Is Ikos Dassia the right Ikos resort
for your family?
Sam Ballard, Managing Director
Club Voyages
Published: 7 July 2026
You've been doing what every parent does before booking a family holiday.
Scrolling through endless photos that all look the same.
Reading reviews from families whose kids are nothing like yours.
Jumping between resorts, trying to work out which one actually fits - and getting more confused the deeper you go.
And now you're stuck on that final, slightly terrifying question:
Is this the one that'll actually work for us?
Because here's the thing nobody tells you: all these resorts look identical online.
It's only when you're standing there - kids in tow, bags unpacked, first dinner booked - that you find out whether the beach is actually useable with a toddler, whether the layout makes life easier or harder, and whether you've just spent several thousand pounds on a week of logistics in the sun.
So let's cut through the brochure speak and figure out if Ikos Dassia is genuinely right for your family.
Is Ikos Dassia right for you? My quick verdict
A quick, honest answer before we get into the full resort guide
Ikos Dassia is one of two Ikos resorts on the island of Corfu (the other is Ikos Odisia, just across the bay).
It opened in 2018, so it's well established - the team know what they're doing, the systems work, and there's none of that "still bedding in" feel you sometimes get at newer resorts.
It sits on Corfu's east coast, about 25 minutes from the airport, and stretches across a gently curving bay with views to the Greek mainland.
The resort has 400 rooms spread across two main buildings - Sea and Sky - each with their own restaurants, pools and bars, all within easy reach of the beach.
Like all Ikos properties, it offers a polished, all-inclusive experience with standout food and drink, kids' clubs, beachfront access, and thoughtful extras like a day's hire of an electric MINI or dinner out at a local taverna.
What works really well at Ikos Dassia
The beach is one of the best in the Ikos portfolio for little ones. Long, gently shelving sand. Calm, shallow water that stays safe for ages. No steep drop-offs or big waves.
It's the sort of beach where you can actually relax instead of hovering nervously at the water's edge.
It's easy to get around. The whole resort is flat and buggy-friendly. Paths are wide, lifts work, and you're never trekking across the site just to get to breakfast.
That matters more than you'd think when you're doing it three times a day with tired children.
The team know what they're doing. Dassia's been open since 2018, so the staff are experienced and the systems are smooth. You're not dealing with teething problems or a team still learning the ropes.
Corfu is beautiful — and there's plenty to explore if you want to. It's green, scenic, and full of history. Corfu Old Town is 30 minutes away, and there are beaches, villages and day trips that slot easily into a family holiday.
But you don't have to go anywhere - the resort works perfectly well if you never leave.
The food is excellent. Genuinely good quality, plenty of variety, and staff who actually care whether your children are happy. Mealtimes feel like a break, not a battle.
What might not suit everyone
Corfu's weather is less reliable early and late season. It's greener and more humid than somewhere like Crete or the Costa del Sol - because it rains more in winter. That means April and October can be a bit of a gamble. Some years are glorious. Others are cooler and wetter.
If guaranteed sunshine matters to you, resorts like Ikos Kissamos (Crete) or Ikos Andalusia (Spain) are safer bets in early and late season.
It's one of the older Ikos resorts. Dassia's lovely, but it doesn't have that brand-new, ultra-modern feel. If sleek, design-led architecture is important to you, Odisia (opened 2023) might be more your thing.
The à la carte restaurants lean heavily Greek. That's brilliant if you love Greek food. Less so if you were hoping for more international variety. Other Ikos resorts have a wider spread of cuisines - Dassia's selection is excellent, but more focused.
No Deluxe-only restaurant. Unlike some other Ikos resorts, Dassia doesn't have a Deluxe-exclusive fine-dining venue like Seasons.
If you're paying for Deluxe and food is a big part of your holiday, that's worth knowing.
So what does that mean for you?
Ikos Dassia works brilliantly if you want a well-run, easy-to-navigate resort with a fantastic beach, great food, and a calm, relaxed feel.
It's especially good for families with younger children who need shallow water, flat paths, and a team who know what they're doing.
It's less ideal if you want cutting-edge design, guaranteed sunshine in April or October, or a huge variety of international cuisines.
What’s in this guide
Jump straight to the parts that matter most to your family, from rooms and childcare to restaurants, Deluxe and what Dassia feels like day to day
The rest of this guide looks at how Ikos Dassia actually works for families.
We’ll look at the layout, rooms, beach, pools, restaurants, kids clubs and Deluxe Collection - but also the bigger question many families now have: how does Dassia compare with Ikos Odisia next door?
Because with Dassia, the decision isn’t just whether it looks beautiful. It’s whether the resort will make family life feel easier once you arrive - with suncream, snacks, tired children and nap schedules all part of the equation.
-
What to do around Ikos Dassia with kids
-
Ikos Dassia vs Ikos Odisia
-
Still unsure whether Ikos Dassia is the right choice?
Ikos Dassia at a glance
Location, layout and how the resort works with real-life family logistics
Ikos Dassia sits on Corfu's eastern coast, around a 25-minute drive from the airport and just 30 or so minutes from Corfu Old Town.
It's beachfront, but not remote - so you've got easy access to shops, towns and things to explore if you feel like stepping out.
The resort covers 25 acres and is split between two main buildings - Sea and Sky - each with their own entrance, restaurants, pools and bar areas.
That means wherever you stay, you're never far from anything - useful if you've got tired legs, pushchairs or hungry children in tow.
Paths between buildings are wide and flat. Everything is buggy-friendly.
Getting around is straightforward even at peak times. The whole place has a compact, well-managed feel that families tend to appreciate.
The beach runs the full length of the resort and has a calm, easy-going atmosphere.
The sea here is shallow, clear and usually still - great for younger swimmers or sandcastle builders.
Deluxe Collection guests get a quieter stretch of beach with more spaced-out loungers, but even the main area feels well run and uncrowded.
Dassia is big enough to offer variety, but not so large that it becomes effortful to get anywhere. That balance often ends up being one of the things families like most.
Next, let's look at how the timing of your holiday affects what it's like to stay here.
When to go to Ikos Dassia
How the season shapes your days - from sunshine and swimming to booking pressure
The resort runs from April through to the end of October, and honestly? The month you pick changes everything.
Not just the weather - though that's obviously part of i - but the vibe , how easy it is to get into restaurants, whether you're fighting for kids' club slots, and frankly, how much you'll pay.
Here's what each window actually feels like on the ground:
April and early May
This is shoulder season - and it shows.
You'll get sunshine and those lovely spring temperatures (high teens to low 20s), but the sea's still cold.
Some of the outdoor pools are heated, which helps, and there are family splash times in the heated spa pool if your kids are keen.
But, if your children live in the water, this might feel limiting.
The beach is quiet - which is lovely - but you're not getting that full-on swim-all-day holiday.
Who it suits: Families with babies or toddlers who aren't bothered about swimming. You get space, lower prices, and a gentler pace. It's also brilliant if you want to explore Corfu without melting.
Late May and June
If you can swing it outside school holidays, this is the sweet spot.
Warm but not brutal (low- to mid-20s), long sunny days, and the pools are properly swim-friendly.
The resort feels lively without being rammed, and you can usually book restaurants and kids' club without military-level planning.
I've spoken to families who went in early June and said it felt like they'd cracked some kind of code - great weather, happy kids, no stress.
Who it suits: Anyone with flexible dates. Especially families with pre-schoolers or those who can pull kids out for a week.
July and August
Right. Peak season. Let's be honest about what that means.
It's hot - high 20s or low 30s most days. The pools and sea are perfect for swimming, but you'll be thinking about shade, sun cream, and timing everything around the midday heat.
The resort is fully booked. Every restaurant, every kids' club session, every sun lounger - it's all in play.
You'll need to book your à la carte dinners as soon as you can (ideally before you travel), and kids' club slots go fast.
Does that make it a bad time to go? Not necessarily.
The atmosphere is buzzing, your kids will meet loads of other children, and if you're organised, it all works.
But if you're the kind of person who likes to wing it or hates feeling like you're on a schedule, this might wind you up.
Who it suits: Families tied to school holidays who want guaranteed sunshine and don't mind a bit of advance planning.
September and October
September is one of those months returning families rave about.
The weather's still warm - often high 20s - and the sea's actually warmer than it was in June because it's had all summer to heat up.
The resort empties out a bit after the school rush, so you get more space, easier bookings, and a calmer vibe overall.
It's also when you'll meet a lot of families who've been before and specifically choose September because they know.
October half term is more of a roll of the dice.
Some years it's glorious - 25 degrees and sunny. Other years you'll get wind, clouds, or rain.
A few families I've spoken to who went late October said parts of the resort felt like they were winding down - some restaurants on reduced hours, that sort of thing.
Who it suits: September is ideal for almost everyone, especially if you want a high-quality holiday without the peak-season intensity. October works if you're willing to gamble a bit on weather.
So when should you go?
Here's the short version:
-
Want warm weather without the chaos? Late May, June or September.
-
Tied to school holidays? July and August are fine - just go in expecting to plan ahead and pay more.
-
Got a baby and don't need hot swimming weather? April and May offer great value and breathing space.
-
Want the best of everything? Early to mid-September. Warm sea, warm air, fewer people, easier logistics.
If you're still not sure which window fits your family best, drop me a line. I can talk you through what each month actually feels like with kids in tow - and what you're likely to pay for your dates.
Rooms at Ikos Dassia
How the different room types actually work for families
The rooms at Ikos Dassia all look gorgeous in the photos.
But the difference between a Junior Suite and a One-Bedroom Suite? That's the difference between whispering in the dark after your toddler's asleep… and actually having an evening to yourself.
Layout matters. Bathrooms matter. And the size of your room shapes how the whole week feels - especially when you're managing naps, early bedtimes or just need somewhere to hide for ten minutes.
So let's cut through the brochure speak and talk about what each room type is actually like when you're living in it with kids.
Double and Superior Double Rooms (25 sqm)
These are the entry-level rooms, and they're lovely - if you're a couple.
With a baby in a cot? Still fine. Cosy, but workable.
But the moment your child needs their own bed, you need to upgrade.
There's no separate space. No bath (just a walk-in shower).
And once your kid's asleep, you're either sitting on the balcony or you're stuck whispering and scrolling your phone in the dark.
Who it suits: Parents with a baby who's happy in a cot and doesn't need a bath.
Who it doesn't: Anyone with a toddler or older child who needs their own bed.
Junior Suites and Panorama Junior Suites (35 sqm)
A step up in size, and you get a sofa bed in the same room as the double bed.
If you've got one child and genuinely don't mind everyone sleeping in the same space, these work.
The Panorama versions guarantee a sea view and sometimes come with a private garden, which is a nice touch.
But here's what catches people out: it's still open-plan.
So once your child's down for the night, you're back to the same problem - no evening, no privacy, no space to decompress.
And still no bath. Just a shower.
Who it suits: Families with one child who go to bed at the same time as their kids, or who are happy spending evenings on the balcony.
Who it doesn't: Anyone who values having an evening to themselves. Or anyone with a toddler who needs a bath before bed.
One-Bedroom Suites (58 sqm)
This is where things start to make sense for most families.
You've got a proper bedroom for the adults, and a separate living area with sofa beds for up to two kids.
There's a sliding door between them, which means nap times work, bedtimes work, and - crucially - you get your evenings back.
These suites also have a bath and a shower, which is one of those small things that ends up mattering alot more than you'd think.
A lot of families tell me this is the sweet spot - big enough to breathe, separated enough to function, and not so huge that you're rattling around in it.
Who it suits: Most families. Especially those with younger kids who need baths, naps, and early bedtimes.
Who it doesn't: If you've got teenagers who want total independence, you’ll need to look at the Family Rooms or Two-Bedroom Suites instead.
Family Rooms (50 sqm)
These are essentially two Double Rooms connected by an internal door.
So: two bedrooms, two bathrooms, two balconies.
On paper, that sounds great. And for older kids or teens who want their own space, it works really well.
But here's what I've heard from families with younger children: the layout can feel a bit disjointed.
You're in one room, they're in another, and it doesn't flow as easily as a One or two-Bedroom Suite where everyone's kind of… together but separate.
Who it suits: Families with older kids (12+) or teens.
Who it doesn't: Families with toddlers or younger children who need you nearby at night.
Deluxe Junior Suite with Private Garden, Deluxe Bungalow Suite, Deluxe Junior Suite Bungalow
with Private Pool (35–37 sqm)
If you're considering Deluxe, these are the entry-level options.
The layout is similar to the standard Junior Suites - open-plan, sofa bed in the same room - but you’ll get a quieter spot in the resort, a guaranteed private garden, or a garden and your very own 28 sqm private pool.
And here's where the garden makes a real difference: if you've got an early riser, you can take them outside to play at 6am without waking everyone else up or leaving the room.
Families who've stayed in these say the garden gets used much more than they expected - breakfast outside, quiet time, somewhere for the kids to burn off energy before dinner.
Who it suits: Families with one child who want the perks of Deluxe but don't need a separate bedroom.
Who it doesn't: Same as the standard Junior Suites - if you need an evening to yourself or a bath, look elsewhere.
Deluxe One-Bedroom Suites Private Garden and Deluxe One-Bedroom Suites Private Pool (58 sqm)
Same layout as the standard One-Bedroom Suites - separate bedroom, living area with sofa beds, sliding door between them - but with Deluxe perks.
That means quieter locations, sea views, private gardens (or a private garden with 40 sqm private pool), and access to the Deluxe pool and beach.
You still get the bath and walk-in shower, which is brilliant with younger kids.
They accommodate 2 adults and up to 3 kids.
This is the room type I'd probably pick if I was going with my own family and wanted to feel properly looked after without going full villa mode.
Who it suits: Bigger families (up to three kids) who want space, separation and a bit of extra calm.
Who it doesn't: If you're on a tighter budget and happy with the standard One-Bedroom Suite, the Deluxe version is lovely but not essential.
Deluxe Two-Bedroom Suite, Deluxe Two-Bedroom Suite Private Pool Beachfront and Deluxe Two Bedroom Bungalow Suite Private Pool Beachfront (100–120 sqm)
Now we're talking serious space.
Two proper bedrooms, each with their own ensuite (one with a bath and shower, the other shower-only), plus a big lounge and a large balcony (Deluxe Two-Bedroom Suite) or beachfront garden and private pool (the other 2 versions.)
This setup is brilliant for larger families, or when grandparents are coming along and everyone needs a bit of breathing room, as these can accommodate up to 6 of you, 7 for the Bungalow version.
It's also where Deluxe becomes automatic - there’s no ‘non-deluxe’ version of this type of room.
Who it suits: Bigger families, multi-generational trips, or anyone who just wants loads of space.
Who it doesn't: If it's just you, your partner, and one or two kids, you probably don't need this much room. Save your money.
Deluxe Three-Bedroom Villa with Private Pool (170 sqm)
The top of the range.
Your own pool. Your own lawn. Your own deck. Sleeps up to seven, spread over two floors.
All three bedrooms have en suites - but here's the catch: they're all shower-only. No baths. Which is fine for older kids, but worth knowing if you've got little ones who need a bath before bed.
Otherwise, this is as close as you'll get to a private villa experience while still having full access to the resort.
Who it suits: Families who want total privacy and space, or groups travelling together.
Who it doesn't: If you're paying for this and not using the pool or garden much, you're probably overspending.
A few things families wish they'd known
If having a bath matters, you need a One-Bedroom Suite or bigger. Below that, it's shower-only. And if you've got a toddler who won't settle without a bath, that's going to be a problem.
Room location makes a difference. Rooms near the Sea building's lobby or bar areas can pick up noise in the evenings - not loud, but enough to matter if you're a light sleeper or have a child who wakes easily.
Gardens and private pools get used more than you'd think. Especially with early risers. If your kid's up at 6am, having somewhere to go that isn't the main pool area is gold. Invest in as much space (inside and out) as you can afford.
Still not sure which room is right for you?
I get it. It's confusing. And the last thing you want is to spend a week in a room that doesn't quite work.
So if you want help working out which layout suits your family - based on your kids' ages, how you actually holiday, and what you're willing to spend - just get in touch.
I can usually narrow it down in about five minutes.
Facilities at Ikos Dassia
What you'll actually use, how it feels day to day, and why families rate it
One of the reasons Ikos Aria works so well when you’re travelling with younger children is that a lot of the everyday decisions are already made for you.
You’re not constantly thinking ahead to the next meal, wondering if you’ll find a sunbed, or working out where to go next.
Food, drinks, towels, shade and space tend to be there when you need them. That’s why a lot of parents come home feeling like they’ve actually had a rest - not just parented somewhere sunny.
Although you can carve out some adult time when your kids are in the kids club or you’ve booked babysitting, you’re not going to escape children entirely.
If you go in expecting that balance, Aria tends to deliver it better than most.
Pools
You’ve got four outdoor pools in total - three family-friendly pools and one adults-only pool - plus an indoor pool in the spa.
If you’re travelling with younger children, the outdoor family pools work well. They’re generally quite shallow, which makes it easier to relax a bit when the kids are in the water. There are children’s sections and a splash pool that’s particularly popular with toddlers and pre-schoolers.
One thing to be aware of is that not all the outdoor pools are heated outside peak summer. In July and August you won’t notice, but if you’re travelling in April, May or October, the water can feel cool - especially for little ones.
The indoor pool sits inside the spa. It’s mainly an adult space, but there are specific family splash times when children are allowed in. Outside of those times, it’s adults only.
Around the pools, service is one of the things parents comment on most.
Drinks and snacks come to you, staff help move loungers if you need them to, and you’re not constantly up and down -which makes it much easier to sit back while keeping an eye on the kids.
Kids clubs (at a glance)
If you think you might want some time to yourselves, the kids clubs are a big part of how that happens.
There’s a crèche for babies and toddlers, kids clubs for ages 4–12, and activities for teens. Parents often talk about how professional the teams feel and how quickly children settle in.
I’ll go into the kids clubs properly later in this guide — what’s included, what’s paid for, and how booking works.
Babysitting
Babysitting is another big one for parents.
You can book private babysitting in the evenings, usually at around €15 per hour, with a supplement after 11pm. It needs arranging in advance, but parents often say this is what makes the biggest difference to their stay.
If you’re travelling with a baby or toddler, it’s what allows you to go for a quiet dinner, book a spa treatment, or just sit somewhere without watching the clock.
Adult-only areas and spa time
When your kids are in the kids club or being babysat, you do have places to retreat to.
There’s an adults-only outdoor pool, which feels noticeably calmer than the family pools, and the spa, which is adults only apart from the indoor pool’s family splash times.
Inside the spa, you’ve got access to the sauna, steam room and relaxation areas, which are included. Treatments and massages are paid extra, and if you’re craving a proper switch-off, they’re well worth booking.
There’s also a gym and fitness studio, with classes like yoga and Pilates included, if you like to build that into your routine.
You’re not suddenly in a couples-only hotel - but you do feel the shift when you step into these areas.
How it all comes together
What you’ll probably notice most isn’t one standout facility - it’s how smoothly everything works together.
Having staff who anticipate what you need, and knowing small issues get sorted quickly takes a lot of mental load away. You’re still parenting, of course, but you’re not managing every detail in the same way you would elsewhere.
Next, it’s worth looking at the restaurants and bars, because how easy food is with children plays a huge part in how relaxed your days - and evenings - actually feel at Ikos Aria.
Restaurants & bars at Ikos Dassia
Why parents rate the food just as highly as the facilities
One of the biggest worries when you’re travelling with children is whether meals are going to feel stressful - rushed dinners, limited options, or that awful feeling of being that family if a child has a wobble.
Ikos Aria handles this brilliantly.
The headline facts
There are seven à la carte restaurants, plus a main buffet, a free Gelateria (proper gelato!), and nine bars across the resort.
Every restaurant has:
-
a proper children’s menu
-
freshly prepared baby food on request
-
high chairs everywhere (the good Stokke ones, not the wobbly plastic kind)
-
staff who are completely unfazed by families
If your child only eats chicken nuggets or plain pasta, you’ll be absolutely fine.
If you’ve got allergies, coeliac needs or a very restricted diet, the kitchen teams are used to adapting - parents mention this again and again in reviews.
À la carte restaurants (what you can actually book)
The seven à la carte options cover a really good spread of cuisines:
-
Ouzo – modern Greek, and a favourite for breakfast and lunch by the sea
-
Fresco – Italian, overseen by Michelin-starred chef Ettore Botrini
-
Anaya – Asian / Oriental
-
Provence – French
-
Oliva – Spanish
-
Kos – local island cuisine
-
Seasons – Mediterranean fine dining (Deluxe Collection only)
Non-Deluxe guests can pre-book three à la carte dinners in advance. It’s not usually a problem to book additional meals once you arrive, but it’s worth doing that as early as you can - and being flexible with dining times definitely helps.
Deluxe Collection guests can book à la carte dining every evening, and also have access to Seasons for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
You don’t need to pre-book breakfast or lunch.
Dine Out – eating beyond the resort
One of nice extras at Ikos Aria is the Dine Out programme, which lets you eat at selected local restaurants outside the resort at no extra cost.
At the time of writing, Ikos Aria’s Dine Out partners include:
-
Mylotopi – Authentic Village & Gastronomy
Mediterranean cuisine in a traditional village setting, around 4km from the resort. This is often the most talked-about option, especially for families who want something that feels distinctly local without being intimidating. -
Kochylari
A traditional Kos and Greek-Mediterranean restaurant, just 2km away. -
Anipota
A relaxed Greek taverna around 3.6km from Ikos Aria, serving classic dishes in an informal setting that works well for families.
Transfers are included, so you don’t need to drive, navigate or worry about timing - you’re collected, dropped off and brought back to the resort without any fuss.
The buffet (and why parents still use it)
The main buffet, Flavours, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It’s well laid out, well staffed, and has a quieter adults’ zone at one end.
Even families who love the à la carte restaurants often end up using the buffet more than they expect - not because the food is better, but because it’s easy on nights when your kids are tired or you just want to eat and be back in your room within 45 minutes.
“What if my child has a meltdown in a restaurant?”
This comes up all the time - and it’s one of the things parents are most relieved about once they arrive.
The restaurants are high-end in look and feel, but they’re also full of families. If your child kicks off, no one bats an eyelid. Other parents have been there - often that very same day.
You’ll see a few sympathetic smiles, maybe the odd “at least it’s not just us tonight” look, and that’s it.
There’s no judgement, no awkward atmosphere, and no sense that you’ve ruined anyone else’s evening.
That shared understanding is a huge part of why parents relax here so quickly.
Bars (and what’s actually included)
There are nine bars in total, spread across the resort:
-
two lobby bars
-
two pool bars
-
a beach bar
-
a theatre bar
-
a nightclub
Plus two additional bars exclusively for Deluxe guests:
-
a Deluxe lobby bar
-
a Deluxe pool bar
Drinks are properly premium - branded spirits, cocktails mixed by trained bartenders, wines from the Ikos fine wine collection, beers, soft drinks and barista-style coffees are all included.
If you’re in the Deluxe Collection, you’ll also notice a wider champagne selection, higher-end wines by the glass and quieter exclusive bar areas, especially during peak family times.
The overall feel
What Ikos Aria gets right is this balance: you’re not “downgrading” the food because you’re travelling with children.
You’re eating really good food, in beautiful spaces, with staff who understand family life - and that makes a huge difference to how relaxed evenings feel.
You don’t have to plan military-style restaurant strategies or worry about how long your child will last.
If a night needs to be quick and easy, it can be. If you want a slower, more grown-up dinner, that’s there too.
And if you’d like help choosing between Deluxe and non-Deluxe, or planning restaurant bookings so they actually work around your family (rather than against it), that’s exactly the sort of thing I help with.
Once you’ve got your head around the food and drink side of things, the next question is usually what there actually is to do during the day - and whether there’s enough going on in the evenings too.
So next, it’s worth looking at entertainment and activities at Ikos Aria - what’s included, what costs extra, and how it all works for families in practice.
Entertainment & activities at Ikos Dassia
What you’ll actually do with your days - and how evenings tend to unfold
Most days at Ikos Aria settle into a fairly natural rhythm. You’ll probably spend a good chunk of time by the pool or on the beach, dip into activities when it suits you, and then decide in the late afternoon whether the evening is going to be lively, low-key, or somewhere in between.
That flexibility is the point here. Nothing feels compulsory.
Daytime: as active (or relaxed) as you want it to be
If you like having things to dip into, there’s plenty going on during the day.
You’ll find a full programme of fitness classes - yoga, Pilates, HIIT, aqua sessions - all included, plus a well-equipped gym if you prefer doing your own thing.
Tennis courts are busy throughout the day, and bikes are available if you fancy getting out and about for a ride.
Water sports like paddleboarding, pedaloes and canoes are included for short daily sessions, which works well if you want a quick activity rather than committing to half a day.
More advanced or specialist activities - sailing, scuba introductions, waterskiing - are available at an extra cost.
If your kids are in the kids club (which I’ll cover properly next), this is when many parents choose to book a class, head to the spa, or just enjoy some uninterrupted time doing very little at all.
Time without the kids
When you do manage to carve out some child-free time, Ikos Aria gives you a few different ways to use it.
The spa is the obvious one. The thermal areas are included, treatments are extra, and it’s one of the few places on the resort that feels consistently calm. Even a short visit can reset your day.
There are also adult-only spaces - including an adults-only pool and quieter bar areas - which work best when you’re realistic about what they are.
You won’t feel like you’re in a couples-only hotel, but you will feel a shift in pace compared to the main family areas.
Evenings: relaxed rather than showy
Evenings at Ikos Aria are generally easy-going.
There are shows and live music in the theatre, plus DJs and performers in some of the bars, but the entertainment leans more towards family-friendly and relaxed than big, headline productions. Some nights you’ll watch a show; other nights you’ll just have a drink and call it early.
That suits families with younger children well. If your kids don’t stay up late, you don’t feel like you’re missing a must-see event. And if you do want to stay out a bit longer, the bars and nightclub are there.
Compared to some other Ikos resorts - like Dassia or Andalusia - Aria is generally seen as quieter in the evenings, with less emphasis on large-scale entertainment and more on low-key atmosphere.
The beach (a big part of Aria’s appeal)
The beach is one of the standout features at Ikos Aria, and for many families it becomes the default place to spend the day.
It’s a long, sandy, private beach that runs directly along the resort, with plenty of space so it doesn’t feel cramped. The sea shelves gently, which works well with younger children, and the whole area feels calm rather than hectic.
Just offshore you’ll spot the small, uninhabited islet of Kastri Islet.
It’s only around 100 metres from the beach, and confident swimmers often swim out to it for a closer look.
There’s a small chapel on the rocks and some spots where you’ll see older children and adults jumping in from the rocks.
There’s also a designated adults-only section of the beach if you’re looking for something quieter, and staff are constantly around bringing drinks, snacks and anything else you need.
You can quite happily spend the entire day here without ever needing to head back to the main resort areas.
For families who like beach days but don’t want the usual hassle - carrying bags, queuing at bars, packing up to eat - this is where Ikos Aria really shines.
Next, it’s time to look properly at the kids clubs - what’s included, what’s paid for, and how they actually work in practice when you’re travelling with babies, toddlers and younger children.
Kids clubs & childcare at Ikos Dassia
How children are looked after - and how that changes your holiday
Ikos Aria does childcare very well, but it helps to understand how it actually works day to day, rather than just reading age brackets on a website.
The crèche (6 months to 3 years)
This is one of the biggest reasons parents with babies choose Ikos Aria.
The crèche is professionally run, staffed by qualified early-years carers, and set up to UK-style standards.
Ratios are low, sessions are structured, and staff are very used to unsettled babies, nap schedules and first-time drop-offs.
Parents often say the same thing: you might feel nervous the first time you leave your baby - and then very quickly realise how calm and capable the team are.
The crèche is paid (from around €32–€42 per session, depending on length) and needs booking in advance, especially during school holidays.
Most parents use it selectively - perhaps a morning session so they can properly relax, book a treatment, or just sit somewhere quietly knowing their baby is happy and cared for.
If this is your first holiday with a baby, this is often the thing that makes it feel like a holiday, rather than just parenting somewhere sunnier.
Kids Club (4–11 years)
Once children turn four, the kids club becomes free, and this is where many families really feel the benefit of staying at Ikos Aria.
The club runs in structured sessions throughout the day, with organised activities rather than free-for-all childcare.
Expect a mix of arts and crafts, sports, games, pool activities and group challenges - enough variety to keep children engaged without it feeling overwhelming.
Parents regularly mention that children settle quickly, make friends fast and actively want to go back
That last point matters. You’re usually not persuading children to attend - more often you’re fitting everything else around their club sessions.
Teens (12–17 years)
Teen provision is deliberately lighter-touch, which works well for most families.
Rather than a traditional kids club, teens dip in and out of organised activities - beach sports, water-based sessions and social games - without feeling overly supervised.
It suits teenagers who want independence but still like having something to do.
If your teen needs constant structure or high-energy entertainment, they might find it a little low-key - but for most, it strikes the right balance.
Evening childcare and babysitting
For evenings, you’ve got a couple of options.
The Heroes Supper Club (ages 4–12) allows children to eat together and take part in supervised activities while you head out for dinner. Parents like this because it feels social for the children rather than isolating.
There’s also private babysitting in your room, which costs around €15 per hour (with a late-night supplement after 11pm). Availability is limited, so it’s something to plan ahead, but parents often comment on how comfortable they feel using it.
Both options give you flexibility in the evenings - whether that’s a quieter dinner, a longer meal, or some proper adult time.
Next, it’s worth looking at the Deluxe Collection - what extra benefits it actually gives you at Ikos Aria, and whether it’s worth the upgrade for your family, or simply nice to have rather than essential.
Deluxe Collection at Ikos Dassia
What it is, what it changes, and how to decide if it makes sense for you
If you’ve never stayed at an Ikos resort before, Deluxe can be a bit confusing. The standard experience is already very good, so it’s not always obvious what you’re actually paying more for.
The key thing to know upfront is this: Deluxe isn’t an add-on. You can’t bolt it onto a standard room.
The only way to get Deluxe benefits is to book a Deluxe Collection room (see the ‘Rooms’ section above), so the room and the perks come as a package.
That’s why deciding on Deluxe is really about weighing up how you holiday and how big the price difference is for your dates.
Here's the problem: the price difference for Deluxe isn't fixed.
So the answer to "is Deluxe worth it?" is never the same. It depends entirely on your dates, your room type, and how you actually use the resort.
This is where a lot of families either overspend on Deluxe when they didn't need to, or skip it and then wish they hadn't - especially during school holidays when the Deluxe beach area and guaranteed restaurant bookings really come into their own.
It's one of those decisions that's really worth talking through with someone who knows the numbers for your specific dates.
What actually changes if you go Deluxe
The biggest day-to-day difference with Deluxe is how much planning you have to do.
With Deluxe, you can pre-book all your à la carte dinners before you travel, including Seasons, the Deluxe-only fine-dining restaurant. That matters if you like eating at specific times - especially with younger children - or if you simply want everything lined up before you arrive.
You also get access to quieter spaces. There’s a dedicated Deluxe beach area with reserved loungers and a Deluxe-only pool, which really comes into its own during school holidays when the main family areas are busier.
Add in the two Deluxe bars - one by the pool and one in the lobby - and you’ve got places that feel noticeably calmer when you want a breather.
Service is a little more hands-on too. You’ll have a dedicated Deluxe concierge, quicker responses via WhatsApp, an upgraded minibar that’s replenished daily, a pillow menu, enhanced in-room amenities, and a complimentary neck and shoulder massage per adult during your stay.
Deluxe guests also get private airport transfers rather than shared ones, which makes that first arrival and final departure much easier with children.
And instead of one day’s car hire, you get a Mini Clubman for two days, giving you a bit more freedom to explore the island at your own pace.
None of it is flashy, but it all removes lots of small bits of friction - which is really what Deluxe is about.
What doesn’t change
If you don’t go Deluxe, you’re still getting premium branded drinks, very good food, à la carte dining included, strong service and access to almost everything on the resort.
You’re not stepping down to a “basic” version of Ikos by skipping it.
That’s why some families happily choose non-deluxe rooms and never feel they’ve missed out.
Is Deluxe worth it for your family?
This is where the price difference really matters.
Deluxe tends to make most sense if you’re travelling in peak periods, want guaranteed dining times, value quieter beach and pool areas, or you’re already looking at one of the Deluxe-only room categories like a Deluxe junior suite or the Deluxe one or two bedroom bungalows.
It’s often less compelling if you’re travelling outside school holidays, you’re relaxed about where and when you eat, or the jump in price is significant for your dates.
That’s why reviews are so mixed. People aren’t disagreeing about Deluxe - they’re reacting to very different costs and whether it’s worth it for them.
If you’re on the fence, this is one decision that’s worth talking through rather than guessing.
A quick conversation with me can help you work out whether Deluxe will make your stay easier, or whether your money is better spent elsewhere.
Next, it’s worth looking beyond the resort and seeing what there is to do on Kos with children, because that included car hire can add a lot to the holiday if you use it well.
What to do on Kos with kids
Family holiday in Kos
Easy days out that work around naps, heat and changing energy levels
You don’t need to leave Ikos Aria to have a great holiday - most families don’t, most days.
But if you’re staying for more than a week, or you’ve got older children who like a bit of variety, Kos is a very easy island to explore.
It’s largely flat, roads are straightforward, and you can drive from one end of the island to the other in around 90 minutes, so nothing ever feels like a big commitment.
With the included one day’s car hire, you can head out for a few hours and be back in time for lunch, naps or pool time.
Close to the resort
The nearest area most families visit is Kefalos, just a short drive from Ikos Aria.
It has relaxed, shallow beaches and tavernas right by the sea. This works particularly well with younger children - you can paddle, eat, and head back without trying to stretch it into a full day out.
Another favourite with families is Plaka Forest. It’s shaded, calm, and home to peacocks that wander freely, which younger children tend to love. It’s the sort of place that feels like a gentle change of scene rather than an “attraction”.
For older or more energetic kids
If your children are a bit older and want something more active, Lido Water Park is the main water park on the island. It’s good fun, but it’s a full-on day and better suited to confident swimmers than toddlers.
A bit of culture
If you fancy adding a bit of history into the mix, Kos Town is worth a visit - best done early morning or later in the afternoon when it’s cooler.
Right by the harbour you’ll find the Venetian-era Castle of the Knights, which is easy to combine with a wander, ice cream and watching the boats.
It’s more about atmosphere and views than hands-on exhibits, so it tends to suit older children better.
Just outside the town is the Asclepion, the ancient healing site linked to Hippocrates, who was born on Kos. It’s an interesting stop if your children are old enough to engage with it, but most families keep the visit fairly short and pair it with something lighter afterwards.
Zia is a mountain village that many families visit in the late afternoon or early evening. It’s known for its views across the island, small shops and relaxed atmosphere. Kids usually enjoy the wandering and ice cream stops, and it feels different enough from the resort to be memorable without being hard work.
If you’ve got this far, you’re probably not asking whether Ikos Aria is a good resort.
You’re asking whether it’s the right Ikos resort for your family - or whether another Ikos, Sani, or a different style of holiday might suit you better.
That’s exactly where a conversation can help.
I don’t just sell Ikos. I’ve stayed at these resorts on real family holidays, not rushed agent trips, so I know how they work when you’re juggling flight times, tired children, room layouts, dining slots and all the small decisions that shape the week.
I also sit on the Ikos Travel Agent Advisory Panel, which gives me direct insight into how the resorts operate, what’s changing, and where certain room types, locations or upgrades genuinely make a difference - and where they don’t.
Because I’m independent, my job isn’t to push you towards Ikos at all costs. If Aria is the right fit, I’ll tell you. If another Ikos resort - or even another resort brand entirely - would suit your family better, I’ll tell you that too.
I can also manage everything for you end to end, including flights, rooms, restaurant reservations, special requests, changes and the little details that are easy to miss when you book on your own.
It’s not just a transaction. If you need help before, during or after your trip, I’m there.
And in many cases, I can help you get better overall value than booking direct - whether that’s through room selection, timing, upgrades or simply avoiding costly mistakes.
Still unsure whether Ikos Dassia is the right choice?
If you’ve got this far, you’re probably not asking whether Ikos Aria is a good resort.
You’re asking whether it’s the right Ikos resort for your family - or whether another Ikos, Sani, or a different style of holiday might suit you better.
That’s exactly where a conversation can help.
I don’t just sell Ikos. I’ve stayed at these resorts on real family holidays, not rushed agent trips, so I know how they work when you’re juggling flight times, tired children, room layouts, dining slots and all the small decisions that shape the week.
I also sit on the Ikos Travel Agent Advisory Panel, which gives me direct insight into how the resorts operate, what’s changing, and where certain room types, locations or upgrades genuinely make a difference - and where they don’t.
Because I’m independent, my job isn’t to push you towards Ikos at all costs. If Aria is the right fit, I’ll tell you. If another Ikos resort - or even another resort brand entirely - would suit your family better, I’ll tell you that too.
I can also manage everything for you end to end, including flights, rooms, restaurant reservations, special requests, changes and the little details that are easy to miss when you book on your own.
It’s not just a transaction. If you need help before, during or after your trip, I’m there.
And in many cases, I can help you get better overall value than booking direct - whether that’s through room selection, timing, upgrades or simply avoiding costly mistakes.
