Flights from Athens to Kos: Fares and Flight Information

For flights from Athens to Kos, allow a rough budget of €40–160 one way and €80–300 return, with higher fares during peak periods or close to departure. Direct flights usually take around 55 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes. The route is served by AEGEAN, with some flights operated by Olympic Air, and SKY express. You are more likely to find lower fares outside the summer peak and holiday periods, especially if your dates are flexible.

The amounts below are indicative ranges for planning, not live offers or guaranteed prices. The final fare depends on availability, baggage and ticket conditions. Before paying, compare the total cost rather than just the first price displayed.

At a glance

• Route: Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos (ATH) to Kos International Airport Hippocrates (KGS).
• Direct airlines: AEGEAN/Olympic Air and SKY express. Schedules and frequency vary by season.
• Flight time: usually 55 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes according to the published schedule.
• Typical budget: around €40–160 one way and €80–300 return, though fares can exceed these ranges.
• Cheaper periods: usually autumn and winter outside holiday periods, plus selected dates in spring.
• Distance from town: the airport is near Antimachia, around 24 km from Kos Town.

Which airlines fly from Athens to Kos?

The main options for direct Athens–Kos flights are AEGEAN/Olympic Air and SKY express. When booking with AEGEAN, check the “operated by” details, as the flight may be operated by Olympic Air. The same principle applies when comparing results across booking platforms: different flight numbers do not necessarily mean different aircraft.

The route operates year-round, but the number of departures and available times vary. There are usually more options for summer travel than in winter. Check the schedule for your specific date, particularly if you need a morning arrival or an evening flight home.

Direct or connecting flights?

On this route, a direct flight is generally the most practical choice. Connecting options may appear in search results, but they are not necessarily cheaper. Factor in the total journey time, the wait between flights and any additional baggage charges.

If the legs are sold on separate tickets, a delay could leave you without protection for your onward flight. Seasonal routes change, so do not rely on outdated references to airlines or connections. Names such as Hahn Air Systems may relate to ticket distribution and do not establish that a separate direct service exists.

How much do flights cost by season?

Prices depend on more than the month of travel. Seat availability, how early you search and demand for particular dates all play a part. For one adult in economy, with checked baggage not necessarily included, use the following as broad budget guidelines:

• Low season, outside holiday periods: around €40–100 each way and €80–190 return.
• Spring and autumn, outside public holidays: around €50–140 one way and €100–260 return.
• Summer, especially July and August: around €70–200 one way and €140–380 return.
• Easter, holiday getaways and last-minute bookings: a more cautious budget is €90–230 each way or €180–440 return.

You may find deals below these ranges, as well as fares above them. Return tickets are not necessarily cheaper than two separate one-way tickets. It is also worth checking different airlines for your outbound and return flights.

For a fair comparison, use the same number of passengers and the same baggage requirements. When comparing flights, check departure times, the total price and fare conditions before deciding. A slightly higher fare may offer better value if it includes the suitcase you would otherwise pay extra for.

When to book for cheaper flights

There is no particular day or time to book that guarantees the lowest fare. For summer holidays, it is worth starting to monitor prices a few months ahead, especially if you are travelling as a family or have fixed leave dates. For off-peak trips, searching several weeks in advance gives you more time to compare, but does not guarantee a lower price.

• Shift your dates: check departures and returns one to three days either side of your preferred dates.
• Compare all departure times: a less convenient flight may be cheaper, but factor in your airport transfer.
• Set a price alert: where available, this helps you track changes without searching repeatedly.
• Check the final total: baggage, seat selection and optional extras can change which fare offers the best value.

These tips for finding cheap flights can help you organise your search. By contrast, last-minute flights call for flexibility: for Kos in August, waiting until a few days before departure is not a reliable way to save.

How long is the flight, and which airports does it use?

The scheduled duration of a direct flight is usually 55 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes. This is the time shown on your ticket and includes taxiing on the ground. The actual time in the air may be shorter, but you should not plan your journey around that alone.

You depart from Athens International Airport Eleftherios Venizelos, ATH, and arrive at Kos International Airport Hippocrates, KGS. Follow your airline’s guidance on when to arrive at the airport. As a practical rule of thumb, allowing around two hours before departure is usually sensible, especially with checked baggage or on busy travel days.

To estimate your total journey time, add travel to Athens airport, security checks, boarding and the transfer to your accommodation on Kos. A flight of around an hour does not mean an hour-long door-to-door journey.

Getting from Kos airport to town

The airport is near Antimachia, around 24 km from Kos Town. The best-value transfer depends on your arrival time, the number of passengers and where your hotel is located. The costs below are indicative and should be confirmed before you travel.

• KTEL bus: the cheapest option to town, with a rough budget of €3–5 per passenger. Allow around 40–60 minutes for the journey, depending on stops, excluding waiting time. Check the seasonal timetable and the most convenient stop.
• Taxi: around 30–40 minutes to town, depending on traffic. Budget roughly €40–60 per vehicle. Confirm the fare, any surcharges and luggage capacity.
• Pre-booked transfer: allow roughly €45–80 for a standard vehicle to town. Prices vary with the vehicle, passenger numbers and additional services.
• Hire car: roughly €25–80 per day for a small car, with potentially higher rates at peak times. Factor in insurance, the deposit and fuel.

You do not necessarily need a car for your entire stay. If you are based in town, you can combine walking, cycling and buses. For secluded beaches or several stops in one day, a car offers considerably more flexibility.

What to see on Kos and when to go

Kos is ideal for a holiday combining beaches, archaeological sites and leisurely walks around town. For a first visit, four to six days lets you see the main sights without constantly being on the move. If you only have three days, stick to one base and limit your excursions: crossing the island every day takes more time than the map might suggest.

Start in Kos Town. The Ancient Agora, Roman remains and Casa Romana reveal different periods of its history. The area around the harbour and the Plane Tree of Hippocrates is easy to explore on foot. Local tradition links the plane tree to Hippocrates, though this does not mean the present tree dates from his lifetime. Check opening hours and access to visitor sites before planning your day.

The Asklepion is the key archaeological stop for understanding the island’s connection with ancient healing traditions. Outside town, it deserves time of its own rather than a quick detour between beaches. In summer, visit in the morning and bring water, a hat and shoes suitable for slopes and steps. The heat can make exploring more tiring than you expect.

For swimming, Tigaki and Marmari are popular choices on the north coast, with sandy beaches and sections offering sunbeds and facilities. Wind can affect conditions, so check the forecast before deciding where to spend the day. Towards Kefalos, Agios Stefanos stands out for its beach alongside early Christian ruins, with views of Kastri islet. Kardamaina is livelier, with plenty of places to eat and easy access to the sea.

For a change of scene, spend an afternoon in Zia. Views towards the western side of the island are the main attraction, though it often gets busy around sunset. If you are driving, allow time for parking and the journey back. Antimachia can also be included on a route inland, while short village stops offer a gentler pace than hopping between beaches with tourist facilities.

May, June, September and early October usually offer a good balance of pleasant weather and a quieter atmosphere than the summer peak. The island is greener in spring, but the sea can be cool. In September, it usually remains pleasant for swimming, although wind and changes in the weather are still possible. July and August call for more planning when it comes to accommodation and getting around.

In winter, everyday life continues in town, but many tourism businesses in coastal areas operate seasonally. It is a different kind of trip, better suited to walks and history than summer resort facilities. When eating out, try local products such as krasotyri, a wine-aged cheese, and look for seasonal dishes. For more ideas before you go, read what Kos is famous for and which sights deserve your time.

Where to stay

Your choice of location affects the overall cost as much as your airfare. Kos Town is convenient for a short break, walks and eating out without a car. Our guide to where to stay on Kos by area can help you choose a base with your daily journeys in mind.

For a beach close to your accommodation, explore places to stay in Tigaki. If you prefer the south coast and easier access to the airport, look at where to stay in Kardamaina. Do not assume that every hotel in the same area is equally close to a bus stop or beach.

If travelling with children, browse family-friendly hotels on Kos, paying particular attention to room layouts and transfers. For a more predictable food budget, compare all-inclusive hotels on Kos, after checking exactly what each package includes.

Baggage and low-cost airlines

The lowest fare does not mean all your baggage is included. A personal item, cabin bag and checked suitcase are separate categories. Weight and size allowances depend on the airline and fare selected, so check the conditions of your specific booking.

Do not assume a well-known low-cost airline operates Athens–Kos simply because it flies to Kos from another European city. Seasonal routes change, so you need to check the schedule. Likewise, a low fare with AEGEAN or SKY express does not come with the same benefits as more expensive ticket categories.

If you need a checked suitcase, compare the cost of adding it before buying your ticket. Paying for baggage at the airport may be more expensive. Pushchairs, sports equipment and pets require a separate check of the rules and may need to be declared in advance.

Practical tips before departure

• Check passenger details: your full name must match the accepted travel document you will use.
• Check in on time: follow the airline’s deadlines for online check-in, bag drop and gate closure.
• Plan for an evening arrival: confirm your bus or transfer and let your accommodation know when to expect you.
• Read the change conditions: a cheaper, non-refundable fare may not suit you if your dates are uncertain.
• Avoid a rushed return: allow time for refuelling, returning your hire car and possible queues at security.

The most useful final comparison is the combined cost of flights, baggage, transfers and accommodation. A small saving on your flight can disappear if the arrival time means a more expensive transfer or an extra night’s stay.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Athens to Kos cost?

As a rough budget, allow around €40–160 one way and €80–300 return. Prices may be higher at peak times or close to departure. Checked baggage is not included in every fare.

How long is the flight from Athens to Kos?

A direct flight usually has a scheduled duration of around 55 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes. Add transfers and time spent at the airports to calculate your total journey time.

Which airlines offer direct flights from Athens to Kos?

AEGEAN/Olympic Air and SKY express serve the route. Check the available departures and the airline operating the flight for your travel date.

Which airline is cheapest for Kos?

No airline is consistently cheapest. It depends on the date, seat availability and baggage requirements. Compare the final total for equivalent services, not just the starting fare.

When can I find cheap flights from Athens to Kos?

Your chances are usually better outside the summer peak and holiday periods. Flexibility of a few days and tracking prices early can help, but there is no guaranteed best day to buy.

How do I get from Kos airport to town?

By KTEL bus, taxi, pre-booked transfer or hire car. Allow around 30–40 minutes by car and 40–60 minutes by bus, excluding waiting time. Confirm the current KTEL timetable.