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

Should you visit Kos or Split?

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 Split 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.

Split

Split is a historic, active, and touristy city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Kos and Split: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Kos or Split?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Split. Although Kos and Split are popular destinations, Split has more sights and attractions for tourists. Split is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Kos attracts visitors for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Split is more touristy than Kos and is known for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. It is also well known for Diocletian's Palace. Kos is famous for its sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water.

How is Kos different from Split?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kos
Split

Kos is terrific for its museums and history. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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!

Split offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.


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

Kos
Split

Kos is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Split 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 Split is an experience not to be missed. It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

Is Kos or Split Better for Nightlife?

Kos
Split

Split is very popular for nightlife. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Split is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

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.

Is Kos or Split Better for Resorts?

Kos
Split

Split is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

In Split, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

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 Split Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kos
Split

Kos is terrific for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Split. Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

Is Kos or Split Better for Beaches?

Kos
Split

Kos is terrific for the beache. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

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.

Split is considered a top beach destination. There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

Is Kos or Split Better for its Old Town?

Kos
Split

Split is a city with good options for its historic old town. However, Kos does not have a historic old town.

Split is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

Kos does not have a historic old town.


Is Kos or Split Better for Hiking?

Kos
Split

Kos is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Split 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.

Split is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kos or Split?

Kos
Split

Split is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Split. Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

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 Split Better for Families?

Kos
Split

Split 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.

Split is a very family-friendly destination. With its parks, beaches, and outdoor activities, kids will love this spot. Zvonac Park is one of the best in town for kids. Young kids will appreciate the Dinasour Playground. Also make sure you allow time to explore Diocletian's Palace and Klis Fortress. There are also beaches and other water activities that are fun for the whole family.

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 Split Better for Couples?

Kos
Split

Split is very popular for romance. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Split is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

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 Split Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kos
Split

Split is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Kos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Split. There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

Kos is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Is Kos or Split Better for Students?

Kos
Split

Split 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 Split. It's easy to visit on a student's budget. There are plenty of hostels and a huge party scene that bring backpackers and students together.

Kos is not popular with students.


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

Kos
Split

Kos is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Split is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

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

You'll find some public transit in Split, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are bus services that will help you get around town.

Is Kos or Split a more walkable city?

Kos
Split

Kos and Split 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.

Split is a very walkable island. The city is laid out in a pedestrian-friendly way so it's easy to explore on foot, particularly in the old town. It's also easy to get lost, but that's all part of the fun.

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

Should I spend more time in Split or Kos?

How long in Kos or Split?

It's fun to spend time in either Kos or Split. 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 Split.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Split than Kos 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 Split.


  • How many days in Kos or Split? Ideal Length of Stay
    Kos 2-5 
    Split 2-4

One day in Kos or Split?

In Kos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this cultural 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 museums and nightlife around the active destination of Split, there's plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. 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 Split?

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 Split for a weekend. With nightlife and food around the fun-filled city of Split, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Kos or Split?

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 Split offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the nightlife. 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 Split?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the ancient 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.

Split, a popular city, 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, The Best Walking Tours in Croatia, and The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia.


Which place is cheaper, Split or Kos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Kos is €134, while the average daily cost in Split is €110. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Kos and Split in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Kos 62
    Split 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Kos 124
    Split 148
Compare Hotels in Kos and Split

Looking for a hotel in Kos or Split? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Kos


Hotels in Split


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Kos Hotel Prices and Split Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Kos 37
    Split 15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kos

Also for Kos, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Roundtrip Minivan Transfer to Therma Natural Spa Beach: $24
  • Private arrival Transfer from Kos Airport to any resort in the island: $85
  • Private Transfer Kos Airport to Kos Town: $60
  • Lido Water Park Admission Ticket with Transfers: $24
  • Roundtrip Bus Transfer to Mount Zia for Sunset Viewing: $27
  • Paradise Beach Return Transfer: $25
  • Kos Town: Kalymnos & Pserimos Day Cruise & Optional Transfer: $30
  • Kos Hotels to Kos Airport Private One–Way Transfer: $60
  • Kos Airport to Kos Hotels Private One–Way Transfer: $65
  • Kos - Airport Private Transfer: $55
  • Kalymnos, Pserimos & Plati Island Cruise with Hotel Transfer: $60
  • Departure transfer to Kos Airport : $64

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Split

Also for Split, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Zagreb to Private Transfer with Plitvice Lakes: $1,032
  • Transfer from Split to Zagreb with Entry Ticket to Plitvice Lakes: $186
  • Transfer Split airport to Split: $66
  • Transfer Split airport to Makarska: $150
  • Transfer to Zagreb with Plitvice Lakes Entry Tickets: $184
  • Private Transfer to Zagreb with Plitvice Lakes Stop: $746
  • Private Transfer to Krka with Driver & Optional Guide: $433
  • Private Transfer from Split Airport to Split: $65
  • Diocletian's Palace & Trogir Old Town with Transfer: $15
  • Airport to Hvar Town Speedboat Transfer: $543
  • Split/Trogir to Zagreb: Private Transfer with Plitvice Lakes: $1,032
  • Split to Zagreb Group Transfer with Plitvice Lakes guided tour: $153

Is it cheaper to fly into Kos or Split?

Prices for flights to both Split and Kos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Kos 43
    Split 24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Kos

For Kos, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Greek Dinner with Music, Dancing, and Unlimited Wine: $43
  • Tavern Dinner Experience with Greek Dancing and Wine: $66
  • Kos Cooking Classes by Mama Contessa: $87
  • Private Greek Cooking Class in Kos with Lunch: $89
  • Sunset Safari Tour with Dinner: $97
  • Private Cooking Class in Kos, Local Recipes: $98
  • Half Day Wine Tasting with Dinner in Kos: $115

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Split

For Split, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Small Group Food Tour: $38
  • Food Tour in Split ( Small Group): $69
  • Homemade Dinner under the Stars in Split: $85
  • Vegan Food tour of Split with local gastronomy: $103
  • Split Food Tour: Discover Split One Bite At A Time: $133
  • Split Cooking Class: $171
  • Private Authentic Wine & Food tour from Split: $242

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Kos 33
    Split 3.75

Tours and Activities in Kos

For Kos, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Dory's Glass Bottom Boat Adventure in Pserimos and Pserimos Beach: $30
  • From Boat Tour to the Volcanic Island of Nisyros: $38
  • From Cruise to Kalymnos, Pserimos, and Plati with Lunch: $41
  • From Kalymnos, Pserimos and Plati Day Cruise: $33
  • From Nissyros guided island tour and volcano: $58
  • From Pserimos Island Snorkeling Cruise by Diving Boat: $54
  • From Zia Sunset Tour: $27
  • From the Port of Full Day Boat Cruise to 3 Islands: $33
  • Full Day 3-Island Boat Cruise from Port of Kos: $39
  • Full Day Boat Cruise to 3 Islands with optional pickup: $33
  • Full-Day 3 Island Cruise Tour in Kos Island: $37
  • Full-Day Tour to Nisyros The Volcano Island: $33

Tours and Activities in Split

For Split, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Blue cave and Hvar - 5 Islands speedboat tour from Split: $171
  • History tour: $33
  • SPLIT-"Emperor's City for History Lovers"/BOUTIQUE Walking Tour+Cellars Museum: $30
  • SPLIT-"Emperor's City for History Lovers"/PRIVATE Walking Tour+Cellars Museum : $180
  • "Blue Lagoon" Half day Chill out tour from Split: $76
  • "Not Today" - Game of Thrones and History of Split Private Guided Walking Tour: $83
  • 2 Day Pass with Sightseeing Bus: $33
  • 2 Hours Split Walking tour with free food tasting: $34
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Split: $63
  • 2-Hour Sunset Cruise Split: $88
  • 2-hours Split Segway Tour: $88
  • 3-Hour Via-Ferrata Adventure in Fortica Fortress: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Kos 19
    Split 8.04

Sample the Local Flavors in Kos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Kos:

  • Wineries Tour w/ Wine Tastings, Lunch & Transportation: $60
  • Kos Island: Wine Tasting & Zia Village Visit for Sunset: $152

Sample the Local Flavors in Split

Also in Split, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Krka & Sibenik Tour with Boat Ride, Swimming or Wine Tasting: $23
  • From Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting Tour: $25
  • Tower Pub Crawl in Split: $30
  • Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $38
  • Wine Tasting and Sunset Klis Fortress Tour from Split: $39
  • Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting tour from Split: $40
  • Krka National Park Tour with tour Guide & Wine tasting from Split & Trogir: $46
  • Wine Tasting in the Diocletian's Palace: $49
  • Small group Walking Tour and Wine Tasting: $60
  • Diocletian's Palace Walking and Wine Tasting Tour: $65
  • Vineyard Experience: Wine Tasting near Split: $77
  • Blue Lagoon & Wine tasting - 3 islands tour: $99


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kos and Split, we can see that Kos is more expensive. And not only is Split much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Split would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Split 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 Split.

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


Which is Bigger, Kos or Split?

Split has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Kos. When comparing the sizes of Kos and Split, 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.