Kos: sun, sea and … cycling

8-12 minuten

Feel the sun on your skin, the sea breeze in your hair and the soft rustle of palm trees all around you. Welcome to Kos. An charming Greek island where every road leads to discovery, whether it’s a cozy village or a peaceful beach far from the crowds. This delightful island is compact enough to navigate easily, yet packed with surprises at every turn. Want to see more? Renting a car gives you the freedom to visit mountain villages like Zia and Pyli or discover postcard-worthy beaches you’ll never want to leave. Staying in Kos Town or nearby Lambi? You’re already in a top spot. Many must-see attractions are close by, so a one- or two-day car rental often does the trick. The rest of the time? Hop on a bike, take a relaxing walk, or stretch out on the beach with an ice-cold frappé in hand. In this blog, I’ll share my favorite Kos spots, hidden gems, and travel tips to make the most of your Greek island adventure.

Kos Town: Where Everything’s Just Around the Corner

Most visitors — myself included — choose Kos Town or Lambi as their base. And honestly? It’s easy to see why. This is the vibrant heart of the island where ancient charm and modern flair meet in the most delightful way. Wander through Kos Town’s winding alleys and you’ll discover everything from cozy boutiques stocked with local olive oil, herbs and honey to stylish fashion stores and quirky galleries. The streets are full of personality and every corner seems to hide a new favorite spot. Wherever you go, you’ll stumble upon inviting terraces and little tavernas — the kind of places where time slips away over a glass of wine or a fresh Greek salad. And when night falls, the whole town transforms. Lanterns light the way, and the cozy evening vibe invites you to linger. Whether you’re after cocktails by the harbor, a romantic dinner in a hidden courtyard or dancing into the night. Kos Town has it all, right at your fingertips.

And I haven’t even touched on the history yet. Right in the heart of town, you’ll casually stumble across the ancient ruins of the Agora — like an open-air museum where you can freely wander among crumbling columns and age-old mosaics. It’s surreal how the past and present blend so effortlessly here. And then there’s the legendary plane tree — the Tree of Hippocrates. Did the father of medicine really teach his students beneath its branches? No one knows for sure, but the story is so charming, it’s impossible not to believe it — just a little.

Just on the edge of town stands the ancient Castle of the Knights — a majestic reminder of Kos’s rich past. From the top, you’re treated to breathtaking views of the harbor and the sparkling sea. And on a clear day? You can even spot the coastline of Turkey just across the water. Though the castle is partly in ruins, its thick stone walls and weathered towers still stand strong — quietly echoing the island’s history. It’s the perfect place to wander, explore and let your imagination drift back to centuries gone by.

Cycling on Kos: Sunscreen, Shades, Saddle … and Go!

Kos is known as the cycling island of Greece and for good reason. Think wide bike paths, flat terrain, and one picture-perfect view after another. It’s a two-wheeled dream for casual cruisers and cycling fans alike. One route you shouldn’t miss? The ride to Tigaki Beach. It’s easygoing, mostly flat, and ends with soft sand and sea as your reward. For a breezier coastal journey, pedal over to Psalidi where salty sea air, windsurfers cutting through the waves, and laid-back beach bars create the perfect backdrop. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Try the climb up to Zia. It’s steep, no doubt. But with an e-bike, locals say it’s totally doable. Or … follow my lead: hop on the bus and take the easy route. No shame there! At least you’ll arrive with enough energy to stroll through Zia’s cobbled streets, watch the sunset and enjoy a long, leisurely dinner with a view.

Food & Drinks: From Beach Vibes to Cozy Taverns

After a day of cycling through olive groves, wandering the streets of Kos Town or soaking up the sun on the beach, there’s really nothing better than settling in at a cozy terrace or a charming taverna. Luckily, Kos is full of amazing spots to grab a delicious bite or a refreshing drink and Coco Beach is one of them. The moment you arrive, you’ll feel the holiday vibe kick in. Located right on the beach, it strikes the perfect balance between relaxed and stylish. You’re seated with your feet (almost literally) in the sand, sipping something cool while the sea sparkles just a few steps away. The menu? Fresh lobster, perfectly grilled steaks that are both beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. Add to that the friendly, attentive staff and you’ve got yourself a little slice of holiday heaven.

For a classy, sky-high experience, check out Omega Sky Bar. Perched on the boulevard, this rooftop hotspot is perfect for golden hour cocktails and tasty small bites. Picture yourself sipping a silky espresso martini or a glittering Golddigger cocktail (yes, real gold leaf included!) as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in pinks and oranges. With city lights twinkling below and the DJ setting the mood, everything just clicks into place. The vibe? Effortlessly elegant and irresistibly relaxed.

If you’re craving something quieter and authentically Greek, head to Okeanos in Psalidi. This hidden gem sits right by the sea, where you dine to the soothing soundtrack of waves lapping against the rocks. Warm pita dipped in creamy tzatziki, fresh vegetables from the garden, and dishes made with love — this is honest, no-fuss food at its finest. As the sun sets, the sky turns golden, as if the island is putting on a private show just for you.

Beaches to Brighten Your Day

You won’t have to look far for a great beach on Kos. Lambi Beach is just around the corner from Kos Town. It’s an easy walk or bike ride away and perfect for when you’re in the mood for a relaxed beach day. Spread out your towel, grab a fresh smoothie from one of the beach bars, and you’re good to go. The water? Crystal clear. The beach? Clean and inviting. The vibe? Peaceful but never dull. Ideal for a lazy afternoon in the sun or a spontaneous swim.

Looking for a little slice of paradise? Head to Paradise Beach and yes, it totally lives up to the name. Tucked away on the island’s south coast, it takes a bit of a drive to get there, but every minute is worth it. The vibe? Wonderfully laid-back. Renting a sunbed is a breeze. But honestly, you might forget about everything else once you catch a glimpse of the sea. The colors are unreal, the views are pure bliss, and the whole place just radiates that instant holiday happiness.

Agios Stefanos Beach is a hidden gem with a twist. Sure, the beach itself is stunning: soft sand, turquoise water, and views of ancient basilica ruins. But what really makes this spot special? That adorable little island just offshore: Kastri Island. Home to a picture-perfect white chapel, it’s the kind of place that looks like it came straight out of a postcard. You can easily paddle over there on a stand-up paddleboard. It’s a short trip, totally doable even if you’re new to SUP. And don’t forget your camera. This spot is made for Instagram.

Villages Full of Character

If you need a break from the beach scene, it’s time to explore Kos’s enchanting villages. Tucked away in hills or along the coast, each bursting with character and a laid-back vibe. Start with Zia, a postcard-perfect mountain village. Thanks to its hillside location it often feels cooler than the coast, a welcome relief on hot days. But the real magic happens at sunset, when the sky transforms into dreamy shades of orange, pink, and purple. Everyone finds a quiet spot along the old stone wall to soak it all in. A moment you won’t forget. Pro tip: book a table on the rooftop terrace at Oromedon. The menu features juicy lamb chops, creamy pligouri with chickpeas, spiced pork and tender steak that melts in your mouth. Don’t forget to raise your glass with a cheerful “Yamas!”

Looking for a village with a bit of everything? Say hello to Kardamena. Its long shopping street invites you for a leisurely stroll past colorful boutiques and tempting souvenir shops. Getting hungry? Grab a seat at one of the many tavernas or bars and enjoy a cold drink alongside traditional Greek dishes. From grilled halloumi to sizzling souvlaki, the flavors here taste even better in the sunshine. And don’t skip the harbor. It’s the ideal place to kick back, people-watch or even hop on a spontaneous boat trip. Chilled vibes, friendly faces and that salty sea breeze. What more do you need?

If a peaceful, authentic vibe is what you’re after, Mastichari might just steal your heart. This tranquil village feels like stepping back in time, with whitewashed houses, bright blue shutters, and colorful fishing boats gently bobbing in the harbor. Life here moves at a slower pace. Cozy tavernas right on the beach offer the smell of grilled fish mingling with the salty sea air, and locals greet you with warm smiles. Everything here whispers “relax.” No rush, no fuss — just genuine island charm.

And then there’s Kefalos — tucked away in the far south of Kos, where life feels just a little more peaceful. It’s quieter, less touristy and that’s exactly where its charm lies. Picture narrow winding streets, sleepy corners and a sun-drenched village square where time seems to slow down — in the best possible way. There’s something nostalgic about this place: cozy, unhurried and full of character. And the views? Absolutely stunning. From up here, the sea stretches out endlessly, sparkling in the sun and inviting you to just pause and take it all in.

Last but not least: Pyli. Tucked away inland, this mountain village is a hidden treasure off the usual tourist trail. Here, local life still thrives in all its slow, friendly glory. Stroll through the quiet streets and soak up the authentic vibe. Be sure to visit the Traditional House, a charming little museum where you can glimpse how Kos’s residents lived in days gone by. It’s a lovely step back in time and the perfect prelude to relaxing on a shaded terrace under the trees with a cool drink in hand.

Kos in Brief? Just Go For It!

Kos is one of those islands where everything just clicks. Whether you’re here to unwind, dive into a bit of culture, feast on amazing food or explore charming villages. You can do it all, at your own pace. There’s something instantly familiar about Kos — like slipping into your favorite holiday mood the moment you arrive. And the best part? That wonderful blend of cycling and driving. One morning you’re pedaling to the beach with the sea breeze in your hair, the next you’re cruising the island by rental car, discovering hidden spots. Kos moves to your rhythm and that’s exactly what makes it so special.