Kos is one of the most popular Greek islands for family holidays. The airport is the bottleneck. Getting through it with children is straightforward, but getting from it to your resort requires a bit of planning, especially in summer.
Inside the terminal
The terminal is compact. There is no long walk from the gate, no complex signage to follow. Baggage reclaim is a single area and you can see the exit from the carousel. For families, this simplicity is a relief after larger airport experiences. The downside is that the terminal gets hot and crowded when full planes arrive in summer. There are basic toilet facilities but nothing specifically designed for families with infants.
The queue problem for families
If you are taking a taxi during peak season, you will likely queue in the sun. With young children, this is miserable. There is minimal shade at the taxi rank and no indoor waiting area. Waiting 30-45 minutes in Greek summer heat with a toddler and luggage is a rough way to start a holiday.
This is the primary reason families choose pre-booked transfers at Kos. Walking out of the terminal and straight into a waiting vehicle, rather than joining a queue, makes a measurable difference to how the first hour of your trip feels.
Car seats
Greek taxis are not required to provide child car seats. Most do not carry them. If you hail a taxi at the rank, your child will ride without an appropriate restraint. Greek law technically requires them for children under certain ages and heights, but enforcement in taxis is essentially nonexistent.
If this matters to you, and it should, the options are: bring your own car seat (many families traveling with young children do this), or book a transfer and request a specific seat for your child's age and weight. Confirm the seat is included in the booking confirmation. Do not leave it to chance.
Tour operator coaches
If you are on a package holiday, you may be assigned to a coach. These are air-conditioned but make multiple stops at different hotels across the island. A 20-minute direct drive can become a 60-90 minute tour of the island's hotels. No car seats are provided on coaches. With young children, this long coach ride after a flight is tiring.
Vehicle size
A standard taxi fits two adults and two children with normal luggage. If you are traveling with a stroller, beach toys, car seats, and extra bags, you will be cramped. Pre-booked transfers let you specify a minivan or larger vehicle. This is particularly relevant if you are traveling with another family or have more than two children.
Getting to the resort
Most resort areas on Kos are within 30 minutes of the airport. Kardamena is closest at about 5 km. Kos Town is the farthest common destination at around 26 km. The roads are generally good, though narrow in some village areas. The drive is not stressful and children usually handle it well, especially with a snack and a cool car.
Summary
The airport itself is easy with kids. The transport from it is where planning matters. In summer, avoid the taxi queue. Arrange a vehicle large enough for your family and luggage. Confirm car seats before you arrive. These small preparations make the transition from plane to pool considerably smoother.