A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kos vs. Izmir for Food, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Kos or Izmir?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Kos and Izmir can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Kos

Kos is a cultural, party-hard, and vibrant island. The famous beauty of Kos is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Kos travel costs.

Izmir

Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food. See Izmir travel costs.

Kos and Izmir: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kos or Izmir?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kos. Although Kos and Izmir are both popular with visitors, Kos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kos is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Izmir is known for its big city activities. Kos is more touristy than Izmir and is popular for its sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water. It is also home to Asklepieion Archeological Site. Izmir is popular for

How is Kos different from Izmir?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Izmir and Kos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kos or Izmir?

Kos is a world-class destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Kos that are not to be missed. The small island is packed with archaeological sites and interesting history. Famous places worth visiting include the ruins of Asklepion, the ancient Agora, Roman Odeon, Neratzia Castle, and so many more!

Izmir does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Kos or Izmir? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kos is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Kos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The cuisine relies heavily on locally harvested ingredients with many dishes featuring cheese, seafood, vegetables, olive oil, and potatoes. The dishes are influenced by Italian and Turkish cuisines and common dishes include moussaka, souvlaki and tzatziki. Popular seafood options are prawns, squid, lobster and octopus. A great way to enjoy a sampling of local dishes is to visit an ouzeri, which is a Greek taverna that serves mezza style meals with small dishes that you can share.

Izmir has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Located on the coast, the city is known for its fresh seafood like grilled fish, calamari, and midye dolma (stuffed mussels). Kumru, a local sandwich made with sesame-crusted bread and filled with sucuk or cheese, is a must-try street food. Also popular are meze, which are small plates of appetizers like hummus, stuffed grape leaves, and zeytinyağlılar (vegetables cooked in olive oil).

Is Kos or Izmir Better for Nightlife?

Kos is a great destination for nightlife. However, Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The people in Kos know how to have a good time. For such a small island you'll find a huge party scene during the peak summer months. There are almost nightly parties, beach raves, and late night clubs throughout the summer months. The bars and clubs are mostly concentrated around a couple of streets in the center of Kos Town, but Kardamena is also a lively party area. It's popular with British tourists who head here for the all-night clubs.

Izmir is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Kos or Izmir Better for Resorts?

Kos is a good destination for its resorts. However, Izmir is not a resort destination.

Kos has a handful of resorts to choose from. It's a smaller island and there aren't as many resorts here as there are on some of the larger Greek islands. Some of the best resort areas include Lamp and Psalidi to the northwest, Tigaki on the west coast (a good option for families), as well as Mastihari and Marmari which both have relaxed atmospheres. The younger crowd often hangs out around Kardemena on the east coast.

Izmir is not a resort destination.

Is Kos or Izmir Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kos is a world-class destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Izmir is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel from around the world to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Kos. There are countless snorkeling sports around the island where you can immerse yourself in the undersea world. Popular snorkeling areas include Camel Beach and Limnionas Beach. Make sure you understand the water conditions before heading into the water.

Izmir is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kos or Izmir Better for Beaches?

Kos is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Izmir is not a beach destination.

Kos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches, many of which are sandy with various shades of color. There are touristy beaches with plenty of amenities as well as less frequented beaches that offer a quieter and more remote atmosphere. Some of the most visited beaches on the island include Agios Stefanos, Kardamena, Kefalos and Lambi while some of the more peaceful areas are Cavo Paradiso and Helona Beach.

Izmir is not a beach destination.

Is Kos or Izmir Better for Hiking?

Kos is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Izmir is not a hiking destination.

Kos offers some nice hiking trails. This is a great walking island with a number of easy walks or hikes that take you along the coastline or through interesting landscapes.

Izmir is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kos or Izmir?

Kos is a good destination for shopping. However, Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Kos is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of traditional items that you can pick up while you're in town. Fun souvenirs include jewelry, leather items, and perfumes.

Izmir is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kos or Izmir More Beautiful?

Kos is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Kos is one of the main draws. With it's beautiful coves and ancient ruins, this small island packs a lot of activity into a small space.

Izmir is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Kos or Izmir Better for Families?

Izmir is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Izmir is a very family-friendly destination. A visit to Kültürpark, a large park in the city center, is perfect for children to enjoy playgrounds, open spaces, and even a small amusement park. The Izmir Wildlife Park, located just outside the city, is another great spot, where kids can explore and interact with a variety of animals in a natural setting. For an educational experience, the Izmir Natural History Museum provides fascinating exhibits on local wildlife and natural science. Families will also enjoy taking a boat ride on the Izmir Bay or visiting the Aqua City Water Park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kos. It's comparable to other Greek islands when it comes to kids' activities. Kos Town can get a bit lively at night so if you want to avoid the party crowds, then those areas are easily avoided. Popular activities include exploring ancient ruins, going to the Kos Archaeological Museum, visiting The Castle of the Knights, and of course, hanging out at the beach. One of the best family-friendly resort areas is Tigaki along the west coast.

Is Kos or Izmir Better for Couples?

Kos is a great destination for romance. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Kos frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This small island offers beautiful beaches and plenty of ancient ruins to explore. Kos Town is where you'll find the liveliest atmosphere but for some of the best resorts you'll want to stay in one of the resort suburbs like Lampi or Psalidi.

Izmir makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy walking along the scenic Kordon promenade at sunset or having a drink at a local cafe. You can also explore the Kadifekale Castle, which offers panoramic views of Izmir and is another great spot for watching the sunset together. Also popular is taking a boat tour around Izmir Bay, which lets you see the city from a different perspective.

Is Kos or Izmir Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kos and Izmir are both very good destinations for backpackers.

Kos is very popular with the backpacker crowd. It's a small island but has a few hostels and a variety of apartments available for rent. Despite its small size, there are areas where you'll want to have a car if you wish to explore, but if you stay in town you'll find getting around fairly easy. The island attracts its share of young travelers and you'll find plenty of people to hang out with.

Izmir is a great island to visit for backpackers. It's a popular stop off for backpackers who enjoy the cultural scene around town. There are many hostels to choose from, particularly in areas like Konak and Alsancak.

Is Kos or Izmir Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find very good public transit in both Kos and Izmir.

Visitors to Kos can move around easily with public transportation. Buses connect many of the tourist destinations including beaches, cultural sights, are resort areas.

The public transit in Izmir can get you around easily. The public transit system is diverse and includes a metro with two lines, buses, ferries, and dolmuses (shared minibuses). In general, the system is reliable and affordable.

Is Kos or Izmir a more walkable city?

Kos is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Izmir is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Kos is very walkable. It's small size means it's possible to explore parts of the island on foot or bicycle. There are some beautiful walks on the island, but some areas will require a car or bus.

Izmir is a somewhat walkable place. Some of the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods include Konak, Alsancak, and Kordon where you can easily walk between attractions, cafés, shops, and parks. The Kordon waterfront promenade is a popular place for strolling, jogging, or simply relaxing.

Should I spend more time in Izmir or Kos?

How long in Kos or Izmir?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kos and Izmir. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Kos than in Izmir. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Kos, and 2-3 days is enough time in Izmir.

Families should spend more time in Kos than Izmir. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Kos, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Kos than Izmir. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Kos that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kos than Izmir if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Kos.

One day in Kos or Izmir?

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In Kos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

With food around the destination of Izmir, there's plenty to do. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Kos or Izmir?

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It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kos. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Many people visit Izmir for a weekend. With food around the of Izmir, there's plenty to do. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Kos or Izmir?

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Kos is a fun place to experience. In Kos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

The destination of Izmir offers food. It offers something for everyone. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Kos or Izmir?

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You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Kos. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Izmir, a popular , is full of activities for travelers. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Athens, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Turkey, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Istanbul.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kos and Izmir, we can see that Kos is more expensive. And not only is Izmir much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Izmir would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Izmir and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Kos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Kos than you might in Izmir.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kos Expensive? and Is Izmir Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kos or Izmir?

Izmir has a larger population, and is about 130 times larger than the population of Kos. When comparing the sizes of Kos and Izmir, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.