Private Half Day Tour of Kos History and Landmarks

Kos , Greece

Private Half Day Tour of Kos History and Landmarks

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About this experience

Discover the beauty and history of Kos on a private 4 hour tour led by your English speaking driver. Enjoy local insights, flexible stops, and a comfortable ride as you explore the island's most fascinating sites. Visit the Asklepion, an ancient healing sanctuary dating back to 420 BC, and continue to Eleftherias Square, the lively center of Kos Town. Explore the forested ruins of Paleo Pili Castle for sweeping island views, then stroll through the Ancient Agora among temples and basilicas that reveal the island's rich past. End your tour at Antimachia Castle, a 14th century fortress offering breathtaking views of Kos and the Turkish coast. With the freedom to choose your pace and stops, this private Kos tour can be as relaxed or adventurous as you wish, combining culture, history, and scenery in one memorable experience.

Available options

Private Half Day Tour of Kos History and Landmarks

Pickup included

What's included

Water

WiFi on board

All taxes and handling charges

Fuel and Tolls

Professional English-speaking local driver/informal guide

Hotel or custom pickup and drop-off

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

Kos Town is a handsome harbor community, fronted by a superb medieval castle and somehow squeezed amid a mind-blowing array of ancient ruins from the Greek, Roman and Byzantine eras.

Stop 2

Eleftherias Square, the main social gathering place of Kos and a good spot to start your tour of the town.

Asklepion is probably the major attraction of Kos Island. According to ancient Greek mythology, Asclepius was the god of medicine and healing.

The ancient Agora of Kos, one of the largest of its kind excavated in Greece, is among the most important sights on the island.

The Castle of Antimachia in Kos, on a small hill above Antimachia village, to the south of Kos Town lies the Venetian Castle, known as the Castle of Antimachia.

The ruins of the Paleo Pyli fortress ( Old Pyli fortress ) sit west of the Mount Dikeos range, standing proudly throughout the ages atop a rocky hill.

What's not included

Meals and beverages

Tips and Gratuities

Asklepion (ancient healing sanctuary)

Licensed guides available to accompany you inside the attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

EL EN

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

For 1-4 people: A comfortable sedan will be assigned to your group.

For 5-8 people: A spacious minivan will be assigned to your group.

Throughout your ride, our drivers serve as informal local guides—sharing stories, history, and local tips at every stop. Please note that drivers are not permitted to enter museums or archaeological areas, but they’ll ensure you make the most of your visit with suggestions and background information before you explore on your own

Some stops on your itinerary may be closed on the date of travel due to public holidays, maintenance or special events. We recommend verifying opening hours on the attraction’s official website or contacting us before your tour. If a stop is unexpectedly closed, we will try to offer a suitable alternative.

Important notes

Please show this to your driver.

About Kos

Kos is a picturesque island in the Dodecanese archipelago, known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It's a destination that offers a blend of ancient Greek heritage, stunning Mediterranean landscapes, and modern resort facilities.

Top Attractions

Asklepieion

An ancient healing center dedicated to the god Asclepius, where Hippocrates is said to have studied. The site offers stunning views of the island.

Historical 1-2 hours €6

Neratzia Castle

A 14th-century fortress built by the Knights of St. John, located in the heart of Kos Town. It houses a museum with exhibits on the island's history.

Historical 1 hour €4

Ancient Agora of Kos

The ruins of the ancient market and public life center of Kos, featuring a Roman bouleuterion, a temple of Apollo, and a stadium.

Historical 1-2 hours €4

Tigaki Beach

A long, sandy beach known for its clear waters and water sports facilities. It's a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Beach Half day Free (rentals and lessons extra)

Zia Village

A charming mountain village with traditional houses, narrow streets, and panoramic views of the island. It's a great spot for a relaxing evening with local wine and meze.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free (drinks and meals extra)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Mastiha Ice Cream

A traditional Kos dessert made with mastiha, a resin from the lentisk tree, giving it a unique pine-like flavor.

Dessert Contains dairy

Kos Salad

A local twist on the Greek salad, featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, feta cheese, and olives, often dressed with local olive oil.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian

Fresh Grilled Fish

Seafood is a highlight of Kos cuisine, with fresh catches grilled and served with lemon and olive oil.

Dinner Contains fish

Pastitsada

A slow-cooked beef dish with a rich tomato and cinnamon sauce, served with pasta.

Dinner Contains beef, gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Climbing Water sports Beach lounging Spa treatments Sunset watching Visiting historical sites Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

July to August

This is the hottest and busiest time of the year, with plenty of sunshine and warm sea temperatures. It's ideal for beach lovers and those who want to experience the island's vibrant nightlife.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Greek
Widely spoken: English, German, Italian
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (GMT+3 during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kos is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or distractions

Getting there

By air

Kos International Airport • 22 km from Kos Town

By bus

Kos Town Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and convenient, but schedules can be limited outside peak season.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kos Town Psalidi Tigaki Kardamena

Day trips

Nisyros Island

30 km from Kos • Full day

A volcanic island known for its active crater and hot springs. It offers a unique landscape and hiking opportunities.

Kalymnos Island

20 km from Kos • Full day

A rocky island known for its stunning landscapes, sea caves, and world-class climbing spots.

Pserimos Island

15 km from Kos • Half day

A small, peaceful island with beautiful beaches and clear waters. It's perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Festivals

Kos International Festival • September Kos Wine Festival • June Kos Carnival • February/March

Pro tips

Visit the Asklepieion early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the midday heat
Try the local mastiha ice cream, a unique Kos specialty
Explore the island by renting a car or scooter for flexibility and convenience
Take a day trip to Nisyros to hike the active volcano and relax in the hot springs
Enjoy a sunset dinner in Zia Village for stunning views and a romantic atmosphere