Holidays to Kos

Top attractions

With so much on its doorstep, there are a plethora of things to do in Kos. Voukolies is one for the history lovers and offers a medieval fortified farmhouse, marble tower, and ancient windmill to explore. The Moslem Shrine Ntefterntar is a sight worth seeing as it offers an architectural alternative to the island’s ancient Christian artefacts. Or relax, go for a stroll and take in the beautiful features of picturesque Lambi Beach, backed by ancient ruins.

If you have an appreciation for nature, Mount Dikeo will take your breath away. With an altitude of 846m, it’s the highest mountain in Kos and every September there is an annual celebration honouring the mountain. The Carnival in Pyli, which is held every February, is also a stand-out occasion that will add a party feel to your holiday.

Beaches

One of Kos’ main draws is its beautiful beaches. You definitely need to make time on your Kos holiday to hit the beaches, as they’re ideal for sunbathing and many of them fly the Blue Flag for their cleanliness and safe waters.

The sugar-white stretch at Mastichari will be difficult to tear yourself away from, while Aghios Stefanos Beach is for those who like to team a little bit of history with their relaxation. Pick a spot along the shore and kick back in the sun as you take in the surrounding sights. It’s also a great place to try some tasty seafood dishes as the evening makes way for a vibrant night life.

The modern beach resort of Psalidi is perfect if you are in need of some ‘me’ time. You can kick back and relax on the beautiful, tranquil beach with average temperatures of around 27°C throughout the summer - don’t forget your sun cream!

Eating out

On your Kos holidays you will get to enjoy a range of wonderful Mediterranean fare. With freshly-caught seafood, locally-picked salads, exciting regional cheeses and tasty meat dishes, you will definitely eat well in Kos. Herbs and spices, such as camomile, mint, cinnamon and oregano, also grow naturally on the island.

Island specialities like the pork cooked with cracked wheat are a must-try, washed down with a glass of the local tipple like retsina or sweet red wine.

Varvara, a sweet treat made with honey pomegranate and nuts, is completely unique, as is katimeria, a type of cheese pie popular with the locals and available in many of the cafes and markets.

The appropriately-named Feast at Ikaros lives up to its reputation with a large selection of traditional Greek meals available morning, noon and night. Located on the pretty Tigaki Beach, you will find the freshest fish dishes alongside a very friendly atmosphere.

Nightlife

Kos is definitely the liveliest island of the Dodecanese and the nightlife is second to none. With a plethora of bars and nightclubs for all musical tastes, you will be spoilt for places to dance the night away. On your Kos holidays, you will find a mix of traditional tavernas where you can enjoy a cool beer as well as pumping nightclubs that open until the early hours. In Kardamena, Bar Street is where you’ll find the most exciting parties, with late-night bars and clubs that feature different DJs.

The majority of the nightlife of Kos is concentrated in two famous streets in the centre of Kos Town. For more after-hours fun, head to out for a colourful cocktail at one of the stylish harbourfront bars. Or pop into a side-street taverna to enjoy a glass of retsina with the locals. If you want a change of scenery, the towns of Lambi, Tigaki, Agios Stefanos and Psalidi also have a few bars and clubs where you can enjoy a drink.

Family holidays

You can kick back in Kos with the family this year, as this island is designed for holidaymakers of all ages. The beaches here are sandy with lovely warm waters and secluded coves along the beautiful coast – perfect for the whole family. If you’re looking for somewhere peaceful, avoid the party side of Kos Town and head to a quieter resort, such as Kamari or Kefalos.

There are a mix of family-orientated hotels and modern apartments with features like swimming pools and luscious gardens in Kefalos, Kos’ westernmost town. Boasting a beautiful stretch of beach and an array of top notch eateries, it is a great place to base yourself on your Kos holidays.

Keeping the kids entertained in Kos is easy as the island comes with a handful of waterparks. Plus, if you all want to keep active, there are plenty of rocky coastal paths and traditional mountain villages to discover by foot or on horseback.

Couples holidays

On Kos holidays you can expect to be captivated by the island’s enigmatic villages and Mediterranean delights. It’s the perfect getaway for couples because not only is the scenery stunning, the food and wine are delicious too.

Asfendiou is a charming small town built in the rocks and consisting of two neighbourhoods, Evagelistria and Asomatos. Visit them to discover the striking Agios Ioannis and immerse yourself in the lush greenery that surrounds the village.

Or why not hire a bike in Lambi and cycle to Tingaki to really appreciate the beautiful coast of Kos. With the sun on your face and the sea breeze in your hair, there’s nothing more exhilarating than being in the great outdoors with your loved one. It’s only gentle 20-minute ride along the cycle path before you reach the village of Tingaki. Here you can unwind on the beach and refuel in a seafront restaurant.

Action & Adventure

Kos is one of the most fascinating islands in the Mediterranean and has a particularly interesting terrain. Its volcanic origins date back over 160,000 years and, as a result, there are some fascinating sites to behold. Nisyros, one of Greece’s active volcanoes, is one of the island’s top attractions with stunning views and fantastic rock formations. It is definitely well worth a trip.

Blessed with world-class beaches, the Kos Gulf stretches along 97km of unique landscapes, including those beautiful beaches at the heart of Greek life. From parasailing to canoeing around the stunning coastline, the adventure starts here on your Kos holiday.

Further inland, animal-lovers can enjoy horse riding or get up close to Kos' wildlife in the pine forest of Plaka. Along a hike in the forest, you can stop for a picnic and catch a glimpse of native peacocks and tortoises.

Culture

Wherever you roam on your Kos holiday, you are sure to come across a historic sight. Ancient architecture and traditional villages allow you a glimpse into the island’s rich past. Kos offers the best of Greek culture with local traditions, historic buildings and authentic food, drink and music at the heart of island life.

Kos celebrates the Greek myths with iconic landmarks, such as the Shrine of Aphrodite and the Temple of Hercules, which are all close by to Kos. While you’re on holiday in Kos, take time to visit the agricultural village of Antimachia, where you can marvel at some fascinating architecture that has stood unchanged for over 3,000 years.

The capital of Kos Town will provide the perfect history lesson on the Ottoman and Roman influence in Kos, especially an afternoon spent at the Western Archaeological Zone. There is also the well-known Asklepieion and the restored Roman rooms of Casa Romana, which hark back to Kos’ varied history.