The Greek island of Kos, nestled in the Aegean Sea, is enjoying a surge of attention in the Turkish media—not only for its picturesque charm but also for its budget-friendly offerings. A recent feature by the Turkish daily Hürriyet highlights the island under the headline: “Is Food and Drink Really Cheap on the Greek Islands? Check Out Restaurant Prices in Kos.”
The article comes at a time when increasing numbers of Turkish travelers are heading to Kos via Bodrum, taking advantage of the express visa scheme that allows short-term stays of up to seven days.
According to the report, the journey to Kos is primarily made by ferry—a 13-kilometer trip from Bodrum’s port with return tickets priced around 33 euros. Air travel is also an option, and the visa process is described in detail. The island’s cultural and historical landmarks, particularly its mosques, receive notable praise.
One of the featured highlights is the Gazi Hasan Pasha Mosque at the entrance of the medieval castle. Nearby stands the ancient Agora of Kos and, further down, the Casa Romana from the Roman period. The town square, home to the Defterdar Mosque and the Archaeological Museum, forms part of the island’s vibrant historical core.
Among Kos’s most striking features, Hürriyet emphasizes the island’s scenic harbor and its cultural significance as the birthplace of Hippocrates, a foundational figure in the history of medicine.
Yet, it is the local cuisine that takes center stage. The article notes the growing popularity of food-related posts from Greek islands on Turkish social media, where users often compare Greek island prices with those on the Turkish coast. Interestingly, the accounts shared by Turkish visitors suggest that dining out is often cheaper in Kos than in popular Turkish coastal resorts.
The report offers a detailed menu overview: starters in Kos restaurants, known for their Greek and seafood dishes, range from 5 to 15 euros.
For those seeking cost-effective leisure, the report suggests the beach at Lambi, located to the right of the harbor. While swimming is free, sunbeds and umbrellas come at an extra charge.
