Kos Dodecanese, Greece Travel Guide
Public buses provide service to as the main public transport on Kos. KTEL Kos operates two networks: local Kos Town buses (connecting town center to areas like Psalidi and Lambi) and intercity KTEL buses (linking The Capital of kos with the airport, and major small communities like Kardamena, Kefalos, and Zia).
The The Capital of kos Bus Station serves as the main hub for all intercity buses, located near the port. Route maps and schedules are posted at the bus station and available on the KTEL Kos website.
Some KTEL buses may have lower-level floors or ramps. Contact KTEL Kos in advance for specific accessibility needs on routes.
Check schedules in advance. Arrive at the stop a few minutes early. Have small Euro denominations ready for tickets. Confirm place with the driver.
Use Google Maps for real-time bus tracking or to identify nearby stops for more efficient travel planning.
Requires valid driver's license; AN international driving permit for non--EU/EEA. The minimum AGE is 21-25. Credit card for deposit. Pre-reserve online for best rates.
Minimum age 18-21. International motorcycle permit for non-EU. Helmets mandatory. Exercise caution due to road conditions.
Abundant in Kos City/resorts. Flat terrain makes cycling enjoyable. Rates: €5-€10/day for basic city bike. Wear a helmet.
Popular for rural roads. Helmets often required. Driver's license rules similar to scooters. Can be unstable on uneven surfaces.
Kos provides many opportunities for walking and cycling, offering intimate ways to experience the island’s beauty and local charm.
Organized bus tours visit island highlights like Zia village and the Asclepieion, offering an easy way to see several sights without planning transport.
"Kos Sightseeing" operates a mini-train in Kos Town, providing a charming loop around major attractions for quick overview tours.
Small excursion boats transport visitors to nearby beaches (Paradise Beach, Bubble Beach) from Kos Town and Kardamena, a scenic alternative to land travel.
Day trips by boat are popular, typically visiting neighboring islands such as Nisyros, Kalymnos, Pserimos, and Plati (often as a "3-island cruise"). These travels provide opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring different islands. International connections to Bodrum, Turkey, are also available.
Popular excursions to Nisyros (volcanic island), Kalymnos, and Pserimos.
Enjoy swimming and snorkeling stops.
Often includes visits to Kalymnos, Pserimos, and the small islet of Plati.
A classic method of experiencing the Dodecanese.
Transport to beaches like Paradise Beach or Bubble Beach from coastal towns.
Convenient and scenic way to reach hidden places.
From leisurely bicycle rides along coastal paths to fast ferry connections to island hopping, Kos offers a mode for every journey.
Ideal for direct transfers, late-traveling at night, or when carrying luggage. Widely available at designated stands.
Essential for island hopping within the Dodecanese and day trips to nearby Turkey (Bodrum).
Kos Town and many coastal areas are great for leisurely strolls and exploring on foot.
Consider a blend of transportation methods. A rental car for a few days to discover remote areas, combined with area buses for town-to-getting around town, and bicycles for charming coastal rides, offers a truly complete Kos experience.
Adopt the local pace and appreciate the journey as much as the destination.
