Famous as the home of Hippocrates, the father of medicine, Kos is a superb summer destination. The clear blue waters of the Aegean, lush vegetation and mountain landscapes help make the island a perfect destination.

Photo by bazylek

The island of Hippocrates is especially popular in summer, but since there are visitors who prefer the peace and quiet of the off-season, many Kos hotels are open all year. Apart from magnificent beaches, tourists can also discover a vital Greek history through the many monuments scattered across the island. Remnants of a bygone era, these stone marvels make Kos a worthwhile destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

Photo by bazylek

Despite the large number of annual tourists, many locals maintain important ancient customs and live simple, peaceful lives as a result. Some grow spices, peanuts, harvest honey or weave traditional carpets and sell their goods and wares at markets across the island. Most visitors agree that Kos inhabitants are some of the most hospitable and friendly on the Greek islands.

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Kos Marina is the island’s main port and tourist center, with a high concentration of restaurants and hotels. One of the trendier spots on Kos, the marina is a perpetual port of call for a wide range of fancy yachts from all over the world.

At the entrance of Kos Marina lies a defensive outpost known as Neratzia Castle. Right next to the castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island, the tree of Hippocrates. At over 2,400 years old and 10 metres in diameter, the tree was apparently planted by the father of medicine himself. According to legend, Hippocrates held lectures under the tree’s shade.

Photo by Ross Murray

Southwest of the town of Kos is Kefalos, a picturesque village and ancient capital of the island. With some bars, restaurants and even a few nightclubs, Kefalos has some action but is also ideal for peace and relaxation as well. About 7 km from Kefalos is Paradise Beach, a small corner of heaven with white sand and incredibly clear waters.

Photo by bazylek

The natural beauty, charm and ancient wine culture of Kos attracts enough annual tourists to dwarf the local populace. As a base to discover the Dodecanese Islands, enjoy exquisite cuisine, explore local village life and laze on pristine beaches, Kos Island is the perfect destination.

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