Kos in April: the weather and best activities for your holiday

Kos, a stunning Greek island in the Dodecanese archipelago, harmoniously blends ancient history with modern coastal charm. From the medieval castle overlooking the harbour to the ancient healing temple of Asklepieion, the island's rich heritage captivates visitors at every turn.

April offers a perfect introduction to Kos, as spring brings mild temperatures and fewer tourists. The comfortable climate, typically around 20°C, creates ideal conditions for exploring archaeological sites and cycling along the seafront promenade. While some seasonal restaurants might not yet be open, the peaceful atmosphere and blooming wildflowers more than make up for any limitations.

The weather of Kos through the year

Kos enjoys a classic Mediterranean climate with long, sun-drenched summers and mild winters. From June to September, temperatures regularly reach 30°C, with cooling meltemi winds providing welcome relief. Winter months see temperatures drop to around 15°C, with occasional rainfall between November and March. The shoulder seasons offer perfect conditions for outdoor activities.

Kos weather in April

Days bring comfortable temperatures of 21C (70F), while nights dip to a mild 13C (55F). The warmth feels pleasant rather than hot, creating perfect conditions for exploring. You'll need light layers for evening dining, but daytime temperatures remain consistently comfortable. Spring breezes keep the air fresh without feeling chilly.

Kos enjoys 8 hours of sunshine daily in April, with daylight lasting around 13 hours. Sunrise occurs around 6:45 AM, and sunset is approximately 7:45 PM. Clear skies dominate, though occasional spring showers can briefly interrupt the sunshine. The UV index reaches moderate levels, making sun protection advisable.

April typically sees around 5 wet days, with rainfall averaging 40mm across the month. Showers tend to be brief and light, rarely lasting more than a couple of hours. When rain does occur, it usually falls in the early morning or late afternoon, quickly giving way to sunshine. The precipitation isn't disruptive to island activities or exploration.

The Aegean Sea temperatures hover around 17C (63F), still retaining winter's chill. While hardy swimmers might venture in, most find the water refreshing but cool for extended swimming. The shallow bays warm slightly quicker than deeper waters, offering more comfortable spots for brief dips.

Early spring offers a peaceful experience with comfortable temperatures of 21C (70F) and gradually warming seas. While occasional light showers occur, they rarely disrupt activities. This shoulder season brings fewer tourists, meaning quieter attractions and better hotel rates. Perfect for exploring archaeological sites and cycling, though some seasonal restaurants and beach facilities might not yet be open. Overall, an excellent time for visitors who prioritise cultural experiences over beach activities.

Greek Orthodox Easter (when it falls in April) transforms Kos into a celebration of traditional customs. The island hosts significant processions, particularly in Kos Town, with candlelit evening services and festive meals. The exact dates vary yearly, but when Easter falls in April, it's a memorable time to experience authentic Greek culture and local celebrations.

Clothes to pack for April in Kos

Pack layers for April's variable temperatures. Bring light jumpers and a light jacket for cooler evenings when temperatures drop to 13C (55F). Daytime clothing should include long-sleeved t-shirts, shorts, and light trousers. Include some warmer items like jeans and a fleece for occasional cool spells. Swimming gear is useful for heated pools, though the sea remains chilly. Walking shoes are essential for exploring, and don't forget a light raincoat for occasional showers.

The best months to visit Kos

Late spring (May) and early autumn (September) provide the optimal conditions for visiting Kos. These months combine comfortable temperatures, minimal rainfall, and manageable tourist numbers. The weather suits every activity, from archaeological exploration to beach relaxation, while restaurants and attractions operate without the peak season's overwhelming crowds.

The worst months to visit Kos

July and August can be challenging months in Kos, with temperatures soaring to 33C (91F) and feeling even hotter. These peak season months bring crowds, higher prices, and the need to book restaurants and activities well in advance. The intense heat can make sightseeing uncomfortable.

Sights and activities for Kos during April

The ancient Asklepieion, perched on its terraced hill overlooking Kos Town, offers a particularly atmospheric experience during April's mild temperatures. This former healing temple complex, one of the island's most significant archaeological sites, benefits from the spring wildflowers blooming among its ancient stones. The comfortable 21C temperatures make the uphill walk to the site much more manageable than during summer months.

Kos Town's medieval castle, the Neratzia Castle, commands attention at the harbour entrance. Its impressive fortifications, built by the Knights of St. John, are ideal for exploration in April's gentle sunshine. The castle grounds provide excellent vantage points for photographing the harbour and surrounding area, especially during the golden hours near sunset at 7:45 PM.

The tree-lined seafront promenade of Kos Town, known as Finikoudes, comes alive in April as locals return to their daily walks. The avenue stretches past numerous historical sites, including the Ancient Agora and the striking Defterdar Mosque. Cyclists particularly appreciate the dedicated bike lanes during this season, when tourist traffic remains light.

The Ancient Agora, situated in the heart of Kos Town, showcases remarkable Hellenistic and Roman ruins. April visitors can leisurely explore the extensive site, which includes well-preserved mosaics, columns, and the ruins of temples and baths. The spring sunshine highlights the architectural details without the harsh glare of summer.

For nature enthusiasts, the Plaka Forest offers a haven of cypress and pine trees, home to peacocks and other wildlife. The forest's paths provide sheltered walking routes during occasional April showers, while clearings offer perfect spots for springtime picnics.

The charming mountain village of Zia, nestled in the Dikeos mountains, provides spectacular views across the island. April's clear days are perfect for visiting its traditional tavernas and artisan shops, with the afternoon light creating stunning photo opportunities of the village's whitewashed buildings against the mountain backdrop.

For those interested in early Christian history, the remarkably preserved floor mosaics of the Casa Romana showcase the island's Roman heritage. The site's partial covering makes it an excellent choice during April's occasional rain showers, while the restored Roman villa gives visitors insight into ancient domestic life.

The thermal springs at Therma Beach, near Agios Fokas, offer a warming alternative to the cool April sea. These natural pools, heated by volcanic activity, maintain a constant temperature and are particularly appealing during cooler spring evenings.

Other holiday destinations recommendations for April

April is an excellent time for travel as many destinations enjoy pleasant spring weather and fewer tourists. Here are some top recommendations:

Japan - Peak cherry blossom season transforms the country. Cities like Kyoto and Tokyo offer spectacular hanami (blossom viewing), with comfortable temperatures around 15-20°C. Historic temples and modern attractions are less crowded than summer months.

Morocco - Perfect temperatures (20-25°C) for exploring ancient medinas and the Atlas Mountains. Cities like Marrakech and Fez are ideal for sightseeing without the intense summer heat, while the Sahara Desert is comfortably warm for camel treks.

Southern Spain - Andalusia enjoys warm days (around 20-23°C) and minimal rainfall. Cities like Seville and Granada are perfect for exploring, with orange trees in bloom and ideal conditions for visiting the Alhambra. Easter processions (Semana Santa) offer unique cultural experiences.

Madeira - The Portuguese island benefits from spring temperatures of 20°C, perfect for hiking the levada trails and exploring botanical gardens in full bloom. The Atlantic remains mild enough for swimming.

Cyprus - Similar Mediterranean climate to Greece but slightly warmer (22-25°C), with excellent conditions for exploring archaeological sites like Paphos. Wildflowers carpet the landscape, and the sea begins warming for swimming.

Costa Rica - The end of the dry season brings ideal weather for exploring rainforests and beaches. Wildlife viewing is excellent, and waterfalls are still flowing from the previous wet season.

Malta - Temperatures around 20°C create perfect conditions for exploring historic sites like Valletta and Mdina. The islands are less crowded than summer, with good deals on accommodation and pleasant conditions for coastal walks.

Vietnam - The south enjoys dry, warm weather, while the north experiences mild temperatures - ideal for exploring Ha Long Bay or the streets of Hanoi without the intense summer heat or monsoon rains.