British holidaymakers seeking sun-drenched Greek island escapes have received exciting news as TUI announces new direct flights to the 'charming' island of Kos from three UK airports for summer 2026.
New Routes and Pricing Details
The travel giant will launch direct services to the popular Dodecanese island from London Stansted, Bournemouth, and Exeter, marking a significant expansion of their Greek island programme. For travellers in London, this represents a welcome revival of the route that was previously axed by TUI back in 2019.
Package deals from London Stansted commence on May 7, 2026, with remarkably affordable pricing. A week-long trip between May 7 and May 15 currently costs just £220 per person for flights only, while adding an all-inclusive hotel brings the total to approximately £659 per person.
Passengers from Bournemouth and Exeter will need to wait slightly longer for their Greek getaway. Return flights from Bournemouth begin on May 21, 2026, from £466 per person, while Exeter services launch on May 24, 2026, from £550 per person.
Why Kos Appeals to British Travellers
Kos has established itself as a firm favourite among British tourists, attracting close to one million visitors annually. The island earns its 'garden city' nickname through its abundance of lush green spaces, setting it apart from other Greek destinations.
Neil Swanson, Managing Director at TUI UK&I, commented on the new routes: "These new routes to Kos follow a rise in demand for this picturesque island, which is one of our customers' favourite Greek destinations. By launching services from Bournemouth and Exeter for the first time, and reinstating our popular London Stansted route, we're making it easier than ever for customers across the South of England to enjoy an unforgettable Greek island holiday."
Exploring Kos: Beaches and History
The island truly lives up to its reputation as a beach lover's paradise, boasting an impressive 70 miles of coastline with numerous pristine spots for relaxation and water activities. Agios Fokas offers exceptional snorkelling opportunities, while Agios Stefanos beach provides plenty of options for watersports enthusiasts.
Beyond its stunning beaches, Kos offers rich historical experiences. The Asklepieion, a hillside religious sanctuary dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing, stands as a must-visit attraction where Hippocrates' methods were originally studied. Visitors can explore the public baths and guest rooms, with a modern museum providing valuable context.
Kos Town, the island's vibrant capital and main ferry port, showcases monuments spanning Greek, Roman and Byzantine eras. The impressive 15th-century Neratzia Castle, built by the knights of St John around 1436, dominates the landscape, while the 2nd-century Roman villa known as the House of Europa features a surviving floor mosaic depicting Zeus's abduction of Europa.
This expansion of direct flight routes demonstrates TUI's commitment to meeting growing demand for Greek island holidays while providing more convenient travel options for customers across southern England seeking their perfect Mediterranean escape.
