One of Kos' less beaten paths is the hiking trails of Nisyros. The volcano is hydrothermally active and a day trip to the top showcases fumaroles, vents and bubbling mud. If you're looking for a slightly less intense adventure, you can simply wander the peaceful streets of Mandraki village. This hilltop town is free of motorised vehicles; making it safe and convenient to walk. One of the best things to do in Mandraki is to enjoy a coffee alfresco, while admiring the quiet serenity of this unassuming town. Another great place to visit is Zia. This quiet area is popular with visitors, but as soon as the coaches leave, the village is yours to explore in peace. Visit one of the great Tavernas for a meal, stop by the market for some premium homemade leather goods or watch the sunset from the Dikaion Mountains. Asklepieion is Kos' most significant archaeological site. The area dates back to the first half of the 3rd century BC. Visitors can see the ancient structure and witness just why Greece holds such an important place in ancient history.

If you are seeking great Greek cuisine during your holiday to Kos, the best place to start is the town centre. You will find plenty of harbourside restaurants, long lazy lunches and fabulous live entertainment. However, holidays to Kos aren’t all about partying as the island houses a number of small hideaway villages, all with great local dining options. If you are looking for traditional Greek dining, be sure to head away from the waterfront. The back streets and alleys are home to a number of authentic restaurants that cater to locals, rather than tourists. Whether it is a touristy café or an authentic Taverna, be sure try a traditional Greek salad. Kos is also known for its seafood, and marinated anchovies and sardines are one of the Kos' most delicious meals. Top your food off with a glass of ouzo, Greek beer or a summery white wine for the ultimate Greek experience during your holiday in Kos. 

Families looking for a beach adventure will find plenty of sun to soak up in Kos. The beautiful landscape provides the backdrop to a variety of great family holiday activities. Visitors can hike a volcano, cycle around a gulf or sit on a beach and watch the world float by. Kos' historical sites allows families to learn about Greece's history and Kos’ important place in Greek mythology.

As the home of Hippocrates, the father of medicine, visitors can see the Tree of Hippocrates in the centre of Kos Town, which is a fantastic educational experience for all ages. The Archaeological Museum of Kos is another great learning experience. The items housed in the museum come from the island and provide a window into Kos' past. Picnicking, hiking, cycling and education are all at the fingertips of families on holiday in Kos. 

After sunning yourself on Kos' world-class beaches, and you get your second wind, you may want to try out some of the island's other activities. Kos Gulf is 97 kilometres of unique landscapes and features. Visitors can circumnavigate the gulf and see beautiful beaches, ancient villages and a historic castle. The island's flat terrain makes it ideal for cycling. What better way to see Kos Gulf or any other part of the island than to cycle? Of course, the beaches that are so central to Greek island life offer plenty of water sports. Parasailing, windsurfing and canoeing around the coastline can all be found at the beach. But if you want to go further inland, visitors can enjoy horse riding or exploring the ancient ruins of Kos. If you fancy seeing Kos' wildlife, then escape to Plaka. The pine forest offers the chance to see tortoises and peacocks. Visitors can picnic in the forest or hike through it during a day trip.

The sun, sand and surf are three reasons tourists descend on Kos for their holidays; and all are reasons visitors never want to leave. Mastichari beach is a short drive from Kos Town and is a white sand paradise. Why not soak up the sun or even try your hand at jet skiing? Kefalos beach is another of Kos' most popular shores. The area's famous settlement surrounds the beach, and you can find plenty of Tavernas and cafes to dine in here too. While at Kefalos, the Monastery of Agios Nikolaos is a fantastic sight to see. Located just a short drive away, visitors often combine the two on a day out – making it a great way to mix relaxation and sightseeing in one.

If you want to experience the best that Kos has to offer once the sun goes down, Kos Town will not disappoint. Lined with trendy bars and restaurants – it won’t take long to get the night rolling. If you’re up for a dance, Kos’ nightclub scene is sure to have you up on your feet in no time – popular favourites include Heaven and Mylos Beach Bar. 

Kefalos and Kardamena are also hotspots for a drink or three, and you’ll find cheap drinks and great music to get everyone in the mood in any of the bars in these towns. If you’re up for a night on the town during your Kos holiday, you can certainly expect to see the sun set and more than likely see it rise again too! 

Not only does Kefalos have one of Kos' best beaches, but it is blessed with a pleasant marina and quaint old buildings. The town is a romantic escape for couples venturing to Kos. The tranquil town is full of small restaurants with candlelit tables, perfect for a special occasion. The island's close proximity to other islands allows couples to take sailing excursions, and a visit to one of the other nearby Greek islands or just around the coastline is well worth it. A leisurely stroll through Kos Town's centre, ending up in a café is a great way to begin the evening. Some late-afternoon beach lounging is another great way to spend time with a loved one. Kos has plenty of secluded beach space, perfect for a trip for two. A trip to the rugged eastern coast of Kos will provide couples with a different experience. Hike, cycle or just marvel at the natural beauty of the island's surroundings. 

Kos is an island overflowing with stories to tell of an ancient history that pinpoints the Greek islands as a fantastic place to visit for culture vultures. 

From the ruins in the Western Archaeological Zone in Kos Town and the renowned Asklepieion, to the restored Roman-built rooms of Casa Romana – there are plenty of attractions that give visitors a chance to delve into Kos’ diverse history. 

But whether you’re searching for it or not, a simple stroll around Kos Town and an afternoon spent lazily winding around the back streets puts visitors right at the heart of Kos’ culture. This is an island offering the best of Greek culture, in its ancient architecture, local traditions, and classic food and drink.