Kos holidays

Kos’ coastline is an obvious draw – its beaches range from long stretches of golden sand to shingle coves lapped by turquoise water. With plenty of parasols and sun loungers lining the shore, you could get away with just kicking back with an ice-cold beer or cocktail, a good book and a beautiful backdrop.

But if you’re after action, the Greek island boasts a wealth of activities, too; the island is famed for its excellent windsurfing and kitesurfing beaches, you can hire jet skis to zip across the water or take on the slides in a waterpark. Want to take it down a notch? Well, there’s always the option of a pedalo.

After dark, Kardamena is famous for its shoulder-to-shoulder bars and clubs. Capital, Kos Town, is also a great option for bar hopping. Evenings in Kos aren’t only about drinks and late nights though, and the island is perfect for foodies. Markets, souvlaki joints and family-run tavernas serving freshly caught fish and mezze dot the streets.

History lovers will also be in their element, especially in Kos Town. Highlights include the medieval castle, which gazes out over the Aegean, and the Ancient Agora, filled with crumbling temples. Elsewhere on the island, discover the ancient ruins of a religious sanctuary at the Asklepieion and little churches perched on beautiful islets.

If sunbathing is high on your Kos holiday agenda, consider travelling over July and August. Temperatures reach the low-30s over these months – perfect for long, lazy days on the sand and in the sea.

If you’re keen to do a little more sightseeing then consider spring or autumn. With highs of 25C, May, June, September and October are still warm but not as sizzling as the summer months.

It’s easier to find cheap short breaks to Kos at the very beginning and end of the peak season – think April and October. But if you’re looking for an alternative winter getaway, consider travelling in the off season when temperatures are in the mid-teens.

With dozens of beaches to choose from - ranging from calm, peaceful coves to action-packed stretches filled with windsurfers - you could easily spend your entire Kos holiday lazing by the coast. But beyond the sun, sea and sand there are also incredible ancient sites to discover – and plenty of family-friendly fun to be had, too.

Asklepieion

About 4km (2.5 miles) southwest of Kos Town, you’ll find one of the island’s most intriguing ancient sites: the Asklepieion. A religious sanctuary dedicated to god of healing Asclepius, the site was as a healing centre and school of medicine, its training based on Hippocrates’ teachings.

Today you can stroll around the three levels of ruins and include Roman-era public baths. Head further up the hill for the very best views.

Ancient Agora

In the 4th century BC, the Ancient Agora (market) was the centre of life on Kos, hosting markets, public gatherings and political events. Today, it is a fascinating place to explore, particularly if you are a fan of ancient history.

Check out several religious monuments – from a Shrine of Aphrodite to a Christian basilica – and a range of other ruins. The site is easy to access from Kos Town, too: it’s right by the harbour.

Kastri Island

The picture-perfect Kastri is lovely to look at from Agios Stefanos beach, but it's even better if you visit. It’s a relaxing 100m swim or paddle from the shore and once you’re there, you’ll see the tiny white and blue Saint Nicolas chapel up close. Rumour has it that if you circle the island and then ring the church bell you’ll get a dose of good luck – so give it a go.

Hippocrates Plane Tree

Close to the Ancient Agora, you’ll find one of the world’s oldest plane trees. It's an impressive achievement in itself, but not it the tree's only claim to fame. It's said Hippocrates, also known as the “Father of Modern Medicine”, taught his pupils beneath the branches of this tree.

The tree is located in Kos Town, meaning you can pop by if you’re visiting the capital for lunch or shopping.

Aquatica Water Park

From windsurfing and kitesurfing to jet skis and pedalos, there are plenty of opportunities to get on and in the water in Kos.

Another option is the family-friendly Aquatica Water Park, just south of Kardamena. Whether you’re a kid or a big kid, there’s fun for all the family here; the park is packed with dozens of twisting slides, thrilling drops and swimming pools.

For families

Psalidi, a laid-back resort just outside of Kos Town, is an excellent choice for families looking to make the most of the island’s activities. Along with the shallow, pebbly beach, there are plenty of watersports on offer, with a windsurfing and kitesurfing school, pedalo and jet ski hire and a dive school for older children. It’s a leisurely 50-minute stroll into Kos or you can hire bikes and zip along the promenade. Taxis are also available.

Also consider the area around Agios Fokas. This long sand-and-shingle stretch is dotted with sun loungers and parasols, the sea is calm and shallow, and it’s an easy 15-minute drive into Kos Town.

For travellers on a budget

Kos Town is a great destination for those looking for a cheap holiday. Accommodation options vary from little guesthouses to apartments and it’s home to a wide variety of restaurants – think inexpensive souvlaki joints and traditional tavernas, as well as bars selling local beer. You can also save on eating out by picking up fresh produce from the market.

Elsewhere, Mastichari is a great budget option for your Kos holiday. Its chilled-out beachside location makes it a favourite of kite surfers, and it is home to small, inexpensive hotels and studios. There are some great little beach bars, too.

For food and drink

You’ll find dozens of tavernas scattered across Kos, but for a great selection that are all within walking distance, try Kos Town. Start your day with a strong Greek coffee on Eleftherias Square, grab lunch from one of the souvlaki joints and, come evening, tuck into traditional moussaka and mezze from any number of ouzeries and tavernas.

At the other end of the island is Kefalos, where you’ll find a pretty waterfront lined with breezy outdoor bars and plant-draped tavernas. Opt for some calamari or freshly caught fish, or relax in the early evening sunshine with a glass of wine.

For nightlife

Nightlife in Kos can range from laid-back evening drinks with dinner or dancing until dawn. If you’re keen on the latter, base yourself in Kardamena. It’s nestled on the coast near the airport and is filled with bars, clubs and pubs. Start on Bar Street, where you’ll hear everything from dance to disco, then head down to the harbour for late-night partying.

Elsewhere, Kos Town is a great choice if you’re keen to start your night with some of the best in Greek cuisine, as well as a glass or two of ouzo. Then, stay up late and bar hop on the waterfront or in the capital’s main square.

For culture

Once the island’s capital, Kefalos is now a laid-back hillside village where charming whitewashed houses line the sloping streets. Towards the sea, it takes on a different feel; think a pretty, boat-filled harbour, a sweeping sand-and-shingle coastline and restaurants galore. There are plenty of churches to see here, a brilliant island viewpoint and some ancient ruins, too.

Kos Town is the place to soak up the island’s history. From the Ancient Agora to Hippocrates’ Plane Tree, you can take your pick from ancient ruins, a bustling market and church-lined main square.