The Asklepieion is an ancient medical centre around 4 km to the southeast of Kos Town, so it did not take us long to reach here. It dates from the first half of the 3rd century BCE and was built to honour the god of health and medicine, Asklepios, after the death of the famous ancient Greek physician, Hippocrates. The characteristic symbol of this institution was a snake, as Greeks believed it had the ability to select curative herbs. The physicians of this hospital were also priests and a sanctuary was available for everyone who wanted to pray.
Things are quiet this time of year when it comes to tourists, so apart from one coach tour group and a handful of others we largely had the place to ourselves.
The Asklepieion has three terraces and has undergone a lot of changes over time due to the impact of earthquakes.
The first terrace is enclosed by a portico with the shape of a Pi (Greek letter P), which leaves the south side open. This portico is believed to have been the location of a medical school. On its east side, there is a complex of Roman baths, dating from the 3rd century CE that includes some porticoes, which could have been used by the patients and their families.
The second terrace has probably the oldest structure at the Asklepieion, the ruins of an altar dating from the 4th century BCE. To the left and the right of the altar, are the ruins of two smaller temples. There are also some restored columns belonging to the Ionic Temple of Apollo (2nd Century BCE).
We climbed up to the third terrace, where there are the remains of the Doric Temple of Asklepeion, dating from the 2nd century BCE. On the terrace, there is also a church dedicated to Panagia Tarsou, built during the early Christian period.
From the terrace which sits on top of a verdant hill, we could clearly see the town of Kos, and its suburbs.
Getting to and around Asklepieion
Location & Accessibility
- The Asklepion is located about 4 km southwest of Kos Town on a hill with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea.
- The site is accessible by car, bicycle, taxi, or organized tours.
- Local buses run from Kos Town to the Asklepion during peak tourist seasons.
Getting to and around Kos
Getting to Kos, Greece
By Air
- Kos International Airport (KGS): The island is served by Kos International Airport (Hippocrates), which has flights from Athens and Thessaloniki year-round and seasonal international flights from various European cities.
- From the Airport to Kos Town:
- Bus: The KTEL bus runs from the airport to Kos Town (around 40 minutes).
- Taxi: Available outside the terminal (approx. €35-€40 to Kos Town).
- Car Rental: Multiple car rental agencies operate at the airport.
By Ferry
- From Athens (Piraeus): Ferries from Piraeus to Kos take around 9-12 hours.
- From Nearby Islands: Regular ferries run from Rhodes, Kalymnos, Nisyros, and other Dodecanese islands.
- From Turkey: Daily ferries connect Kos with Bodrum, Turkey (approx. 30 minutes).
Getting Around Kos
Public Transport
- Buses: The island has a reliable bus system run by KTEL, connecting Kos Town with major villages, beaches, and tourist spots like Kefalos, Tigaki, and Mastichari.
- Ferries & Boats: Small boats operate routes to nearby islands and coastal destinations.
Taxis
- Taxis are available throughout the island, but they can be expensive for longer trips. There are taxi ranks in Kos Town and at the airport, and you can also call for a taxi.
Car, Scooter & Bicycle Rentals
- Car Rentals: Available in Kos Town, the airport, and major resorts. A car is a good option for exploring the whole island.
- Scooters & ATVs: Popular among tourists and available for rent at reasonable rates.
- Bicycles: Kos is very bike-friendly, with dedicated cycling lanes in Kos Town and beyond.
Walking
- Kos Town is compact and walkable, and many tourist sites are within easy walking distance.
The best time to visit
The best time to visit Kos, Greece, depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and activities. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Best Overall Time: May – June & September – October
- Weather: Warm (23-30°C / 73-86°F), pleasant sea temperatures.
- Crowds: Fewer tourists than peak summer.
- Activities: Perfect for sightseeing, hiking, and relaxing on the beach without extreme heat.
2. Best for Beach & Nightlife: July – August
- Weather: Hot (30-35°C / 86-95°F), perfect for swimming.
- Crowds: Peak tourist season, especially in Kos Town and Kardamena.
- Activities: Lively beach parties, festivals, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
3. Best for Budget & Tranquility: April & November
- Weather: Mild (18-22°C / 64-72°F), but cooler sea temperatures.
- Crowds: Very few tourists, peaceful atmosphere.
- Activities: Great for exploring ancient ruins, nature, and authentic Greek culture.
4. Avoid: December – March
- Weather: Cool (12-17°C / 54-63°F), occasional rain.
- Crowds: Very quiet, many hotels and attractions closed.
- Activities: Best for budget travelers and those seeking solitude.
Where to stay
1. Mid Range: Maritina Hotel
Maritina Hotel is a 3-star establishment located in the heart of Kos Town, Greece. Open year-round, the hotel is renowned for its warm hospitality and friendly staff. It features 81 recently renovated rooms equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, mini-bars, flat-screen televisions, and private furnished balconies.
Guests can enjoy various facilities, including a rooftop pool, sun terrace, and a café-bar-restaurant overlooking nearby archaeological sites. The hotel also offers a fully equipped conference room suitable for meetings and events.
Its central location provides easy access to local attractions like Kos Castle and the Ancient Agora, as well as numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants within walking distance.
2. Luxury – D’ Andrea Lagoon All Suites
D’ Andrea Lagoon All Suites is a luxury adults-only resort located in Marmari on the island of Kos, Greece. The resort features 80 elegantly designed suites, many of which offer direct swim-up access to a central lagoon-style pool. Accommodations are equipped with plush beds, cozy sofas, large walk-in showers, and soaking bathtubs. Floor-to-ceiling windows and terraces provide serene views of the lagoon pool.
The resort offers a variety of dining options, including a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, as well as bars and lounges for guests to enjoy. Additional amenities include a fitness center, private beach area, and a range of leisure activities such as cycling and tennis.
3. Budget – Olympia Hotel
The Olympia Hotel is a 2-star, family-run establishment centrally located in Kos Town, Greece. Situated just 100 meters from the main square, it offers guests convenient access to local shops, cafes, and the nearest beach, which is approximately a 5-minute walk away.
Accommodations and Amenities:
Rooms: The hotel features air-conditioned rooms, each equipped with a private balcony, TV, refrigerator, and en-suite bathroom with a shower.
bathrooms include free toiletries and a shower.
