All Inclusive Holidays in Kos: Compare Offers & Deals with Alihoco
An Expert’s Guide to the Hippocrates Isle
Welcome to Kos, birthplace of Hippocrates and an island where ancient healing traditions blend with modern beach life. We’ve consulted local experts to create your definitive guide to all-inclusive holidays on this charming Dodecanese island, sharing insider knowledge about both famous sites and hidden gems.
Choosing Your Perfect Location
Marina Dimitriou, Kos-born tourism consultant with 20 years of experience, explains: “While Kardamena attracts a younger crowd, areas like Psalidi and Mastichari offer peaceful family experiences. Our all-inclusive resorts range from intimate boutique properties to large family-friendly complexes.”
Resort Areas Overview
Kardamena
- Best for: Young couples, groups
- Known for: Vibrant nightlife, water sports
- Atmosphere: Lively, energetic
- Distance from airport: 15 minutes
- Beach type: Long sandy beach
- Resort style: Mix of large all-inclusive hotels
Psalidi
- Best for: Families, couples seeking quiet
- Known for: Natural beach, cycling paths
- Atmosphere: Relaxed, peaceful
- Distance from airport: 30 minutes
- Beach type: Pebble/sand mix
- Resort style: Upscale all-inclusive properties
Mastichari
- Best for: Families, tranquility seekers
- Known for: Traditional village, kitesurfing
- Atmosphere: Authentic, laid-back
- Distance from airport: 20 minutes
- Beach type: White sand
- Resort style: Family-friendly resorts
Tigaki
- Best for: Beach lovers, families
- Known for: Long sandy beach, shallow waters
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly, relaxed
- Distance from airport: 20 minutes
- Beach type: Fine white sand
- Resort style: Beachfront all-inclusive hotels
Kos Town
- Best for: Culture seekers, mixed groups
- Known for: Historical sites, harbor
- Atmosphere: Cosmopolitan, historic
- Distance from airport: 30 minutes
- Beach type: Town beaches
- Resort style: Boutique hotels, some all-inclusive
Climate and When to Visit
Dr. Antonis Stavrou, local meteorologist and tour guide, shares: “Kos enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with long, dry summers. The Meltemi winds provide natural cooling in peak season.”
Seasonal Overview
Spring (April-May)
- Temperature: 15-23°C
- Rainfall: Occasional showers
- Highlights: Wild flowers, perfect hiking
- Perfect for: Sightseeing, cycling
- Special note: Easter celebrations
Summer (June-September)
- Temperature: 25-35°C
- Rainfall: Very rare
- Highlights: Beach life, water sports
- Perfect for: Swimming, resort activities
- Special note: Meltemi winds July-August
Autumn (September-October)
- Temperature: 20-28°C
- Rainfall: Occasional
- Highlights: Warm sea, fewer crowds
- Perfect for: Swimming, sightseeing
- Special note: Perfect for mixed activities
Winter (November-March)
- Temperature: 12-18°C
- Rainfall: More frequent
- Highlights: Green landscapes, local life
- Perfect for: Cultural visits
- Special note: Many resorts close
Beyond Your Resort
Dr. Elena Papadakis, archaeologist and local guide, advises: “Kos’s compact size makes it perfect for exploration. Don’t miss the Asklepieion, ancient healing center and birthplace of modern medicine.”
Must-See Attractions
Asklepieion
- Best time to visit: Early morning
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Book: Guide recommended
- Tip: Combined ticket with Castle available
Ancient Agora and Castle
- Best time: Late afternoon
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Location: Kos Town
- Highlight: Harbor views
Tree of Hippocrates
- Best time: Early morning
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Location: Kos Town
- Note: Historic plane tree location
Therma Beach (Hot Springs)
- Best time: Sunset
- Access: Car or organized tour
- Duration: Half-day
- Note: Natural hot springs
Local Experiences and Activities
Water Activities
- Kitesurfing in Mastichari
- Diving in Kardamena
- Bubble Beach snorkeling
- Paradise Beach water sports
- Boat trips to Nisyros volcano
Cultural Experiences
- Traditional cooking classes
- Wine tasting tours
- Honey farm visits
- Cycling historical routes
- Traditional village tours
Dining and Cuisine
Chef Georgios Karahalios, owner of a traditional taverna in Kos Town, explains: “While all-inclusive resorts offer excellent dining, try local specialties like posa cheese and katimeria.”
Local Specialties
- Posa cheese (wine-soaked)
- Katimeria (sweet cheese pies)
- Fresh seafood
- Pitaridia (handmade pasta)
- Local wines
Recommended Local Restaurants
Broadway, Kos Town
- Specialty: Modern Greek
- Price range: Medium-high
- Best for: Special occasions
- Must try: Fresh fish
Oromedon, Zia
- Specialty: Traditional Greek
- Price range: Medium
- Best for: Sunset dining
- Must try: Local meat dishes
Barbouni, Kardamena
- Specialty: Seafood
- Price range: Medium
- Best for: Fresh fish
- Must try: Daily catch
Practical Information
Transport
- Airport transfers: Usually included
- Local buses: Regular service
- Taxis: Available but book ahead
- Car rental: Good roads
- Cycling: Excellent cycle paths
Money Matters
- Currency: Euro
- ATMs: Widely available
- Credit cards: Widely accepted
- Local markets: Cash preferred
- Resort extras: Check inclusions
Health and Safety
- Emergency number: 112
- Hospital: General Hospital of Kos
- Pharmacies: Well distributed
- Water: Safe to drink
- Sun protection: Essential
Cultural Insights
Local Customs
- Afternoon siesta observed
- Late dining culture
- Religious site dress codes
- Friendly greetings expected
- Festival participation welcomed
Language Tips
- Hello: Yassas
- Thank you: Efharisto
- Please: Parakalo
- Good morning: Kalimera
- Good evening: Kalispera
Tipping Culture
Local hospitality expert Nikos Stavros advises: “While included in all-inclusive packages, additional tipping is appreciated for exceptional service.”
Tipping Guidelines
Restaurants & Tavernas
- Local restaurants: 5-10%
- High-end restaurants: 10-15%
- Cafes: Round up
- Room service: €1-2
All-Inclusive Resorts
- Bar staff: €1 per round
- Housekeeping: €1-2 daily
- Restaurant staff: €5-10 weekly
- Concierge: €5-10 for special services
Sustainability and Responsible Tourism
Environmental scientist Dr. Maria Kontou advises: “Kos is committed to sustainable tourism. Support local initiatives and choose eco-certified accommodations.”
Eco-Friendly Practices
- Use bicycle paths
- Support local producers
- Choose eco-activities
- Respect marine life
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
Expert Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay
- Visit Zia village for sunset
- Use the extensive cycle network
- Take a boat trip to Nisyros
- Book popular restaurants ahead
- Try local thermal springs
- Visit sites early morning
Planning Your Perfect Holiday
Best Time to Book
- Summer: 6 months ahead
- Shoulder season: 4 months ahead
- Winter: 2-3 months ahead
- Special events: Book early
Package Types
- Standard all-inclusive
- Premium all-inclusive
- Family packages
- Adult-only options
- Activity-focused packages
Final Recommendations
“Kos offers something for everyone,” says Marina Dimitriou. “From your all-inclusive base, explore our rich history, beautiful beaches, and traditional villages. Don’t miss our mountain sunset views and always make time for a traditional meal in Kos Town.”
Note: All expert recommendations are based on professional experience in Kos tourism and hospitality. Contact specific travel agents for current offerings and availability.