Kos, the island of Hippocrates, blends archaeology with picturesque villages. The top sight is the Asklepion, the ancient healing sanctuary 4 km outside town. In Kos Town you'll see the Castle of the Knights, the Ancient Agora, Casa Romana and the Plane Tree of Hippocrates. For sunset, head up to the mountain village of Zia.
Kos, the island of Hippocrates, combines major archaeology with picturesque mountain villages. The good news is that most sights are clustered together: in Kos Town you can see them on foot or by bike in half a day, while a few more โ the Asklepion, the mountain villages and the castles โ are worth a short drive.
Top sights in Kos
| Sight | What it is | Where |
|---|---|---|
| Asklepion | Ancient healing sanctuary | 4 km SW of town |
| Neratzia Castle | Castle of the Knights | Kos Town harbour |
| Ancient Agora | Roman ruins | Town centre |
| Casa Romana | Roman villa | Kos Town |
| Plane Tree of Hippocrates | Historic tree | Town centre |
| Zia | Village & sunset | Mountain interior |
The Asklepion
The island's top sight: the ancient healing sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, where Hippocrates taught, about 4 km south-west of town. It is built amphitheatrically over three terraces linked by monumental staircases, with the temples and sacred buildings on the upper levels. From the top, the view over the sea and the Asia Minor coast opposite is unforgettable. Allow about an hour; in summer a little tourist train also runs up from town.
Kos Town: castle & antiquities
Guarding the harbour entrance stands the Castle of the Knights (Neratzia), a fortress of the Order of St John reached by a bridge beside Plane Tree Square. There you'll find the legendary Plane Tree of Hippocrates, under which the physician is said to have taught. The Ancient Agora spreads through the centre โ one of the largest open-air archaeological sites in the Mediterranean, with free access โ while nearby you'll see the Roman villa Casa Romana with its mosaics, the Roman Odeon and the Archaeological Museum.
Zia & the interior
Zia, built on the slopes of Mount Dikeos about 15 minutes from town, is the most famous mountain village โ renowned for its sunset over the Aegean, traditional tavernas and shops selling local honey, herbs and handmade goods. Further inland, Paleo Pyli is an abandoned Byzantine settlement with a hilltop castle and views, while in the centre of the island Antimachia Castle still keeps its walls from the era of the Knights.
When to go & practical tips
Aim for morning or late afternoon at the archaeological sites to avoid the heat โ wear comfortable shoes and bring water and a hat, as there is little shade. Organised sites and museums charge admission, while many open monuments in town are free. A realistic combination: the town on foot in the morning, the Asklepion at midday and sunset in Zia.
How to visit them
The town sights are easily done on foot. For the Asklepion, Zia and the castles, a vehicle rental or a private transfer is handy. See all the options in getting around Kos.
Read also: The Best Beaches in Kos: A Guide by Area
Frequently asked questions
The Asklepion, the ancient healing sanctuary of Hippocrates, about 4 km outside Kos Town.
Most town monuments can be reached on foot. For the Asklepion, Zia and the castles you need a vehicle or a transfer.
Yes, the organised archaeological sites and museums have an entrance fee.