Why Visit the Thermal Springs of Kos?

Kos might be famous for sandy beaches and ancient ruins, but the island hides one of Greece’s most underrated natural experiences — thermal hot springs. On the southeastern coast, near the village of Thermes, volcanic-heated seawater bubbles up through the rocks at temperatures around 50–70°C, mixing with the cooler Aegean to create natural mineral pools that locals have enjoyed for centuries.

If you are hiring a car on Kos, the thermal springs are absolutely worth the drive. Public buses do not run to Thermes regularly, and taxis from Kos Town can cost €40–50 each way. A rental car gives you the freedom to arrive early, beat the small crowds, and combine the springs with a coastal loop through Kardamena or Kefalos.

Where Are the Thermal Springs?

The main thermal springs are at Agios Fokas, just past the village of Thermes on the southeast coast, about 15 km from Kos Town and roughly 12 km from Kardamena. The drive from Kos Town takes 25–30 minutes along the main south coast road (Eparchiaki Odos Kos-Kefalou), then a short turn-off toward the sea. From Kardamena, it is only 15 minutes by car.

There is no large commercial spa here. Instead, you will find a rugged shoreline where hot water seeps through volcanic rocks and fills shallow natural pools along the beach. It is raw, rustic, and completely free to use — which is half the charm.

What to Expect at the Springs

The experience is unlike any organised thermal spa. At Agios Fokas, you wade into rocky pools where the water temperature shifts depending on where you stand. Closer to the source, the water is hot — almost too hot in summer — while further out it blends with the sea. Most visitors move between the warm pools and the open water, which is refreshingly cool even in July.

The water is rich in sulphur, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Locals swear by it for easing joint pain, improving circulation and helping with skin conditions. Whether you believe in the medicinal properties or not, there is no denying how relaxed you feel after 20 minutes in the water.

Practical tips: Wear water shoes — the rocks are slippery and sharp. Bring drinking water and a hat; there is almost no shade. A beach umbrella is useful if you plan to stay more than an hour. Avoid visiting straight after heavy rain, as run-off can make the pools murky for a day or two.

Best Time to Visit

The springs are accessible year-round, but the experience changes with the seasons. In winter and early spring (November to March), the hot water feels incredible against the cooler air, and you may have the place entirely to yourself. In summer, the pools can feel uncomfortably warm by midday — aim for early morning (before 9:00) or late afternoon (after 17:00). Sunset soaks in September and October are particularly memorable.

If you are staying in Kefalos or Mastichari, the drive to Thermes makes a great half-day excursion before heading back for dinner by the harbour.

Driving and Parking at Thermes

The road to Thermes is fully paved but narrow in places. The final kilometre drops down toward the coast through a rough dirt track — fine for any standard rental car, but take it slowly. There is a small free parking area at the top of the track, about a 5-minute walk from the springs. In peak season (July and August), this fills by mid-morning, so arriving early secures you a spot.

Fuel is easy to find before you leave — there are petrol stations in Kos Town, Kardamena and on the main road toward Kefalos. A full tank is not necessary for this trip, but it is worth topping up if you are combining it with a longer coastal drive.

Combine Your Visit: A Scenic Southeast Loop

The thermal springs pair well with a relaxed driving loop along Kos’s quieter southeast coast. Start from Kos Airport or Kos Town, head south to Kardamena for coffee, continue east to Thermes for a morning soak, then loop back inland through the village of Zia for lunch with mountain views.

Alternatively, from Thermes you can continue further southeast to the windswept cape near Psalidi, where the coastline becomes wild and rocky — a completely different Kos from the tourist strips of Tigaki or Lambi. The whole loop is roughly 50 km and makes for a perfect half-day behind the wheel.

Is It Worth Hiring a Car Just for the Springs?

If thermal springs were the only thing on your itinerary, probably not. But on Kos, they are one piece of a much larger puzzle. With a rental car, you can link Thermes with the beaches of Kefalos, the mountain tavernas of Zia, the archaeological ruins at Asklepieion, and the ferry port for day trips to Nisyros or Kalymnos — all in a single trip.

The springs are not widely advertised in package holiday brochures, which means they remain one of the island’s most authentic experiences. You will not find changing rooms, cafés or gift shops — just hot water, volcanic rock, and the Aegean stretching out in front of you. For travellers who have already done the beach-club scene and want something different, it is one of the best reasons to have a car on Kos.

Quick Summary: Thermal Springs at a Glance

• Location: Agios Fokas, near Thermes village (southeast Kos)
• Drive from Kos Town: 25–30 minutes
• Drive from Kardamena: 15 minutes
• Cost: Free (no entrance fee)
• Best time: Early morning or late afternoon in summer; anytime in winter
• What to bring: Water shoes, drinking water, sun protection
• Parking: Free informal lot, 5-minute walk to pools

Related Destinations

Looking for more Kos experiences by car? Also explore our guides to the best beaches in Kos, a 4-day Kos road trip itinerary, and driving tips for Kos Island. If you are still deciding where to pick up your vehicle, compare rates at Kos Airport or Kos Town centre.

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