Most people visit Kos to take advantage of the beautiful beaches. However, there is a lot to keep the family entertained alongside sitting on a beach and playing in the sea. The Archaeological Museum is perfect for kids who like anything historical, while the Castle of the Knights will take them on an exciting ride back in time. To get out and see the island, try it on a bicycle or on the back of a horse.

Archaeological Museum
This museum makes for a great family day out and will also be educational for the children. There is a wide range of exhibits which includes a Third century mosaic and a statue of Hippocrates which dates back to 460 BC. There are also pottery displays and a number of beautiful mosaics, statues and ancient relics. 
Phone: +30 22420 28326

Beaches
The beaches surrounding Kos Island are truly stunning and the main attraction for all tourists. The kids will be kept entertained for days on end in the golden sand and shallow waters. Two of the most popular beaches for families include: Lagades Beach, which is one of the most beautiful beaches and is surrounded by restaurants and amenities, and Tigaki Beach, which is close to Kos Town and boasts extensive facilities and water sporting options.

Castle of the Knights
This historic castle was built in the 14th century and is surrounded by a large moat. It once boasted huge exterior walls which guarded an inner courtyard. It is accessed by walking through a very well-preserved 16th-century entrance and offers stunning views across the harbour. It is a great place to take the children. 
Phone: +30 22420 27927

Cycling
Hiring bicycles and taking the family out into the countryside is a great way to spend a day. Kos is home to some beautiful landscapes and the town itself is very interesting. It will let the children expend some excess energy while having fun. It is very cheap to hire a bicycle and one of the best ways to see the sights.

Horseback Riding
Most kids love horses and Kos is home to some excellent horseback riding opportunities. Lessons are available for beginners or for the more advanced and it is possible to explore the countryside on horseback. Families can spend the day together discovering the real beauty of the island as well as having lots of fun.

Kos is a culturally significant island with a history dating to the ancient Greeks. There are a number of archaeological treasures which have been unearthed and should be visited if you have the time. The Asklipieion was once the most important building on the island, although today the most popular attraction is the excavation site where many ancient relics and constructions have been uncovered.

Ancient Agora
This open-air archaeological site is a fascinating insight into days gone by. It is located within Kos Town and boasts ancient walls, columns and temple remains. The great Temple of Hercules, the Fifth-century Christian Basilica, and also the Shrine of Aphrodite were all once located here although just their ruins remain today. It is a must-see for culture and history buffs and a great way to spend a day away from the beach.

Asklipieion
This structure was a significant school of medicine which saw many people arrive from all over Greece to be taught the findings of Hippocrates and also to be treated for medical ailments. It was damaged by an earthquake in the 6th century but luckily due to the skill of its construction, much of it remained. Today, visitors will be able to see three different levels which are home to Roman Baths, the altar of Kyparissios Apollo (dating to the Fourth century BC) and the Temple to Apollo (built in the First century BC). There are also ruins from the stunning Temple of Asclepius. 
Phone: +30 22420 28763

Kos Folk Museum
Located in Kefalos, 40 kilometres from Kos Town, the Folk Museum details the history of the island and its agricultural significance. The exhibits on display are extensive and comprise of hand-woven tapestries, beautiful embroideries and ancient Greek farming tools. It is a glimpse into how the ancient Greeks once lived and shows the development through the ages.

Synagogue
The island’s only synagogue was once the only place of worship for the Jewish community who lived here. However, the Jews were virtually all banished or killed during WWII and, as a result, the synagogue became virtually useless. However it is an important reminder of the atrocities of the war and is a beautiful building dedicated to those Jews who lost their lives. It dates back to 1747 although had to be rebuilt in 1933 following an earthquake that all but destroyed it. Today, it hosts various cultural events throughout the year.

Western Excavation Site/House of Europa Mosaics
Situated on the western side of Kos Town, this site is home to some of the island’s oldest archaeological finds. The highlight is a large covered area at the back which houses the mosaics of the House of Europe, which date back 1,800 years. You will also find an uncovered stretch of Roman road which was known as Decumanus Maximus, and an ancient gymnasium which would have once boasted Roman swimming pools and exercise courtyards. Very close to this site are the remains of the Temple of Dionysos and the Roman Odeon Theatre, which has been completely rebuilt.

Kos may be a small island, but it is home to a wide variety of food choices. There are many local tavernas serving up the best in Greek cuisine or you may like to stick to dishes you are more familiar with. There are plenty of international restaurants offering burgers and fries as well as British and Italian favourites. There are also Mediterranean restaurants, Indian, Chinese and Thai cuisine available.

The island is largely geared towards tourists and the restaurants and cuisine served are all popular choices. If you want to try some traditional Greek fare, look for the most authentic looking place which is frequented by locals – then you will know you’re getting the real deal. Olive oil plays a big part in Greek cooking and some of the most popular dishes include: moussaka (lamb and aubergines), souvlaki (grilled meat on a skewer) and mezze, which is usually served with pita bread.

The best restaurants (of all cuisines) can be found lining the waterfront in Kos Town. However they are also very expensive—mainly due to their location. If you are on a tight budget, you may not be able to eat here every night, in which case, head down the back streets where you will some very nice little restaurants which are less geared to tourists and much cheaper.

If you take a walk around Kos Town, it will not take you very long to realise that the Old Town is brimming with shops selling a wide range of goods. Regardless of whether you are looking for the latest fashion, some souvenirs, beachwear or food you will not have to look far. If you are a serious shopper, your first stop should be Kos Town. You will be able to have hours of fun browsing through the jewellery, leather goods, local food stalls, trendy boutiques and handicraft centres.

Popular buys for tourists include fashion, leather, jewellery and local produce such as honey and olive oil. Most shops, especially in the centre of Kos town, close for lunch and none have a long siesta. The best, and most scenic, areas to head for some shopping include Eleftherias Square and also around the town's historical Nymphaion remains. There are many coffee shops dotted around which are perfect for enjoying a snack or two for energy before carrying on with the shopping.