From Kos: Zia Sunset Tour

This Zia Sunset Tour offers a chance to witness one of Kos’s most acclaimed sights—the sunset from Dikaios Mountain in the charming village of Zia. While I haven’t experienced it personally, I’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out and what travelers are saying. For just around $28, you’re getting a scenic drive, a taste of authentic Greek village life, and an unforgettable sunset view—perfect for couples, special occasions, or anyone wanting a quiet yet visually spectacular evening.

What I really appreciate about this experience is the combination of comfort and authenticity. The small mini van makes for a cozy journey, and the opportunity to stroll through Zia’s narrow, souvenir-filled streets adds a charming local touch. Plus, many reviews highlight how the guides, like those from BIG TRAVEL, are knowledgeable and helpful, making the whole outing smooth and enjoyable. The highlight, of course, is the sunset—viewed from Dikaios Mountain, which promises some of the best photo ops on the island.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is quite popular, which can lead to crowds and some logistical hiccups, such as the slightly late bus or confusion over transfer signs. If you’re after a peaceful, quiet sunset, arriving a little earlier or staying a bit longer in Zia might help. Also, since food isn’t included, you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal afterward—though many stop at local tavernas to watch the sun go down.

Key points / Takeaways

Scenic Drive: The journey from your hotel in Kos offers a beautiful preview of the island’s lush landscapes and charming villages.
Authentic Zia Village: Wander through narrow streets filled with souvenir shops and local restaurants, soaking in the atmosphere.
Breathtaking Sunset: The main attraction is the sunset from Dikaios Mountain, recognized as one of Kos’s most stunning views.
Guided Experience: Guides like those from BIG TRAVEL are appreciated for their friendly, helpful attitude and clear instructions.
Good Value: At around $28, this tour provides a memorable experience without breaking the bank, especially considering hotel pickup and drop-off.
Crowd Management: Expect some busyness and a bit of a crowd, which is typical for popular sunset spots, but arriving early can help.

Comfortable Transportation and Pick-Up

One of the first things you’ll notice is that the tour starts with hotel pickup in a small, comfortable mini van. This keeps things relaxed and avoids the hassle of public transport. The guide or driver, speaking English, will coordinate the pick-up, usually about 10 minutes earlier than the scheduled time—so don’t be late or you might miss your ride. The small group size makes the experience feel more intimate than a big bus tour, which is a definite plus.

The drive itself is quite scenic, giving you a gentle introduction to Kos’s landscapes—rolling hills, olive groves, and glimpses of the coast. It’s a pleasant start that sets the tone for the evening.

Strolling Through Zia’s Market Streets

Once you arrive in Zia, the narrow streets beckon for exploration. The reviews mention an “assortment of shops,” where you can browse souvenirs or pick up a few gifts. The village is well-known for its authentic Greek tavernas and cafes, so it’s worth taking 15-20 minutes to soak in the atmosphere. Many travelers appreciate the relaxed pace here, and some opt to have a quick drink or light dinner before the sunset spectacle.

The guide usually recommends arriving early to enjoy the village fully. As one reviewer noted, “the place is very nice with shops and restaurants, and the sunset is something not to be missed.” It’s a perfect spot to relax, people-watch, and prepare for the main event.

The Climb to Dikaios Mountain

The highlight is the short journey up Dikaios Mountain, where you’ll get a perfect vantage point for watching the sunset. Many reviews highlight how stunning the views are—some call it the “most beautiful sunset on the island.” The ascent may involve a brief walk or drive, depending on the tour specifics that day; either way, it’s a manageable and rewarding excursion.

The sunset itself often exceeds expectations, with vibrant colors filling the sky as the sun dips below the horizon. Travelers mention taking “amazing photos,” so don’t forget your camera or smartphone. The experience is especially romantic and ideal for couples.

Dining and Watching the Sunset

While food isn’t included in the tour, many guests take advantage of the numerous restaurants in Zia. As one reviewer pointed out, the experience is “absolutely worth going” despite a few logistical hiccups, like unclear transfer signs. You might find it helpful to bring a snack or plan your own meal afterwards, or simply enjoy the local tavernas with a glass of Greek wine.

The evening culminates with the sun setting, creating a magical backdrop for photos and quiet reflection. The combination of natural beauty and village charm makes this a memorable way to end your day.

The Return and Flexibility

After the sunset viewing, the bus returns you to your hotel in Kos. The total experience lasts roughly 3 hours, including the drive, stroll, and sunset. Some reviews suggest that the early pick-up time can be a bit inconvenient if you prefer to linger longer in Zia, but it ensures you get the best sunset viewing spot before crowds arrive.

You’ll want to wait at the designated pickup point and look for the Big Travel board on the mini bus. The tour is wheelchair accessible—an important consideration for some travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, charming villages, and spectacular sunset views. It’s especially good for couples celebrating a romantic getaway or special occasion. If you’re comfortable with a moderate pace and don’t mind some crowds, this tour offers fantastic value. For those wanting a quiet, off-peak experience, arriving early or staying a bit later in Zia might enhance your visit.

It’s also perfect if you don’t want to worry about transportation logistics—hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it straightforward. The overall price, considering the scenic drive, guided service, and sunset views, makes it a good deal compared to more expensive private tours.

Price and Logistics: What You Need to Know

At around $28.23 per person, this tour provides a cost-effective way to see a stunning sunset and enjoy Zia’s local flavor. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience, especially if you’re staying outside the city center.

The duration is about 3 hours, so it fits well into an evening plan without feeling rushed. You’ll want to check availability for your preferred date, as this is a popular experience. Just keep in mind that the transfer signs may sometimes lead to confusion—as one reviewer noted, they were told to look for a Jet2 coach, but their transfer had a TUI sign. Being aware of this small detail can save you some worry.

Final Thoughts

This Zia Sunset Tour combines easy transportation, charming village exploration, and an unbeatable sunset view. It’s a simple, enjoyable way to experience Kos’s natural beauty without the crowds or high costs of more elaborate tours. The guides, praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, make the experience smooth from start to finish.

If you’re after a romantic, memorable evening that captures the essence of Kos, this tour delivers. It’s especially perfect for those who want to combine scenic beauty with local charm, and don’t mind a bit of a crowd at sunset—the view is worth sharing.

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last? The total experience lasts about 3 hours. Check availability for specific starting times.

What’s the price? It costs approximately $28.23 per person, which is good value considering the scenic transportation and guided experience.

Is food included? No, food and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of restaurants in Zia where you can enjoy dinner before or after the sunset.

Is the tour suitable for everyone? Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible and generally suitable for most travelers. Just check if you need additional assistance.

Are there any reviews about the guides? Travelers mention guides from BIG TRAVEL as friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable, adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

Can I stay longer in Zia? Yes, you are free to explore Zia village as long as you wish, but the tour’s schedule is optimized for sunset viewing.

What should I bring? Camera or phone for photos, some snacks if you like, and possibly a jacket if the evening gets cool.

Is it crowded? Expect some crowds, especially at sunset, but arriving early can help you find a good spot.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The Zia Sunset Tour offers a straightforward, beautiful way to end your day on Kos. It’s a well-valued experience that combines scenic beauty, local culture, and a touch of romance—one that many travelers find worth their while.