A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kos vs. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for Food, Resorts, Hiking, and Couples

Should you visit Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a spectacular, awe-inspiring, and epic mountain town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and hiking.

Kos and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Both Chamonix-Mont-Blanc and Kos have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Kos is very popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Chamonix-Mont-Blanc attracts visitors for its skiing, resorts, and hiking. Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more touristy than Kos and is known for its world famous skiing, stunning natural beauty, and access to Mont Blanc. Kos is famous for its sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water.

How is Kos different from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Skiing?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for skiing and snowboarding. However, Kos is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. It is one of the most famous and best ski areas in the world. There are 5 ski resorts in the area (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent) and many options for expert skiers. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car from the middle of town to the top of the 3840 meter peak.

Kos is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Kos is terrific for its museums and history. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Kos are world-renowned. 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!

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kos is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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.

Dining out in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is an experience not to be missed. Regional food is wonderful and hearty, making for a great energy boost for all of your hiking or skiing. Dishes often include a lot of cream and cheese as well as local meats and potatoes. Local specialties include Crozets (buckwheat pasta), Fondue, and Galette des Rois (cake).

Is Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Nightlife?

Both Kos and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc have very good 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc know how to have a good time. The town offers a great après-ski scene with many places to grab a drink or listen to live music. It's a tourist area with many young and adventurous vacationers who are out to have a good time.

Is Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Resorts?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for its luxury resorts. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a world class resort vacation destination. The region has 5 ski resorts (Grands Montets, Les Houches, Le Tour/Balme, La Flegere and Le Brevent), making it an excellent ski destination.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kos is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Beaches?

Kos is terrific for the beache. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a beach destination.

Is Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Hiking?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for its hiking trails. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Chamonix-Mont-Blanc visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Filled with panoramic views and breathtaking natural scenes, the hiking is among the best in the world. Some of the best hikes in the area include Plan de l'Aiguille - Montenvers Train Mer de Glace, Aiguilles Rouges Nature Reserve Hiking, and any of the "Glacier Views" Hikes.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Kos is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Kos. 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Families?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very family-friendly destination. The mountains are the perfect playground for families. Kids will love the gondolas, chairlifts, and kid-friendly hikes that take them over rocks and to spectacular viewpoints. This is the perfect addition to a European family vacation.

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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Couples?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for romance. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great mountain town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Nature-lovers, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts will love a couples vacation to Chamonix. The setting is romantic and filled with adventures for thrill-seekers.

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.

Is Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kos and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a great island to visit for backpackers. You'll find a nice selection of hostels with affordable dorms and fun atmospheres.

Is Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is very popular for times when you don't have a car. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It's easy to explore the region by public transport. There are buses and trains available, most of which are free with a local transport card.

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

Is Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc a more walkable city?

Kos and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc are very good 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a very walkable island. It's generally walkable and there are plenty of walking trails outside of town.

For even more information, also check out Is Kos Worth Visiting? and Is Chamonix-Mont-Blanc Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc or Kos?

How long in Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Both Kos and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than in Kos. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Kos, and 4-7 days is enough time in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kos than Chamonix-Mont-Blanc 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Kos, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

With nightlife and food around the spectacular destination of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people visit Kos for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kos, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Chamonix-Mont-Blanc for a weekend. With food and skiing around the epic mountain town of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, there's plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

In Kos, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Kos, five days is sufficent for most.

With skiing and nightlife around the destination of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Kos. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This island offers something for everyone. One week 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.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, a popular mountain town, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for one week. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

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

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kos and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, we can see that Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is more expensive. And not only is Kos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Kos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kos 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 Chamonix-Mont-Blanc would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc than you might in Kos.

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

Which is Bigger, Kos or Chamonix-Mont-Blanc?

Kos has a larger population, and is about 81% larger than the population of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc. When comparing the sizes of Kos and Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, 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.