A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kos vs. Antalya for Attractions, Food, Resorts, and Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Should you visit Kos or Antalya?

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 Antalya 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 party-hard, vibrant, and beautiful island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Antalya

Antalya is a cultural, vibrant, and high energy vacation spot. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Kos and Antalya: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kos or Antalya?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Antalya than Kos, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Antalya is better known for its music, resorts, historical sights, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Kos is more popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, and impressive beauty. Antalya is more touristy than Kos and is known for its turquoise waters, hotel lined beaches, and nearby archeological sights. Also, Antalya is famous for Hadrian's Gate. Kos is well known for its sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water.

How is Kos different from Antalya?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Antalya 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 Antalya?

Kos is an amazing island to visit for its museums and history. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Kos has many famous sights for visitors. 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!

Many visitors head to Antalya specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The city combines history with a relaxing resort vacation. Sights in the area include the Antalya Museum and the Yivli Minare.

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

Kos is an amazing island to visit for its restaurants. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Kos is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Antalya makes for a great culinary experience. Food is excellent throughout Turkey and this city is no exception. The local cuisine offers a combination of fresh caught seafood as well as various grilled meats. Local specialties include meatball skewers, kulakli soup, and even lentil ice cream. The traditional Turkish breakfast is also popular, which usually includes hard boiled eggs, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, and Turkish breads or pastries. It's almost always served with Turkish tea.

Is Kos or Antalya Better for Nightlife?

Both Kos and Antalya have excellent vibes after the sun sets.

Kos has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. 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.

The people in Antalya know how to have a good time. The city has an insane nightlife scene with huge glamorous dance clubs that fill to the brink as well as low key bars and pubs that everyone can enjoy.

Is Kos or Antalya Better for Music?

Antalya is a vacation spot with good options for live music. However, Kos is not a live music destination.

You'll find some good live music in Antalya. Live music ranges from rock concerts to symphonies as well as a number of local music venues.

Kos is not a live music destination.

Is Kos or Antalya Better for Resorts?

Antalya is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Antalya is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is famous for its resorts that range from luxury to family-friendly. Some of the most popular resorts in the area include Xanadu Resort Hotel, Susesi, and Lara Barut, but there are many more.

With a selection of resorts, Kos makes a nice vacation spot. 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.

Is Kos or Antalya Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kos is an amazing island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Kos a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. 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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Antalya. Outside of town, in the region of Antalya, you'll find some of the best snorkeling and scuba diving in Turkey.

Is Kos or Antalya Better for Beaches?

Both Kos and Antalya are considered to be terrific beach destinations.

Kos is considered to be a world-class beach destination. 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.

Antalya offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Beaches in Antalya are among the best in Turkey. They are sandy with warm water and a number of resorts nearby.

Is Kos or Antalya Better for its Old Town?

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Kos does not have a historic old town.

Antalya is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The city has a beautiful old town area, Kaleiçi, that is known for its narrow streets and historic buildings. The area has many sights including Hadrian's Gate.

Kos does not have a historic old town.

Is Kos or Antalya Better for Hiking?

Antalya is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Antalya. Outside of town you'll find coastal hikes with scenic views as well as trails that wander through historic ruins.

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.

Is the Shopping Better in Kos or Antalya?

Antalya 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 Antalya. Antalya combines modern high end malls with more traditional bazaars. From luxury fashion brands to souvenirs and local trinkets, the area has everything.

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 Antalya Better for Families?

Antalya 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.

Antalya is a very family-friendly destination. The city has beautiful beaches, historic ruins, and resorts that cater specifically to families. It's a popular family-friendly destination in Turkey.

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 Antalya Better for Couples?

Both Kos and Antalya are excellent 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 Antalya frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Antalya is a top-rated honeymoon destination in Turkey. It's beautiful beaches, romantic resorts, and great shopping put it at the top of many couples' list.

Is Kos or Antalya Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kos and Antalya are both excellent 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.

Antalya is a great island to visit for backpackers. Despite the many resorts in town, there are also budget accommodation options available including hostels. Backpackers appreciate Antalya's impressive old town as well as the area's stunning beaches.

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

Visitors will find excellent public transit in both Kos and Antalya.

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 Antalya can get you around easily. Buses and minibuses will help you get around town.

Is Kos or Antalya a more walkable city?

Kos is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. Also, Antalya is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its walkability.

Kos is a very walkable destination. 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.

Antalya is somewhat walkable. The historic area in particular is compact, filled with historic sights, and easy to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Kos Worth Visiting? and Is Antalya Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Antalya or Kos?

How long in Kos or Antalya?

In either Kos or Antalya, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Antalya has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Antalya than Kos. However, 2-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

One day in Kos or Antalya?

In Kos, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With shopping and museums around the luxurious destination of Antalya, there's plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Antalya?

In Kos, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Most people come for the beaches. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kos has to offer.

Many people visit Antalya for a weekend. With museums and nightlife around the relaxing vacation spot of Antalya, there's plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Kos or Antalya?

Kos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kos has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

With nightlife and live music around the destination of Antalya, there's plenty to do. Many people spend five days here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Kos or Antalya?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kos. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Kos. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Antalya, a popular vacation spot, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Turkey, and The Best Anzac Day Tours in Turkey.

When comparing the travel costs between Kos and Antalya, we can see that Antalya 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 Antalya Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kos or Antalya?

Antalya has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Kos. When comparing the sizes of Kos and Antalya, 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.