Things to Do in Kos Island, Greece in 2021

Kos Town Harbour in Kos Island min

Kos is one of the most popular islands of the Dodecanese. It has golden sand beaches, crystal clear waters, archaeological sites and activities for the whole family. If you are looking for nightlife you can head to Kardamena and if you are looking for a family vacation, Tigaki is a good choice. There are many things to do in Kos, and in this post, you will find my suggestions. Let find out Things to Do in Kos Island, Greece in 2021.

Things to Do in Kos Island, Greece in 2021

A visit to Asklepeion

Located just 4kms to the south east side of Kos town, Asklepeion is reputably the most visited tourist destination in Kos. This archaeological site was built in honour of Hippocrates, an ancient Greek physician who cured people and taught the art of healing to his students. Asklepeion is located just a few meters from natural springs and has the remains of the temples of Asclepius and Apollo that was initially destroyed by an earthquake. This sanctuary is rumoured as the world’s first hospital. While on the top of the terrace you can have a great view of the town below which is an amazing experience.

A visit to Asklepeion

Visit the castle of knights – Neratzia Castle

Located on the entrance of Kos harbour this piece of architecture was built by the Knights in an attempt to protect the island from the Ottomans. In 1945 this piece of construction was damaged by an earthquake. However, not everything was damaged. In your visit to Kos town, spare some time and tour this place and see the remains of this castle. That is once of Things to Do in Kos Island, Greece in 2021.

Visit the castle of knights - Neratzia Castle

Archaeological Museum

Although the Kos Archaeological Museum is small, it houses a mighty collection of sculptures dating from the Hellenistic to late Roman and Venetian periods. Located in the Plateia Eleftherias, the neoclassical building was constructed in 1935. Among its more notable treasures are beautiful mosaics, statues, and pottery from the Asklepion site and a statue of Hippocrates. Anyone interested in archeology, art, or the history of the island would be remiss to pass up the opportunity to see the museum’s unique artifacts.

Things to Do in Kos Island

Castle of Antimachia

This impressive medieval fortress is located in the centre of the island, to the southeast of the village of Antimachia. The Venetians began in the 14th century and the inscription above the gate denotes that the Venetian Castle was built up even more in 1494 by the Knights of Saint John, like Neratzi Castle. However, Antimachia is rumoured to have been used as a prison for condemned knights. Despite the numerous attacks over many years, the outside fortifications of the castle still stand strong.
The castle’s only entrance can be found in the double gates on the north side of the fortress. Inside the church, not much remains, but you can see the two Venetian churches built in the 16th and 18th centuries. Although the churches aren’t as old as the original structure, they do still hold services. Views from the top of the battlements include the Kardamena coast and the island of Nisyros. The Castle of Antimachia is free to visitors and open daily.

Things to Do in Kos Island

Take a Boat Cruise to Kalymnos, Plati, and Pserimos

This all day boat cruise is a great way to get out and see some of the other islands surrounding Kos. The cruise’s first stop is in the beautiful village of Vathi on the island of Kalymnos. The scenery as you pull up to Vathi is breathtaking and the village itself is picturesque. Once you return to the boat, a souvlaki buffet lunch is served.
After lunch, you might get to spot some dolphins looking for their own lunch as you pass the nearby fish farms. The cruise will then stop at Plati islet where you can jump in the turquoise-blue water for a swim. The last stop of the cruise is the island of Pserimos. Take a step back in time as you explore the island with no streets. Brimming with pristine natural beauty and charming panoramas, Pserimos is a true escape.

Things to Do in Kos Island

Wineries and wine tours

Greece is reputable for wine making, this history ranges back from 500Bc. High quality wine brands are made, and this is evidenced by the fact that a number of local wine brands have won international awards. Kos lives up to this reputation, and there are several wineries that you can visit. Triantafylloupus vineyard is the winery to visit if you are seeking for a wine tour with high quality wine brands. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 7:30 until 15.30.
What is even more interesting about this place is that the tour is free and there is no much pressure to purchase a bottle of wine. Which makes it one of the best things to do in Kos for wine lovers. Another place to visit if you are looking for a wine tour is Hatziemmanouli winery which was completed in 2004. This winery accepts tours and offers quality wine. See here for more information.

Things to Do in Kos Island