Banks: 08.30 to 14.00, Monday to Friday (close at 13.30 on Fridays)
Post Offices: 09.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday
Government Offices: 09.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday
Business Centres: 09.00 to 17.00, Monday to Friday
Shops: 09.00 to 18.00, Monday to Saturday

Kos is a very safe destination for tourists with very little crime. However, it is important to always keep hold of your belongings and never flash cash around in public. As with all busy tourist hubs there are opportunistic thieves waiting to prey on unsuspecting tourists. Should you encounter any problems, you will find the locals very helpful and the police will also help as much as they can.

220V, 50Hz; European round two-pin plugs are standard

If you are unfortunate enough to experience a medical problem or emergency while in Kos, the island’s hospitals offer excellent facilities and a good standard of care. If you are visiting from a country within the EU, you should always carry your European Health Insurance Card as you will be able to qualify for discounted treatment. For any minor ailments, you can visit a pharmacy on the island where you will be able to get advice and limited treatment.

Emergency services: 112
Kos Hospital: +30 2263 4075

The national language of Kos is Greek.

Greece uses the euro (EUR), with €1 equal to 100 cents.

If you are travelling between EU countries, there are no restrictions on the amount of goods you can bring in and take out as long as it can be proved that it is all for personal use and not for resale. Shops at the airport also have some excellent bargains although there is no longer the option of duty-free shopping if you are travelling within the EU.

Body language is very important in Greek culture as is how you greet someone. It is regarded as polite to shake hands with everyone you meet—even if there is a large group of people—and always maintain eye contact. Once you are familiar with people, kissing them when greeting them is common. If you are having a conversation with someone, always maintain eye contact.

The hand sign often used in the US for ‘ok’ (using the thumb and forefinger) is considered extremely rude throughout Greece so always avoid using it unless you intend to deeply offend someone. It is also important to remember that along with many other eastern Mediterranean cultures, nodding the head upwards means no. This is often used alongside a slight bearing of the teeth and a small click of the tongue. Never raise an open palm at face level as this is also deeply insulting.

A visa is not required to enter Greece for citizens of the United States, Canada and the European Union. If you are arriving form another country, you will need to check with your nearest Greek Embassy.

Visitors will find the Kos tourist information office on 85300 Kos City,
Greece. 
Phone: +30 24460 28724