Psalidi is a peaceful coastal area located just a few minutes from Kos Town. It is home to modern hotels, well-equipped holiday resorts, and attractive beaches, making it an excellent choice for travellers seeking a comfortable stay with easy access to the island's capital.
π¨ Resort Hotels with Excellent Facilities
Unlike the hotels in the centre of Kos Town, many resorts in Psalidi offer large swimming pools, landscaped gardens, wellness facilities, and direct access to the beach. It's the perfect option for those who want to combine sightseeing with the comfort of a full-service resort.
π² Just Minutes from Kos Town
Psalidi is connected to Kos Town by a dedicated cycle path and a scenic coastal road. Within just a few minutes, you can reach the harbour, historic landmarks, restaurants, and cafΓ©s while still enjoying the peace and space of accommodation outside the busy town centre.
π Beaches and Active Holidays
The coastline around Psalidi is mostly made up of pebble and shingle beaches with exceptionally clear water. Thanks to the reliable breeze, the area is particularly popular with windsurfers and other water sports enthusiasts.
π Peace and Quiet After a Day of Exploring
Although Kos Town is only a short distance away, evenings in Psalidi are much more relaxed. It's an excellent choice for travellers who want to unwind in peaceful surroundings after a day of sightseeing.
π¨βπ©βπ§ Visiting with Children?
The spacious hotel resorts, swimming pools, and quieter atmosphere make Psalidi a popular choice for families. Its close proximity to Kos Town also makes it easy to combine relaxing beach days with visits to the island's main attractions.
β Psalidi Is the Right Choice If You...
β want to stay in a resort with excellent facilities.
β would like to combine relaxation with daily sightseeing.
β enjoy cycling.
β prefer quieter beaches and crystal-clear water.
β are looking for comfortable accommodation close to Kos Town.
Zipari is a small, peaceful village located in the centre of Kos. You won't find beaches or crowds of tourists here, but that's exactly what makes it such a special place. It offers a glimpse into everyday life on the island and is an excellent choice for travellers planning to explore Kos by car while staying away from the busy coastal resorts.
π Close to the Island's Main Attractions
Thanks to its central location, Zipari provides easy access to almost every corner of Kos. Nearby attractions include the Asclepieion, Zia, Tigaki, Pyli, and Kos Town. It's an ideal base for travellers who want to discover a different part of the island each day.
πΏ Experience Everyday Life on Kos
Zipari has retained the atmosphere of a traditional Greek village. Instead of souvenir shops and busy promenades, you'll find local bakeries, cafΓ©s, tavernas, and neighbourhood shops used by the island's residents every day. It's a wonderful place to experience the authentic side of Kos, away from the main tourist areas.
π½οΈ A Peaceful Alternative to the Resorts
Evenings in Zipari are quiet and relaxed. There are no nightclubs or lively entertainment venues, but you'll have no trouble finding a traditional taverna serving delicious local cuisine. If you enjoy peaceful evenings after a day of sightseeing, you'll feel right at home here.
π¨βπ©βπ§ Visiting with Children?
Zipari is an excellent choice for families planning an active holiday. Its central location means shorter driving times to the island's main attractions, allowing you to spend less time on the road and more time exploring Kos together.
β Zipari Is the Right Choice If You...
β plan to explore different parts of the island every day.
β are looking for peaceful accommodation away from the busiest resorts.
β want to experience authentic local life on Kos.
β value a central location.
β are travelling by car.
Antimachia is a peaceful, traditional village located in the centre of Kos. It isn't known for wide beaches or lively nightlife, but it has preserved the authentic character of a Greek village. It's an excellent base for travellers who want to explore the island and discover its rich history.
The area's most impressive landmark is the Hospitaller Castle of Antimachia, which protected the heart of the island for centuries. Today, visitors can still walk along its massive defensive walls and explore the two small churches preserved within the fortress.
π‘ A Traditional House and Historic Windmill
Just below the castle, you can visit a traditional house museum, offering a glimpse into everyday life on Kos only a few generations ago. Nearby stands one of the island's best-preserved historic windmills, a reminder of the region's long agricultural heritage.
π An Excellent Base for Exploring Kos
Thanks to its central location, Antimachia provides easy access to Kos Town, Kefalos, Kardamena, and the island's northern coast. It is an ideal choice for travellers planning daily road trips around the island.
βοΈ Close to the Airport
Antimachia lies just a few kilometres from Kos International Airport, making it a convenient option for travellers arriving late in the evening or departing early in the morning. Despite its proximity to the airport, the village has retained its peaceful, authentic atmosphere.
π¨βπ©βπ§ Visiting with Children?
The castle, traditional windmill, and historic house museum offer children a fascinating introduction to what life on Kos was like in the past. It's an excellent destination for a relaxed family outing.
β Antimachia Is the Right Choice If You...
β are interested in history and traditional architecture.
β plan to explore the island by car.
β are looking for a peaceful village away from the busy resorts.
β want to experience the authentic side of Kos.
β appreciate being close to the airport.
Mastichari is a small seaside village that has preserved the relaxed atmosphere of a traditional Greek fishing port. Whitewashed houses, colourful fishing boats, and a pleasant waterfront promenade make it an ideal destination for travellers looking to escape the island's busiest resorts. It is also an excellent base for visiting the neighbouring islands.
β΄οΈ The Gateway to Kalymnos
Mastichari is the main departure point for ferries to Kalymnos, with services operating throughout the year. The crossing takes around 30 minutes and is one of the most popular day trips from Kos.
π You'll find practical information about visiting Kalymnos in our dedicated guide.
ποΈ A Family-Friendly Beach
Just beside the village lies a wide sandy beach with a gently sloping shoreline. The calm sea and excellent facilities make it a favourite with families, as well as visitors looking for a quieter alternative to the island's busier beaches.
π Wind and Water Sports
The northwestern coast of Kos is well known for its reliable winds, making Mastichari a popular destination for water sports. Several windsurfing and kitesurfing schools operate here, attracting both beginners and experienced enthusiasts.
π½οΈ A Harbour Full of Tavernas
The true charm of Mastichari comes alive in the evening. The harbour is lined with traditional tavernas specialising in freshly caught fish and seafood. Enjoying dinner while overlooking the fishing boats and watching the sunset is one of the best ways to end the day.
π¨βπ©βπ§ Visiting with Children?
Mastichari is an excellent choice for families seeking a quieter alternative to the island's larger resorts. A stroll around the harbour, watching ferries and fishing boats, and spending time on the wide sandy beach provide plenty to keep younger visitors entertained.
β Mastichari Is the Right Choice If You...
β plan to take a day trip to Kalymnos.
β prefer peaceful seaside villages.
β enjoy fresh seafood and waterfront tavernas.
β are travelling with children.
β are interested in water sports.
Although Zia is not a typical holiday resort, it is one of the places you simply have to visit during your stay on Kos. This charming mountain village is famous for its spectacular sunsets, traditional tavernas, and breathtaking views stretching from Mount Dikeos to the Aegean Sea.
π More Than Just a Sunset Destination
It is the sunsets that have made Zia one of the island's most famous attractions. During the summer months, the village attracts large crowds, so if you want to park close to the centre, it's worth arriving well in advance. However, if you're not visiting solely for sunset, consider coming earlier in the day. The village is much quieter, parking is easier to find, and the panoramic views are just as spectacular.
π½οΈ Tavernas with a View
Zia is renowned for its hillside tavernas, many of which feature panoramic terraces overlooking the island. Enjoying dinner here is an experience in itself, combining traditional Greek cuisine with unforgettable views across the western coast of Kos.
ποΈ Local Shops and Handmade Products
The narrow streets are lined with shops selling handmade ceramics, local herbs and spices, olive oil, olive-based cosmetics, and traditional souvenirs. Keep in mind, however, that because of Zia's popularity, prices are often higher than elsewhere on the island.
π₯Ύ The Starting Point for Mount Dikeos
Zia is also the starting point for one of the island's most popular hiking trails leading to Mount Dikeos, the highest peak on Kos. The hike does not require any specialist equipment, but comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water are essential, especially during the summer months.
πΈ A Scenic Viewpoint and Romantic Park
Just beside the village centre, you'll find a panoramic viewing terrace and a small landscaped park with shaded paths and well-kept gardens. It is one of the most photogenic places on Kos, making it a favourite location for wedding and engagement photos. The views are stunning not only at sunsetβduring the day, you can enjoy sweeping panoramas across much of the island and the surrounding coastline.
π¨βπ©βπ§ Visiting with Children?
Children usually enjoy wandering through the colourful streets filled with small shops and local products. If you're planning to hike Mount Dikeos, be sure to choose a route and time of day that suits younger walkers.
π A Tip from Zwiedzo-Maniacy
During the summer season, it's best to arrive in Zia 2β3 hours before sunset. Not only will it be much easier to find parking, but you'll also have time to explore the village, visit the viewpoint, and choose a taverna with the perfect view.
Many visitors arrive just before sunset and miss the chance to experience the true charm of Zia.
β Zia Is the Right Choice If You...
β want to experience one of the most beautiful sunsets on Kos.
β enjoy mountain scenery and panoramic viewpoints.
β are planning a romantic evening.
β love Greek cuisine and restaurants with spectacular views.
β intend to hike Mount Dikeos.
Pyli is one of the most atmospheric villages on Kos. People don't come here for beaches or nightlife, but for its rich history, authentic Greek character, and remarkable places where reality blends with legend. It is also an excellent base for exploring the southern and central parts of the island.
π Read more about modern Pyli, the abandoned medieval town of Palio Pyli, and the area's most fascinating attractions in our dedicated guides.
ποΈ Two Sides of Pyli
Modern Pyli and Palio Pyli are two completely different places, even though they are only a few kilometres apart. Today's village is a peaceful Greek community with a central square, traditional tavernas, and everyday local life. Just a short drive away, high on the mountainside, lie the ruins of the abandoned medieval town that was once one of the most important settlements on Kos. This is where the most fascinating chapter of Pyli's story begins.
π° A Place Filled with History and Legends
Pyli is a destination best explored at a leisurely pace. A walk through the ruins of Palio Pyli leads to the Hospitaller Castle, abandoned houses, Byzantine churches, and one of the island's oldest monumentsβthe Tomb of Harmylos. The area is also steeped in legend. The Spring of Harmyli, stories of a mysterious underground tunnel, and local tales passed down through generations give Pyli a truly unique atmosphere.
π An Excellent Base for Exploring the Island
Thanks to its central location, Pyli provides easy access to both the northern and southern coasts of Kos. It's an excellent choice for travellers planning daily road trips who want to explore different parts of the island without changing accommodation.
π₯Ύ Perfect for Walkers
The countryside around Pyli is ideal for hiking and leisurely walks. Pine-covered hills, scenic viewpoints, and trails leading to Palio Pyli make this one of the greenest and most rewarding areas on the island.
β Pyli Is the Right Choice If You...
β want to discover a less touristy side of Kos.
β are interested in history, legends, and archaeological sites.
β plan to explore the island by car.
β enjoy peaceful, traditional Greek villages.
β love walking and panoramic viewpoints.
β are looking for a destination with a unique atmosphere.
Marmari is a peaceful seaside resort on the northern coast of Kos. It is known for its wide sandy beach, excellent conditions for water sports, and relaxed atmosphere. It's an ideal choice for travellers who enjoy staying active while still appreciating peace and quiet.
ποΈ One of the Most Beautiful Beaches in Northern Kos
Marmari Beach is famous for its soft golden sand and long, spacious shoreline. The sea is crystal clear, and the gently sloping beach makes it a popular choice for both families with children and visitors who enjoy long walks along the coast.
π¬οΈ A Paradise for Windsurfers
The northern coast of Kos is renowned for its reliable winds, making Marmari one of the island's favourite destinations for windsurfing. Several schools and equipment rental centres operate directly on the beach, so even complete beginners can take their first lessons in ideal conditions.
π² An Excellent Base for an Active Holiday
The flat landscape and quiet roads around Marmari are perfect for cycling. Nearby attractions include Tigaki, the Alikes Salt Marshes, and Kos Town, all of which are easily reached by bike.
π Relaxing Evenings by the Sea
Marmari is not a party resort. Evenings here are best spent strolling along the beach, enjoying dinner in a traditional taverna, or watching the sun set over the Aegean Sea. It's the perfect destination for anyone looking to unwind after an active day.
π¨βπ©βπ§ Visiting with Children?
Thanks to its wide beach, gently sloping shoreline, and peaceful atmosphere, Marmari is an excellent choice for families. Older children can even try their first windsurfing lessons under the guidance of experienced instructors.
β Marmari Is the Right Choice If You...
β love wide sandy beaches.
β want to try windsurfing or other water sports.
β prefer peaceful resorts away from the crowds.
β enjoy cycling.
β are looking for an active yet relaxing holiday.
Kardamena is the liveliest resort on Kos. During the day, it attracts visitors with its wide sandy beach, waterfront promenade, and countless tavernas. After sunset, it transforms into the island's nightlife capital. Despite its vibrant atmosphere, Kardamena has retained its authentic Greek character and remains a wonderful place for leisurely strolls and seaside dinners overlooking the harbour.
π΄ A Beautiful Seafront Promenade
One of Kardamena's greatest attractions is its long palm-lined promenade. As you stroll along the waterfront, you'll pass colourful fishing boats, the charming harbour, and mountain views that create a beautiful backdrop to the town. It's the perfect place to sit in a traditional taverna and simply watch everyday life unfold.
π½οΈ Tavernas and Shopping
Kardamena offers one of the widest selections of restaurants, cafΓ©s, and souvenir shops on Kos. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner by the sea, a relaxed evening walk, or a chance to browse local products and gifts, you'll find plenty of options here.
π A Different Town After Sunset
As night falls, Kardamena becomes the island's entertainment hub. Numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues attract visitors looking for a lively evening. However, if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, you'll still find peaceful waterfront tavernas and pleasant spots for an evening stroll along the promenade.
β΄οΈ The Gateway to Nisyros
The harbour in Kardamena is the departure point for regular ferries to Nisyros, the volcanic island famous for one of Europe's best-preserved hydrothermal craters. It is one of the most popular day trips from Kos.
π You'll find practical information about visiting Nisyros in our dedicated guide.
ποΈ Everything Within Walking Distance
The beach lies right next to the town centre, meaning that most hotels, restaurants, and shops are only a few minutes' walk away. It's an excellent choice if you prefer not to rely on a car during your holiday.
π¨βπ©βπ§ Visiting with Children?
Although Kardamena is best known for its nightlife, it is also a family-friendly destination during the day. The beach, promenade, and numerous ice cream shops make it enjoyable for younger visitors as well. If peace and quiet are your main priorities, however, Tigaki or Kefalos may be a better choice.
β Kardamena Is the Right Choice If You...
β enjoy lively resorts and evening walks.
β like having a wide choice of tavernas, cafΓ©s, and shops.
β want everything within easy walking distance.
β plan to take a day trip to Nisyros.
β enjoy combining beach days with vibrant evening entertainment.
If you're dreaming of a relaxing seaside holiday with a wide sandy beach and a safe place for children to play, Tigaki is one of the best places to stay on Kos. This peaceful resort is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beach, and convenient location, making it easy to explore the island's northern coast.
ποΈ A Beach Made for Families
Tigaki Beach is one of the finest on Kos. It is wide, sandy, and exceptionally shallow for a long distance, making it ideal for families with young children. The calm, crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming, while the spacious shoreline means there's plenty of room, even during the height of the summer season.
𦩠Flamingos and the Salt Lake
Just outside Tigaki lie the Alikes Tigaki Salt Marshes, which become an important stopover for flamingos and many species of migratory birds during autumn, winter, and early spring. In summer, however, most of the wetlands dry out, making bird sightings much less common.
π² Perfect for Cycling
The area around Tigaki is almost completely flat, making it one of the best places on Kos for cycling. With very little effort, you can ride to Kos Town, enjoying beautiful coastal scenery and passing the salt marshes along the way.
π Peaceful Evenings
Tigaki is not the place for those looking for lively clubs or late-night parties. Instead, you'll find welcoming tavernas, relaxing walks along the beach, and beautiful sunsets over the Aegean Sea.
π¨βπ©βπ§ Visiting with Children?
Tigaki is one of the most family-friendly resorts on Kos. Thanks to its wide sandy beach, gently sloping shoreline, and relaxed atmosphere, even the youngest travellers can enjoy a safe and carefree holiday.
β Tigaki Is the Right Choice If You...
β are travelling with young children.
β want to stay close to a wide sandy beach.
β prefer peaceful, intimate resorts.
β enjoy exploring by bicycle.
β don't need a busy nightlife scene.
Kos Town is the perfect base for travellers who want to combine relaxing by the sea with exploring the island's rich history. Most of the island's major landmarks are within easy walking distance, and after sunset the town comes alive. The waterfront promenade, lively harbour, traditional tavernas, and cafΓ©s create an atmosphere that makes evenings just as enjoyable as the days.
π Read our dedicated guide to Kos Town for its full history and the island's most important attractions.
π£ Explore Without a Car
Kos Town is the best place on the island if you want to discover most attractions on foot. Within a short walk, you'll find the Ancient Agora, Neratzia Castle, the Plane Tree of Hippocrates, Casa Romana, the Archaeological Museum, and the harbour.
Even better, several historic sites can be admired without buying a ticket. The Ancient Agora, for example, extends beyond the fenced archaeological area, allowing visitors to appreciate parts of the site freely.
π A Town That Comes Alive After Dark
As evening falls, Kos Town takes on a completely different atmosphere. Illuminated monuments, a bustling promenade, waterfront restaurants, and lively cafΓ©s make it a wonderful place to spend the evening after a day of sightseeing.
Whether you prefer dinner overlooking the harbour or a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, you'll never run out of places to enjoy.
π² Explore by Bicycle
Kos Town is one of the most bicycle-friendly destinations in the Greek islands. A network of wide cycle paths runs along the coastline and the main roads, making it easy to ride to Psalidi, Lambi, or even Tigaki.
One thing to keep in mind is that the pavements in the historic centre are often narrow. Trees, cafΓ© terraces, and outdoor seating mean that pedestrians and cyclists frequently share the same space, so it's important to ride carefully.
ποΈ Beach or Swimming Pool?
Hotels in the heart of Kos Town tend to have smaller grounds and fewer large swimming pool complexes than the island's beach resorts. If you're looking for a resort-style hotel, simply head around 2 kilometres towards Psalidi or Lambi, both of which are easily reached by bicycle or local bus.
Even so, the town itself has several well-maintained beaches, many of them just a short walk from the centre.
β΄οΈ An Excellent Base for Day Trips
The harbour in Kos Town is much more than a pleasant place for an evening stroll. It is the departure point for sightseeing cruises to nearby islands, as well as regular ferries to Bodrum in Turkey.
Even during a short stay, it's easy to add an unforgettable day trip beyond the island.
β Kos Town Is the Right Choice If You...
β want to spend your holiday exploring historic sites.
β enjoy lively evenings, restaurants, and waterfront walks.
β prefer not to rely on a car every day.
β plan to hire a bicycle.
β would like to take a day trip to Bodrum or one of the nearby islands.
If you're dreaming of wide sandy beaches, peaceful evenings, and spectacular sunsets, Kefalos is one of the best places to stay on Kos. Although it lies on the island's southwestern tip, having a car makes it easy to reach the rest of the island's attractions.
π Discover Old Kefalos, the Hospitaller Castle, Mylotopi, and the area's most fascinating sights in our dedicated guide to Kefalos.
ποΈ Beautiful Beaches on Your Doorstep
The Kefalos coastline is home to some of the finest beaches on Kos. You'll find long stretches of golden sand perfect for families, as well as quieter coves with crystal-clear water. Nearby is the famous Agios Stefanos Beach, overlooking Kastri Island and the ruins of an Early Christian basilica.
π Peace Instead of Crowds
Evenings in Kefalos have a completely different atmosphere from those in Kos Town or Kardamena. Rather than lively nightlife, you'll enjoy peaceful walks, dinners in traditional tavernas, and some of the most beautiful sunsets on the island.
π The Best Base for Exploring Southwestern Kos
Kefalos is an excellent base for travellers who enjoy exploring. Nearby attractions include Palio Pyli, the modern village of Pyli, White Stone Cave, the Hellenistic Theatre, Agios Mammas, and numerous scenic viewpoints. With a car, the rest of the island is also within easy reach.
π£ Don't Miss Old Kefalos
Although most hotels are located by the sea, be sure to spend some time exploring the old village. A winding road leads to a panoramic viewpoint, the Hospitaller Castle, the historic Mylotopi windmill, and remarkable limestone rock formations that remain among the area's best-kept secrets.
πΈ A Paradise for Photographers
The panoramas of Kefalos Bay, Kastri Island, the limestone cliffs, White Stone Cave, and unforgettable sunsets make this one of the most photogenic parts of Kos. Even a short stroll through Old Kefalos is likely to reward you with several memorable photographs.
β Kefalos Is the Right Choice If You...
β dream of staying close to some of the most beautiful beaches on Kos.
β prefer a peaceful holiday away from busy resorts.
β plan to explore the island by car.
β enjoy discovering lesser-known places and scenic viewpoints.
β love combining history with spectacular natural landscapes.
β want to watch unforgettable sunsets over Kefalos Bay.
β are travelling as a couple or with your family and are looking for a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
There is no single best place to stay on Kosβit all depends on the kind of holiday you're looking for. Some travellers dream of wide sandy beaches and peaceful evenings, while others prefer to have restaurants just around the corner or spend each day exploring a different part of the island.
Below, you'll find a brief guide to the island's most popular resorts, helping you choose the perfect base for your stay.
Each destination has its own unique character. Some are famous for their beaches, others for their history, while some are all about peace and relaxation. Discover which one best matches your travel style.
ποΈ Kos Town
ποΈ Historic sites β’ π² Cycling β’ ποΈ Shopping β’ πΆ Evening strolls β’ π½οΈ Tavernas β’ β Harbour
π Kefalos
ποΈ Beaches β’ πΏ Peace and quiet β’ πΈ Scenic views β’ π Exploring the surrounding area β’ π Sunsets
πΎ Tigaki
π¨βπ©βπ§ Family-friendly β’ ποΈ Sandy beach β’ π² Cycling β’ π Relaxing atmosphere
πΉ Kardamena
πΉ Nightlife β’ ποΈ Beach β’ β΅ Boat trips β’ π₯ Popular with younger travellers
π Marmari
π Windsurfing β’ π¬οΈ Breezy conditions β’ ποΈ Beach β’ πΏ Tranquillity
πΏ Pyli
ποΈ History β’ π₯Ύ Walking trails β’ π³ Traditional village β’ π Excellent base for exploring the island
β Mastichari
β΄οΈ Ferry to Kalymnos β’ ποΈ Beach β’ π½οΈ Seafood tavernas β’ π Water sports β’ πΏ Peaceful atmosphere
π Zia
π Sunsets β’ π½οΈ Tavernas β’ π₯Ύ Mount Dikeos β’ πΈ Panoramic views β’ π Romantic setting
π‘οΈ Antimachia
π° Castle β’ π‘ Traditional house β’ πΎ Historic windmill β’ βοΈ Close to the airport β’ π Excellent base for exploring
π³ Zipari
π Central location β’ πΏ Quiet surroundings β’ π‘ Authentic local atmosphere β’ ποΈ Close to the Asclepieion β’ π² Excellent base for exploring
π Psalidi
π¨ Hotels β’ ποΈ Beaches β’ π² Cycling paths β’ π Water sports β’ π Close to Kos Town