A luxury island in every sense, Kos is a favorite for families, thrill-seekers and romantics alike. Here’s where to stay on this beautiful Greek island for the perfect getaway.
A small traditional village with a big dose of history, Kefalos is where to stay in Kos to enjoy a mix of culture, archaeology and some of the best beaches!
Tigaki
Tigaki is a relaxing area that’s perfect for those who want to spend a few days lounging in the sun. The main attraction here is the long stretch of beach, where you can find hundreds of loungers to claim a spot of your own. You can also stroll along the shore or head inland to see the salt lake, which is a bird sanctuary with herons and flamingos.
Tigaki also boasts a few excellent hotels, including the Neptune Hotel-Resort, Convention Centre & Spa, a five-star resort that’s ideal for couples looking to unwind in style. This beautiful resort offers a number of rooms, including suites and villas, so there’s something for everyone here. There’s even a spa that uses music, scent and color in its treatments to make you feel at home.
Another great option is Jonathan Studio Apartments, which offers a balance of vibrancy and tranquility. This charming property is located on Tigaki’s coast and has easy access to restaurants, shops, and a bus stop. Guests can also take advantage of the on-site secluded beach and the in-house restaurant.
Kefalos is another great place to stay in Kos for those who want a quiet vacation. While it has become more developed than some of the other areas on this list, it still retains a charm that feels authentic to Greece. The streets are lined with traditional Greek houses and you can hear the local dialects being spoken all around you.
The best time to visit Kefalos is in October, which is right at the end of the peak tourist season. This makes it much easier to find accommodations and enjoy the area without the crowds. You’ll also find that prices are lower, and it’s a great time to explore the local attractions, such as the Antimachia Windmill.
Kefalos
Located on the northern shore of Kos, Tigaki is one of three relaxed and family-friendly areas of the island. With a large salt lake on the west side of town and beaches lined with sunbeds and water cabanas, this region is a haven for families and nature-lovers alike. Explore the lake with a stroll around the path or take a ride on horseback after arranging an outing at the Salt Lake Stables.
There are a variety of accommodation options in the area, from apartment complexes to all-inclusive resorts and everything in between. Aside from its beautiful beach, Kefalos is home to the Castle of Kefalos which dates back to the Byzantine era and sits high over the bay of Kamari. The village also offers plenty of shopping and a quaint collection of cafes and restaurants, including the popular Lemoni restaurant.
While Lambi is near the center of tourist action, there’s a sense of tranquility and beauty to this area of the island that makes it a perfect place to stay in Kos for a relaxing holiday. The rocky coastline offers beautiful views over the sea and the sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming or scuba diving. It’s a great choice for couples and families alike with an abundance of family-friendly hotels, such as Antonis Hotel and Studios Kefalos, that offer a comfortable atmosphere for your stay.
Kos Town is the main hub for tourism on the island, so it’s no surprise that this area has more options for hotels and vacation rentals than any other. However, it can be pricier than some of the other areas on the island, especially when it comes to luxury and all-inclusive resorts.
The best place to stay in Kos for couples is at a quiet beach resort that’s still conveniently close to the action. Platanista Hotel is a 4-star Mediterranean-style hotel that’s situated in a quiet area within a short walk of the beach and Kos Marina, and it has an easy bus connection to Kos Town.
Agios Fokas is another quiet and upscale beach resort where you can enjoy a peaceful stay near the sea, sand and a handful of traditional tavernas. The highlight here is the thermal springs that bubble up from the sand, warming your body as you enjoy a rejuvenating soak.
Kardamena
Whether you’re into a brash nightlife scene or prefer to spend your evenings swaying in a hammock with a good book, Kardamena is the place for you. Its pulsing heart is the central strip of bars and clubs where the music pumps until the small hours. For those who want to escape the throngs, there are quieter spots around town where you can sip cocktails under a palm tree and watch the sunset.
Away from the hedonistic heart of Kardamena, Kos’ rugged beauty is on full display at Plaka Forest. This lush green sanctuary is home to many species of birds and other wildlife, making it the perfect place for nature lovers. Located near Antimachia village, the forest is also home to some lovely hotels, including Rio Hotel. The hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites that offer stunning views of the forest.
Tigaki is a peaceful and enchanting spot where you can get away from it all. With a pristine natural environment and awe-inspiring views of the crystal-clear waters, this beautiful resort is a place to relax and recharge your batteries. The area offers a balance of vibrancy and tranquility with plenty of dining options and bars to explore.
Those looking for a more upbeat holiday will love staying in the resort beach of Kardamena***. The resort is a mix of both organized and secluded beaches where you can enjoy various water sports activities. You’ll also find a wide variety of restaurants, traditional taverns, cafes, pubs, and bars in the area.
Lambi offers a similar contrast of both vibrant and relaxing holidays. Its stretches of sandy beaches are popular with families and are dotted with chilled out beach bars and tavernas. The resort is close to the ruins of an ancient temple and has a beautiful scenic setting. The resort is also a great place to stay for couples with its secluded boutique hotels and villas.
There are a number of luxury hotels in the vicinity, including Alexandra Hotel&Apartments, Neptune Luxury Resort and Michelangelo Resort & Spa. All of these offer high-quality breakfasts that will set you up for the day.
Agios Fokas
In this part of Kos, you’ll find a balanced blend of vibrancy and tranquility. Whether you want to enjoy the beachside restaurants, shop at the local markets or unwind in the spa, there’s something for everyone here. The area also offers a wide range of accommodation, from 1920s guesthouses and luxury glamping tents to sprawling village-like resorts for families and couples.
Located on the south east side of the island, Agios Fokas is ideal for travellers looking for a quieter stretch of sand and less-crowded beaches. It’s also a good choice for those seeking a bit of adventure and would like to explore the back roads of the island by car or motorbike.
There are some great hotels and villas in Agios Fokas, with many of them offering a private beach and a range of amenities. For example, the NISSEA Boutique Hotel is a five-star hotel with a private beach, beautiful rooms and incredible sea views. The hotel is also a short walk from the bus stop, making it easy to get around the island.
Another popular option is the Pelagos Suites Hotel & Spa, which offers a luxurious beachfront experience. This luxury hotel has a seasonal outdoor pool, a restaurant and a spa with a hot tub and sauna. It is also a short distance from the town centre and offers some of the best luxury accommodation in Kos.
The former fishing village of Kardamena (also known as Kardamaina) is an exciting tourist destination on the southern coast of Kos. This lively beachside resort holds particular appeal for young travelers, since it’s home to a number of clubs and water sports activities. It’s also a great choice for families who want to take advantage of the beach and the excellent dining options that surround it. The hotel scene in Kardamena is vibrant and offers a variety of accommodation, from boutique hotels to luxury villas. The latter offer a quieter setting and some of the most stunning views in Kos.