Kos Holidays

Beautiful, fun and cultural

Kos is a stunning Greek island, boasting an incredible coastline and a fascinating history that presents itself at every corner. From the castle ruins in Mount Dikeos, to Kos Town’s Italian-era architecture, this island tells an interesting story.

Much like other Greek islands, Kos is a destination of many sides. Kardamena is very busy indeed, adorned with bars, English pubs and a booming nightlife. In order to see the real Kos, we’d recommend leaving this area behind (unless you fancy a night of cocktails), and instead settle down in Kefalos, a gorgeous area where ancient ruins and traditional houses are mixed with welcoming cafes and restaurants in the beach resort of Kamari. Psalidi is just as quiet, with a small scatter of tavernas and local shops.

Why visit Kos?

• Pretty much every corner you turn, you’ll be met with incredible ancient Greek history in Kos. Even the capital itself is adorned with ancient ruins, with an impressive medieval castle overlooking the harbour. Our favourite archaeological sites to visit include the Asklepion of Kos - the ruins of an ancient healing temple where Hippocrates, one of the biggest figures in medical history, once practiced. The Paleo Pyli Fortress is also fascinating, which is the ruin of the acropolis of the abandoned Old Pyli settlement that resides on the Mount Dikeos range.
• The beaches are stunning in Kos, leading on to sweeping valleys and craggy mountain ranges. Most are blessed with gorgeous soft sands and azure waters. Kardamena is a great day trip for families, with plenty of sun loungers, welcoming taverns and safe waters for the kids to splash around. Meanwhile, if you’re in the mood for quiet relaxation, Kefalos Bay is located a little further away from the resort areas.
• Greek food is sensational, and each island has its own local delicacies for you to try. For Kos, it’s a unique sour cheese called xynomyzithra and a spicy cheese cooked in wine called krasotyri, best enjoying in a traditional ouzeri – a Greek tavern where they offer divine meze, the Greek’s answer to tapas.
• Kos Town, the island’s capital, is one of our favourite cities to explore in Greece. As you stroll through the streets you’ll be greeted with Kos’ rich history, including architecture dating back to the island’s Byzantine, Ottoman and Italian rules. Fascinating mosques, classic narrow stone streets, Italian-era buildings and talented street artists make this a charming place to visit.