Thinking of visiting Kos, Greece? While this popular Greek island is famous for its gorgeous sandy beaches, crystal-clear Aegean waters, and rich ancient history, there are 4 major things you might HATE about Kos if you aren’t prepared.
From chaotic harbor cruise bookings and overcrowded mountain villages at sunset to strict new entry rules at historical sites and bicycle lane hazards in Kos Town, I reveal the top tourist traps and holiday annoyances on Kos, and give you practical, stress-free solutions on how to avoid them completely.
TIMECODES
00:00 – Kos Travel Traps to Avoid
00:28 – The “Party Boat Roulette” (Three Island Cruise Tips)
02:00 – The “Zia Sunset Stampede” & Better Alternatives
03:55 – The “Asklepion Rush Hour” & New Timed Entry Rules
05:38 – The “Kos Town Bike Lane Gamble” & Cycling Safety
07:10 – Final Tips for a Stress-Free Kos Holiday
What this video is about
In this video, I break down the four most common holiday frustrations travellers face when visiting Kos, Greece, providing honest advice and insider knowledge from a savvy fellow traveller’s perspective.
I start by tackling the dreaded “Party Boat Roulette,” explaining how to avoid getting stuck on an eight-hour booze cruise when booking a Three Island Cruise from Kos Town harbor, and how to spot the quieter, family-friendly boats instead.
Next, I explore the reality of the famous Zia sunset, highlighting why the evening coach tour rush causes severe traffic bottlenecks and table shortages, while sharing peaceful alternative sunset spots along the western coast near Mastichari.
I then dive into two major logistical challenges on the island: visiting the ancient site of the Asklepion and navigating Kos Town safely. You’ll learn how to navigate the new official timed-entry ticket system at the Asklepion to avoid being turned away or waiting in the scorching heat during peak coach hours.
Finally, I cover the daily hazards of cycling along Kos Town’s palm-lined avenues, giving you simple guidelines for riding safely, avoiding pedestrian collisions, and finding the best time of day to explore on two wheels.
Playlists on Our Channel
Find the Perfect Place to Stay
All of Kos – https://bit.ly/stay-kos-island
Kos Town – https://bit.ly/stay-kos-town
Kardamena – https://bit.ly/stay-kos-kardamena
Kefalos – https://bit.ly/stay-kos-kefalos
Mastichari – https://bit.ly/stay-kos-mastichari
Tigaki – https://bit.ly/stay-kos-tigaki
Asklepion Entry Ticket
https://bit.ly/kos-asklepion
Book top-rated local tours, boat trips, and hidden gem experiences
https://bit.ly/to-do-kos
https://bit.ly/to-do-kos-boat-cruises
https://bit.ly/to-do-kos-day-trips
https://bit.ly/to-do-kos-for-kids
https://bit.ly/to-do-kos-guided-tours
https://bit.ly/to-do-kos-island-tours
https://bit.ly/to-do-kos-sunset
https://bit.ly/to-do-kos-volcanoes
https://bit.ly/to-do-kos-wine
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Thanks for watching
Ian
10 Comments
Just to be clear, I don't hate Kos at all. It’s actually one of my absolute favourite Greek islands, but these four things can definitely catch you out if you aren't prepared.
Do you agree with these four? Which of these traps would annoy you the most on holiday, or do you have a Kos tip of your own to add? Let me know and I’ll join in.
Thanks
Ian
Is going in October too late?
As a lover of Greece i find your channel helpful.
As we are visiting kos for the first time may 27, these videos are always useful. Diolch!
We are off to Kos for the first time in September, so this is really useful – thank you.
Dear Ian, could you please upload a vlog on the Peloponnese region? Specifically, I do not find a good local transport / Bus between Ancient Olympia and the Epidaurus Theatre.
I heard there are so many strikes in Greece. How does it affect adversely on transporation and other amenities?
The photo you used to describe Asklepion Rush Hour is that AI?
Sorry if ive asked this already bud but do you perfer Kos to Rhodes? And if so..please say why. Thanks bud
In Kos right now and loving it!
Is it when you're in the sea when toilet paper & numbers two's float on by?
Of course you can experience this at any Greek island.