Kos Airport (KGS — Hippocrates International Airport) is the main gateway to the island, and picking up a hire car right there is by far the easiest way to start your holiday. No waiting for transfers, no dragging bags onto a bus — just grab your keys and go.
We compare car hire prices from all the top suppliers operating at Kos Airport, so you get the best deal without the legwork.
Why Book Car Hire at Kos Airport?
The airport is about 26km from Kos Town, and public transport options are limited — especially late at night or early in the morning when most charter flights land. A hire car from the airport means:
• You’re on the road within minutes of landing
• No taxis, no waiting for shuttles
• Freedom to explore the whole island on your own schedule
• Easy return — drop it off before you check in for your flight
If you’re staying anywhere outside Kos Town — Tigaki, Marmari, Mastichari, Kardamena, Kefalos — a car isn’t just convenient, it’s basically essential.
What to Expect at Kos Airport Car Hire
The car rental desks at KGS are located in the arrivals hall, just after you clear customs. Most major suppliers have a desk there. Walk straight up, show your booking confirmation and driving licence, and you’re done.
A few things worth knowing:
• Opening hours: Desks open to meet flight arrivals, but hours vary by supplier — if you’re on a late-night flight, confirm your supplier’s hours when booking
• Fuel policy: Most cars are rented full-to-full — fill up before you return, there’s a petrol station just outside the airport
• Credit card: You’ll need one for the deposit hold, even if you prepaid online
• Driving licence: UK, EU and Australian licences are all accepted — an International Driving Permit is not required for Kos (unless not in latin Alphabet eg Chinese)
Kos Airport — Quick Facts
• IATA code: KGS
• Full name: Hippocrates International Airport
• Location: Near Antimachia village, central Kos
• Distance to Kos Town: ~26km (approx. 30 min drive)
• Distance to Kardamena: ~8km
• Distance to Kefalos: ~18km
• Busy season: May to October — book your hire car well in advance in summer
Exploring Kos by Car
With a hire car from Kos Airport you can cover the whole island in a few days. The main road runs east-west along the coast and is easy to navigate. A few drives worth doing:
• Kos Town to Kefalos: The full length of the island past Tigaki, Marmari and Mastichari — about 45 minutes each way
• Zia village: Up in the hills, worth the winding drive for the views
• Antimachia Castle: Right near the airport, easy stop on the way back
• Paradise Beach: One of the best beaches on the island, only reachable comfortably by car
