đ
Arrive the day before your cruise. If your itinerary starts from Kos or you are joining the ship here — fly in the day before. Even a 2-hour flight delay could cost you the entire cruise — ships do not wait. Kos is worth an overnight stay: the evening promenade, fresh seafood, and the Castle of the Knights at sunset are unforgettable.
đŧ Book your transfer in advance. In July–August, the taxi queue at the airport can reach 40–60 minutes. A pre-booked private transfer means a guaranteed price, zero waiting, and a driver with a name board in the arrivals hall.
đļ Carry cash. Most local taxi drivers and KTEL bus drivers prefer cash. Keep 50–60 EUR in small bills for transport costs — ATMs are available in the city centre but not always at the airport exit.
đ˛ Rent a bicycle to explore the island. Kos is the flattest island in Greece with dedicated cycle lanes. Bicycle hire near the port costs 5–10 EUR per day. In a few hours you can cycle to the Asklepion, the beaches of Tigaki, or Psalidi without any taxi costs.
đ Leave large luggage at the hotel until departure. If you arrive in the morning but board the ship only in the evening — most hotels in Kos Town store suitcases free of charge after check-out.
đī¸ Do not wander far from the port without a time buffer. The Hippocrates Tree, the Castle of the Knights, and the Ancient Agora are 10 minutes on foot from the pier. The Asklepion is 4 km away and requires a separate excursion. Psalidi Beach is 3 km away. Plan your route leaving at least 1.5 hours to return to the ship.
đą Download apps in advance: Beat (taxi), Google Maps with an offline Kos map, Google Translate with the Greek language pack — some signs and menus are in Greek only.
âī¸ Beware of the heat. In summer, temperatures on Kos can reach +35–40°C. Always bring water, a hat, and sunscreen before excursions — some sections of walking routes offer no shade.
đ Contacts and Useful Numbers
Kos Port Authority: +30 22420 26594
Kos "Hippocrates" Airport (KGS): +30 22420 56000
Airport Taxi Rank: +30 22420 23333
Kos Town Taxis: +30 22420 27777
KTEL (suburban buses): +30 22420 22292
Kos Urban Bus: +30 22420 26276
Greek Emergency Services: 112
Four Gates Group Cruise Specialists (24/7 for clients): +38 097 653 05 53
Logistics in Kos are far simpler than in the large ports of the Mediterranean: the city is compact, the port is in the very centre, and most attractions are within walking distance of the pier. The main tasks are planning your airport transfer and remembering the return-to-ship time. The cruise experts at Four Gates Group assist our clients at every stage: from choosing the best flight to Greece to arranging a private transfer with a name board in the arrivals hall. Contact our manager — and your cruise with a call at Kos will go entirely stress-free. đŗī¸â¨
âšī¸ Please note: the information on this page is for guidance only and is current at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, routes, and visiting conditions are subject to change without notice. Please verify current details with a Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the relevant organisations.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals
Sights & Attractions of Kos Island: The Complete Cruise Passenger Guide
Kos is an island where medicine meets eternity. The birthplace of Hippocrates, the cradle of modern medicine, an island of knights and sun-drenched beaches: 2,500 years of unbroken history, ancient ruins scattered between city streets, and some of the finest sandy beaches in the Mediterranean — all packed into just 290 km². For a cruise passenger with 8–10 hours ashore, Kos is a genuine gift: the port sits right in the heart of town, and the key sights are literally minutes on foot from the pier. Below is a tried-and-tested guide to the island's top attractions, with up-to-date 2025–2026 prices, opening hours, and precise directions from the cruise port to every site. đ¯
â About Kos Cruise Port
Cruise ships dock right in the centre of Kos Town — alongside the medieval Neratzia Castle. Most major sights are no more than 10–15 minutes on foot from the pier. The terminal is mainly used by ferries to Turkey and the Greek islands; a café and tourist offices are close by. Taxis, bicycle rentals and the bus stop are all found on the Akti Kountourioti waterfront promenade, just 200 metres from the pier.
đ° 1. Neratzia Castle (Kastro Nerantzia) — The Castle of the Knights of St. John
đĄ Interesting Facts & Background:
The first thing every cruise passenger sees stepping off the gangway in Kos is the massive stone walls of Neratzia Castle rising directly above the harbour. This medieval fortress is far more than a picturesque waterfront backdrop — it is a silent witness to seven centuries of turbulent history.
đš The castle was built by the Knights Hospitaller of St. John in the 14th–15th centuries: construction began in 1436 and was completed in 1514. The knights used stone blocks quarried from the ancient ruins of Kos Town and the Asclepieion — and those fragments of antiquity are still visible in the castle walls today. đŋ
đš The name "Nerantzia" comes from the word for bitter oranges — the hillside where the castle stands was once densely planted with those trees in the 14th–15th centuries.
đš The walls still bear the coats of arms of Grand Masters of the Order — a kind of medieval "signature" left by each successive builder.
đš The castle consists of two courtyards — an outer and an inner — separated by a moat. This is a hallmark of Hospitaller fortification architecture, seen also on Rhodes.
đš A powerful earthquake in 2017 damaged part of the structure, and restoration work is still ongoing.
đ History:
The site on which the castle stands was strategically important even in ancient times — a lighthouse once guided ships here. After the Knights Hospitaller seized Rhodes in 1309, Kos became the Order's second most important stronghold in the Aegean. The fortress withstood numerous Turkish sieges until 1522, when the knights yielded Rhodes and the island passed to the Ottoman Empire. Under Ottoman rule the castle served as an ammunition depot; in the 19th century it was used as a prison. During the Italian occupation (1912–1943) it was cleared and the first restoration works carried out. Today it is the most recognisable symbol of Kos.
đĸ Getting There from the Cruise Port:
• On foot: step off the pier and the castle is right in front of you — literally 1–2 minutes' walk.
• Address: Akti Kountourioti waterfront, directly beside the harbour.
đļ Admission & Opening Hours:
• Admission: free
• Approximate opening hours: 08:00–15:30 (daily except Monday)
â ī¸ Please note: due to ongoing reconstruction following the 2017 earthquake, some interior areas may be closed. Check the current status on the local municipality website before your visit.
đŗ 2. The Hippocrates Plane Tree
đĄ Interesting Facts & Background:
Just beyond the castle, on Platanos Square, stands one of the world's most famous trees — the plane tree under whose shade, according to legend, Hippocrates himself taught his students the art of healing. đŋ
đš The present tree is approximately 500 years old — a descendant of the very plane tree under which the great physician may have sat. The original tree from Hippocrates' era is long gone, but the legend lives on.
đš The tree has a canopy diameter of around 12 metres and is considered one of the largest of its species in Europe. Its trunk has long been hollow and is now supported by metal brackets.
đš Since 1985 the tree has been officially listed as a protected natural monument of Greece.
đš Cuttings from this tree have been donated to medical schools and universities around the world — in London, Washington DC and Tokyo. The symbolic legacy of the "Father of Medicine" has literally taken root on five continents. đ
đš Two Ottoman fountains stand beside the tree; their inscriptions state that the water comes from the spring of Hippocrates.
đ History:
Hippocrates was born on Kos around 460 BC and lived, by various accounts, to the age of 83–90. He was the first to separate medicine from magic and religion, establishing a rational approach to diagnosis and treatment. The famous Hippocratic Oath still underpins medical ethics today. Platanos Square — the heart of old Kos Town — has been a traditional meeting place for the city's inhabitants for several millennia. Nearby stand the Gazi Hassan Pasha Mosque (17th century) and the ruins of the Ancient Agora.
đĸ Getting There from the Cruise Port:
• On foot: 3–5 minutes from the pier along the waterfront, immediately beyond the castle.
đļ Admission & Opening Hours:
• Admission: free, open around the clock
đĄ Combine this with a visit to Neratzia Castle — the two are right next to each other and together take no more than 30–40 minutes.
đī¸ 3. The Asclepieion
đĄ Interesting Facts & Background:
If there is one place on Kos you absolutely must visit, it is the Asclepieion — the island's most important and most impressive archaeological monument, included on the UNESCO Tentative List. This is not merely a ruin; it is the very cradle of modern medicine. đĨ
đš The Asclepieion was simultaneously a temple, hospital, medical school and spa resort of antiquity. Patients travelled here from across the ancient world in search of healing. Religious ritual, physiotherapy, herbal medicine and surgery all coexisted here.
đš The complex is laid out across three terraces linked by monumental staircases up to 12 metres wide. The lower terrace held the hospital wards, the middle terrace the temples of Apollo and Asclepius, and the upper terrace the grand Doric Temple of Asclepius, which commands a panoramic view of the entire island and the Turkish coast. đ
đš The Asclepieion was dedicated to Asclepius, the god of medicine and son of Apollo. The Rod of Asclepius — a staff entwined by a serpent — remains the international symbol of medicine to this day.
đš An elaborate system of underground channels and cisterns is preserved on site; it supplied mineral water from natural springs — a forerunner of modern hydrotherapy.
đš Excavations were begun by an Italian archaeological mission in 1901–1904; scholarly work at the site continues today.
đš On a clear day, the upper terrace offers a view of the Turkish city of Bodrum — just 4 km across the strait. đšđˇ
đ History:
The Asclepieion was founded in the 4th century BC, after the death of Hippocrates, yet it was his disciples who transformed the island into the centre of ancient medicine. In 242 BC the Asclepieion gained the status of "Asylum" (a place of inviolability) and inaugurated the quinquennial Great Asclepieia Games. Through the Hellenistic and Roman periods the hospital operated at full capacity — seeking treatment here was considered a privilege. The complex fell into decline after a devastating earthquake in AD 554 destroyed most of the structures. In the Middle Ages the Knights Hospitaller dismantled its stones to build their castle. Large-scale scientific excavations resumed only at the beginning of the 20th century.
đĸ Getting There from the Cruise Port:
• Tourist train (Little Train): departs every hour from the waterfront, Tue–Sun from 09:00 to 18:00. Journey time about 10 minutes; fare around EUR 5 return. The most convenient option — delivered straight to the entrance.
• Taxi: 10 minutes, approximately EUR 8–12. Address: Asklepieion, Kos Town.
• Bicycle: Kos is one of the very few Greek islands with dedicated cycle lanes. Rentals in the town centre from EUR 5 per day; the ride to the Asclepieion takes 15–20 minutes along a flat road. đ´
• KTEL Bus No. 3: departs from the waterfront (Akti Miaouli stop). Single fare around EUR 1.50.
đļ Admission & Opening Hours:
• Full ticket: EUR 8–15 (price increased in 2025; please verify before your visit)
• Reduced ticket (students, seniors): discounted rate
• EU citizens under 25: free
• Combined ticket (Asclepieion + Archaeological Museum + Casa Romana): EUR 15
• Opening hours (April – August): 08:00–20:00
• Opening hours (September – October): 08:00–18:30 (gradually reduced)
• Opening hours (November – March): 08:30–15:00
â ī¸ Closed: 1 January, 25 March, Good Friday and Holy Saturday, 1 May, 25–26 December.
đ Tip: the site offers almost no shade, so bring water, a hat and sunscreen — especially in summer.
đī¸ 4. The Roman Odeon
đĄ Interesting Facts & Background:
Standing right in the midst of a modern Kos street, framed by cypress trees and flowers, is a superbly preserved ancient theatre — the Roman Odeon. It fits so naturally into the urban fabric that it seems like an organic part of the landscape. đ
đš The Odeon was built in the 2nd century AD on the site of an earlier public building — probably the town council chamber (bouleuterion). It had a capacity of up to 750 spectators.
đš The first nine rows of seating are made from original 2nd-century AD marble — you can literally touch stone that was walked upon by the ancient inhabitants of Kos.
đš The orchestra (the central circular floor) was marble-paved; marble statues stood in niches around the walls, among them a sculpture of Hippocrates himself — now on display at the Archaeological Museum.
đš The Odeon was used for musical competitions, senate sessions and public ceremonies. It lives on today: every summer it hosts performances and concerts as part of the Hippocratia Festival.
đš Thanks to restoration works carried out in 1929 (during the Italian occupation) and again in 1994–1999, the theatre is in remarkably fine condition.
đ History:
The Odeon was uncovered in 1929 by Italian archaeologist Luciano Laurenzi during large-scale excavations in the town centre. The building became the most striking evidence that a fully developed Roman city had existed on the island, complete with all the hallmarks of civilisation — theatre, forum and aristocratic villas. The Roman Odeon stands alongside Casa Romana and the Ancient Agora, together forming Kos Town's compact "Roman quarter".
đĸ Getting There from the Cruise Port:
• On foot: about 10–12 minutes from the pier through the town centre. Located on Grigoriou tou E Street.
• Situated next to Casa Romana — both sites can conveniently be visited in a single outing.
đļ Admission & Opening Hours:
• Admission: free for general viewing
• Tickets for performances and concerts: sold separately, according to the Hippocratia Festival schedule (July–August)
đē 5. Casa Romana & the Archaeological Museum of Kos
đĄ Interesting Facts & Background:
Five minutes on foot from the Odeon stands Casa Romana — also known as the "House of the Abduction of Europa" — the best-preserved Roman villa in Greece and a true "Pompeii in miniature" right in the heart of Kos Town. đī¸
đš The villa dates from the 2nd–3rd centuries AD and is believed to have been the residence of a local official. It has 36 rooms, three atria, and plumbing and drainage that were relatively advanced for their era.
đš The villa's floors are decorated with mosaics depicting marine creatures and mythological scenes. The most striking panel shows a seabed teeming with fantastical fish and sea monsters.
đš The building was constructed over the remains of an earlier Hellenistic structure — a characteristic example of Kos's layered archaeology.
đš Statues of Athena, a collection of nymphs and other sculptural finds from the villa are on display at the Archaeological Museum on Eleftherias Square — a 10-minute walk away.
đš The museum building (constructed during the Italian occupation and itself a listed monument) holds finds spanning from prehistoric times through the late Roman period, including the famous marble statue of Hippocrates. đ
đĸ Getting There from the Cruise Port:
• On foot to Casa Romana: 10–15 minutes, Grigoriou tou E Street.
• On foot to the Museum: 10 minutes, Eleftherias Square (Plateia Eleftherias), right in the town centre.
đļ Admission & Opening Hours:
• Casa Romana: EUR 6 (winter EUR 3); closed on Tuesdays
• Archaeological Museum: EUR 10 (summer 2025); closed on Tuesdays
• Combined ticket (Asclepieion + Museum + Casa Romana): EUR 15 — the best-value option if you plan to visit all three
• Opening hours (summer): 08:00–20:00 (Mon–Sat); reduced hours on Sundays
â ī¸ Note: both sites are closed every Tuesday.
đī¸ 6. The Beaches of Kos
đĄ Interesting Facts & Background:
Kos is an island where ruins and beaches go hand in hand. Magnificent sandy beaches can be found both within the town itself and a short distance away. đ
đš Kos Town Beach — the closest beach to the cruise port. Situated behind the harbour, opposite the castle. Soft sand, calm water, sunbeds for hire. A 5-minute walk from the pier.
đš Lambi Beach — 3 km north of town (5 min by taxi or a 30-minute stroll along the promenade). A broad sandy stretch popular with surfers and kite-surfers.
đš Therma Beach (Embros Therme) — a unique geothermal beach 12 km south-east of town. Hot mineral water from underwater springs mixes with the sea to create natural "hot tubs" right at the water's edge. Water temperature reaches +45–50 °C. An unforgettable experience! â¨ī¸
đš Paradise Beach and Kardamena — on the south of the island, 25–35 km from town. Best suited to those looking for lively entertainment and nightlife.
đĸ Getting There from the Cruise Port:
• Kos Town Beach: on foot, 5–7 minutes
• Lambi Beach: 30 min on foot or taxi EUR 6–8
• Therma (Embros Therme): taxi 20 min, approximately EUR 20–25
đļ Admission & Prices:
• Beach access: free
• Sunbed + umbrella hire: from EUR 8–12 per set
đ 7. Zia Village & Mount Dikeos
đĄ Interesting Facts & Background:
If you want to experience authentic mountain Greece and the island's finest sunset, head to Zia. This small traditional village on the slopes of Mount Dikeos (846 m) is famous throughout the island for its panoramic terraces and tavernas. đ
đš Zia sits at roughly 400 metres above sea level, and on a clear day the view takes in the entire island — from cape to cape — with Rhodes, Kalymnos and the Turkish coast on the horizon.
đš Sunsets in Zia are considered among the most beautiful in all of Greece. Every evening dozens of visitors gather on taverna terraces to watch the sun sink into the Aegean Sea.
đš The village lanes are lined with flowers, woodcrafts and traditional souvenirs; it is easy to spend 1–2 hours between a stroll and a meal.
đš For those with more time: marked trails lead from Zia to the summit of Dikeos — the island's highest point. đĨž
đĸ Getting There from the Cruise Port:
• Taxi: 30–35 minutes, approximately EUR 25–35 one way. Arrange the return journey with the driver in advance.
• Excursion bus: tourist offices on the waterfront offer daily half-day and full-day tours taking in Zia and the Asclepieion. From EUR 25–35 per person.
đļ Admission & Opening Hours:
• Village entrance: free (it is simply a mountain settlement)
• Lunch at a taverna: EUR 15–25 for a main course with a drink
đĄ Tip for cruise passengers: if you want to be in Zia for sunset, keep a close eye on your all-aboard time. Summer sunsets are at 20:30–21:00, but your ship may be departing at 18:00–19:00.
đ¤ 8. Day Trips to Neighbouring Islands & Bodrum
đĄ Interesting Facts & Background:
Kos's location at the heart of the Dodecanese makes it an ideal base for day trips by sea. đ
đš Bodrum, Turkey — just 4 km from Kos across the strait. Daily ferries (departure around 08:30, return around 16:00). Perfect for those who want to visit two continents in a single day! đšđˇ
đš Nisyros Island — the only island in Greece with an active volcano. You can descend into the Stefanos crater and smell the sulphur — an unforgettable spectacle. Ferry connections from Kos.
đš Pserimos Island — a tiny islet with pristine white-sand beaches and a picturesque harbour, ideal for a peaceful swim.
đš "3 Islands" Excursion (Pserimos + Kalymnos + Plati) — a classic full-day boat tour with lunch on board and swimming stops. Departure from Kos port at 10:00.
đĸ How to Book:
• Tourist offices right on the Akti Kountourioti waterfront — 5 minutes from the pier. Tickets are sold on the day of departure.
• Ferry to Bodrum: approximately EUR 25–35 return
• "3 Islands" day tour: EUR 35–55 per person (depending on operator)
â ī¸ Important: a valid passport is required for the trip to Bodrum (Turkey). Please ensure you have the appropriate tourist visa or are travelling visa-free.
đ¨ 9. Other Sights Worth Seeing
• đ Gazi Hassan Pasha Mosque (Defterdar Mosque) — a 17th-century Ottoman mosque on Platanos Square, right beside the Hippocrates Tree. Free entry (check current opening hours).
• đē Ancient Agora of Kos — the excavated heart of the ancient city, right in the centre of Kos Town. Free, unfenced access.
• đ° Medieval settlement of Palia Pyli — a semi-ruined medieval hilltop fortress on the slopes of Dikeos. Ideal for those seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures. Taxi 20 min from the port.
• â¨ī¸ Embros Therme (thermal springs) — a natural geothermal beach with hot water; entry EUR 1–2. Taxi 20 min.
• đ´ Bicycle rental — Kos is one of the very few Greek islands with a well-developed cycle-lane network. Rentals from EUR 5–8 per day. Perfect for exploring the town and the nearest beaches.
đēī¸ Three Self-Guided Itineraries for 9 Hours in Kos
A cruise ship's stay in Kos typically lasts 8–10 hours. Seeing 3–5 top sights is entirely realistic — if you plan your itinerary wisely. Below are three options to suit different budgets and preferences.
đĨ Itinerary 1. Budget — under EUR 20 per person
âąī¸ Total duration: 8 hours | đ° Estimated budget: EUR 10–15 + food
đ 09:00 — Leave the cruise terminal
All the beauty of Kos awaits just beyond the pier.
đ 09:00–10:00 — Neratzia Castle + Hippocrates Plane Tree
Free. Admire the castle exterior, take photos against the fortress walls, walk to the legendary tree on Platanos Square. The Gazi Hassan Pasha Mosque and the fountains are right next door.
đ 10:00–11:00 — Ancient Agora & town centre
Free stroll through the agora ruins, shopping street, Eleftherias Square. Optional: a brief visit to the Archaeological Museum (EUR 10).
đ 11:00–12:30 — Roman Odeon + Casa Romana
Odeon — free. Casa Romana — EUR 6. Both are close together, 10 minutes from the centre.
đ§ 12:30–14:00 — Lunch in Kos Town
Set lunch menu at local tavernas — EUR 12–18. We recommend seafood dishes — the island is celebrated for its fresh fish. đ
đ 14:00–15:30 — Kos Town Beach
5 minutes on foot from the centre. Relax, swim, sunbeds from EUR 8.
đ 15:30–16:00 — Walk back to the ship along the waterfront
đ° Cost Breakdown:
• Castle, agora, plane tree: free
• Odeon: free
• Casa Romana: EUR 6
• Lunch: EUR 12–18
• Beach (sunbed): EUR 8–12
đ¸ TOTAL: EUR 26–36 per person
đĨ Itinerary 2. Classic — EUR 50–70 per person
âąī¸ Total duration: 9 hours | đ° Estimated budget: EUR 60 + food
đ 09:00 — Leave the port; take the tourist train to the Asclepieion
Train departs from the waterfront, EUR 5 return, 10 minutes to the Asclepieion.
đ 09:10–10:45 — Asclepieion
Ticket EUR 8–15. Full tour of all three terraces with audio guide or at your own pace.
đ 10:45–11:30 — Return by train; Neratzia Castle + Hippocrates Plane Tree
Free. Photos and sightseeing.
đ 11:30–12:30 — Odeon + Casa Romana
Odeon — free; Casa Romana — EUR 6.
đ§ 12:30–14:00 — Lunch at a taverna
EUR 15–25.
đ 14:00–15:30 — Lambi Beach or Kos Town Beach
Taxi to Lambi EUR 6 or walk to the town beach.
đ 15:30–16:15 — Shopping on Kos Town's pedestrian street
Jewellery, ceramics, Greek olive oil, honey, liqueurs.
đ 16:15–16:30 — Walk back to the ship
đ° Cost Breakdown:
• Tourist train: EUR 5
• Asclepieion: EUR 8–15
• Casa Romana: EUR 6
• Lunch: EUR 15–25
• Beach: EUR 8–12
đ¸ TOTAL: EUR 42–63 per person
đĨ Itinerary 3. Premium — Private Tour from EUR 300 per group
âąī¸ Total duration: 9 hours | đ° Estimated budget: EUR 300–500 + tickets
đ What's Included:
• â
Private driver meets you with a name board right at the ship's gangway
• â
Comfortable car or minivan for the full day
• â
Licensed guide in English or another language
• â
Entry tickets to all sights
• â
Restaurant reservation
• â
Flexible, adjustable itinerary
To book, contact your cruise manager or reach us directly in any convenient way:
Phone Numbers:
• Office: +38 (044) 337 82 01
• Mobile (LifeCell): +380 93 653 05 53
• Mobile (Vodafone): +380 66 653 05 53
• Mobile (Kyivstar): +380 97 653 05 53
đ 08:30 — Driver and guide meet you at the terminal
đ 09:00–10:45 — Asclepieion with private guide
Every element explained in detail, all your questions answered, photos taken at every landmark.
đ 11:00–11:45 — Neratzia Castle + Hippocrates Plane Tree
Private guided tour of the ancient heart of the city.
đ§ 12:00–13:30 — Odeon + Casa Romana + Archaeological Museum
Combined ticket EUR 15; guide provides commentary at each site.
đ 13:30–15:00 — Lunch at a sea-view restaurant
From EUR 30–50 per person for a full meal with wine and seafood.
đ 15:15–16:30 — Zia village or Embros Therme thermal beach (your choice)
Scenic views, shopping, relaxation, or a soak in the thermal springs.
đ 17:00 — Return to the port in comfort
đ° Cost Breakdown:
• Private guide (9 hrs): from EUR 200
• Driver with vehicle (9 hrs): from EUR 150
• Entrance tickets: EUR 30–40
• Lunch: from EUR 35 per person
đ¸ TOTAL: from EUR 380 per group (best value for 2–4 people)
đ¤ Four Gates Group organises private tours of Kos with licensed guides, transfers from the ship's gangway and a guaranteed return to the vessel on time. Contact your cruise specialist — and your day in Kos will be perfectly tailored to your tastes. đŗī¸â¨
â ī¸ Essential Tips Before You Go Ashore
đ "All aboard" rule: you must be back on board 60 minutes before the ship departs. If you miss the deadline, the ship will not wait and you will have to catch up at the next port at your own expense.
đĒĒ Documents: for sightseeing around the island your cruise card (Ship Card) is sufficient. A passport is required only for the trip to Turkey (Bodrum).
đļ Cash: carry EUR 50–100 in cash — small cafés and markets may not accept cards.
đ Footwear: comfortable closed shoes — you will be walking across uneven ancient stone surfaces. Pack beach footwear separately.
đ´ Cycling: Kos is one of the most cycle-friendly Greek islands. The dedicated lane network greatly expands your scope for independent exploration.
âī¸ Sun protection: summer temperatures reach +35 °C, and the Asclepieion offers almost no shade. A hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential.
đĻ Mosquitoes: mosquitoes can be a nuisance in the evenings on the island. Insect repellent is worth packing.
đ Safety: Kos is a calm and safe destination. Standard awareness in tourist areas is perfectly sufficient.
âšī¸ Please note: the information on this page is provided for general guidance and was accurate at the time of publication. Prices, schedules, itineraries and visitor conditions may change without prior notice. Please verify up-to-date details with your Four Gates Group cruise specialist or on the official websites of the respective attractions.
FOUR GATES GROUP — Cruises by Professionals