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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

Greece

Accommodation Types

Diverse Choices

  • Hotels

    From small family-run places to luxurious 4- and 5-star resorts with extensive amenities.

  • Apartments/Studios

    Popular for families or longer stays, often with kitchenettes. Find options on Booking.com or Vrbo.

  • Hostels

    Limited dedicated hostels, but some budget hotels may offer dorm-style rooms for cost-effective stays.

  • All-Inclusive Resorts

    Mainly outside town center (Psalidi, Lambi), with meals, drinks, activities in one price.

Other Options

  • Homestay/Community-based

    Local guesthouses or private rentals offer a more personal experience and local interaction.

  • Camping

    Dedicated campsites exist on Kos Island, typically outside Kos Town, for nature-focused stays.

  • House Sitting

    Opportunities for house/pet sitting exist on TrustedHousesitters for an alternative stay.

  • Health Hotels

    Certain properties focus on wellness, with spa facilities and health-related services. An example IHG Hotels may fit this category.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area has a distinct character.

Kos Town Center

Pros
  • Walkable to major archaeological sites.
  • Many restaurants, cafes, shops, and nightlife.
  • Direct port access for ferries.
  • Everything is at your doorstep.
Cons
  • Can be noisy, especially in peak season evenings.
  • Parking can be challenging.
  • Accommodation prices may be higher.
  • Busy environment.

Lambis Beach Area

Pros
  • Direct access to Lambis Beach.
  • Pleasant promenade for cycling and walking.
  • Easy cycling distance to town center.
  • Many hotels with pools.
Cons
  • Slightly further from historical core.
  • Transport needed for main sites.
  • Less central for nightlife.
  • Quieter atmosphere.

Psalidi Area

Pros
  • Quieter atmosphere away from town.
  • Good beaches (often pebbly).
  • Many hotels with extensive amenities.
  • Ideal for resort-style holidays.
Cons
  • Requires bus/taxi/bike to Kos Town.
  • Less authentic local feel.
  • Mainly caters to tourists.
  • Not central for town exploration.

Considerations by Area

Safety & Proximity

All areas mentioned are generally safe. Standard precautions for petty theft apply in crowded areas near the port.

Noise & Ambiance

Town Center: Lively and potentially noisy. Lambis/Psalidi: Generally quieter, with noise confined to hotel entertainment.

Booking Strategies

Book your accommodation thoughtfully to secure preferred lodging.

Advance Booking

  • High Season (July-August): Book several months ahead for specific hotels.
  • Shoulder Season (May-June, Sept-Oct): Book a few weeks to a month ahead.
  • Low Season (Nov-April): A week or two ahead typically suffices.
  • Early booking often secures better rates.

Trusted Platforms

  • Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com offer wide selections.
  • Directly with Hotels: Check official websites for best price guarantees or perks.
  • Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and Vrbo are popular for apartments and villas.
  • For budget options, Hostelworld lists dorm-style options.

Policies & Fluctuations

Deposit & Cancellation
  • Check specific terms before confirming.
  • Many platforms have free cancellation, often at a slightly higher rate.
  • Note cancellation deadlines for plan changes.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
  • Prices are highest in July and August.
  • Moderately high in June and September.
  • Significantly lower from November to April.

Helpful Tip

Read Reviews

Read recent reviews before booking. They often provide details about noise levels, amenities, and description accuracy.

Check for Deals

Look for promotions or package deals, especially during shoulder and low seasons.

Location First

Decide on your preferred neighborhood first, then search for suitable accommodations there.

Accommodation Recommendations

Illustrative examples for different budgets and travel styles. Check current reviews and availability.

Budget approx. €50-€80/night

Koala Hotel

Simple, clean rooms near the port and town center.

  • Prioritizes location.
  • Comfortable base for budget travelers.
  • Good value.
Hotel Kamelia

Family-run, basic but comfortable rooms.

  • Close to Lambis Beach.
  • Walking distance to town.
  • Offers good value.

Mid-range approx. €80-€150/night

Kos Hotel Junior Suites

Centrally located, modern, spacious rooms, some with kitchenettes.

  • More amenities than budget options.
  • Suitable for couples or small families.
  • Comfortable stay.
Aegean Houses

Apartment-style hotel with a pool, short walk from town center.

  • Self-catering convenience.
  • Hotel services.
  • Refreshing pool.

Luxury approx. €150+/night

  • Diamond Deluxe Hotel (Adults Only)

    Upscale hotel in Lambi with large pools and modern design. A serene and luxurious experience.

  • Grecotel Kos Imperial Thalasso

    Large, luxurious resort in Psalidi with extensive facilities, multiple pools, and beachfront access.

  • Blue Lagoon Resort (Family Friendly)

    This large resort has multiple pools, water park features, and entertainment for families.

  • Pelagos Suites Hotel & Spa (Family Friendly)

    Offers family suites, several pools, and activities for all ages, close to the beach.

Other Stays

  • Solo Traveler

    Budget hotels and guesthouses in the town center are a good choice. Easy access to attractions, dining, and transport.

  • Long-stay

    Apartments or studios on booking platforms are suitable. They often include kitchen facilities and living areas.

  • Historical Significance

    Some boutique hotels in the Old Town are in renovated historical buildings, with unique character.

  • Further Tips

    They can provide details about noise, amenities, and description accuracy.

Proximity to Attractions and Transportation

Town Center

Excellent proximity to historical sites, dining, nightlife, and the main bus station and ferry port. Ideal for those wanting to be in the middle of the action.

  • Walkable access to most sights.
  • Central for public transport.
  • Lively atmosphere.
Lambis / Psalidi

Lambis: Good access to the beach and reasonable proximity to town center by bike or foot. Psalidi: Good access to its own beaches and resort facilities. Transport is needed to town center.

  • Beach access focus.
  • Quieter areas.
  • Less authentic local feel in Psalidi.

Properties with Cultural or Historical Significance

Boutique Hotels

Some boutique hotels occupy renovated historical buildings within the Old Town. These properties have unique character and a sense of history.

Traditional Guesthouses

Smaller, family-run guesthouses often reflect local architectural styles and offer a more intimate setting.

Historical Charm

These properties might have fewer modern amenities than newer resorts, but their charm is in their historical connection.