Kos or Cos is a Greek island, part of the Dodecanese island chain in the southeastern Aegean Sea. Kos is the third-largest island of the Dodecanese by area, after Rhodes and Karpathos; it has a population of 33,388, making it the second-most populous of the Dodecanese, after Rhodes. The island measures 40 by 8 kilometers.
Warnings & Dangers in Kos
OVERALL RISK : LOW
Kos is considered one of the safest cities in the region. The crime rate is low here. You should beware of the outskirts of the city and watch your belongings, especially during the holidays.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW
Public transport is well-developed and safe. Taxis are convenient for getting around, but sometimes drivers can rip off tourists at exorbitant prices. Make sure the taxi has a taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Like any major city in Kos, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings, and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW
Kos is not exposed to any serious risks of natural disasters.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
The risk of serious robbery and armed attacks is shallow in Kos. There is little danger of these attacks in the suburbs. However, the likelihood that you will be attacked is minimal.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in Kos. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
SCAMS RISK : LOW
Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Kos. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.
How Safe Is Kos for Tourists?
Kos is a very safe city to travel to.
The crime index here is at a low level.
The main problems are associated with petty theft and vandalism.
Kos is a very safe area, many tourists come here because it is safe and good conditions for recreation.
In this place in Greece, you just need to behave like in any other city: watch your belongings and surroundings, do not trust strangers who offer or ask for help.
The area of the bar street and the port is not the safest at night (sometimes fights to break out between drunken youth).
There are guards at the exit from the port.
The city has a well-developed police service, so you can always contact it in case of a controversial case or incident.
Pickpocketing and bag theft is a serious problem in Greece, especially on beaches.
Therefore, never leave your bags unattended when you go swimming in the sea.
And it is better not to carry valuables and expensive devices with you at all – leave them in the hotel safe.
There are many drinkers on the streets at night, so you should be careful and avoid drunken fights.
Don’t get involved in them yourself and don’t get drunk.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Kos?
The visa policy of the Schengen Area is set by the European Union and applies to the Schengen Area and other EU member states except for Ireland. The visa policy allows nationals of certain countries to enter the Schengen Area via air, land, or sea without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Which Currency Is Used in Kos?
The euro is the official currency in Greece. The euro is divided into 100 cents.
How's the Weather like in Kos?
The weather in Kos is sunny and warm during summer, mild during autumn and spring, and cold during winter. It has all four seasons of the year, although they are milder. The best time to visit is from May to September.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Kos?
Kos International Airport is an international airport on the island of Kos in Greece. It is located near Andimachia Village and is operated by Fraport AG; all operations within the airport are handled by Swissport.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Kos?
Kos is one of the Greek-owned Dodecanese islands known for its extensive sandy beaches. The island has preserved many Greek and Roman architectural monuments. There are especially many of them in the port city of Kos, over which the 15th century Neratzia Castle rises. To the south of the castle there is an ancient agora (square) with columns and ruins of a temple and a sanctuary. Villa Casa Romana, built in the 3rd century, is famous for its colorful mosaics.
Is the Water in Kos Safe to Drink?
Tap water is safe to drink.
Is Uber Safe in Kos?
There is no Uber taxi in Kos. You can use any other local taxi services.