Weather in Kos in November
In Kos, November brings late-autumn weather that is pleasantly warm and fairly changeable. Expect highs of about 21°C / 69°F and overnight lows near 15°C / 59°F. Rain falls on around 6 days, adding up to about 86 mm over the month. In the water, expect around 21°C / 70°F, pleasant for a swim. Kos is long and fairly flat, with sandy beaches along its coasts and a mountain ridge running along the south of the island. The first autumn storms can arrive, usually as short, sharp showers between long spells of sunshine. You get about 10 hours of daylight a day, so plan sightseeing for the middle of the day. Pack layers: T-shirts for the day and a light jacket or sweater for the evenings. The weather can change from one week to the next, so pack for both warm and cool days. It's comfortable to be out all day, though the midday sun is still strong.
Swimming in Kos in November
November is a great month for swimming in Kos, with water temperatures around 21°C / 69°F. The best time for swimming is July, August and September, with August usually the warmest. Paradise Beach and Tigaki are local favorites. Beaches are empty and unstaffed in winter, so swim only in calm conditions. The water is famously clear, which makes it great for snorkeling. You won't need a wetsuit.
Crowds & Prices in Kos in November
You'll have Kos largely to yourself in November. Rates for rooms and car hire drop to their yearly lows. Tavernas that stay open cater mainly to locals, which is often when the food is best. It's a good time to see everyday life, away from the summer bustle. With so few visitors, the atmosphere is genuinely local, and people have time to chat. You can usually book at short notice.
What's Open in Kos in November
Ferry links from Piraeus to Kos continue through November, though with fewer sailings than in summer. Direct international flights run mainly from spring to autumn, while flights from Athens operate all year. The main town stays open all year, but beach resorts close and many hotels shut for the winter. Archaeological sites and museums keep shorter winter hours. It's worth calling ahead to restaurants, as off-season hours can be irregular.
Festivals & Holidays in Kos in November
21 November, the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, is marked with church services, and it's also Armed Forces Day. November is olive harvest season, when families gather to pick olives and the first new oil of the year appears. Locals in Kos mark these dates in the traditional way, and visitors are welcome to join in. Beyond that, it's a month of everyday life, with locals filling the cafés and tavernas in the evenings.
Is November a Good Time to Visit Kos?
November is a surprisingly good time for Kos if you like peace and quiet. Expect highs of around 21°C / 69°F, lows near 15°C / 59°F and rain on around 6 days. The sea is still warm enough for swimming, but most visitors have gone and many seasonal businesses have closed. It suits independent travelers who don't need nightlife or a wide choice of restaurants. For more going on, come in June, September or October.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the sun set in Kos in November?
Through November, sunset in Kos moves from around 5:15 pm to around 4:55 pm in Greek local time, as the evenings get shorter. In mid-November, expect it at around 5:05 pm. With short days, plan outdoor sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon.
Is the weather bad in Kos in November?
Not all the time, but it's more unsettled. November brings more rain, stronger winds and shorter days, and rough seas disrupt ferries more often. Between weather fronts there are still plenty of calm, sunny days that are pleasant for walking. Pack layers and a waterproof, and keep your ferry plans flexible.
Can I visit Kos Town in November?
Yes. You can explore Kos Town any time of year. In November it's quiet, with few visitors, and some tourist shops and cafés close for the season, but it feels authentic and peaceful. The ancient agora and the Castle of the Knights sit right in the center.
Do I need a car on Kos in November?
It helps. Buses run on a much thinner timetable in November, and some routes stop completely, so a hire car is the easiest way to explore. Rental rates are low off-season, but fewer agencies are open, so book ahead.
Is November or December better for visiting Kos?
It depends on your plans. November is usually a little milder, but most tourist businesses have closed. December is cooler and wetter, but brings a festive atmosphere, with Christmas lights and decorations. Neither is a beach month, so choose by your dates.
Kos Weather by Month
