A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kos vs. Aix-en-Provence for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Kos or Aix-en-Provence?

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 Aix-en-Provence 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 beautiful, ancient, and cultural island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence is a vibrant, laid-back, and relaxing town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Kos and Aix-en-Provence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kos or Aix-en-Provence?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Kos than Aix-en-Provence, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Kos is better known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Aix-en-Provence is more popular for its shopping. Kos is well known for its sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water. Also, Kos is famous for Asklepieion Archeological Site. Aix-en-Provence is well known for its Provençal cuisine made with local produce, its many art galleries, and its beautiful fountains and square.

How is Kos different from Aix-en-Provence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Aix-en-Provence 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 Aix-en-Provence?

Kos is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Kos on the map. 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!

Aix-en-Provence is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. In addition to its many squares and fountains, there is also Cathédrale Saint-Sauveur, Musée Granet, and Musée des Tapisseries.

Is the Food Better in Kos or Aix-en-Provence? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Kos and Aix-en-Provence offer first-rate local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Kos have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Eat your way through Aix-en-Provence, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. The range of restaurants includes everything from modern and trendy to traditional and casual. The town is surrounded by a region that is known for its local produce. There are also many markets worth checking out in town.

Is Kos or Aix-en-Provence Better for Nightlife?

Kos is well known for its evening party scene. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for nightlife.

Kos is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

Aix-en-Provence doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The nightlife scene that does exist is mostly influenced by the town's large student population.

Is Kos or Aix-en-Provence Better for Resorts?

Kos is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a resort destination.

Kos has a few great resort options. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is not a resort destination.

Is Kos or Aix-en-Provence Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kos is terrific for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

People travel to Kos specifically to enjoy its famous scuba diving and snorkeling areas. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kos or Aix-en-Provence Better for Beaches?

Kos is terrific for the beach. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Kos are among the best in 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.

Aix-en-Provence is not a beach destination.

Is Kos or Aix-en-Provence Better for Hiking?

Kos is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

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

Aix-en-Provence is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kos or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence is very popular for shopping. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Aix-en-Provence. It has some of the best shopping in France outside of Paris. There are many shopping streets where you can pick up trendy fashions or boutique local finds. Head to Rue Marius Reynard, Les Allées Provençales, or Rue Clemenceau for some of the best shopping.

Kos offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Is Kos or Aix-en-Provence Better for Families?

Kos is a nice place to visit for its family-friendly activities. However, Aix-en-Provence is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

For families, Aix-en-Provence is not always the best place to visit. Many kids enjoy checking out the town's many fountains or taking a bike for a ride outside of town.

Is Kos or Aix-en-Provence Better for Couples?

Both Kos and Aix-en-Provence are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

Kos makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

Couples visit Aix-en-Provence frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It's among the most charming towns in southern France and couples will enjoy the romantic buildings, beautiful fountains, and relaxing countryside. Whether you're on a honeymoon or a couple's getaway, this is a great town.

Is Kos or Aix-en-Provence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kos is well known for backpackers. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Kos is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a good island to visit for backpackers. There are a couple of hostels and cheap hotels that are good options for backpackers.

Is Kos or Aix-en-Provence Better for Students?

Aix-en-Provence is an excellent place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Kos is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Aix-en-Provence. It's a university town with a lively but laid-back atmosphere. It's also a popular study abroad destination for American university students.

Kos is not popular with students.

Is Kos or Aix-en-Provence Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kos is well known for its public transit. Also, Aix-en-Provence is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Kos can get you to most places easily. Buses connect many of the tourist destinations including beaches, cultural sights, are resort areas.

While Aix-en-Provence offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. For the places you can't reach on foot, there is a bus network.

Is Kos or Aix-en-Provence a more walkable city?

Kos and Aix-en-Provence are high quality when it comes to 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.

Aix-en-Provence is a very walkable island. It's walkable, particularly in the heart of the city, so it's fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Kos Worth Visiting? and Is Aix-en-Provence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aix-en-Provence or Kos?

How long in Kos or Aix-en-Provence?

It's fun to spend time in either Kos or Aix-en-Provence. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Kos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Kos, and 2-4 days is enough time in Aix-en-Provence.

Families should spend more time in Kos than Aix-en-Provence. 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 Aix-en-Provence. 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 Aix-en-Provence 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 Aix-en-Provence?

The vibrant destination of Kos offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With shopping and museums around the historic destination of Aix-en-Provence, 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 Aix-en-Provence?

The island of Kos offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend here is typical. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Many people visit Aix-en-Provence for a weekend. With museums and food around the laid-back town of Aix-en-Provence, there's plenty to do. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Kos or Aix-en-Provence?

Kos is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

The destination of Aix-en-Provence offers food and shopping. 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 Aix-en-Provence?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Aix-en-Provence, a popular town, 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in France.

When comparing the travel costs between Kos and Aix-en-Provence, we can see that Aix-en-Provence is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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

Which is Bigger, Kos or Aix-en-Provence?

Aix-en-Provence has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Kos. When comparing the sizes of Kos and Aix-en-Provence, 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.