Kos Day Trip
A swift ferry ride from Bodrum, Turkey, transports you to the historic Greek island of Kos for a day of ancient wonders and Aegean charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Ferry schedules align
Kos Day Trip
Best Time
Ferry schedules align
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A swift ferry ride from Bodrum, Turkey, transports you to the historic Greek island of Kos for a day of ancient wonders and Aegean charm.
"Seeing two countries in one day, where else would you get it? Definitely worth it!"
Book Ferry in Advance
Secure your tickets early to avoid long queues and ensure your spot on the ferry.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring ancient ruins and charming streets.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hippocrates Tree
Kos Town
Stand beneath the ancient plane tree where Hippocrates is said to have taught. A symbol of history and wisdom.
Alikes Salt Lake
Kos
Witness flamingos in their natural habitat at this serene salt lake. A peaceful escape with stunning natural beauty.
Mylos Beachbar
Kos
Relax with cocktails and sea views at this laid-back beachbar. Perfect for a chill day by the Aegean.
Zia Village
Kos
Experience breathtaking views and a charming atmosphere in this picturesque mountain village.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ferry Tickets & Timing
Day Trip Essentials
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Ferry in Advance
Secure your tickets early to avoid long queues and ensure your spot on the ferry.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring ancient ruins and charming streets.
Rent a Car on Kos
Best way to explore the island's diverse attractions at your own pace.
Passport Ready
You'll need your passport for customs between Turkey and Greece.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Ferry in Advance
Secure your tickets early to avoid long queues and ensure your spot on the ferry.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring ancient ruins and charming streets.
Rent a Car on Kos
Best way to explore the island's diverse attractions at your own pace.
Passport Ready
You'll need your passport for customs between Turkey and Greece.
Embrace the Island Vibe
Kos offers a relaxed atmosphere; enjoy the beaches, history, and local culture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Kos day trip from Bodrum offers a quick and convenient way to experience a Greek island, with many praising the short ferry ride and the charm of Kos. However, some travelers find the ferry prices steep for the duration and mention potential customs delays.
"We took the Ferry from Bodrum to Kos for the day to see our daughter who was on holiday there. Only £30 each return which included pick up/return to Hotel . 30 minute crossing. Our first visit to Kos. Was lovely, clean, plenty of shops, good restaurants. Had to go through passport but as footfall was light, didn’t take long."
Carole Bayfield
"KAOS NOT KOS Don't go you never get off the boat customs takes hours then it's time to go back waste of time and money!!!"
Gina Masera
"Before Pandemic we used to go to Kos and other islands by Ferry for weekend or even daily for a change- to do some shopping, drink a coffee on terrace cafe, have a Greek lunch in the restaurant, then spend few hours on the beach. Looking forward to it all again."
Olga Aydemir
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way is by ferry from Bodrum to Kos. The journey is typically around 20-30 minutes on a fast catamaran. Ferries run on specific days, so check schedules in advance.
While same-day booking might be possible, it's highly recommended to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues and ensure availability.
The ferry ride from Bodrum to Kos is quite short, usually taking around 20 to 30 minutes on a fast catamaran.
Yes, you will need your passport for customs as you are traveling between Turkey and Greece.
While Bodrum is a primary departure point, other coastal towns in Turkey might offer ferry services to Kos, but Bodrum is the most frequently mentioned for day trips.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ferry prices can vary, but reviews suggest around €25-£30 per person for a round trip, which some travelers find to be a rip-off given the short journey. Booking in advance might offer better rates.
Ferries typically operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays from Bodrum to Kos. Always confirm the latest schedule.
Some travel agencies offer package deals that include ferry tickets and sometimes even hotel pick-up/drop-off, making the trip more convenient.
The basic ferry ticket usually covers the round trip. Some packages might include transfers from your hotel to the port in Bodrum.
While it might be possible to buy tickets at the port, booking in advance is strongly advised to avoid disappointment and long waits, especially during busy periods.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key highlights include the Tree of Hippocrates, Kos Castle, the ancient Agora, and exploring the charming streets of Kos Town. Don't miss the chance to visit Zia village for stunning views.
While many do day trips from Turkey to Kos, some travelers suggest the reverse might be more appealing, with Kos offering a different vibe and historical depth.
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the island efficiently. Scooters and ATVs are also popular options.
A day trip from Bodrum typically focuses on one island, most commonly Kos, due to ferry schedules and travel time. Visiting multiple islands in a single day is not feasible.
Kos offers delicious Greek cuisine, from fresh seafood to traditional mezes. Enjoy lunch at a local taverna or a beachside restaurant.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots at Zia village for panoramic views, the ancient ruins, the picturesque beaches like Mylos Beachbar, and the charming streets of Kos Town.
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography, especially in Zia village and along the coast.
Yes, the ferry ride itself can offer great photo opportunities of the Aegean Sea and the coastlines of both Turkey and Greece.
A versatile camera or smartphone with good low-light capabilities is ideal. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a zoom for details.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in Greece. It's best to check local rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting a car to easily navigate between attractions, and pack plenty of snacks and water. Look for family-friendly beaches with calm waters. The historical sites offer a chance for kids to learn about ancient Greece in a tangible way. 💰 Budget Travelers
Look for local tavernas for more affordable meal options rather than tourist-trap restaurants. 🏛️ History Buffs
+1 The Tree of Hippocrates is a significant historical landmark. Renting a car allows for easy access to these sites and potentially lesser-known archaeological spots across the island. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bodrum to Kos Ferry Experience
However, travelers should be prepared for the customs process, which can sometimes lead to significant delays, turning a short trip into a longer affair. While the ferry ride is efficient, the cost can be a point of contention for some, with reviews noting it as potentially overpriced for the duration.
+1Key Takeaways:
* Duration: 20-30 minutes.
* Booking: Advance booking is crucial.
* Customs: Be prepared for potential delays.
* Cost: Can be perceived as high by some.
Exploring Kos: A Day Tripper's Guide
+2 Wandering through the old town's charming streets reveals a blend of Venetian and Ottoman influences, with bustling markets and inviting cafes. Beyond the town, renting a car is the best way to discover Kos's diverse landscapes.
+1 Head to the Alikes Salt Lake to spot flamingos or relax at beautiful beaches like Mylos Beachbar, known for its cocktails and laid-back vibe. +1 For breathtaking panoramic views, a drive to the mountain village of Zia is a must; it's less crowded than the main town and offers stunning vistas, especially at sunset. Must-Do Activities:
* Visit the Tree of Hippocrates and Kos Castle.
* Explore the ancient Agora.
* Drive to Zia for panoramic views.
* Relax at Mylos Beachbar or other coastal spots.
* Consider a half-day boat trip for a different perspective.
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