Kos Town Holidays

Top attractions

While its popularity lies in the fact that it is a vibrant beach town, Kos is well known for its extensive history and there are numerous sites of interest for culture vultures. Explore the impressive Castle of Neratzia, a magnificent feat of architecture built by the Knights Templar. This building dominates the harbour front, making it difficult to miss if you plan to linger over a drink or peruse the coast.

Nearby, you’ll uncover the plane tree, a town landmark and not dissimilar to the one Hippocrates used to teach under – ideal if you want to give the kids a lesson outside the classroom. Meanwhile, the surrounding area is home to a range of Roman ruins to stumble upon. Take a trip west to embrace your inner Indiana Jones and discover the remains of the Asklepion; an ancient Greek sanatorium.

If you’re an art fan, a short walk from the harbour will reveal you to Casa Romana, one of Kos Town’s top attractions. This restored Roman mansion is breath-taking in itself – if only for its stunning architecture and extensive grounds. Take a look inside and you’ll be greeted with a wealth of great artwork, from mosaics and frescoes to glorious statues. There are 36 rooms in total to view, so make sure you get in early.

Beaches

If its sea and sand you’re looking for, you’re in the right place. Zouroudi Beach is a welcome mix of sun-splashed sand and pebbly landscapes, making it a popular place for tourists and locals alike. It also happens to be in front of the castle’s medieval walls, giving an edge of historic style to this popular beachfront. Take a stroll along the coast, or lounge around on a sunbed to top up your tan – you can easily spend all day in this part of Kos Town.

If you’d rather something with a little more atmosphere on your holidays in Kos Town, head to the second bigger beach just opposite the harbour. There are water sports and activities to be had here, as well as numerous cafés and restaurants dotted around the place. Those embarking on a romantic retreat might crave a little more solitude, in that case, a walk to the shingle-clad shores of Psalidi is just the ticket.

Eating out

Kos Town is a hub of wining and dining. There are over a hundred restaurants serving Italian, Greek and other international cuisines. With everything from a quick bite between bars to a full-on, seafront and overall, pretty majestic dining experience, Kos Town balances affordability, ease and luxury with a surefooted, classically Greek approach. Decades of catering to tourists have inevitably lead to an expertise in making sure you've got everything you could possibly want. Holidays are all about freedom and choice, and Kos Town serves them both up in generous helpings.

Nightlife

Kos Town has plenty of nightlife along its main bar strip, and it's not overly tacky or full of young British tourists, although there are some. By the harbour is a selection of music bars which differ from the nightclubs in as much as there may be less hassle from reps and promoters. By far the best place to go out on Kos in this area, beating off Kardamena, Kos Town is an international and varied resort, so it's very likely you'll be able to find just the right nightlife for you.

Family holidays

Kos Town is suitable for families inasmuch as there are plenty of facilities, restaurants and a choice of beaches. The beaches by the harbour probably aren't best for young children, but not out of the question. Further up the coast the beaches get quieter and have more suitable spaces for kids, plus tavernas and beach clubs. However, if you're looking for a family holiday then the beaches in Tigaki - very easy to access from Kos Town - are perfect for children.

Couples holidays

Kos Town is a popular and buzzing resort, ideal for young couples looking for affordable nightlife and restaurants. There are a number of beaches spread out along the coastline and plenty of comfortable hotels. Further afield there are ruins, other resorts to check out and lots of activities, from hiking to cycling.

Action & Adventure

There are plenty of activities, mostly focused on the extensive coastline. A range of boat tours will take you along the shore, or, if you fancy something further afield, all the way over to Bodrum in Turkey. Old classics such as scuba and snorkelling, surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing all are available, too.

Culture

There's plenty of history to see during your stay on Kos. In the centre of Kos Town is the charming Eleftherias Square, a busy market square ideal for people watching and admiring the mosque (although one spire was damaged in the recent earthquake.) Kos Town castle is another popular spot, or the Casa Romana (a Roman villa), or even the Roman Odeon of Kos.