Where to stay in Kos when looking for the charming villages, best beach experience, an affordable stay or a stunning luxury villa? Kos has luxurious resorts, stylish boutique hotels, and small-scale villas with stunning views. It can be a bit challenging to find the best places to stay among all the options. As one of the most popular island destinations in Greece, Kos is full of unique accommodations, especially beautiful boutique hotels. In this blog, we will help you in making a decision on where to stay in Kos. Which charming villages are the ideal options for your stay? And what are the best hotels in these villages?
Booking.comHow to get to Kos
Located southeast of mainland Greece, Kos is a captivating Greek island in the Aegean Sea. With its accessibility heightened during the sun-soaked summer months, there are different opportunities to reach Kos.
Traveling to Kos is most easy by air, with the island’s international airport located close to the charming village of Antimáchia. Operating between late April and the end of October, many flights from European big and even smaller airports are at your disposal.
While the warm season accommodates direct connections, winter tells a different tale. During this period, Kos-bound travelers may need to make a brief layover in Athens before proceeding to their final destination.
For the adventurers, an enchanting alternative awaits: island-hopping in Greece. Kos extends its maritime threads to connect with many neighbouring islands, offering a unique way to experience Greece. A compelling combination can be formed by pairing Kos with the lovely island of Rhodes. The ferry journey between Kos and Rhodes only takes 2 to 2.5 hours.
Why Kos is worth visiting
The idyllic island of Kos is the perfect Greek destination for an enchanting beach getaway, where you can also immerse yourself in local culture, Greek charm, and history. The serene atmosphere and hospitable locals make it an ideal spot for a few days of relaxation.
Read more: 13 best things to do in Kos
As you’d expect from a Greek island, Kos boasts stunning beaches. Top recommendations include Paradise Beach and Agios Stefanos Beach. Agios Stefanos, in particular, is a must-visit attraction offering not only a golden beach and crystal-clear blue waters, but also archaeological excavations, snorkeling opportunities, and a quaint beachside establishment.
For a dose of culture and history, explore landmarks like the medieval Antimachia Castle, a traditional windmill, the Plaka Forest with its roaming peacocks, the Roman Odeon, an ancient marketplace, and a meticulously restored Roman villa. How about observing flamingos at the salt pans of Alikés?
Uncover the charm of Kos’s old town as you wander its winding alleys, ancient castle ruins, and an array of delightful shops and eateries. Amble along the harbor and absorb the vibrant ambiance of this lively town. Or consider venturing to the more authentic Zia, nestled inland on Kos. This colorful village is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and panoramic vistas across the island.
The best time to travel to Kos
Kos offers a delightful getaway with its warm summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination to explore for most of the year. From mid-April to mid-October, the weather is at its prime, offering travelers pleasant temperatures. During this period, the average temperature can rise to 29°C (84°F), rarely dropping below 20°C (68°F).
For sunseekers and beach enthusiasts, the peak season from June to August is undoubtedly the best time to experience the beauty of Kos. Throughout these months, the island comes alive in its summer glory, boasting clear skies, high temperatures, and refreshing sea breezes. Kos’s numerous sandy beaches, like Agios Stefanos and Paradise Beach, entice visitors with warm waters, inviting sunbeds, and many water sports and seaside activities.
Fortunately, the hottest months are accompanied by invigorating breezes that offer welcome relief from the heat. In other months, especially during the shoulder seasons, these refreshing winds can make early and late hours of the day feel rather brisk, making it slightly chilly for poolside or beachside lounging.
Traveling during the shoulder seasons is advisable for a more tranquil experience and cost savings while still enjoying pleasant temperatures. If you prefer milder weather and wish to avoid crowds, the months of April-May and September-October are your best options. The summer bustle has subsided, making it easier to explore popular attractions. The weather remains pleasant, even ideal for hikes or bike rides to uncover the island’s charms.
We recommend skipping the winter months. During this time, the island is notably quieter, with many facilities, restaurants, and accommodations closed. The atmosphere can be somewhat subdued. Additionally, the winter months are cooler, wetter, and cloudier, making Kos less suitable for a sun-soaked winter holiday. The island experiences its highest rainfall between November and March, with the likelihood of rain decreasing significantly from April onwards. Snow is a rare occurrence on the island.
Best villages to stay in Kos
Kos offers a range of options beyond the charming capital city. Explore the finest accommodations the island has to offer and make an informed choice from its delightful villages.
Where to stay in Kos Town
Kos Town stands as the vibrant heart of the island and naturally presents itself as the prime selection for lodging. If you’re seeking vivacity, attractions, and conviviality, the island’s capital is your destination.
Being the largest and most visited spot on the island, Kos exudes a lively ambiance with eateries, shopping lanes, bars, a bustling harbor, and the renowned Lambi Beach. Opting for lodging in Kos Town places you right amidst the island’s attractions. You can relish leisurely strolls along the harbor, saunter by cozy terraces, and explore the ancient town.
As an alternative to Kos Town, consider the villages of Psalidi and Lambi. These villages sit adjacent to Kos Town, so much so that they seamlessly merge. A mere 15-minute bike ride lands you in the bustling center. Psalidi is to the south of the city, while Lambi lies to the north.
The best hotels in Kos Town:
#1 KoSea Boutique Hotel is a charming boutique hotel facing the beach. Revel in a seasonal outdoor pool with loungers and parasols, rooms featuring balconies offering exquisite city views, generously comfortable beds, and modern, stylish decor with light tones.
#2 Pelagos Suites Hotel & Spa is a luxury resort on the famed Lambi Beach, a mere 2.5 km from Kos Town center. Indulge in 3 pools, 2 tennis courts, a football field, water slides, a spa replete with hot tubs and saunas, plus a distinctive floating restaurant. Rooms boast marble bathrooms and balconies or terraces affording stunning views of the garden, the Aegean Sea, or Anatolia.
#3 Lango Design Hotel & Spa is an exclusive adults-only beachfront haven in Kos Town. Delight in a seasonal outdoor pool, private beach, and delectable dining at the restaurant. Pamper yourself with relaxation at the two bars and luxurious spa.
#4 Peridis Family Resort is ideally situated within walking distance of both the beach and downtown, this resort features two pools. Guests enjoy cozy studios and apartments complete with private kitchens or kitchenettes. Families can take advantage of the playground and spacious indoor play area for children.
#5 Albergo Gelsomino is a stylish boutique hotel exuding pronounced elegance, dark hues, and modern decor. Guests laud the exceptional service and amenities in their glowing reviews, which include a bar, restaurant, and private pebble beach with comfortable sunbeds.
Where to stay in Kardamena
If you’re seeking the ultimate beach experience, consider Kardamena (or Kardamaina) as your destination of choice. Situated on the southern coast of Kos, this vibrant seaside town holds particular appeal for young travelers and water sports enthusiasts. Kardamena boasts an array of clubs and offers an extensive range of water-based activities.
The best hotels in Kardamena:
#6 NISSEA Boutique Hotel is a stylish boutique gem right on the shore of Kos. Step onto the terrace and find yourself on the beach! Glowing reviews commend the private beach, the amiable staff, and the delectable breakfast. Immerse yourself in the splendid interiors and luxurious hotel rooms, complete with rain showers or even freestanding bathtubs.
#7 Porto Bello Royal is a 5-star luxury in Kardamena, with breathtaking views of the beach at your disposal. Delight in the seasonal outdoor pool, the hot tub, and the lush garden. Each room comes with a balcony offering scenic views, while a playground awaits the little ones. Sports enthusiasts can partake in activities like table tennis, darts, and tennis.
#8 Grand Blue Beach Hotel is an affordable and well-maintained resort in Kos. Boasting two outdoor pools and a prime beachfront location, it’s a haven for relaxation. Revel in mesmerizing views of the sea, the pool, or the lush garden from the cozy hotel rooms.
Where to stay in Tigaki en Marmari
For a serene beach vacation, Tigaki is the perfect choice. As one of the most beautiful and visited coastal villages in Kos, Tigaki is located approximately 11 kilometers from Kos Town. It boasts a stunning sandy beach, ideal for relaxation and sunbathing. Adjacent to Tigaki is the charming coastal town of Marmari, which features one of the most exquisite beaches on the entire island.
The best hotels in Tigaki and Marmari:
#9 More Meni Residence & Suites is ideally located in Tigaki. The accommodation offers a balanced blend of vibrancy and tranquility. With proximity to restaurants, shops, and a bus stop, it’s conveniently located. Guests can indulge in the outdoor pool, relish the in-house restaurant, and unwind in the soothing hammam and spa. The hotel’s rooms, featuring minimalist design and well-equipped bathrooms, contribute to its status as one of the premier lodging options in Kos.
#10 Jonathan Studio Apartments is a more budget-friendly option. Situated along Tigaki’s beachfront, this hotel provides rooms with kitchenettes, plus a charming pool area with loungers and parasols.
Where to stay in Zia
For a more authentic and picturesque experience, consider staying in the vibrant mountain village of Zia for your Kos, Greece getaway. Situated approximately a half-hour drive away from Kos Town, Zia offers a slice of traditional Greek charm. However, don’t envision it as overly authentic, as the tourism influence has brought forth numerous restaurants and souvenir shops catering to the many international visitors. Zia is renowned for its breathtaking sunsets, stunning island vistas, delightful souvenir boutiques, cozy tavernas, and captivating art galleries.
The best hotels in Zia:
#11 Forest View Villas 1 and Forest View Villas 2 provide exceptionally beautiful lodgings with sea-facing views, complete with terraces and balconies. These villas are modern, spacious, well-appointed, and equipped with all the essentials. The vistas from nearly every window are truly awe-inspiring! Each villa features air conditioning, two bedrooms, a living room, a fully-equipped kitchen, two bathrooms with rain showers, and even a hot tub.
#12 The Aegean blue country house Old Milos boasts stunning mountain views and accommodations with balconies set amidst a serene garden. The proprietors extend a warm welcome with a comprehensive welcome package. Enjoy a delightful stay in this villa that includes a terrace with sea views, a bedroom, a living room, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a bathroom with a shower. Bike and car rentals are readily available, and those who relish hiking will find plenty to explore in the nearby surroundings.
