A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kos vs. Stratford-upon-Avon for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 vibrant, beautiful, and ancient island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a idyllic, peaceful, and park-filled town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. Other reasons to visit include food and theater.

Kos and Stratford-upon-Avon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kos. Although Kos and Stratford-upon-Avon are popular destinations, Kos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kos is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Stratford-upon-Avon attracts visitors for its theatre productions, historical sights, and small town charm. Kos is more touristy than Stratford-upon-Avon and is known for its sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water. It is also well known for Asklepieion Archeological Site. Stratford-upon-Avon is famous for its status as the birthplace of William Shakespeare.

How is Kos different from Stratford-upon-Avon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

Kos is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options 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!

Stratford-upon-Avon offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Many visitors make a point of seeing Shakespeare's Birthplace, Hall's Croft, and Anne Hathaway's Cottage.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Theater?

Stratford-upon-Avon is very popular for theatre. However, Kos is not a theatre destination.

Visitors will find world class theater shows, plays, and musicals in Stratford-upon-Avon that are not to be missed. Shakespeare enthusiasts must check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. There are often tickets available the day of for a reduced price.

Kos is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kos is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Kos has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Stratford-upon-Avon area. The town center has a few nice restaurants including seafood, Italian food, Indian food, and cafes where you can enjoy high tea.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Nightlife?

Kos is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Kos has a large number of nightlife venues. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Resorts?

Kos is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a resort 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a resort destination.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kos is an unbeatable place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

The scuba diving and snorkeling in Kos is not to be missed. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Beaches?

Kos is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Kos is a very popular vacation 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a beach destination.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for its Old Town?

Stratford-upon-Avon is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Kos does not have a historic old town.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town has a few highlights including Shakespeare's birthplace, and several museums.

Kos does not have a historic old town.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Hiking?

Kos is very good for its hiking trails. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Kos. This is a great walking island with a number of easy walks or hikes that take you along the coastline or through interesting landscapes.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Kos is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Stratford-upon-Avon 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Families?

Both Kos and Stratford-upon-Avon are nice to visit with kids.

Kos is a family-friendly island. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon. This small town has a ferris wheel that offers beautiful views. There's also a the Stratford Butterfly Farm, which is a beautiful setting and if you stand still enough, you might even be lucky enough to have one land on your shoulder. You can also check out Tudor World, the MAD Museum, or one of the playgrounds around town.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Couples?

Kos is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a good island for couples to visit. The charming town offers a few nice restaurants where you can enjoy a meal. For a lovely date night, check out a Shakespeare play at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. During the day, wander around the old town or stroll down the river and enjoy the beautiful outdoor setting. Many residents have converted properties into Bed and Breakfasts, so there are a number of cute and affordable places where couples can stay.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kos is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Kos. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Most backpackers skip this town for the more lively cities. There are affordable places to stay, but no real hostels in town.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kos is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Stratford-upon-Avon is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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

Public transit is generally limited in Stratford-upon-Avon. The train station is a bit removed from the town center, but because the town is so small, it's still possible to reach it on foot from most places.

Is Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon a more walkable city?

Kos is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Stratford-upon-Avon is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Kos is a very walkable island. 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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a somewhat walkable island. It's easy to stroll around town on foot, but there aren't many pedestrian only areas. Head for the river for some of the nicest walking areas.

For even more information, also check out Is Kos Worth Visiting? and Is Stratford-upon-Avon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Stratford-upon-Avon or Kos?

How long in Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kos than Stratford-upon-Avon because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Kos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Stratford-upon-Avon.

Families should spend more time in Kos than Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town with plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the theater. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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 Stratford-upon-Avon for a weekend. Stratford-upon-Avon might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One of the main draws to the area is the theater. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon?

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.

Because Stratford-upon-Avon is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the theater. 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 Stratford-upon-Avon?

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.

Stratford-upon-Avon, 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, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, and The Best 3-Day Tours from Edinburgh.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kos and Stratford-upon-Avon, we can see that Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Stratford-upon-Avon 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 Stratford-upon-Avon Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Kos or Stratford-upon-Avon?

Stratford-upon-Avon has a larger population, and is about 17% larger than the population of Kos. When comparing the sizes of Kos and Stratford-upon-Avon, 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.