A trip to the Greek islands of the Dodecanese this summer? Where to stay in Kos?
A jewel in the crown of Greek history and the tourist and cultural center and main port of the island of Kos, the town of the same name lies to the northeast of the island of Kos, 370 kilometers from Piraeus (Athens) and just 21 kilometers from Bodrum, a famous Turkish seaside resort. Kos has a population of 30,941 spread over 106.6 km², but like all Greek islands, attracts a large summer population. As a result, prices also rise for renting accommodation in Kos. With its ancient history – according to legend, Hercules performed his twelve labors here – and its cultural heritage, Kos is one of the most visited islands in the Dodecanese. People also come here for the beauty of its landscapes and beaches, and to party. Numerous hotels are concentrated in the neighborhoods around the port, and the good news is that accommodation in Kos is not necessarily very expensive (except in summer).
Between archaeological sites, medieval castles, turquoise beaches, museums, temples and party venues, Kos offers something for absolutely every taste. Here, without further ado, is our presentation of where to stay in Kos.
The old town
Photo credit: Pixabay – Rawenergy
If you arrive at the port by sea, you won’t want to miss the Fortress of the Knights, an imposing medieval castle overlooking the circular roadstead that surrounds the promenade. Along the promenade, countless café and bar terraces set the tone from the outset: this is a busy place! The Archaeological Museum, the Kastro, the Hippocratic Tree and the Mosque of Gazi Hassan Pasha (1786) are among the must-sees in the old town. Numerous historic monuments can be visited as you stroll around: the ancient agora (where houses, temples, baths and mosaics were excavated), the Roman odeon, the ancient nymphaion (a place dedicated to nymphs) and the altar of Dyonysos. You can also visit the Asclepion (4 km west), dedicated to the Greek god of medicine, the Roman Villa and Casa Romana, a replica of a Roman house open to visitors. Once again, numerous Greek and international restaurants will tantalize your taste buds, before the town is invaded by an entirely different population: night owls, who storm the terraces in the evenings. For accommodation in Kos, the old town promises to be lively!
North Kos
Photo credit: Pixabay – Amandathibaut
To the north of the town, there’s a long stretch of coastline with sandy beaches as far as the eye can see, beach bars and restaurants with deckchairs where you can cool off and eat at any hour with your feet in the water, and enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. As a tourist destination, there are also a large number of beach hotels. Let’s face it, the beaches are very busy and very touristy! Bars, clubs, discos, restaurants: this is undoubtedly the place to stay in Kos, where the beer flows freely if you’re a young party-goer who enjoys beach parties until dawn.
Main Photo Credit: Pixabay – Loveombra