A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Thiva (Thebes) vs. Kos for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Thiva (Thebes) or Kos?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Thiva (Thebes) and Kos 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.

Thiva (Thebes)

Thiva (Thebes) is a historic, authentic, and vibrant city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Kos

Kos is a ancient, cultural, and party-hard island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Thiva (Thebes) and Kos: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • 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


Is there more to do in Thiva (Thebes) or Kos?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kos. Although Thiva (Thebes) and Kos 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, and impressive beauty, while Thiva (Thebes) attracts visitors for its big city activities. Thiva (Thebes) is famous for its standing as one of the oldest cities in the world. Kos is famous for its sandy beaches and crystal clear blue water. It is also well known for Asklepieion Archeological Site.

How is Thiva (Thebes) different from Kos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kos and Thiva (Thebes). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Kos?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Kos is very popular for its museums and landmarks. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Kos are among the most recognizable in the world. 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!

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Thiva (Thebes). The city is filled with archeological museums and sights that reflect its long-running history as one of the oldest, continuously inhabited cities in the world.


Is the Food Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Kos? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Kos is very popular for its restaurant scene. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Kos have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is becoming an appealing option for foodies. It's a large city with restaurants that cater to locals and visitors alike. You can expect high quality ingredients at a fraction of the price that you'll find in more touristy areas.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kos Better for Nightlife?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Kos is a great destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Thiva (Thebes) has a few options to choose from. The city is filled with lively cafes, bars, and pubs that spill out onto the city's vibrant squares.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kos Better for Resorts?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Kos is a island with good options for its resorts. However, Thiva (Thebes) 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a resort destination.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kos Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Kos is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Kos is a world class destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kos Better for Beaches?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Kos is very popular for the beache. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a beach destination.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kos Better for Hiking?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Kos is a island with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Thiva (Thebes) or Kos?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Shopping is a popular activity in both Kos and Thiva (Thebes).

Thiva (Thebes) offers some nice shopping areas. You'll find all of the normal retail options around town. Many are in shopping centers and malls.

Kos has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Kos Better for Families?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Both Thiva (Thebes) and Kos are nice to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Thiva (Thebes). Kids who are interested in history will appreciate the many archeological ruins and museums in the city.

Kos offers lots of family activities. 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 Thiva (Thebes) or Kos Better for Couples?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Kos is a great destination for its romantic activities. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for couples.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is not always the best place to visit for a couple. It's often overlooked as a honeymoon destination in Greece but the history of this long-running city is unique. Today it's a large city but you can still catch glimpses of its past.


Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Kos is a great destination for backpackers. However, Thiva (Thebes) is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really on the backpacker circuit so their aren't a lot of hostels in town.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kos Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Kos is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

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

While Thiva (Thebes) offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses in the area.

Is Thiva (Thebes) or Kos a more walkable city?

Thiva (Thebes)
Kos

Kos is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thiva (Thebes) is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Thiva (Thebes) is a somewhat walkable city. Some areas are more walkable than others.


For even more information, also check out Is Thiva (Thebes) Worth Visiting? and Is Kos Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kos or Thiva (Thebes)?

How long in Thiva (Thebes) or Kos?

In either Thiva (Thebes) or Kos, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Kos than Thiva (Thebes) because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Thiva (Thebes), and 2-5 days is enough time in Kos.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kos than Thiva (Thebes) 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.


  • How many days in Thiva (Thebes) or Kos? Ideal Length of Stay
    Thiva (Thebes) 1-2 
    Kos 2-5

One day in Thiva (Thebes) or Kos?

With nightlife and food around the historic destination of Thiva (Thebes), 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.

In Kos, you'll find nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Thiva (Thebes) or Kos?

Many people visit Thiva (Thebes) for a weekend. With food and shopping around the historic city of Thiva (Thebes), there's plenty to do. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Kos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Thiva (Thebes) or Kos?

The destination of Thiva (Thebes) 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kos. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.


A week in Thiva (Thebes) or Kos?

Thiva (Thebes), a popular 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the island of Kos. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Greece, and The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Kos or Thiva (Thebes)?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thiva (Thebes) is €127, while the average daily cost in Kos is €134. 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 Thiva (Thebes) and Kos in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thiva (Thebes) 61
    Kos 62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thiva (Thebes) 122
    Kos 124
Compare Hotels in Thiva (Thebes) and Kos

Looking for a hotel in Thiva (Thebes) or Kos? 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 Thiva (Thebes)


Hotels in Kos


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 37
    Kos 37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kos

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

  • Arrival Transfer From Kos Airport : $61
  • Arrival transfer from Kos Airport : $64
  • Artemis Hamam and Spa with Hotel Transfers Kos Island: $59
  • Catamaran Ferry Transfer to/from Bodrum and Kos : $28
  • Departure transfer to Kos Airport : $64
  • Kalymnos, Pserimos & Plati Island Cruise with Hotel Transfer: $60
  • Kos - Airport Private Transfer: $55
  • Kos Airport to Kos Hotels Private One–Way Transfer: $65
  • Kos Hotels to Kos Airport Private One–Way Transfer: $60
  • Kos Town: Kalymnos & Pserimos Day Cruise & Optional Transfer: $30
  • Paradise Beach Return Transfer: $25
  • Roundtrip Bus Transfer to Mount Zia for Sunset Viewing: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Thiva (Thebes) or Kos?

Prices for flights to both Kos and Thiva (Thebes) 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
    Thiva (Thebes) 41
    Kos 43

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Thiva (Thebes) 26
    Kos 33

Tours and Activities in Kos

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.26
  • Kos Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.61
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt and Walking Tour: $8.14
  • Escape Game and Tour: $8.14
  • Kos Town: Glass-Bottom Boat Cruise with Swimming Stops: $22
  • From Zia Sunset Tour: $27
  • Dory's Glass Bottom Boat Adventure in Pserimos and Pserimos Beach: $30
  • From Kalymnos, Pserimos and Plati Day Cruise: $33
  • Kos Island: 3-Island Wooden Ship Cruise w/ Lunch: $33
  • From the Port of Full Day Boat Cruise to 3 Islands: $33
  • 3-Island Cruise with Greek BBQ Lunch and Swimming: $33
  • Full-Day Tour to Nisyros The Volcano Island: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thiva (Thebes) 18
    Kos 19

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


When comparing the travel costs between Thiva (Thebes) and Kos, 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 Thiva (Thebes) Expensive? and Is Kos Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Thiva (Thebes) or Kos?

Thiva (Thebes) has a larger population, and is about 14% larger than the population of Kos. When comparing the sizes of Thiva (Thebes) and Kos, 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.