Kos Town holidays
Why go to Kos Town
Laid-back and romantic, Kos' historic capital has all the charm expected of a Greek island. With gloriously sun-soaked summers, Kos Town holidays are all about lazy days on the beach, exploring the coastline by boat, or heading inland to quaint mountain villages.
Kos has some of the best beaches in the Dodecanese islands, and staying in the capital puts you close to several. If Lambi Beach is crowded in summer, hire a car and head over to the quieter Marmari Beach. Tigaki Beach is on the way too, with white sands and a family-friendly atmosphere. In the south, there's Therma, a pebbly beach with hot thermal springs turned into a natural pool.
From Kos Town harbour, go snorkelling and diving, or head to Psalidi Beach for windsurfing or sailing. Hopping on a boat is a relaxing way to explore further afield too. Your choice of trips include visiting the small neighbouring islands, as well as the rest of Kos' sandy shores.
Back on land, history is all around in Kos Town. A day's wandering can take you from the Ancient Agora (market), to Casa Romana, and on to the Roman theatre (also called the Odeon). Stop off for a coffee by the Tree of Hippocrates – where, according to legend, the 'Father of Medicine' taught his students – before heading to the Archaeological Museum.
The central square, where you can enjoy a pre-dinner ouzo, is buzzing when dusk falls. Whether you feel like a romantic meal for two, a chilled-out cocktail in a beach bar, or a wild night of dancing, Kos Town can oblige. Neon lights, live music and nightclubs are Nafklirou Street's (also called Bar Street), bag and this is where you'll find the city's liveliest nightlife.
When to go to Kos Town
The summer holiday season in Kos runs from the end of April to mid-October, with peak times during school holidays when the temperatures can reach a sweltering 32C. While it does feel hot in town throughout July and August, the beaches often have a refreshing breeze to cool you down.
If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap holidays to Kos in May and June – search for self-catering options to find the best deals. The weather is already warm enough for beach days, averaging 26C in May and up to 30C in June, with very little chance of rain.
Prices drop a little in September and October as well, but there's a higher chance of rain as the year goes on. From November to March, everything closes for the winter – temperatures drop, clouds roll over the mountains, and locals batten down the hatches to wait for the summer season to begin again.
What to do in Kos Town
Kos Town holidays are for relaxing, sightseeing and enjoying friendly Greek hospitality. The compact capital is convenient for many of the island's main attractions, so you can walk, cycle or drive to beaches, historic sites and see the area's natural beauty.
Asklepieion
Atop a pine-clad hill with views that stretch out across the ocean, the Asklepieion is the island's most impressive archaeological site. In the 3rd century BC, it was a healing centre and sanctuary where ancient Greeks came to worship the god of healing, Asclepius. It's said he would cure them by appearing in their dreams.
Though magical healing is unlikely, there's still lots to see among ruins here, including the restored columns of the Temple of Apollo and the Roman-era public baths. The site is about a ten-minute drive south of Kos Town.
Western Archaeological Zone
You'll also find archaeology on your doorstep in Kos Town. The oldest is found at this open archaeological site not far from the centre.
The excavations are ongoing, but you can see well-preserved mosaics and get a sense of how the city once operated by exploring the temple, market and public toilet. Before you leave, cross the road to see the ancient Roman theatre, too.
With intricate mosaics, grand colonnades and courtyards bathed in sunshine, Casa Romana is one of Kos Town's finest historic buildings.
The restoration, which was completed in 2015, now gives a good idea of a wealthy 3rd-century Koan's lifestyle. Wander through the rooms to see the elaborate décor, which features dramatic stories involving animals and mythical creatures. Audio guides are available from reception.
Cycle or road trip
If you're keen to explore further afield, hire a bicycle to get out and about. The roads around Kos Town are popular with cyclists, so you'll likely see several two-wheelers on your way.
Visit the beaches, see the Asklepieion and, if you're feeling really energetic, cycle up Mount Dikeos to the pretty village of Asfendiou. Alternatively, it takes about an hour to drive right across the island, meaning you can easily reach Paradise Beach and the attractive resort of Kefalos in a car.
Kos Town's pretty palm tree-lined harbour is the starting point for many off-land adventures. Learn to dive in the Aegean Sea, take a beach-hopping cruise, or visit neighbouring islands (Nisyros to climb a volcano or Kalymnos to explore pretty Pothia harbour and visit a natural sponge factory). Turkey is only 20 minutes away by boat (you'll need your passport), and a trip to Bodrum's old town market is an essential stop for shopping-enthusiasts.
How to do the Greek islands with kids
Going Greek this summer? From choosing the right island to picking a hotel that suits the whole family, we reveal how to get the best out of Greece on your next holiday.
Read moreabout How to do the Greek islands with kids
Secret Greece: How to escape the tourist trail
More than 200 inhabited islands draw millions of visitors to Greece each year, yet it's surprisingly easy to escape the crowds... if you know where to look.
Read moreabout Secret Greece: How to escape the tourist trail
How to do the Greek islands on a budget
Sun-kissed, beautiful and full of history, the Greek islands are an inspired getaway - and you don't have to break the bank. Here's how to keep it cheap and cheerful.
Read moreabout How to do the Greek islands on a budget
Last-minute deals to Kos Town
Cheap couples' deals to Kos Town
Family deals to Kos Town
GreeceGreece
GreeceSantorini
GreeceCorfu
GreeceZante
GreeceKos