Discover the history and secrets of this place with our audio guide.
The site is freely accessible outdoors 24 hours a day. It is located in Loggia Square (Platanou Square) in the center of Kos, a 5-minute walk from the port. No reservation is required. More info: Kos Tourist Office.
No, it is completely free. The tree stands in a public square with no admission charge. If you are looking for guided tours that include it, local companies such as Kos4All offer visits from €20.
Allow about 15–20 minutes. It is an iconic spot for photos and for reading the information panels. If you go with a guide, the historical explanation adds about 10 more minutes.
Tradition says that under this plane tree, or its predecessor, Hippocrates gave lessons. The current tree is a descendant of the original and is more than 500 years old. It is a symbol of Western medicine. The trunk measures 12 meters in circumference.
It can be visited year-round, but spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) have milder temperatures. Avoid July and August because of extreme heat (30°C+). Early mornings are less crowded.
The square has uneven cobblestone paving. There is step-free access from Hristodoulou Street, but assistance is recommended for wheelchair users. Nearby benches allow visitors to rest.
Within less than a 10-minute walk: the Castle of the Knights (a medieval fortress), the Asklepieion (the main archaeological healing sanctuary), and the Archaeological Museum. Full map: Archaeological Sites of Kos.
Wear comfortable shoes because of the uneven paving. Bring water in summer (there are fountains nearby). Combine the visit with the Gazi Hassan Pasha Mosque (50 m away). For historical context, download the local audio guide IAudioguia Kos Tour.
¿Prefieres escuchar en español?
🇪🇸 Escucha la audioguía de the Hippocrates Tree en español