Bus Services —
Kos Island Hippocrates Airport (KGS)
KTEL Kos connects the airport to Kos Town, Mastichari, and Kardamena.
Understanding the Network
Public transportation in this region is primarily served by the KTEL network (for Greece) or municipal shuttles. While this is often the most economical method to reach the city center or port, travelers should be aware that service frequency varies significantly between the high summer season and the winter months. The infrastructure is designed to handle mass transit, meaning buses are large coaches capable of storing heavy luggage in the underbelly compartments.
However, these services operate on fixed schedules that may not always align perfectly with late-night flight arrivals. It is essential to check the latest timetable posted at the station upon arrival, as online schedules can sometimes be outdated or subject to last-minute operational changes.
How it Works
The bus stop is located outside the terminal. The main route heads to the central bus station in Kos Town.
When it's Great
- You’re traveling light (carry-on)
- You don’t mind waiting for schedule
- You’re staying near the central bus hub
When to Avoid
- Late-night arrivals (service stops)
- Large luggage or kids
- Direct hotel/villa transfers needed
Door-to-Door?
Skip the bus transfer. A pre-booked ride gets you straight to your accommodation or the port without changing vehicles.
Essential Travel Tips
Ticketing Rules
For most regional bus services, tickets are purchased directly from the driver upon boarding. It is highly recommended to carry cash, specifically small notes (5 or 10 Euro), as card terminals on buses are often unavailable or unreliable due to connectivity issues. In larger hubs like Athens or Thessaloniki, you must purchase tickets from kiosks or metro stations before boarding and validate them immediately inside the vehicle.
Luggage Handling
Standard bus coaches have ample storage in the lower compartments for large suitcases. You are generally expected to load your own bags. Keep valuable items, electronics, and travel documents in a smaller carry-on bag with you in the cabin. Unlike private transfers, the driver is not responsible for loading your luggage, though they will open the bays for you.
Seasonal Frequency
Bus frequencies are heavily dependent on the tourist season. From May to September, services are frequent to align with the high volume of flights. However, in the shoulder season (April/October) and winter, routes may be reduced significantly or operate on a "school schedule" basis. Always have a backup plan if you are arriving late in the evening or during the off-peak months.
Strikes & Delays
Public transport strikes can occur, sometimes with short notice. In such events, the bus service may be suspended entirely for 24 hours. During peak summer traffic, buses are also subject to the same congestion as cars, meaning the scheduled travel time to the port or city center should be treated as an estimate rather than a guarantee.
