KosTravel Tips

Typical weather seasons by month.

When the city is peak, balanced, or quieter.

Typical monthly AQI index trends.

What to know before drinking water, eating street food, or dining out.

• Tap water is generally usable, but bottled water tastes better in many villages.
• Order fish by weight before it is cooked; confirm the final price clearly.
• Choose tavernas with short menus and visible local clientele, especially away from the harbor strip.
• In summer, avoid seafood displayed without ice or strong turnover.

Common scams and safety precautions during your stay.

• Kos is low-risk, but beach bags and rental scooters are easy targets.
• Agree taxi fares for rural beaches before departure if the meter is not used.
• Avoid commission-driven boat sellers around the harbor; buy from established desks.
• Check rental vehicle photos, fuel level, and insurance excess before signing.

Respectful behavior for temples, neighborhoods, and restaurants.

• Greet before asking for service; directness without greeting reads cold.
• Do not enter archaeological areas outside marked paths; fines are real.
• Beachwear belongs at the beach, not inside shops or restaurants in Kos Town.
• Late dining is normal; pushing for early dinner service limits better options.

Plugs, voltage, and electrical charging standards.

Tipping customs for dining, taxis, and services.

• Round up in cafes and taxis when service is efficient.
• At restaurants, 5 to 10 percent is enough for good service.
• Leave cash directly with the server; card tips are less reliable.
• Do not tip aggressively in family tavernas; it can feel performative.

Essential local laws and regulations to respect.

• Helmets are required on scooters and police checks increase in summer.
• Do not remove shells, stones, or fragments from archaeological areas.
• Wild camping and open fires are restricted, especially near dry coastal scrub.
• Carry a driving license for rentals; digital copies may not satisfy checks.

Health advice for climate, insects, and well-being.

• The summer sun is severe between 12:00 and 16:00; plan shade, not stamina.
• Meltemi wind can hide dehydration on beaches and bike routes.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes on rougher north coast beaches.
• Book travel insurance that covers scooter or quad use if renting one.

Simple local phrases that help with greetings and polite conversation.

Useful phrases for shopping, bills, and price negotiations.

Phrases for dietary preferences, vegetarian choices, and water.

Polite ways to decline offers, transport, or street vendors.

Directions for finding toilets, basic shopping, and asking help.

Emergency calls, hospitals, and help phrases in the local language.