Port information & tips for Kos
Kos is a sun-drenched jewel of the Dodecanese, combining authentic Greek island charm with a deeply rooted historical heritage. The harbor is located right by the picturesque basin of the island's capital, where turquoise water meets ancient monuments and a lively, palm-fringed promenade. At the same time, visitors will find the imposing Neratzia Fortress, the legendary Plane Tree of Hippocrates, and the extensive excavations of the ancient Agora in the immediate vicinity of the pier. Thanks to excellent connections, cruise ships dock at the central pier in the Port of Kos (Limenas Ko), from where the charming old town and all major sights can be reached easily and accessibly in just a few minutes on foot.
The port of Kos is idyllically and centrally located in Kos Town, making it an ideal starting point for your cruise. Thanks to its close proximity to the old town and good connections, arrival is convenient and straightforward.
Airplane
Arrival from the DACH region is primarily via Kos International Airport "Hippocrates" (KGS), which is located about 25 to 27 kilometers from the cruise port. Direct flights connect the island with many European cities, although a relaxed arrival the day before is often recommended due to the flight duration.
Transfer & Shuttle
From Kos Airport, you can reach the port in about 30 to 35 minutes. A budget-friendly option is the KTEL public buses, whose tickets can be purchased directly on the bus in cash and cost approximately 2 to 3.20 euros. For more comfort, taxis are available directly at the airport, and private transfer services such as Transfeero or urlaubstransfers offer pre-bookable shuttles or private rides that take you directly to the port or to your pre-cruise hotel.
Pre-Cruise Hotel
For a particularly relaxed start to your cruise, an overnight stay in Kos Town is recommended. Numerous hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the port, allowing you to reach the ship flexibly and without time pressure on embarkation day. Many accommodations also offer comfortable amenities for a restful night before departure.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that you will generally receive a fixed time slot for check-in with your travel documents, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port accordingly and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time - depending on the cruise line and destination area - is usually about one hour before the scheduled departure.
The same applies during the cruise: for shore excursions, you should be back on board at least one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as docking and departure times can change at short notice.
