Affordable Luxury Holidays in Kos

You'll love Kos if you’re drawn to a perfect blend of sunshine, history, and relaxed island life. History enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the island’s impressive ancient ruins, medieval castles, and links to Hippocrates, while beach lovers will be spoilt for choice with long stretches of golden sand and clear blue waters.

If you’re an active traveller, Kos’s flat landscapes and excellent cycle paths make it a dream for cycling, walking, and outdoor adventures, while foodies will delight in sampling fresh seafood, traditional Greek dishes, and local wines in friendly tavernas.

Whether you’re after a laid-back beach escape, a cultural journey through centuries of history, or a bit of both, Kos offers a charming and welcoming atmosphere that’s easy to fall in love with.

The cuisine in Kos is a delightful celebration of fresh, local ingredients and traditional Greek flavours. Expect plenty of fresh seafood, succulent lamb, seasonal vegetables, and the rich use of olive oil in many dishes.

Local specialities include pitaridia (a handmade pasta often served with meat), katimeria (cheese-filled pastries drizzled with honey), and possa cheese, a unique local cheese preserved in red wine. Traditional Greek favourites like moussaka, souvlaki, and fresh Greek salads are staples across the island.

Dining in Kos often means enjoying relaxed, friendly meals in family-run tavernas, where dishes are made with love and shared in true Greek style. Don’t forget to try a glass of ouzo or the island’s local wines, and round off your meal with a sweet treat like baklava or loukoumades (honey-soaked doughnuts).

Currency

Kos uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, shops, and restaurants, though it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller villages or local markets.

Language

The official language is Greek, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning a few simple Greek phrases will always be warmly appreciated by locals.

Getting Around

Kos is a relatively small island with a good public bus network connecting major towns and beaches. Car hire or scooter rental is popular for visitors wanting to explore further afield, while cycling is also an excellent and easy way to get around, thanks to Kos’s flat landscape and dedicated cycle paths.

Weather

Kos enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Light clothing is perfect for summer, but if you're visiting in early spring or late autumn, it’s wise to pack a light jacket for cooler evenings.

Water

Tap water in Kos is generally safe to drink, but many visitors prefer to drink bottled water, which is widely available.

Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated. It’s common to leave 5–10% in restaurants if you are happy with the service. In cafes and for taxi drivers, rounding up the bill is usually sufficient.

Safety

Kos is a very safe and welcoming destination. As with any popular tourist spot, it’s sensible to keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas.

Electricity

Kos uses European standard plugs (Type C and F), with a voltage of 230V. Visitors from the UK will need a travel adaptor for their devices.

Time Zone

Kos is in the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is two hours ahead of the UK. During summer months, daylight saving time applies, moving the clock an extra hour forward.

Local Etiquette

Greek hospitality is legendary. When visiting religious sites, it’s respectful to dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees. A friendly greeting like Kalimera (Good morning) will always be met with a smile.