Kos Sights & Attractions

The Asclepieion is the most significant archaeological site on the island. Named after Asclepius, son of Apollo and god of health and medicine, it operated as one of the most renowned healing centers in ancient Greece.

The Gymnasium is part of a complex of the Hellenistic and Roman periods that also includes the Thermae, the ancient stadium, the Nymphaeum and the Xystus. Visitors can see the surviving columns, as well as the remnants of various other buildings.

The Defterdar Mosque, one of the two Ottoman mosques to be still operational today in Kos, stands in Eleftherias Square, surrounded by elegant Italian buildings. Built in the 1780s, it is a prime example of Islamic architecture.

A complex of Paleo-Christian basilicas is located near the beach of Kamari, southern Kos. The basilicas date from the 5th and the 6th century AD.

Kastri is a tiny island right opposite the beach of Agios Stefanos. Remains of fortification and a small church are located on this islet, which can be reached by boat. 

The Ancient Agora was the commercial and social center of the ancient city of Kos. It is located close to the harbor and used to consist of arcades and monumental buildings.

Temporarily closed for restoration
Nerantzia Castle, also known as the Castle of the Knights, is located at the entrance of the port of Kos Town. It was built in the 15th century by the Knights of Saint John and constitutes one of the best-preserved samples of Hospitaller architecture in the Dodecanese.

Myth has it that under this plane tree in Kos Town, Hippocrates, the father of medicine, would teach his students the secrets of healing. Of course, this is a descendant of the original tree.

The Archaeological Museum of Kos stands in the heart of Kos Town. It exhibits findings from the Ancient Agora, the Asclepieion, and other sites on the island.

Located in Mastihari, the Hippocrates Garden Cultural Centre is dedicated to the father of medicine. It is an exact replica of a 5th-century BC ancient Greek settlement and organizes many seminars on ancient Greek philosophy.

This house is a beautiful Roman mansion and its architectural style is reminiscent of the houses in Pompeii. Some remarkable frescoes and nice atriums can be seen inside.

This is a traditional house in Antimachia village that represents the architecture of the area and the internal and external decoration.

The ruins of the Altar of Dionysus are located south of the harbor, close to the ancient Agora and the Casa Romana. Fragments from its ornate Hellenistic frieze are also exhibited inside Nerantzia Castle.

The medieval Castle of Antimachia is located on a plateau southeast of the homonymous village, offering a gorgeous sea view. It was constructed in the 14th century and its walls are in good condition. Inside the castle, visitors can also see two churches.

The Roman Odeon was constructed in the 2nd century BC and is very well preserved. It now hosts a photography exhibition, as well as cultural events during the summer months.

Visit the enchanting Natural Park of Zia for scenic walks amidst stunning natural landscapes, chances to interact with native animals, and stunning views of the picturesque island of Kos.

The windmill of Antimacheia was renovated to offer visitors a more beautiful view, apart from keeping the tradition alive. It is located in a small square in the center of the village.

Built on top of a naturally fortified hill, the 11th-century Palaio Pyli Castle is surrounded by the ruins of an abandoned Byzantine castle town. Visitors can wander around the deserted cobblestone streets and take in the breathtaking view.

The Monastery of Agios Ioannis offers a gorgeous view of the sea. Right next to the monastery stands a huge plane tree.

This is an important excavation site connected to the Prehistoric times. The findings dated the cave in the period from the Neolithic Age to the beginning of the Bronze Era.

In the location of Agios Fokas lies a sea "pool" with hot springs, known as the thermes. The place is well known as one of the most outstanding places on the island.