Top things to do in Kos

The Roman House (Casa Romana) is a sight worth seeing in Kos. It is a restored Roman villa with floor mosaics and murals, plus good displays on everyday Roman life. It’s a great mix of craft and history all in one.

The Archaeological Museum on Platia Eleftherias has a predictable Latin bias in its exhibits, although the star piece, a statue of the great healer Hippocrates, is in fact Hellenistic. Also on this square is the 18th-century Defterdar Mosque, still used by Kos Town’s 50 or so Muslim families but is closed to the public. You can still admire its exterior though.

Much of the town centre in Kos is an archaeological park, with the ruins of the Roman agora, the eastern excavation, lapping up to the 18th-century Loggia Mosque and the “Plane Tree of Hippocrates”, under which the father of medicine is said to have taught. It is not really 2,500 years old, although it probably is one of the oldest trees in Europe, and now dependent on a life support system of metal scaffolding. Strolling around the area is one of the most rewarding things to do in Kos.

Hippocrates himself (c.460-370 BC) was born and practised on Kós, but probably died shortly before the establishment of the Asklepion, an ancient therapeutic centre 4km (2.5 miles) southwest of town. The site is impressive for its position overlooking the straits towards Turkey. If you’re searching for Kos holiday packages, we’ve got you covered.

Between the Asklepion and Kos Town, pause at Platani, roughly halfway, to eat at one of four excellent Turkish-run tavernas. As on Rhodes, most local Muslims have emigrated to Turkey since the 1960s, with about 700 remaining. There was once a small Jewish community here too, wiped out with the Rhodian one in 1944, leaving behind only a marvellous Art Deco synagogue near Kos Town’s ancient agora.

Greece is home to some magical islands - and Kos is one of the best places to enjoy the fine sand of this area of the world. With crystal-clear waters and golden sand, grab a book and top up your tan or enjoy a cocktail by the waterfront. Kefalos Beach is a highlight with its picturesque settings while Agrios Stefanos is a firm favourite for family travellers. Enjoying beach life is one of the best things to do in Kos for sure.

With pristine beaches comes plenty of watersport opportunities. You’ll never be stuck for what to do in Kos! Enjoy a spot of windsurfing, surfing and paragliding on this incredible Greek island. Why not try something new and exciting on your next getaway?