Kos there ain't no party like a Greek island party
Kos, the second largest of the Dodecanese Islands, offers everything from blissful beaches and party towns, to ancient Roman amphitheaters. A Kos vacation rental makes a great base for your dream Greek odyssey. History buffs will love the Plane Tree of Hippocrates and the Roman Odeon Amphitheater, while beach bunnies can flop out on Agios Fokas beach. Take a boat trip over to Turkish waters and the Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archeology, or just kick back like a Greek god or goddess with an ouzo cocktail in one of the island's many buzzy bars and tavernas.
Gone Roman: finding ancient history in Kos
If it's history you want, then Greece is the word. One of the most popular historic attractions on the island of Kos is the Odeon Roman Amphitheater, a well-preserved arena constructed in the 2nd century. Sit on ancient marble seats and watch where gladiators brawled. Another must-see is the legendary Plane Tree of Hippocrates, an 800-year old tree which is said to be a descendant of the plane tree under which Hippocrates famously taught medicine. For a real adventure, why not book a boat trip to the legendary Bodrum Museum of Underwater Archeology over on the Turkish coast.
Find your own beach blanket babylon in the Dodecanese
Blessed with some of the best beaches in the Dodecanese archipelago, Kos is a dream destination for beach lovers. One of the most popular is Agios Fokas, a 5-mile drive from Kos Town. A mix of white sand and bleached pebbles, it's lapped by the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea. In the summer, it offers loungers and parasols, plus a variety of beachfront tavernas offering authentic kleftiko and souvlakis. After a busy day of relaxing, why not kick back on the terrace of your Kos vacation rental and watch as the sun sets over the Aegean.
Blazin' saddles in Kos
Like much of Greece, Kos is blessed with an enviable Mediterranean climate—think long, hot summers, and short, mild winters with little rainfall. The busiest time is during the steamy summer months, between June and September, when temperatures can reach 90 degrees. Thankfully a cooling breeze from the Aegean Sea acts like a natural air conditioner. This is also when Kos vacation rentals tend to get booked up in advance. For the best deals, visit in spring or fall, when the weather is still dry and sunny, and it's warm enough to eat alfresco.
Roamin' over Greek islands in the Dodecanese
Located in the southeastern area of the Aegean Sea, close to the Turkish coast, Kos is the second largest of the Dodecanese group of Greek islands. Full of natural beauty, Kos is a popular destination for walkers. The island is mostly flat and there are a number of easy trails which hug the coastline, all with beautiful views of the sea and the neighboring Turkish coast. For nature lovers, keep an eye out for agama lizards and loggerhead turtles, the latter of which usually nest in the north of the island.
Transportation to and around Kos
Fly into Kos (KGS-Kos Island Intl.), the closest airport, located 12.7 mi (20.4 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could also fly into Bodrum (BJV-Milas), which is 32.2 mi (51.8 km) away.