Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Kos. Kos Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 90 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Kos, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Greece vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Kos is roughly 90 minutes from KGS via Public Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from KGS to Kos
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Bus | ~90 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~110 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Public Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at KGS can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Kos for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Kos:
Transport to the city and back runs about $11 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $22 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $43 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Kos, we’d suggest Ancient Agora & Plane Tree of Hippocrates and Castle of the Knights (Neratzia Castle). Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside KGS, you can spend time at Skyserv Handling Services Lounge or try Hellenic Duty Free Shops. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Kos, local travelers recommend Elia. If you have time for a second stop, Barbayiannis Ouzeri is another popular pick.
Back at KGS, Grigoris Mikrogevmata (KGS) is the go-to. Aeronáft Bar (Airport) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at KGS, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Kos itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Greece that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Sleep & Lounge Options at KGS
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, KGS has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Kos exploring the streets or relaxing at KGS, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.