Tigaki holidays

How to reach Tigaki

Flight time: Flights to Kos from London and other major cities take about 4 hours.

Transfer time: From Kos International Airport, it’s about a 20-minute drive to Tigaki. Taking the bus, with a change of service in Kos Town, significantly increases the journey time, especially once you factor in wait time.

Price: A taxi from the airport to Tigaki costs around €30. Bus tickets cost around €6 all in.

Weather and best time to visit Tigaki

The best time for your Tigaki holidays depends on whether you want a relaxing or adventurous holiday.

• April to June experiences pleasant get-outdoors weather: temperatures ranging from 21 to 32°C, 8 to 11 hours of daily sunshine and low rainfall.

• July to August sees temperatures soar into the 30s, up to 12 hours of daily sunshine, no rainfall and warm Aegean waters.

• September to October may suit you better if you like things a little less hot (31°C in September, 26°C in October), a little quieter (the tourist season wraps up at the end of October), and don’t mind a little rain.

• November to March is mild and rainy, temperatures oscillating from 21°C in November to 15°C in January, 18°C in March. This is a quiet time to visit, with many restaurants and bars closed for the winter.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Greek is the official language, but many locals in Tigaki speak English.

• Currency: Greece is in the eurozone.

• Getting around: Buses connect Tigaki with Kos Town. One-way tickets cost €2.30 and can be purchased on board. If you plan to stay local, bike hire is the way to go; if you want to explore further afield (especially off the mainstream tourist track), a rental car will be handier.

• Electricity and plug types: The standard voltage is 230V 50Hz. Plugs are two-pin Type C and F.

• Time zone: Greece runs on Eastern European Time, 2 hours ahead of GMT (3 hours ahead during Daylight Saving Time).

Best things to do in Tigaki

Offering a mix of relaxation and light adventure, with plenty of sun, sea and sand, Tigaki holidays are guaranteed to recharge your batteries.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Asfendiou: This picturesque mountain village offers fantastic views over the plains of Kos and Tigaki’s coastline. It’s a quiet spot, perfect for soaking up the island’s natural beauty.

• Igroviotopos Alikis: Backdropped by the Dikaios Mountains, Tigaki’s salt pan has a cinematic quality, especially in summer when the lake dries up.

The best districts

• Tigaki Strip: Capped by Tigaki Beach, Tigaki’s main drag offers the usual mix of hotels, apartments, shops, eateries, and rental and excursion agencies.

Parks and gardens

• Plaka Forest: Swap sand and sea life for pine cones and peacocks. This shady forest is within easy driving distance.

Museums

• International Hippocratic Foundation: Dedicated to Hippocratic Medicine, the foundation’s learning centre (a convention centre, library, medicinal garden and museum all rolled into one) is the perfect primer for near neighbour, the Asklepieion of Kos.

Historical monuments

• Wreck of the German landing craft F-131: Sunk just off Golden Beach in 1943 by a British motor torpedo boat and visible from shore, there’s not much left beyond a rusted carcass, but it’s worth a look-see if you’re interested in World War II history.

• Asklepieion of Kos: Within a 20-minute drive of Tigaki, this ancient Greek place of healing, devoted to Asclepius, the Greco-Roman god of medicine, and based on the teachings of Hippocrates, the father of medicine, is one of the island’s most significant and best-preserved archeological sites.

Day trips in the area

• Kefalos: Located at the southwest tip of the island, a 40-minute drive, Kefalos offers a two-in-one village (traditional up top, modern down below), ancient ruins and stunning beaches.

• Nisyros Island: Famous for its active volcano, black sands and white-washed villages, Nisyros is a 50-minute ferry hop from the Port of Kos.

Activities for families in Tigaki

Tigaki is centred on beach fun, but you’ll find plenty of great places for a day out with the kids in a 10km radius.

• Aquariums and zoos: Set on the slopes of Mount Dikeos and dotted with animal enclosures, Kos Natural Park is perfect for animal lovers. The deer are heart-stealers.

• Family-friendly beaches: Tigaki and Marmari beaches are firm family favourites, with gently shelving sands, shallow waters and plenty of amenities, from showers and sunbeds to beachfront bars and restaurants. Quirky Happy Flamingo Beach goes the extra mile for younger kids with screened sunloungers, a mini car track and kids’ toys.

• Go-karting: Located between Tigaki and Marmari, Marmari Go Kart Center is a great alternative when beach fatigue sets in.

• Water parks: A 15-minute drive from Tigaki, Lido Water Park offers pools, slides and an interactive kids’ wet play area. There’s also an indoor play centre and games rooms for when they want to dry off.

• Boat trips: Kids will get a kick out of sailing the high seas aboard Tigaki’s pirate ship, the Pirates of Kos. The tour takes in Kalymnos, Pserimos and Plati island.

Free things to do in Tigaki

Tigaki is mainly a beach resort, so swimming and sunbathing are a given, but there are also a few free historical sites to see in and around the area.

• Beaches: Stretching for some 10km, soft, sandy Tigaki Beach is only partially organised, so you’ll have no problem finding a spot to lay out your towel. If comfort wins over cost, expect to pay around €12–€15 for two sunbeds and a brolly.

• Annual festivals: Held every summer (the dates vary), the Hippokrateia Festival is the island’s principal cultural event. Beginning with the reading of the Hippocratic oath at the Asklepieion of Kos, various events and activities are staged around the island, everything and anything from theatrical and dance performances to food festivals and sports events.

• Historical monuments: Around Zipari, you’ll find the ruins of several Early Christian basilicas, though some fence peeking is required.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: Nearby Mount Dikeos offers some of the best hiking routes on the island. As you ascend, you’ll pass through charming villages like Zia, taking in breathtaking island views and seascapes.

• Windsurfing: The area in front of the salt lake is the go-to spot for a sesh for both beginners and seasoned windsurfers. Tigaki Windsurfing provides lessons and equipment rental.

• Road and mountain biking: Rugged trails or smooth paved paths? Whether crossing through Mount Dikeos or coasting to Kos Town, beginners and advanced riders will find a ride to suit them. Nikos Bikes rents road, mountain and e-bikes.

• Horse-riding: Local riding schools, such as Salt Lake Stables, offer guided horse-riding tours along the beach, making for a memorable and relaxing experience.

Beaches in Tigaki

Tigaki is renowned for its beautiful beaches, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and recreational activities. With soft sands, clear waters, and a friendly atmosphere, the beaches here are ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. Here’s a look at some of the top beaches to explore during your visit:

Tigaki Beach

Tigaki Beach is the main attraction, stretching for several kilometres along the coast. Known for its fine golden sand and shallow waters, this beach is perfect for families with children. The beach is well-equipped with sunbeds, umbrellas, and a range of water sports, including jet skiing and paddleboarding, making it a great spot for both relaxation and adventure.

• Highlights:

  • Family-friendly with lifeguards on duty

  • Beach bars and restaurants nearby for refreshments

Marmari Beach

Located just a short distance from Tigaki, Marmari Beach offers a more tranquil setting with beautiful views of the surrounding hills. This sandy beach is less crowded, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful day by the sea. Enjoy swimming in the clear waters or simply lounging in the sun while taking in the serene surroundings. Check out our deals on holidays to Marmari.

• Features:

  • Quiet atmosphere ideal for relaxation

  • Shallow waters suitable for families

Plaka Beach

A little further along the coast, Plaka Beach is known for its natural beauty and lush surroundings. This beach features soft sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The area is more secluded, providing a tranquil escape from the busier beaches.

• Highlights:

  • Scenic views and a relaxed vibe

  • Perfect for picnics and enjoying nature

Ammoudi Beach

Ammoudi Beach is a hidden gem located near Tigaki, offering a unique beach experience. Surrounded by rocky formations, this small cove provides a lovely setting for swimming and sunbathing. The clear waters are great for snorkelling, allowing you to explore the marine life just off the shore.

• Features:

  • Secluded and picturesque environment

  • Ideal for those seeking a quieter beach experience

Kefalos Beach

Although a bit farther from Tigaki, Kefalos Beach is worth the trip for its stunning scenery and calm waters. This beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful backdrop of cliffs. It’s a great spot for swimming and enjoying water sports, with plenty of space for sunbathing. Don’t miss our holiday packages to Kefalos as well.

• Activities:

  • Water sports and beach games

  • Relaxing in a beautiful setting

The beaches in and around Tigaki offer a variety of experiences, ensuring that every visitor can find their ideal spot by the sea. Whether you’re swimming in the warm waters, enjoying delicious local cuisine at beachside tavernas, or simply soaking up the sun, the beautiful coastline of Tigaki will enhance your holiday experience.

Local dishes in Tigaki

One of the joys of holidays to Tigaki is diving into the delicious local cuisine, with its fresh ingredients and simple yet flavourful dishes. The dining scene here offers traditional Greek fare with a laid-back, coastal twist.

Some typical dishes

• Krasotiri: Made from sheep’s or goat’s milk (or a blend of the two) and matured in red wine sediment, which gives it its distinctive reddish rind, this is an island food icon. Look for it on breakfast menus.

• Pitaridia: Kos’ signature pasta is traditionally cooked in meat stock and served with either butter and grated cheese or a simple ragu.

Meze dishes

• Chtapodokeftedes: These herby, fried octopus balls are a must-try.

• Kolokythoanthoi: Perfect for summer, courgette flowers stuffed with rice, cheese or minced meat.

Meat dishes

• Moussaka: You won’t have to look far for this béchamel-topped meat and aubergine casserole; it's a fixture on most menus.

• Pligouri: An island speciality, this flavoursome dish matches bulgur wheat with pork.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Chtapodi sti Schara: This famous Greek dish keeps things simple: chargrilled octopus served with olive oil, lemon and oregano.

• Tsipoura kai Skordalia: A match made in heaven, sea bream with a garlicky potato dip.

Street food

• Crepes: Spottily golden and served sweet or savoury, for instance, with honey and walnuts or cheese and spinach.

• Gyros: Greece’s take on the Turkish doner kebab, slivers of spit-cooked meat, salad and Tzatziki sauce wrapped in pitta.

Sweets and desserts

• Finikia: Flavoured with orange zest, cinnamon and cloves, these honey-dipped, walnut-topped cookies are sweet, sticky and satisfying.

• Glyko you Koutaliou: Spoon sweets (preserves served on a spoon) are made throughout Greece from various fruits, nuts and vegetables, but there are some regional specialities. On Kos, it’s cherry tomatoes.

Local drinks

• Malagousia: Zesty and aromatic, Malagousia whites from nearby Asfendiou are having a moment.

• Kanelada: Kos’ trademark non-alcoholic beverage is made from sugar, water, cinnamon and cloves.