Private Tour: Kos Island Highlights Including Zia, Asklepieion and Tree of Hippocrates

Explore Kos Island’s Top Sites in a Private Half-Day Tour

This private tour of Kos Island offers an engaging blend of ancient history, stunning viewpoints, and local flavor for a price of $624.48 per person. Lasting approximately 4 hours, it covers Asklepion, the mountain village of Zia, a family-run winery, and the famed Tree of Hippocrates. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with private guiding and transport by air-conditioned vehicle, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a personalized experience.

Designed for travelers interested in history, scenic views, and local wine, this tour balances cultural highlights with relaxing moments at Zia and the winery. With group discounts available, it’s suitable for small groups wanting an intimate exploration of Kos’s treasures. While the tour is quite comprehensive, entrance fees for Asklepion are not included, and guests should have a moderate physical fitness level for walking around some sites.

Key Points

• Private guided tour lasting around 4 hours with personal attention
• Visit Asklepion, the most visited archaeological site on Kos
• Enjoy panoramic views from the mountain village of Zia
• Sample Kos wines at a family-run hillside winery
• See the Tree of Hippocrates, where the father of medicine once taught
• Includes hotel pickup and air-conditioned transport

Discovering Asklepion: Kos’s Ancient Healing Center

The tour begins at Asklepion, the most popular archaeological site on the island. Constructed in the 4th century BC, it served as both a temple dedicated to Asklepios, the God of Health, and a healing resort. This site is notably linked to Hippocrates, the father of medicine, who practiced here and developed methods still influential today.

Visitors walk the ruins and get a vivid sense of ancient Greek medicine and religious healing practices. The admission to Asklepion is not included, but the site’s remains are well-preserved, offering a clear insight into ancient health traditions. The guided commentary helps connect the ruins to historical medical practices that shaped Western medicine.

Scenic Stop at Zia Village for Panoramic Views

Following Asklepion, the tour heads to Zia, a charming mountain village perched on Mt Dikaios. Known for spectacular panoramic views of Kos, Zia provides perfect photo opportunities of the island and surrounding sea. This stop also introduces visitors to local artists and craftspeople, showcasing traditional Greek art and handmade crafts.

While in Zia, there’s free time to stroll, enjoy the dried herbs used in Greek cuisine, and soak up the relaxed mountain atmosphere. The admission is free, making Zia a great spot to appreciate authentic local culture without extra cost.

Tasting Kos Wine at a Family-Run Hilltop Winery

A highlight of the tour is the visit to a small, family-run winery situated in the hills. Guests get to sample local Kos wines, an opportunity to appreciate the region’s wine-making tradition. The winery provides a relaxed setting where visitors can taste varieties produced locally, offering insight into Greek viticulture.

This stop adds a flavorful dimension to the tour, with many appreciating the chance to experience authentic Greek wine straight from a hillside vineyard. Since food and drinks are not included in the price unless specified, tasting wine is a cost-effective way to enjoy local flavors.

The Tree of Hippocrates: An Iconic Historic Landmark

As the tour winds down toward the port, a final stop takes visitors to the Tree of Hippocrates, located near the ancient Castle Fortress. Legend has it that Hippocrates, the father of medicine, once taught students beneath this very planetree about 2500 years ago.

The Tree of Hippocrates is a symbolic site, offering a tangible connection to medical history. The free-standing tree remains a popular photo spot, and the proximity to the harbor makes it easy to combine with the day’s other sightseeing.

Convenient Logistics with Pickups and Private Transport

This tour features hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics straightforward, especially for visitors staying in central Kos. Guests are transported via air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver, ensuring comfort and smooth transitions between sites. The group size is limited to maintain personalized attention from the guide.

The tour operates daily from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, offering flexibility if travelers want to fit it into their broader Kos itinerary. Given the moderate physical activity involved, it suits guests comfortable with walking but not necessarily seeking a strenuous experience.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Kos Tours

Unlike larger group excursions, this private tour provides a more intimate experience, allowing for more personalized explanations and flexibility. The emphasis on historical sites like Asklepion and the Tree of Hippocrates attracts those with an interest in ancient Greek medicine and history.

Plus, the combination of cultural sites, scenic views, and local wine tasting makes this tour well-rounded. The 4-hour duration keeps it manageable for those with limited time but offers enough depth to truly appreciate the highlights of Kos.

Potential Considerations and Limitations

While the tour delivers a balanced experience, the entrance fee for Asklepion is not included, so additional costs should be considered. Guests should also have a moderate fitness level for some walking around the archaeological site and village streets.

Since the tour is private, it may be more expensive than group alternatives, but the personalized guidance and flexibility often justify the cost. It’s best suited for travelers who value history, scenic views, and local wine experiences in a relaxed setting.

Final Thoughts on the Kos Highlights Tour

This private half-day excursion offers a comprehensive look at Kos’s key attractions in a comfortable, personalized setting. The combination of ancient ruins, breathtaking viewpoints, and local wine tasting provides a rich snapshot of the island’s heritage and beauty.

While it’s not aimed at those seeking an active, full-day adventure, it’s perfect for history buffs, wine lovers, and visitors wanting a relaxed yet informative experience. The hotel pickup, private guide, and scenic stops make it a convenient choice for a memorable Kos outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who do not occupy a seat are free, and those up to 11 years old receive a discount if they occupy a seat. It’s a good option for families wanting an engaging but manageable sightseeing experience.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Asklepion are not included in the tour price. Guests should budget for this separately.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including all stops and transportation.

What is the physical demand of this tour?
Guests should have a moderate fitness level to comfortably walk around sites like Asklepion and Zia.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but wine tasting at the winery is available as part of the experience.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations can be made in advance, typically 12 days in advance on average. The tour features pickup from your hotel and a private guide.

What is the maximum group size?
Since this is a private tour, it is limited to your group only, providing a more personalized experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
As a private tour, there may be some flexibility, but this depends on the provider’s policies. Confirm specific requests when booking.

What language is the guide available in?
The data does not specify languages, but most private tours typically offer English-speaking guides; check with the provider directly.

Is this tour available year-round?
Yes, it operates from June 1, 2024, to May 31, 2026, every day from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.