A 2 Days in Kos Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal

Last Updated on 24th February 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

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Located in the heart of the Dodecanese cluster of islands, Kos is a popular Greek destination and a favorite place to visit in the Mediterranean. If you’re thinking about staying in Kos for two days during your Greek island adventure, then this Kos itinerary will be a great travel companion!

The island, incredibly popular among European tourists, offers fun-filled seaside holidays in a charming setting and it’s also a great destination to visit when island-hopping in the Dodecanese.

Where is Kos Island?

Located in the southeastern area of Greece, the island of Kos is part of the Dodecanese group of islands in the Aegean Sea. Kos is situated close to the southwestern coast of Turkey. Kos is about 290 kilometers southeast of Athens.

How to Get to Kos and Moving Around in Kos

There are different ways to get to Kos, with a wider transport option during the high season, from the end of May until the end of September. The easiest and quickest way to reach Kos is by plane.

The island is home to an international airport (Hippocrates Airport) that receives direct flights from various European cities, including Athens and other major Greek airports. 

If you prefer a scenic journey or would like to experience the most authentic way to travel between the Greek islands, you can also take a ferry to Kos, departing from several ports in Greece and from Turkey.

There are regular ferry connections from Athens (Piraeus Port), as well as from other islands in the Dodecanese, such as Rhodes, Kalymnos, Patmos, and Symi. 

Ferries also operate from Bodrum and other Turkish ports, offering a convenient option for travelers coming from Turkey. Besides, Kos is also a popular destination for cruise ships that include Kos in their itineraries, allowing passengers to explore the island as part of a larger Mediterranean cruise.

On the island, you will find a good transport system, with local buses, taxis, and car rental options available to help you navigate the island. 

Public transportation on the island is well-developed, making it easy to access the various beaches, attractions, and villages. As usual, however, renting a car to discover the island is better if you prefer to avoid bus schedules and plan your days at your own pace. Check car rental prices here.

When to Visit Kos

Just as with most Greek islands, the best time to visit Kos is in the summer (June to August). The weather is hot and sunny, ideal for beach lovers.

The island is buzzing with tourists, and you can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, lively nightlife, and various water sports activities. However, keep in mind that the island can get crowded during this time, and accommodation prices are often a lot higher.

If your budget is tight but still want to enjoy pleasant temperatures, spring and autumn (shoulder season) are excellent times to visit Kos. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures between 18°C and 25°C, and crowds are thinner than summer. 

At this time of the year, you can still enjoy the beaches, outdoor activities, and sightseeing without the peak-season rush. It’s an ideal time to explore historical sites, cycle around the island, and enjoy nature walks. Accommodations are also more affordable compared to summer.

Winter is considered off-season, and the weather is cooler, with fewer ferry routes (and almost no air route) to reach the island. Many tourist services and facilities are closed or operating on limited schedules during this time.

Is 2 days enough time to visit Kos?

Kos is a mid-sized Greek island and is the third largest island in the Dodecanese group (as well as being the second most inhabited). As a result, there is no shortage of things to do for even the most discerning of travellers.

Two days is therefore a little bit short to enjoy the island but you can certainly fit in all of the highlights. If you would prefer to get to know Kos on a slightly deeper level, then you’ll want to schedule in three to four days to cover more of the island.

Where to Stay in Kos 

The island is quite big, therefore it offers a good selection of areas to stay, depending on your interests and budget.

Kos Town: This is the island’s capital as well as a bustling and lively area with a mix of ancient history, modern amenities, and interesting things to do at night as well.  Staying in Kos Town gives you easy access to the town’s historic attractions, such as the Castle of the Knights, the Ancient Agora, and the Tree of Hippocrates. There is a wide range of hotels and apartments for all budgets. Suggested hotel: Kosea Boutique Hotel

Kardamena: Situated on the southern coast of Kos, Kardamena is a lively resort with beautiful sandy beaches and nightlife activities. It is a favorite destination for younger travelers, and accommodation includes hotels, all-inclusive resorts, and apartments. Kardamena is the place to go for a fun-filled beach holiday with plenty of entertainment. Suggested hotel: Hotel Agrelli

Psalidi: Just a few kilometers east of Kos Town, Psalidi is a popular area with beautiful beaches and luxury resorts. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful stay with easy access to the beach. Suggested hotel: Atlantica Mikri Poli Kos

Tigaki: Another popular tourist spot is Tigaki, on the northern coast of Kos. It features a long sandy beach and calm waters, making it a great family destination on the island, with easy access to amenities, plenty of accommodations, and traditional local tavernas. Suggested hotel: Tigaki Beach

Mastichari: Situated on the island’s northwest coast, Mastichari is a quieter and less crowded area with amazing beaches and a unique traditional charm. It offers a more authentic and peaceful experience, with accommodation options including small family-run hotels, apartments, and villas. Suggested hotel: Mastichari Bay Hotel

Things to Do in Kos in Two Days

The island is big enough to explore in a week or more, and even when two days in Kos can offer plenty of things to do, rest assured that you will have barely scratched the surface of the island at the end of your stay. 

Worry not, though, Kos is one of those destinations in Greece you will certainly want to visit again. Down below, check out the best things you can do in Kos in two days for an amazing Greek island experience!

Day 1: Classic Kos

Your Kos adventure cannot start any other place than Kos Town, devote at least the morning to the spectacular historic center of the island, spending time exploring the gorgeous Castle of the Knights and the Ancient Agora or municipal market both located within walking distance of each other. Immerse yourself in the island’s rich history and admire these unique archaeological sites.

The Castle of the Knights, which locals also call Neratzia Castle, dates back to the 14th century when the Knights of St. John ruled over the island. It was strategically built near the harbor to protect the town from pirate invasions.

It features two main sections, the outer defensive walls impressive ramparts, bastions, and moats, and the inner fortress, located within the walls, housed the administrative and residential quarters of the knights.

Inside the castle, you’ll find the Archaeological Museum of Kos, which displays a collection of artifacts from the island’s ancient past. 

After checking out the castle, you can walk to the public market or Kos (or Agora) to purchase souvenirs and local products, including cheeses, honey, and extra virgin olive oil.

Also in the historic district, the Tree of Hippocrates or Plane Tree of Hippocrates is a famous landmark in Kos. According to a local legend, this tree could be the descendant of the original tree under which Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician, and father of medicine, taught his students.

This enormous plane tree, an iconic symbol of the island, stands in the central square of Kos, Plateia Platanou, close to the Castle of the Knights.

While the original tree has withered over time, the current tree remains a symbol of knowledge, healing, and the island’s connection to the roots of medicine.

In the afternoon, rent a bike or hire a car and head to the Asclepeion, the ancient healing center of an archaeological site just a few kilometers outside of Kos Town.

Other than exploring the ruins and learning about the ancient practices of Medicine that might have started on the island, you can also enjoy the offers beautiful views of Kos.

After the visit, the nearby beach of Lambi is the best place to visit. You can have lunch by the sea and spend the rest of the afternoon soaking up the sun and swimming in the clear sea.

For a romantic sunset spot, head to the village of Zia, on the slopes of Mount Dikeos. To reach the area from Lambi you will drive along one of the most scenic routes on the island (there are also buses available).

Once in this charming village, check out the narrow streets, browse local shops, and soak in panoramic views of the island. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness a breathtaking sunset and discover the local cuisine at a family-run taverna. Another option is to book this Tavern Dinner Experience with Greek Dancing and Wine.

If you’re interested in alternative experiences on the island, why not check out these different nighttime activities:

• Kos Island: Wine Tasting & Zia Village Visit for Sunset: If you want to experience Greek wine for yourself then there is no better place to do this than by heading to a winery. This tour will take care of the transportation details for you.
• Sunset Boat Cruise: On the island, you will find several night trips around the coast of Kos as well as to different neighboring islands. These cruises often offer dinner, live music, and the chance to see the coastline and landmarks from a different perspective. The experience is ideal to enjoy the calmness of the sea at night and witness the twinkling lights along the shoreline from a distance. Check prices here.
• Yoga or Meditation Retreat: Kos Island is known for its tranquil atmosphere, often connected to its history as a place of healing both for the body and the soul. Kos is a great place to indulge in a yoga or meditation retreat. On the island, you will easily find many retreat centers and wellness resorts that offer evening sessions or workshops focused on relaxation and mindfulness. Join a class or find a peaceful spot to practice your meditation or yoga routine under the stars!

Day 2: Beaches, Kefalos & traditional Greek food

Devote the second morning on Kos to visit one of the most popular beaches on the island. Paradise Beach, on the southern coast of Kos, is a sandy shore famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and tranquil surroundings. 

Over here, you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and lounging at beachfront beach bars while sipping a cold Greek beer and nibbling on freshly grilled octopus or abundant tzatziki dip… is there anything more Greek than this? If you don’t have your own transport, then you can organise a transfer like this one.

Right before lunchtime, reach the village of Kefalos, the trip is about 10 minutes (6 km) and it can be easily done by car or bike.

Kefalos is a charming village on the western side of the island, featuring its narrow streets, and the ruins of an ancient medieval castle, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Aegean Sea.

The settlement is a great place to enjoy local cuisine, sampling some typical Greek dishes, such as dolmades (stuffed wine leaves), baked vegetables filled with rice (gemista), or moussakas.

Local specialties include chickpea fritters (pitarusia) and a wide variety of cheese, honey, and savory pies. 

At sunset, you can visit the serene beach of Agios Fokas, a beautiful cove located on the southern coast of the island where the peaceful ambiance and stunning views will certainly mesmerize you. 

If you prefer a more alternative experience, it is good to know that Kos Island offers relatively clear skies making it a fantastic spot for stargazing. There are plenty of apps that you can download on your phone to guide you through the experience and help you identify the constellations above you.

End this Kos adventure heading to a traditional Greek taverna in Kos Town to have a delicious meal accompanied by some lively Greek music and dancing. Right after, go for a relaxing walk at Kos Town Marina to enjoy the illuminated promenade and have a cocktail or two.

This itinerary is just a starting point for a very short visit to the island, Kos has a lot more to offer, including paradisiac beaches, charming villages, archaeological sites, museums, and solitary chapels.

Enjoy your short but intense time exploring the island and start planning a future, much longer stay in Kos, By the end of your itinerary you will probably know it will be worth it!

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Gabi Ancarola is a journalist and travel writer who has lived over 20 years in Italy, and has been living in Crete for the last five years. She hosts culinary tours, translates and writes for her Crete travel blog The Tiny Book. She’s written for Greek Reporter and published several travel guides about Greece.