Photo of Kos

About Kos

Amongst the best-known of Greece’s Dodecanese Islands, Kos is visited by almost one million people per year. Many are drawn to the island’s sandy beaches and turquoise seas — others are fascinated by its thousands of years of history. Kos’ reputation for superb contemporary resorts is another key attraction, with striking seaside spots for couples and families alike. Our Gurus’ list of the best places to stay in Kos is the perfect starting point for planning your next trip.

Arrive by plane, or by ferry from Athens’ Pireaus port or the nearby islands of Rhodes, Pátmos and Symi. You’ll find much of the action clustered around Kos Town, near the island’s northeastern tip, where lively bars, tavernas and cafes line the seafront. Kos’ most famous sight, however, is the ruined Asklepieion, an ancient healing centre just a few kilometres from the town. Take a guided tour to delve into the history and significance of the site, which has also become a place of pilgrimage of sorts.

Keen hikers and cyclists will find gorgeous coastal paths to discover, whilst eager swimmers, sunbathers and sailors can experience portions the 110kms of sandy coastline which surrounds the island. Beautiful and boasting some magnificent hotels and resorts, Kos really is a very special destination. Expect the best places to stay in Kos to fill up fast — book your trip well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Kos

For Boutique Chic

  • Albergo Gelsomino a beautiful boutique bolthole just minutes from Lambi Beach on the edge of Kos Town. Built in 1928, this iconic heritage hotel now boasts eight sleek, luxurious suites, as well as a superb fine dining restaurant. A romantic gem.
  • White Pearls has just 10 sophisticated suites, each with its own sitting room, balcony and (in all but one case) private kitchen. Think slick, white-on-white spaces, verdant gardens and an inviting swimming pool, as well as a popular restaurant. Pick up ingredients from the kitchen garden if you'd like to cook up a feast in your suite.

For a Wellness Retreat

  • OKU Kos sits on the tranquil northern coast of the island. A wellness resort with sleek, minimalist interiors inspired by the Japanese concept of exploring inner space, this hideaway has a soothing, healing atmosphere. Feast on farm-to-table cuisine, take yoga, pilates and meditation classes or unwind with rejuvenating spa treatments. Sensational.

For Families

  • Kos Imperial Thalasso is a sprawling modern resort with direct access to Psalidi beach. Rooms and suites have family-friendly configurations, and there's a great kids club as well as stacks of activities ranging from tennis to water sports. Grown ups can kick back at the wonderful Thalassotherapy Spa, whilst little ones join fun workshops.
  • Ikos Aria, on Kos' southwest coast, has hip rooms and suites with white linens, whitewashed walls and lots of rattan and cane details. A gorgeous lifestyle resort, this property offers a wealth of activities to keep children entertained, and a serene spa for adults. Michelin-starred chefs create mouth-watering cuisine at the many restaurants. Very cool.
  • Michelangelo Resort & Spa also has a lively kids club, along with verdant gardens, a children's pool and a huge infinity pool. Modern interiors feel fresh and funky. An indulgent spa and gourmet dining complete the picture. A sea-facing favourite on the southeast coast, with more than 250 rooms.

For Couples

  • D'Andrea Lagoon, on a stretch of private beach in a quiet part of the island, is a haven of laid-back luxury. Hike, cycle and explore before kicking back alongside the enormous pool or on your private terrace. A minimalist, adults-only gem.
  • Diamond Deluxe, another luxurious adults only property, sits on Kos' northeastern coast. Expect a spoiling stay with contemporary rooms and suites set around a large swimming pool, and rejuvenating treatments at the expansive Mazarin Spa.
  • Lango Design Hotel & Spa is a wonderful honeymoon escape, with private pool suites and gourmet Mediterranean dining just steps from Lambi Beach. The Kocoon Spa is a highlight, as is the sleek, sophisticated design. A seriously stylish choice for discerning romantics.
  • White Rock of Kos is an adults only hideaway in the quiet village of Kefalos. Come here for jaw-dropping sea views, chic rooms and suites — some with outdoor hot tubs or private pools. There's a spa and gastronomic restaurant, too. With just 41 rooms and suites, this is a smaller, more intimate option than the big resorts.
  • Aqua Blu Hotel & Spa offers slick, modern rooms and suites with clean lines and minimalist furnishings. Right on the seafront in Kos Town, it's a top choice for adults looking to combine the best of a beach holiday with some cultural explorations and a bit of a buzz.

For Great Value

  • Kyma Rooms and Suites is a chic little seaside hotel in Kardamena. Recently renovated, the hotel has smart rooms with flexible options for families, but continues to offer excellent rates. There's no onsite restaurant, but there are plenty within easy reach. A great value base.
  • Kos Aktis Art Hotel sits right on the seafront in Kos Town. Minimalist rooms promise stunning sea views, and the restaurant's Mediterranean cuisine is fabulous. A cool, contemporary hotel experience at a very reasonable price. Also well-placed for exploring Kos Town.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Kos Island International Airport and travel to your hotel by taxi, or speak to the team in advance about organising an airport pick up. Alternatively, arrive by ferry from one of the neighbouring islands — these run more frequently during the summer months.
  • There's plenty to see in Kos! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Expect warm summers, with temperatures reaching around 27°C between June and August, which is also peak season. For fewer crowds, quiet beaches and cooler climes travel in April, May or late September, when you can also find great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Kos

Best Hotels in Kos

  • Kyma Rooms & Suites Kardamena, Kos 17 rooms from AU$114

    Families  -  Larger suites with cot options and child friendly design fixtures, welcoming guests of all ages
    Local exploring  -  Explore the town of Kardamaina and its bars, restaurants and scenic countryside
    Value chic  -  Smart recently renovated accommodation at bargain basement prices
    Beach Life  -  Right on the beachfront, with rooms overlooking the ocean
    Air conditioningDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    A chic beachside hotel set in Kardamaina. Spacious, bright rooms are chic and contemporary and come in various sizes making this ideal for families. Large private terraces offer spectacular sea views. Just a stroll from the beach, this is a perfect base for a family holiday - it's great value too! See More

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  • Kos Aktis Art Hotel Kos, Kos 42 rooms from AU$183

    Romantic Break  -  With stunning sea views and luxurious rooms, it's perfect for a romantic break right on the coast of Kos.
    Sights nearby  -  Sights of interest nearby include the Muslim Shrine Lotzias and the Tree of Hippocrates.
    Local markets  -  Browse the local markets of Kos and pick up the cream of local produce.
    Seaside  -  Ideal for a seaside holiday.
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    This modern hotel on the island of Kos, enjoys a stunning seaside setting. The minimalist rooms are chic and boast fantastic views from their balconies. Spend the day relaxing on the beach or exploring the fascinating town of Kos before returning for delicious Mediterranean cuisine. A coastal gem. See More

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  • Kos Imperial Thalasso Kos, Kos 384 rooms from AU$192

    Active Holiday  -  With tennis, diving, watersports, canoeing and windsurfing available, this hotel is perfect for an active beach holiday
    Families  -  Family friendly rooms, a kids club and a raft of activities to keep everyone busy
    Beach Life  -  Located right on the front in Kos' Psalidi Beach
    Sights nearby  -  Immerse yourself in the history of this island at the ancient Greek ruins, or enjoy the spectacular sea views
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A sprawling modern resort, offering a pantheon of choices in both gourmet and casual dining, beach and watersports activities, and wellness and relaxation treatments. Interiors have a cool Mediterranean style and feel more intimate than your usual resort. Perfect for a family beach break. See More

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  • Michelangelo Resort & Spa Kos, Kos 253 rooms from AU$207

    Spa breaks  -  Michelangelo's Therme Spa consists of 5 treatment rooms, offering Thalassotherapy, and wellness practices from around the world
    Beach Life  -  The hotel is located next to Agios Fokas' shingle beach and is a 10 minute bus ride away from Kos' sandy beaches
    Family  -  With cots, kids clubs, babysitting services and an over 16s spa, this hotel has something for the whole family
    Sights nearby  -  Many historical sights, as well as Kos' natural beauty, are a short journey away, such as the Tree of Hippocrates and Kos Castle
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessViewsParking

    With breathtaking sea views from the rooms, luscious gardens and indulgent spa packages and treatments, as well as excellent service and dining, The Michelangelo Resort and Spa offers holidaymakers a wonderful all round family experience just 10 minutes away from the town of Kos. See More

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  • Diamond Deluxe Hotel Kos, Kos 110 rooms from AU$212

    Total relaxation  -  Relax with an extensive and impressive range of wellness and massage treatments, local wines, luxury rooms and beachfront site
    Romantic Break  -  This adult only hotel boasts top of the range massage and relaxation services, some specifically for couples
    Beach Life  -  On the beachfront and fully equipped to provide the full beach holiday experience
    Spa  -  Mazarin Spa offers chromotherapy treatments, hamam, sauna, an indoor pool and 5 treatment rooms, charges apply for some services
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Luxury adult-only hotel boasting sumptuous relaxation facilities, with a fantastic spa, indoor and outdoor pools and two restaurants. Rooms & suites offer contemporary, clean and polished design; there are swim-up options, and Diamond Suites have their own pool. Perfect for a grown-up beach break. See More

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  • White Rock of Kos Kos, Dodecanese Islands, Kos 41 rooms from AU$261

    Architectural  -  Amid rocky outcrops, glistening in the sun, the impressive infinity pool gives way to a spectacular Mediterranean vista
    Romantic Break  -  Enjoy couples services in the spa, 24 hour room service and excellent room amenities in this secluded romantic paradise
    Country Escape  -  Set in countryside north of the nearest town, enjoy the quiet charms of Kos' more rugged landscapes
    Sights nearby  -  Enjoy exploring the traditional town of Kefalos' churches and architecture, the region has been occupied since the neolithic era
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    The White Rock offers panoramic sea views and spacious rooms with luxury interiors on the island of Kos. Off the beaten track on the quieter side of the island, this adults-only hotel offers excellent spa facilities, in-room hot tubs and some of the finest views the island has to offer. See More

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  • Ikos Aria Kefalos, Kos 370 rooms from AU$267

    Foodies  -  Foodies are spoiled for choice at this luxury resort, with 8 eateries offering cuisine spanning the Mediterranean to the Orient
    Beach Life  -  With a coveted seafront location on the beautiful Greek island of Kos, this hotel is perfect for an unplugged beach break
    Families  -  With bright family suites, a children's pool and family-friendly activities, book this hotel for your next summer getaway
    Tennis  -  Keep active at this resort with a few games on one of the four hotel tennis courts; rackets are available to hire
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    This luxury lifestyle resort hugs the southwest coast of Kos. Sleek, almost all-white suites boast sea views from panoramic windows, while a collection of Michelin-starred chefs whet your appetite in the resort's eight restaurants. Unwind on the beach or stay active with the resort's watersports. See More

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  • Lango Design Hotel & Spa Kos, Kos 55 rooms from AU$285

    Romantic Break  -  The perfect couples Kos experience with private pool suites and the Kocoon spa offering special couples services and treatments
    Luxury  -  Featuring a range of relaxation and wellness services, private options and exclusive beach access, offering a truly luxury stay
    Spa breaks  -  Outfitted with luxury spa, hammam and sauna facilities and a team specialising in massage, skin treatment and detoxification
    Gourmet  -  Enjoy all-day gourmet dining at KOAN Cuisine on-site restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine, great wines and fine cigars
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    The last word in luxury. Expect contemporary and minimalist design. There's an indulgent spa and gourmet Mediterranean dining. The spacious rooms are designed with aplomb and the best have private pools. With direct beach access, this is a luxury Kos retreat for discerning adult guests See More

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  • Albergo Gelsomino Kos, Kos 8 rooms from AU$287

    Beach Life  -  In easy reach of the famous Lambi beach, and with access to its own private stretch of beach on the doorstep
    City Style  -  Stay in one of the most stylish hotels on Kos, right in the centre of the islands biggest town
    Lively area  -  World famous for its bars and nightlife, Kos offers its guests an unforgettably lively stay
    Local markets  -  A stroll away from the town market at Eleftherias square, sample a range of quality local produce
    Air conditioningRestaurantViewsParkingNo pets

    An exclusive boutique bolthole contained within one of Kos town's most beloved landmarks. The Albergo Gelsomino welcomes guests into the 1928 property to enjoy a supremely comfortable stay in luxuriously designed suites with access to a private beach-front and impressive Mediterranean restaurant. See More

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  • D'Andrea Lagoon Dodecanese Islands, Kos 80 rooms from AU$326

    Local exploring  -  With hiking, biking and historical tours in the local area, as well as cars for hire, this hotel is perfect for explorers
    Off centre  -  Away from the bright lights and noise of the bigger towns, this hotel offers access to unspoiled beaches and countryside
    Romantic Break  -  Each room is well equipped with large beds, a personal patio and private bathroom in an adults ony resort
    Beach Life  -  With a stretch of private beach, this is a perfect spot for a summer holiday
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParkingNo pets

    Modern and laidback luxury awaits guests at the D'Andrea Lagoon, ideal for couples looking for a holiday in the sun. Equipped with a private beach, attractive and spacious minimalist rooms and private patios set in a quieter, more unspoiled region of the island. See More

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  • Aqua Blu Hotel & Spa Lambi Beach, Kos 53 rooms from AU$342

    Romantic Break
    Views  -  Great views from hotel
    Beach Life
    Luxury
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViews
    Recommended by  -  Tablet, Small Luxury Hotels

    An idyllic hotel on the sea front. Gorgeous rooms and suites in contemporary chic style with private balconies, some with private pools. Fantastic restaurants, luxurious spa, and sun trap pool area. A romantic choice for glamourous sun seekers. See More

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  • Koia Resort Kos, Kos 51 rooms from AU$365

    Romantic Break  -  Enjoy candlelit dinners under the stars, serene private plunge pools, and couples’ spa treatments for pure relaxation
    Back to Nature  -  Get lost in the Mediterranean flora during a peaceful guided walk through the resort’s surrounding natural gardens
    Sights nearby  -  Explore Kos’s rich history with a trip to the second-century Odeon, a beautifully preserved Roman open-air theatre
    Great walks  -  Challenge yourself with a hike to Palio Pyli, where forested paths lead to the ancient Byzantine ruins of Old Pyli
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets
    Recommended by  -  Mr & Mrs Smith

    Tucked away in a serene corner of Kos, this all-suite retreat blends modern luxury with natural beauty. Interiors are sleek and minimalist, with warm wood, soft neutrals, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing sea views. With a top-notch spa, stylish restaurants, and infinity pools, it's a chic stay. See More

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  • OKU Kos Kos, Dodecanese Islands, Kos 100 rooms from AU$440

    Airport  -  6.2 miles from the airport, offering transfers to and from the resort, this secluded spot is easy to reach for those in-the-know
    Romantic Break  -  Couples can take advantage of private villas, stunning romantic vistas, sumptuous dining and pampering services par excellence
    Barefoot Luxury  -  Everything you need in a resort set in open gardens and private sandy beaches by some of the islands most beautiful scenery
    Outstanding location  -  With some of the best views on the island, slightly off the beaten track, this resort is a hidden gem
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessViewsParkingNo pets

    Choose to stray away from the beaten track. A dreamy sea-front resort, with exclusive access to unspoiled beaches, a blissful spa and a more sustainable way of doing things. Chic minimalist interiors use natural materials. Unwind with guided meditations or yoga and enjoy organic local produce. See More

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  • White Pearls Kos, Kos 10 rooms from AU$512

    Contemporary  -  With modern design and conveniences, as well as an organic vegetable garden, this smaller resort is forward thinking and stylish
    Romantic Break  -  Suites can come with everything a couple may need for a romantic stay in Kos, hot tub, champagne, massage therapy and privacy
    Hideaway  -  A little smaller and further outside Kos than most, these semi-detached suites offer a degree more privacy than other resorts
    Boutique  -  With only 10 suites, a little outside the town of Kos, this hotel is a little bit different to the usual fare
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenViewsNo pets

    A little further from the hustle and bustle of Kos town centre than most, this smaller establishment boasting ten detached and semi-detached suites is an attractively designed base to explore the island. Featuring a stretch of private beach, great views, and organically grown cuisine. See More

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