In the centre of the Dodecanese chain of islands, third largest to Rhodes and Karpathos, only 15 miles from Bodrum in Turkey. It’s possible to see the Turkish coast from Kos.

The island brings back tourists every year due to its sandy beaches which are attractive for families, vivid nightlife–popular with groups and rich history.

Note: Kos is really a package holiday destination, hence attracting beach, party crowds and families, so it’s not a ‘get away from it all’ island to see traditional Greece – although you can if hire a car and go to the mountains to see some traditional villages such as the popular Zia village, 10 miles south of Kos Town.

Lovers of history will appreciate the Asklepieion ancient medical centre in Kos Town, built around the third century BC–the most important archaeological site on the island and where Hippocrates–Father of Medicine–supposedly received his training.