Kos is a gem tucked away in the southeastern Aegean Sea, part of island complex of Dodecanese. The island is a haven for tourists, boasting an impressive array of facilities and infrastructure that promise an unforgettable holiday experience.
Kos isn’t just about historical treasures and scenic beauty. The island is also renowned for its vibrant nightlife, making it a hotspot for those seeking fun after the sun goes down. Whether you’re hitting the town with friends, your significant other, or family, Kos offers a diverse mix of activities and sights that cater to every taste.
And let’s talk about luxury. Kos serves up a wide range of accommodations, from lavish hotel complexes to budget-friendly rooms, ensuring there’s something for every pocket.
If you’re plotting your next vacation, consider diving into a guide on the best places to stay in Kos to make the most of your visit. Trust me, this island is a destination that ticks all the boxes, whether you’re an adventure seeker, a history buff, or just in need of some beach time.
1. Kos Town, the best area to stay in the island
Kos Town is the place where everything comes together in a beautiful, tourist-friendly package. Despite its popularity, it still manages to keep a peaceful vibe that makes your holiday truly relaxing.
One of the things I love about Kos is that it has a beach right in the heart of the city. Picture this: a sprawling sandy stretch kissed by the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean, lined with all the tourist comforts you could wish for – sun loungers, umbrellas, hotels, and restaurants galore.
The city doesn’t skimp on historical sights either. Take the medieval Castle of Neratzia, for example, perched by the sea. You’ll cross the Palm Tree Avenue, which runs over a moat, to get there. It’s like stepping straight into a storybook.
And don’t even get me started on the Asclepeion. Built in honor of medicine and health around 400 BC, this ancient medical center is a must-see.
When the sun goes down, Kos Town lights up with an active nightlife. You’ll find plenty of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs, especially along Naftilarou Street and the buzzing “Bar Street.”
Whether you’re into grand resorts, all-inclusive hotels, or more budget-friendly options, you’ll find the perfect spot to lay your head after a day (or night) of exploration.
Best Hotels in Kos Town
- (€€€) Albergo Gelsomino: a 5-star beachfront hotel with breakfast and bar, 200m from Kos Town
- (€€) Kos Aktis Art Hotel: a 4-star beachfront hotel with restaurant and bar, in the center of Kos
- (€) Paritsa Hotel: a 2-star hotel with breakfast and bar, 500m from the beach
2. Lambi Beach, a beautiful beach close to Kos Town
Just a stone’s throw from the bustling port of Kos, a mere kilometer away, lies the breathtaking Lambi Beach. Imagine a stretch of fine sand where every tourist luxury is at your fingertips: comfy sun loungers, shade-giving umbrellas, chic beach bars, and tempting restaurants.
From here, you can embark on a sailing adventure to explore the neighboring Dodecanese islands, or simply indulge in the lavish amenities offered by the nearby grand hotels and resorts.
Many of these places boast pools and are perfectly suited for families with kids, making it a hit for both relaxation and fun.
And when the night calls, the city’s vibrant nightlife is just around the corner. You’re in the perfect spot to dance the night away until the early hours.
Lambi Beach isn’t just a location; it’s the gateway to an array of experiences, combining relaxation by day with excitement by night.
Best Hotels in Lambi
- (€€€) Aqua Blu Boutique Hotel & Spa: a 5-star beachfront hotel with swimming pool, spa, breakfast and bar, 1.5 km from the Kos Town
- (€€) Aegean Houses: a 4-star hotel with swimming pools, breakfast and bar, 1 km from the Kos port
- (€) Gaia Garden: a 3-star hotel with swimming pool, breakfast and bar, 800 m from the beach
3. Tigaki, best area to stay in Kos for families and kids
Tigaki is a slice of paradise just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Kos Town, offering a stunning natural setting alongside a vast sandy beach. Once a secret retreat cherished by locals, Tigaki has blossomed into a tourist favorite without losing its serene charm.
The beach itself unfurls into a magnificent sandy expanse, dotted with sun loungers and umbrellas, making it an idyllic spot for families and water sports enthusiasts alike. If you’re into windsurfing, this place is a dream.
Just a hop away from the beach, the Alykes salt marsh is a nature lover’s haven, home to flamingos, pelicans, storks, sea turtles, and even sea snakes. This protected area is a must-visit, especially if you’re traveling with curious little ones eager to explore the wonders of nature.
Tigaki is also where you’ll find delightful restaurants serving up local Greek flavors, snack bars for a quick bite, and a laid-back nightlife. For those in search of a lively evening, Kos Town is the place to be, as Tigaki’s nightlife revolves around cozy bars and tavernas, perfect for unwinding after a day in the sun.
Despite its modest size, Tigaki offers a wide selection of hotels and accommodations, with many conveniently located near the beach. You might want to consider renting a vehicle for easier exploration of this enchanting area and beyond.
Best Hotels in Tigaki
- (€€€) Astir Odysseus Kos Resort and Spa: a 5-star beachfront hotel with 5 swimming pools, breakfast and bar, 5 km from the Kos Town
- (€€) Utopia Blu Hotel: a 4-star hotel with swimming pool, spa, breakfast and 4 bars, 1 km from Tigaki beach
- (€) Sunshine Hotel Tigaki: a 3-star hotel with swimming pool, restaurant and bar, 300m from Tigaki beach
4. Marmari, a quiet place to stay in Kos
Just a scenic 20-minute drive southwest of Tigaki, you’ll stumble upon the quaint village of Marmari, complete with its own namesake beach. This serene spot is a slice of paradise, boasting exotic natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere, far from the buzz of Kos Town.
Marmari is your quintessential small Greek village, where narrow alleyways wind past charming tavernas serving delicious local cuisine.
The beach is just a stone’s throw away, perfect for those looking to soak up the sun on its golden sands or dive into watersports like kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Along the beachfront road, you’ll find an array of eateries and tavernas. Don’t be surprised if you spot horse riders; the area is known for its equestrian schools, adding a unique touch to the village’s charm.
And for a touch of tranquility, the Alykes salt marsh is nearby, offering a dreamy escape into nature.
While Marmari might not be the go-to for wild nightlife, it does offer a handful of bars where you can enjoy a relaxed evening drink.
The accommodations here range from beachside apartments to luxurious hotels equipped with spas and pools, many offering all-inclusive packages for an effortless stay. Marmari is a gem for those seeking a quieter, more laid-back holiday experience.
Best Hotels in Marmari
- (€€€) OKU Kos: a 5-star beachfront hotel with swimming pool, spa, breakfast and bar
- (€€) Casa Paradiso: a 4-star hotel with 3 swimming pools, breakfast, bar and private beach
- (€) Anthia Apartments: a 2-star hotel with breakfast and free parking, 250m from the beach
5. Mastichari, where to stay in Kos for surfing
Mastichari on the island of Kos is a bustling tourist spot known for having the island’s second largest port. This quaint town is so compact that you can easily explore every corner on foot. You’ll find a plethora of mini markets and shops just a short walk away.
Its beach is a marvel, boasting pristine white sands and turquoise waters that many claim are the most beautiful in Kos.
Decked out with sun loungers, shaded beds, and umbrellas, it offers all the comforts for a perfect beach day. It’s also a favorite spot for surfing enthusiasts when the waves pick up.
For fun beyond the beach, Mastichari is home to the Lido Waterpark, a hit with both kids and adults. And for a dose of culture, the Hippocrates Garden Cultural Center is a must-visit, recreating an ancient Greek settlement from the 5th century BC.
Nightlife in Mastichari is on the quieter side, with strict rules about music after midnight. However, this doesn’t dim the charm of its superb tavernas, where you can indulge in fresh fish and seafood.
The area is dotted with small, family-run hotels offering unique stays with breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Mastichari is the perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural richness, and tranquil living.
Best Hotels in Mastichari
- (€€€) Atlantica Marmari Palace: a 5-star hotel with 5 swimming pools, spa, bar, 3 restaurants and private beach
- (€€) Mastichari Bay Hotel: a 4-star beachfront hotel with swimming pool, bar, 2 restaurants
- (€) Ilios and Irene: apartments with kitchenette and breakfast, 400m from the beach
6. Kefalos, where to stay in Kos on a budget
Kefalos, once the proud capital of Kos, is now a charming village of about 2,500 souls. Nestled atop a hill with a labyrinth of narrow streets, it offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. It’s home to its own harbor, Kamari, and boasts stunning white sandy beaches.
The locals are dedicated to preserving the village’s traditional vibe, despite the growing number of shops, eateries, and bars.
Kefalos is a hub for cultural festivities, like the feast of Agia Paraskevi and the Honey Festival, attracting visitors from across the island. Nightlife might be subdued, with the focus on delightful restaurants and local bars rather than late-night partying.
If you’re considering a stay in Kefalos, it’s wise to start looking for accommodations early, especially if you’re coming with family. It’s a popular spot, and prices tend to climb the closer you get to the beach.
Kefalos offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural events, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to immerse themselves in the authentic essence of Kos.
Best Hotels in Kefalos
- (€€€) Ikos Aria: a 5-star hotel with 4 swimming pools, spa, 8 restaurants and bar, 600m from Kefalos beach
- (€€) Royal Bay: a 4-star beachfront hotel with 2 swimming pool, breakfast and bar
- (€) Albatross Studios: beachfront apartments with kitchenette, swimming pool and breakfast
7. Kardamena, best area to stay in Kos for nightlife
Kardamena has transformed from a quaint fishing village into a vibrant tourist hotspot, brimming with bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Its expansive beach, adorned with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, is a haven for boats and yachts.
Not to be missed are the thermal springs of Agia Irini, renowned for their healing properties, and the village of Antimachia with its Venetian Castle, perched atop a hill alongside two historical churches from the 16th and 18th centuries.
From Kardamena, you can venture out to Nisyros, an island famed for its active volcano with the Polyvotis and Stefanos craters offering a peek into nature’s raw power.
The beachfront is the heart of Kardamena’s social life, where seafood restaurants and bars offer lively spots to unwind.
Here, you’ll also find a range of accommodation options, from cozy rental rooms to luxurious all-inclusive resorts, ensuring there’s a perfect spot for every traveler looking to soak up the sun and local culture in this dynamic part of Kos.
Best Hotels in Kardamena
- (€€€) Grand Blue Beach Hotel: a 5-star beachfront hotel with 5 swimming pools, spa, 3 restaurants (breakfast) and bar
- (€€) Mitsis Family Village Beach Hotel: a 4-star beachfront hotel with 2 swimming pools, 4 restaurants and bar, 200m from the beach
- (€) Nissia Kamares: elegant apartments with swimming pool, bar and breakfast, 3 minutes’ walk from the beach
8. Agios Fokas, a quiet place in Kos for a relaxing holiday
Agios Fokas is just a short drive from the bustling town of Kos, renowned for its picturesque beach. This secluded spot boasts unique black sand and pebbles, attracting fewer crowds. Off to one side, there’s a designated area embraced by naturists.
The beach is home to a top-notch water sports school offering lessons and equipment rentals for both novices and seasoned enthusiasts. The seabed here is perfect for diving or snorkeling adventures, and it’s a favorite spot for surfers when the wind picks up.
For those seeking more activity, the Agios Fokas Beach Club is the place to be, with tennis courts, beach volleyball, Pilates, aqua aerobics, and even a playground for the little ones.
Dining options are limited to a few restaurants near the beach, so if you’re after vibrant nightlife, you’ll need to head towards the town.
For those looking to stay, there are several beachside resorts, though be prepared for a bit pricier accommodations. Agios Fokas offers a tranquil retreat with a dash of adventure, perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds without straying too far from Kos Town.
Best Hotels in Agios Fokas
- (€€€) Dimitra Beach Hotel & Suites: a 5-star hotel with wellness center, 4 swimming pools, fitness center, 3 restaurants, bar and private beach
- (€€€) Michelangelo Resort & Spa: a 5-star hotel with spa, 5 swimming pools, private beach, bar, 3 restaurants and gym
9. Psalidi, where to stay in Kos for water sports
Psaldi may not ring bells like the famed hotspots, but it’s a gem of a tourist destination in its own right. Known for its wetlands and wild beauty, it’s a place where nature enthusiasts can truly revel in the great outdoors, not to mention its welcoming beach.
The beach, a blend of pebbles and sand, creates a family-friendly vibe with its calm waters perfect for the little ones. For those itching to catch some waves, the Big Blue Surf Center on the beach is your go-to spot for surf lessons and equipment rentals.
When it’s time to take a break from the sun and sea, the beach road’s array of restaurants and bars offers the perfect retreat. Here, you can also find shops stocked with souvenirs to take a piece of Psaldi home with you.
Accommodations in Psaldi mostly consist of rental rooms and apartments, promising a beautiful and tranquil stay. Evenings here are quiet, making it ideal for those seeking peace rather than a party scene.
If nightlife is what you’re after, you might want to explore elsewhere. Psaldi is perfect for families and those looking to unwind in the serene embrace of nature.
Best Hotels in Psalidi
- (€€€) Kipriotis Maris Suites: a 5-star hotel with spa, 2 swimming pools, restaurant and bar, 150m from the beach
- (€€) Platanista Hotel: a 4-star hotel with wellness center, 2 swimming pools, 2 restaurants, bar and private beach
- (€) Andromeda Hotel Apartments: elegant studios and apartments with swimming pool and bar, 50m from the beach
10. Asfendiou and Lagoudi Zia, two traditional villages in Kos
Nestled on the slopes of Mount Dikeos, Asfendiou is a village frozen in time, offering sea vistas framed by lush vegetation and age-old stone houses.
Nearby, Lagoudi Zia, another gem perched on Mount Dikeos, captivates visitors with its quaint cobblestone lanes, inviting tavernas, and shops filled with handmade treasures. Just a stone’s throw away, the Zia Natural Park awaits with its pine forests and scenic trails.
For those up for a challenge, a hike to the summit of Mount Dikeos reveals a historic chapel dedicated to Christ, dating back to 1079.
Zia is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, making it the perfect spot to bid farewell to the day. It’s a sanctuary of peace and tranquility, far from the hustle and bustle.
In Asfendiou, don’t expect luxurious hotels or resorts; instead, you’ll find traditional homes transformed into charming guesthouses. A vehicle is essential here, ensuring you fully embrace the tranquility and beauty of this unique area.
Best Hotels in Asfendiou
- (€€€) Villa Rosa Luxury Maisonettes: a luxury villa for 4 people, private pool, garden and free parking
- (€€) Orea Ellas Kos – Deluxe Residences: traditional units with restaurant and bar
- (€€) AnamneZia Luxury Suites: luxury apartments with swimming pool and balcony