Kos Ferries

The port of Kos plays a key role in the ferry network of Greece, offering a convenient, scenic, and often essential way to connect with nearby islands. With 2 ferry routes operated by 7 ferry companies, Kos serves as a busy hub for both passenger and freight travel.

Ferries depart regularly from Kos, with schedules varying seasonally depending on demand, weather conditions, and tourism activity.

Popular routes from this port include Kalymnos - Kos connecting Kos with key coastal and island destinations. Depending on the route, crossings can range from quick local hops to longer overnight journeys, often with a choice between high-speed ferries and traditional vessels.

Operators such as Dodekanisos Seaways, Anem Ferries, SeaJets run regular services from Kos, offering a range of onboard amenities including comfortable seating, food and drink options, cabins, and vehicle transport. Ticket options vary by company and vessel type, with choices to suit solo travellers, families, and business passengers alike.

Whether you're island hopping, heading home, or starting a new adventure, Kos offers a reliable and enjoyable gateway to the sea.

Kos is easily accessible through its international airport with direct flights from many European cities during summer months. From Athens, the ferry journey takes approximately 10-11 hours, while high-speed services cut travel time to around 5-6 hours. Regular ferry connections also operate from nearby islands including Rhodes (about 2 hours) and Patmos (around 3 hours). The main ferry terminal is well-connected to Kos Town by local buses and taxis, with the journey taking just 10 minutes. If arriving by car, secure parking facilities are available near the port area, though reserving a spot in advance is recommended during peak season.

Kos welcomes visitors with its perfect blend of ancient history and Mediterranean charm. This sun-drenched island in the Dodecanese archipelago offers miles of beautiful beaches alongside impressive archaeological sites dating back thousands of years. As a key ferry destination in the eastern Aegean, Kos serves as both a fascinating destination and a gateway to neighboring Greek islands and the Turkish coast.

Kos enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The prime tourist season runs from May through October, with July and August bringing the warmest temperatures often reaching 30°C (86°F) and the busiest crowds. For a more relaxed experience with pleasant swimming conditions, consider visiting in May, June, September or early October when temperatures remain comfortable around 25°C (77°F). The Hippocrates Festival in July celebrates the island's famous son with cultural performances, while ferry services operate most frequently during summer months, tapering off in winter. Spring visits offer the bonus of wildflowers carpeting the landscape and significantly fewer tourists.

Kos serves as an excellent hub for exploring the Dodecanese islands and beyond. Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese, is just a 2-hour ferry ride away, offering medieval architecture and vibrant nightlife. The serene island of Kalymnos can be reached in under an hour, famous for its rock climbing and sponge diving heritage. For international travelers, daily ferries connect Kos to Bodrum on Turkey's coast in just 20 minutes, creating an easy two-country experience. The picturesque island of Nisyros, with its active volcano and charming villages, makes for a perfect day trip with ferries taking approximately 1 hour each way.

Kos offers a wealth of experiences beyond its beaches, starting with the ancient Asklepion, a healing temple complex where Hippocrates once taught medicine. The medieval Castle of the Knights stands guard over Kos Town, providing panoramic views and fascinating history. Cycling enthusiasts will appreciate the island's extensive network of bike paths, particularly the scenic coastal route from Kos Town to Tigaki. For culinary adventures, sample local specialties like katimeria (cheese or honey pancakes) and posa cheese (wine-soaked goat cheese) at traditional tavernas in Zia village. The thermal springs at Thermes Beach offer natural spa treatments just steps from the sea.

Kos is known as the birthplace of Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, whose ancient plane tree in Kos Town is said to be where he taught his students (though the current tree is only about 500 years old). The island features Europe's longest seaside bicycle path, stretching 13km along the northern coast. Kos has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with evidence of settlements dating back to 3000 BCE. The island experiences over 300 sunny days per year, making it one of the sunniest destinations in Europe.