Neratzia Castle (Castle of the Knights) Kos Greece
A 14th-century seaside fortress offering panoramic views of Kos harbor, rich in medieval history and WWII remnants.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Neratzia Castle (Castle of the Knights) Kos Greece
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 14th-century seaside fortress offering panoramic views of Kos harbor, rich in medieval history and WWII remnants.
"Free entry, stunning harbor views, and impressive medieval architecture make this a must-visit."
Bring Your Own Water 💧
Facilities are limited inside, so pack water to stay hydrated during your exploration .
Wear Comfy Shoes 👟
Uneven terrain and some climbing require sturdy footwear for safe exploration .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Harbor Views
Castle ramparts
Breathtaking vistas of Kos harbor and town, especially stunning at sunset.
Medieval Architecture
Throughout the castle
Explore the impressive 14th-century fortress built by the Knights of St. John.
WWII German Occupations
Various sections
Discover remnants of its use as a German base during World War II.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Your Own Water 💧
Facilities are limited inside, so pack water to stay hydrated during your exploration.
Wear Comfy Shoes 👟
Uneven terrain and some climbing require sturdy footwear for safe exploration.
Capture the Sunset 🌅
The views are spectacular during golden hour, perfect for photography.
Free Entry! 🎉
Enjoy exploring this historical gem without any admission fee.+1
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Your Own Water 💧
Facilities are limited inside, so pack water to stay hydrated during your exploration.
Wear Comfy Shoes 👟
Uneven terrain and some climbing require sturdy footwear for safe exploration.
Capture the Sunset 🌅
The views are spectacular during golden hour, perfect for photography.
Free Entry! 🎉
Enjoy exploring this historical gem without any admission fee.+1
Explore the Tunnels 🔦
Venture into the unlit tunnels for a bit of adventure and fun.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Neratzia Castle for its impressive medieval architecture, stunning panoramic views of Kos harbor, and free entry. It's a great spot for history buffs and photographers, especially at sunset. However, some find the lack of information and facilities inside disappointing, with parts of the castle showing signs of disrepair.
"Would of like to explore this place but like most of kos structures and monuments they are either closed or abandoned with no information. Seems most of it is need of a massive influx of cash to get them back to some of way that tourist can visit and learn the history"
Shaun Edwards
"Visiting this place during my trip to Kos was a delight. It offers fantastic photo opportunities while exploring. History enthusiasts will particularly enjoy this site. A leisurely stroll takes about an hour, or an hour and a half if you stop to take pictures.
On the top of the castle provides stunning views of Kos. It's advisable to bring a drink with you, as there were no facilities inside during our visit. The remnants of damage from a past earthquake are visible. Entry was free when I went. Convenient parking is available nearby, so there's little walking required. The locals are quite welcoming. I liked it so much that I visited twice."
T.H. Gartshore
"Entrance to castle and walls from outside look really very beautiful. Unfortunatelly inside is not any exhibition. Which is very sad, it would be awesome place for museumabout history of castle.
You can go around castle (part of walls are closed because they are collapsing) and take pictures of beautiful views."
dalimil hyka
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Neratzia Castle is conveniently located at the entrance of Kos Town harbor. Many visitors find it easily accessible by foot from the town center or by car, with ample parking available nearby. It's a prominent landmark, making it hard to miss.
Yes, convenient parking is available close to the castle, minimizing the need for extensive walking. This makes it an accessible option for many visitors.
Absolutely! The castle is situated at the entrance of Kos Town harbor, making it a pleasant walk from most parts of the town. It's a great way to experience the coastal atmosphere.
While there isn't direct public transport to the castle itself, Kos Town is well-served by local buses. From the main bus station in Kos Town, it's a short and easy walk to the castle.
Most visitors approach from the harbor side, walking along the waterfront. This offers a dramatic first view of the imposing fortress.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The great news is that entry to Neratzia Castle is completely free! This makes it an accessible historical site for all travelers.+1
While the castle is generally accessible, some reviews suggest it can feel abandoned or closed at times, possibly due to ongoing maintenance or lack of staffing. It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully enjoy the views.
No advance booking is required as the entry is free. You can typically walk right in and explore at your own pace.
Official guided tours are not widely advertised. However, some visitors enjoy exploring independently and sharing historical insights with each other.
While entry is free, there are occasional mentions of parts being closed or the site feeling unmanaged. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside Neratzia Castle, you'll find impressive medieval architecture, remnants of its history including its use during WWII, and stunning panoramic views of Kos harbor. While there isn't an exhibition, the structure itself tells a story.
A leisurely stroll through the castle, including time for photos, typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half. Some visitors might spend longer if they delve into every nook and cranny.
Unfortunately, facilities inside the castle are very limited. It's advisable to bring your own water and use restrooms before you enter.
For the most part, yes, especially during daylight hours. Some parts of the walls may be closed due to collapse risk. Exploring the unlit tunnels can be adventurous but requires caution.
Built between 1380 and 1514 by the Knights of St. John, it served as a strategic fortress. It also saw use by German forces during WWII.+1
📸 📸 Photography
The ramparts offer incredible panoramic views of Kos harbor and town, especially at sunset. The imposing medieval architecture itself is also highly photogenic.
Absolutely! The sunset views from the castle ramparts are frequently praised and make for stunning photographic opportunities.
While some drone footage exists, drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in historical or protected areas.
Landscape photography capturing the harbor views, architectural photography of the medieval structures, and historical photography are all excellent choices.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always wise to be respectful of the site and any potential signage regarding professional photography or drone usage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be aware that the castle is largely undeveloped, with limited facilities. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is essential, and comfortable, sturdy shoes are a must for everyone. While the historical context might be lost on very young children, the sheer scale and exploration aspect can make it an engaging outing. The free entry also makes it a budget-friendly option for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there are no facilities inside, packing your own water and snacks further reduces costs. The castle provides a significant historical and scenic experience that rivals paid attractions, making it a top recommendation for those looking to maximize their travel budget while still experiencing the best of Kos.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the late afternoon to capture the best light. While drone footage is available,
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Beyond its medieval past, the castle also bears the marks of more recent history. During World War II, it was occupied and utilized by German forces, adding another layer to its complex story.
Visitors often note the castle's free entry, making it an accessible historical site. However, some reviews mention a lack of informational displays, suggesting that independent research or a good imagination is key to fully appreciating its significance.
Photography Paradise
The castle's imposing medieval architecture itself provides endless photographic opportunities. From the sturdy stone walls and battlements to the intricate details of its construction, there's a sense of grandeur that translates beautifully into images.
While drone footage exists,
Exploring the Castle Grounds
Some brave explorers venture into the castle's unlit tunnels, adding an element of adventure to their visit.
It's worth noting that facilities within the castle are minimal. Travelers are advised to bring their own water and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on varied surfaces.
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