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

Should you visit Kos or Toulon?

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 Toulon 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Toulon

Toulon is a off-the-beaten-path, real world, and industrial port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include nightlife, food, and beaches.

Kos and Toulon: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kos or Toulon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Kos. Although Kos and Toulon are both popular with visitors, Kos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Kos is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Toulon is known for its historical sights and shopping. Kos is more touristy than Toulon and is popular for its sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water. It is also home to Asklepieion Archeological Site. Toulon is popular for its old town, its coastal setting, and its popularity with local vacationers.

How is Kos different from Toulon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kos is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Kos that are not to be missed. 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!

Toulon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Many of the sights are found in the old town and harbor areas. Some of the most interesting attractions include the Opera House, the Allied Landings Museum, the Naval Museum, and Cathédrale Sainte-Marie-de-la-Seds.

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

Kos is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Toulon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes and restaurants that are found along the harbor or in the old town. Whether you want waterfront views or a charming street front cafe, there are great options available. Many restaurants offer local seafood but you'll also find pastries, traditional local food, a several Italian restaurants.

Is Kos or Toulon Better for Nightlife?

Kos is a well-known place for nightlife. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for nightlife and partying.

Kos offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Toulon. It's a relatively large city and traditionally a sailor's town, so the city has a long running tradition of partying into the night. While it doesn't have the party-hard reputation of some places, you likely won't be bored at night. Head to the harbor area or the beaches around Mourillon for the most lively bars and cafes.

Is Kos or Toulon Better for Resorts?

Kos is very good for its resorts. However, Toulon is not a resort destination.

Kos has a handful of resorts to choose from. 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.

Toulon is not a resort destination.

Is Kos or Toulon Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Kos is an unbeatable place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Toulon is not a good port city for its diving and snorkeling.

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.

It's possible to go snorkeling in Toulon. There are a few beaches in the area that are worth checking out with a mask and snorkel. You'll likely see some underwater life hanging out by the rocks in the quieter areas.

Is Kos or Toulon Better for Beaches?

Kos is an unbeatable place for its beaches. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beache.

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.

Toulon has a beach worth visiting. The beaches are sandy and less crowded than some of the more popular areas. The most accessible beach is Mourillon Beach which has public facilities and restaurants. If you're willing to venture a little farther from the center of town you'll find Mitre Beach which has some snorkeling. Battere Basse Beach is a bit quieter and also has snorkeling. Anse de Méjean is a popular spot with the locals.

Is Kos or Toulon Better for its Old Town?

Toulon is a decent place to visit for its historic old town. However, Kos does not have a historic old town.

Toulon is a good place to visit the old town. The old town has plazas, terraced cafes, and plenty of outdoor shopping opportunities that visitors can enjoy.

Kos does not have a historic old town.

Is Kos or Toulon Better for Hiking?

Kos is very good for the nearby hiking options. However, Toulon 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.

Toulon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kos or Toulon?

Toulon 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 Toulon. If you're looking for traditional local shopping opportunities then this is your place. There are a number of traditional Provençal markets around town but the most famous is Cours Lafayette. You can shop with the locals looking for produce or flowers. There's also a weekend farmers market, Petit Cours, that is fun to explore.

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 Toulon Better for Families?

Both Kos and Toulon are good 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 Toulon. The city may be known as a hub for the French navy, but there are also activities that kids and adults alike can enjoy. There are several military themed museums, a few good beaches, and local shopping. There's also the enjoyable cable car ride that you can take to the top of Mont Faron as well as several nice seaside walks in the area.

Is Kos or Toulon Better for Couples?

Kos is a well-known place for romance. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its romantic activities.

Kos is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Toulon makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will appreciate the walks along the coast or through the harbor. There are also nice restaurants, interesting art galleries, and a few good hotels around town that make for a nice couple's weekend.

Is Kos or Toulon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Kos is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Toulon. It doesn't have the reputation of many nearby towns along the French Riviera, so you can still find some affordable hostels and cafes in the area. You also won't find the crowds so you can enjoy a touch of the authentic local culture.

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

Kos is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Toulon is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Kos is fairly effecient and thorough. Buses connect many of the tourist destinations including beaches, cultural sights, are resort areas.

Toulon has some public transit options. There are buses as well as petits trains (little tourist trains) that you can take around town.

Is Kos or Toulon a more walkable city?

Kos and Toulon are superb 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.

Toulon is a very walkable island. You can walk around the old town and harbor area where many of the sights are concentrated.

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

Should I spend more time in Toulon or Kos?

How long in Kos or Toulon?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Kos or Toulon to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Kos than Toulon 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 Toulon.

Families should spend more time in Kos than Toulon. 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 Toulon. 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 Toulon 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 Toulon?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Kos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

With nightlife and food around the authentic destination of Toulon, there's plenty to do. 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 Toulon?

Kos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people visit Toulon for a weekend. With food and shopping around the real world port city of Toulon, there's plenty to do. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Kos or Toulon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kos. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The destination of Toulon offers shopping and museums. 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 Toulon?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Kos. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Toulon, a popular port city, 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 Luxury Tours to France, and The Best Budget Tours to France.

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

Which is Bigger, Kos or Toulon?

Toulon has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Kos. When comparing the sizes of Kos and Toulon, 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.