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Old Town Kos

4.7
·8k reviews·Kos, Greece

A charming historic heart with narrow, winding streets, medieval architecture, and vibrant tavernas, especially magical at night.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Magical atmosphere, cozy and romantic

CrowdMedium
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Old Town, Kos - Image 1

Old Town Kos

Best Time

Evenings

Magical atmosphere, cozy and romantic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming historic heart with narrow, winding streets, medieval architecture, and vibrant tavernas, especially magical at night.

4.7
(8k reviews)

"The small streets with colorful houses and shops are great for walking around. In the evening with all the lights, it feels very cozy and romantic."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Savor Halloumi Gyros

Don't miss the amazing halloumi gyros! Many visitors rave about this delicious local specialty. :food:

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Alleyways

Get lost in the charming narrow streets, discovering hidden gems and picturesque spots. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Charming Old Town Streets

Charming Old Town Streets

Wander through narrow, winding lanes filled with colorful shops, cafes, and Byzantine/medieval buildings. A truly picturesque experience.

Evening Atmosphere

Evening Atmosphere

Experience the cozy and romantic ambiance as the Old Town lights up after dark. Perfect for a relaxed evening.

Local Tavernas & Cafes

Local Tavernas & Cafes

Savor delicious Greek food, from halloumi gyros to meze, in the many inviting eateries.

Medieval Architecture

Medieval Architecture

Discover impressive Byzantine and medieval buildings interspersed with vibrant modern shops.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Evening Charm

Old Town Kos truly comes alive after sunset. The narrow streets, illuminated by charming lights, create a cozy and romantic atmosphere perfect for evening strolls and dining. Many visitors recommend experiencing this magical transformation.

Navigate the Bustling Streets

While the Old Town is full of delightful shops and tavernas, be prepared for some enthusiastic restaurant staff. Some reviewers mention being approached forcefully. Stay firm and polite if you have a specific place in mind.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Magical atmosphere, cozy and romantic
Crowd
Medium
When
October
Why
Potentially great sunny weather
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Recommend all of this 🥰🥰 The food is amazing!! Especially halloumi gyros 🤤 #greece #kos #foryoupage #visitkos 🧿
@bellasarnhav
35.9K likes • 1.4M views

🎯 Savor Halloumi Gyros

Don't miss the amazing halloumi gyros! Many visitors rave about this delicious local specialty. :food:

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Alleyways

Get lost in the charming narrow streets, discovering hidden gems and picturesque spots. :camerawithflash:

one of the best experiences of my trip, I wish you all the success with your business @Sunshine ☀️🇬🇷 #kos #kosoldtown #kossouvenirs #greece #souvenir #souvenirs #holiday #kosgreece
@beckycreates
22.8K likes • 337.3K views
Another night in Kos, Old Town and tonight we hit up @ambrosiakos for some amazing Meze and Gyros! #gyros #meze #kos #greece #greekfood #greekrestaurant #kosfood #saturday #restaurant #food #foodie #foodblogger #foodstagram #halloumi #pita #holiday #travel #nomnom #yummy #grillporn
realamusedbouche
65 likes • 4.7K views

🌙 Enjoy the Evening Lights

The Old Town is incredibly cozy and romantic with its evening illuminations. :sparkles:

🛡️ Explore Medieval Ruins

Discover impressive ancient ruins and the walls of a medieval castle for history buffs. :historic_building:

Kos, Greece travel guide 🗺️🧭 #kos #greece #greecetravel #eurosummer #europe #greecestagram #griechenland #europa #travelblogger #grieche #greekisland Places to go📍 Kos Old town Asclepieion Kos Archaeological Museum of Kos Ancient Agora Roman Odeon Kos Hippocrates Tree Nerantzia Castle Kardamena Agios Stefanos Zia village and sunset at Zia Mastihari 3 islands tour (Kalymnos, Pserimos, Plat...
_faroutfarah
479 likes • 20.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Savor Halloumi Gyros

Don't miss the amazing halloumi gyros! Many visitors rave about this delicious local specialty. :food:

🚶‍♀️ Wander the Alleyways

Get lost in the charming narrow streets, discovering hidden gems and picturesque spots. :camerawithflash:

🌙 Enjoy the Evening Lights

The Old Town is incredibly cozy and romantic with its evening illuminations. :sparkles:

🛡️ Explore Medieval Ruins

Discover impressive ancient ruins and the walls of a medieval castle for history buffs. :historic_building:

🛍️ Shop for Souvenirs

Find unique souvenirs, from traditional items to 'I love Kos' memorabilia. :gift:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(8k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Old Town Kos for its beautiful, cozy, and romantic atmosphere, especially in the evenings when the streets are illuminated. The charming narrow lanes filled with colorful shops and inviting tavernas are a major draw. While the food is generally terrific, some reviewers note that restaurant staff can be overly persistent in trying to attract customers.

"Such a beautiful place to visit. The small streets with colorful houses and shops are great for walking around. In the evening with all the lights, it feels very cozy and romantic. There are many nice tavernas and cafés where you can eat, drink and enjoy the atmosphere"

Shadi

"Really impressive old town. Some beautiful architecture interspersed with the tourist shopping stalls and vendors offering a mixture of modern trinkets and more traditional items including evil eyes and 'i love kos' memorabilia."

Jamie Woolcock

"Kos old town is a wonderful bustling town full of activity. There are lots of little touristy type shops to get lost in. The only down side are the restaurants. Although there is a wide selection and the food was terrific there are a few who have staff on the street rather forcefully trying to get you into their restaurants and will actually get in your way and stop you. So be prepared to be forceful back."

Andy Gledhill

What People Like

Beautiful evening atmosphere
Charming narrow streets
Delicious Greek food

What People Dislike

Persistent restaurant staff

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old Town Kos is easily accessible as it's the main town area. If you're arriving by ferry, it's a short walk from the port. If you're staying elsewhere on the island, local buses or taxis are readily available to bring you to the town center. :bus: :taxi:

Parking can be challenging in the immediate vicinity of the Old Town due to its narrow streets. It's often best to park in designated lots a short walk away and explore on foot. :parking:

Yes, Old Town Kos is best explored on foot. The narrow streets are pedestrian-friendly, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere. :athletic_shoe:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Old Town Kos itself is a public area and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander its streets and squares. :ticket:

The Old Town is always accessible. However, individual shops and restaurants have their own operating hours, typically opening in the morning and staying open late into the evening, especially during peak season. :clock1:

While the Old Town is free to enter, some specific historical sites within or near it, like Nerantzia Castle or the Archaeological Museum, may have small entrance fees. :euro:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include wandering the charming streets, exploring the medieval Nerantzia Castle, visiting the Ancient Agora, and seeing the Hippocrates Tree. The atmosphere itself is a major draw. :star:

Absolutely! Old Town Kos is incredibly photogenic, with its narrow alleys, colorful flowers, charming architecture, and vibrant evening lights. The marina and castle also offer great photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:

Yes, guided tours are often available, offering insights into the history and culture of the Old Town. Check with local tourist information centers or online platforms for options. :guide_dog:

You'll find a mix of souvenir shops selling trinkets, evil eyes, and 'I love Kos' items, alongside boutiques, jewelry stores, and shops selling local crafts and products. :shopping_bags:

The main streets are generally accessible, but the narrow, cobbled alleys can be challenging for wheelchairs or those with significant mobility issues. Some historical sites might also have limited accessibility. :wheelchair:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Must-tries include halloumi gyros, saganaki cheese with honey, various meze platters, and fresh seafood. Many tavernas offer authentic Greek cuisine. :forkandknife:

Zorbas, Ambrosia, Porticos 1943, and Elia are frequently recommended for their delicious food and atmosphere. Explore the side streets for hidden gems too! :restaurant:

Many Greek tavernas offer vegetarian options like Greek salad, vegetable meze, and dishes featuring feta cheese. Vegan options might require specific requests, but vegetable-based dishes are usually available. :leafy_green:

Prices vary, but you can expect to pay around €10-€20 for a main course in a taverna. Meze and gyros are generally more affordable. :moneywithwings:

Yes, there are numerous cafes and bars offering a wide range of drinks, from traditional Greek coffee and ouzo to cocktails and fresh juices. :coffee:

📸 📸 Photography

The fish house taverna alley, streets from Diagoras to Eleftherias Square, the gate to Hippocrates Tree, Zorbas restaurant, and the marina views from Kos Castle are highly recommended. :camera:

Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Evenings are magical with the town lit up, creating a romantic ambiance. :sunriseovermountains: :city_sunset:

Capture the narrow, flower-adorned streets, the vibrant market gates, and the contrast between ancient ruins and modern life. The illuminated streets at night are a must-capture. :bulb:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old Town Kos offers a delightful experience for families, with its charming streets providing a sense of adventure for younger explorers. The abundance of souvenir shops can be a fun distraction, and many tavernas offer kid-friendly options like gyros. TikTok While the narrow, cobbled streets might be a bit challenging with strollers, the main pathways are generally manageable. Consider visiting during the day for easier navigation and to enjoy the sights before the evening crowds gather. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Old Town Kos can be explored on a budget by focusing on its free attractions. Wandering the streets, admiring the architecture, and enjoying the evening atmosphere costs nothing. Reddit For affordable eats, look for gyros and souvlaki stands, which are plentiful and delicious. TikTok Many cafes offer reasonably priced coffee and snacks. While some restaurants can be pricey, seeking out smaller, less prominent tavernas might offer better value. Instagram

💖 Couples

The Old Town of Kos is incredibly romantic, especially in the evenings. The cozy, illuminated streets create a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand. TikTokReddit Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of the many charming tavernas, perhaps trying some meze to share. Instagram+1 The atmosphere is ideal for intimate conversations and creating lasting memories. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Stroll Through History

Old Town Kos is a fascinating blend of history, with remnants of its Byzantine and medieval past visible throughout. The Nerantzia Castle, a imposing fortress built by the Knights of St. John, stands as a testament to its strategic importance. Wandering through its ramparts offers panoramic views of the harbor and the town. Nearby, the Ancient Agora provides a glimpse into the bustling marketplace of antiquity, with its scattered ruins and columns. The Hippocrates Tree, though a modern replica, stands in the square named after the father of medicine, a symbolic nod to the island's rich heritage. Instagram

Beyond the major sites, the very fabric of the Old Town tells a story. Narrow, winding streets are lined with a mix of traditional Greek architecture and buildings from various historical periods. You'll find charming squares like Diagoras Square and Eleftherias Square, which serve as central hubs for local life and offer a chance to soak in the atmosphere. The Archaeological Museum of Kos also houses artifacts that further illuminate the island's past. Instagram

Many visitors are struck by the juxtaposition of ancient history with the vibrant present. The Old Town is not just a historical relic; it's a living, breathing community. The presence of numerous shops, cafes, and tavernas nestled within these historic surroundings creates a unique and engaging experience. It’s this seamless integration of past and present that makes exploring Old Town Kos so captivating. Reddit

Culinary Delights of Old Town Kos

Old Town Kos is a paradise for food lovers, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences, from quick street food to elaborate meze. Halloumi gyros are a standout, with many visitors specifically recommending them for their delicious taste and satisfying nature. TikTokInstagram+1 Another highly praised dish is saganaki cheese with honey and sesame, described as incredibly delicious and unforgettable. Instagram

The town is dotted with numerous tavernas and restaurants, each offering a unique ambiance and menu. Zorbas is frequently mentioned as a vibrant and authentic Greek taverna, perfect for a memorable Greek feast. Instagram Ambrosia Kos is also noted for its amazing meze and gyros, providing a delightful dining experience. Instagram For those seeking fresh seafood with island vibes, a rooftop restaurant in the heart of the Old Town is a must-visit. Instagram

Beyond specific dishes, the overall dining experience in Old Town Kos is characterized by its warmth and authenticity. Many establishments are family-run, contributing to a welcoming atmosphere. Instagram While exploring, be prepared for enthusiastic restaurant staff who might try to draw you in, a common characteristic of bustling tourist areas. Reddit Exploring the side streets can lead to discovering hidden culinary gems and experiencing the true flavors of Greece. Instagram

Capturing the Essence: Photography in Old Town Kos

Old Town Kos is a photographer's dream, offering a wealth of picturesque scenes at every turn. The narrow, winding streets adorned with colorful flowers and charming architecture provide endless opportunities for captivating shots. Instagram+1 The evening ambiance, with the town illuminated by soft lights, creates a magical and romantic atmosphere that is perfect for capturing memorable photos. TikTokReddit

Specific spots highly recommended for photography include the fish house taverna alley, the streets connecting Diagoras Square to Eleftherias Square, and the gate leading to the Hippocrates Tree. Instagram The marina view from Kos Castle offers a broader perspective of the town and its surroundings. Instagram Don't miss the Agora market gate and the Roman Odeon for historical context in your images. Instagram

For the best light, consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – when the sun casts a warm glow. However, the illuminated streets at night offer a unique charm that is equally worth capturing. TikTok Remember to look for the details: the vibrant decorations, the ancient stones, and the lively interactions that bring the Old Town to life. Instagram