Which place is cheaper, Calgary or Athens?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Athens or Calgary?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Calgary. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.
Athens
Athens is a vibrant, energetic, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.
Calgary
Calgary is a authentic, western, and local city. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and shopping.
Athens and Calgary: Pros and Cons
Athens
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Popular for food and cuisine
- Active nightlife
- Scenic old town
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Very walkable
- Big city activities
- Home to the Acropolis
Calgary
Pros- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Less museums and historical sights
- Less popular for food
- Less popular for nightlife
- Less popular with backpackers
- Less walkable
Is there more to do in Athens or Calgary?
Travelers will generally find more things to do in Athens than Calgary. While Calgary is larger than Athens, Athens has more sights and attractions for tourists. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Calgary is popular for its farming and oil industries as well as the Calgary Stampede.
The Acropolis
How is Athens different from Calgary?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Calgary and Athens. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Athens or Calgary?
Athens
Calgary
Athens is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.
The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Athens are among the most recognizable in the world. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.
If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Calgary. It's worth visiting the Calgary Zoo, Fort Calgary, the Hangar Flight Museum, and Heritage Park, among others.
Is the Food Better in Athens or Calgary? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Athens
Calgary
Athens is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.
Many restaurants in Athens have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.
Calgary may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. The food scene is constantly evolving and you'll find plenty of casual restaurants. The city is known for its beef, so you should definitely sample a local steak.
Is Athens or Calgary Better for Nightlife?
Athens
Calgary
Athens is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.
The nightlife in Athens is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.
If you're looking for night time activities Calgary has a few options to choose from. Visitors often head to Stephen Avenue Walk for its bars and pubs. There's also a decent theater scene around town.
Is Athens or Calgary Better for its Old Town?
Athens
Calgary
Athens is an unbeatable place for its old town. However, Calgary does not have a historic old town.
With a famous historical old-town, Athens offers plenty to see. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.
Calgary does not have a historic old town.
Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Calgary?
Athens
Calgary
If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Calgary both offer plenty of good spots.
Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.
Calgary is a great destination for shopping. There are plenty of independent shops around town as well as some great shopping neighborhoods. Make sure you check out Fourth Street and 17th Avenue. There are also large shopping malls.
Is Athens or Calgary Better for Families?
Athens
Calgary
Athens is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.
Athens is a very kid-friendly city. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.
Calgary offers lots of family activities. There are a surprising number of things around town to do with kids such as petting zoos, museums, and even amusement parks. The Calgary Zoo is worth a visit, but also make sure you check out Calaway Park Amusement Park and the Telus Spark science center.
Is Athens or Calgary Better for Couples?
Athens
Calgary
Athens and Calgary both good destinations for a couple.
Athens is a good city for couples to visit. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.
Calgary is a nice destination for couples. You'll find outdoor sports, boat tours, and plenty of great restaurants around town. If you're looking for a low key destination with a great vibe, then this is a great city for a weekend trip.
Is Athens or Calgary Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Athens
Calgary
Athens is an unbeatable place for backpackers. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.
Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.
Plenty of backpackers visit Calgary. A surprising number of backpackers end up passing through town, so you'll find a handful of hostels to choose from.
Is Athens or Calgary Better for Students?
Athens
Calgary
Athens is well known for students. However, Calgary is not popular with students.
Students come from all over to stay in Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.
Calgary is not popular with students.
Is Athens or Calgary Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Athens
Calgary
Athens is well known for its public transit. Also, Calgary is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.
Public transit in Athens can get you to some places easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.
While Calgary offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. The public transportation system is relatively efficient with both light rail and buses.
Is Athens or Calgary a more walkable city?
Athens
Calgary
Athens is well known for its high level of walkability. However, Calgary is not particularly known for its ease of walking around.
Athens is a very walkable city. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.
Calgary is generally not a very walkable city. While there are a couple of walkable neighborhood's around town, it's definitely not the most walkable city.
For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Calgary Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Calgary or Athens?
How long in Athens or Calgary?
You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Athens or Calgary to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Athens than Calgary because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 1-2 days is enough time in Calgary.
Families should spend more time in Athens than Calgary. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Athens, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Athens than Calgary. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Athens that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Calgary 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 Athens.
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How many days in Athens or Calgary? Ideal Length of StayAthens 3-7Calgary 1-2
One day in Athens or Calgary?
Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.
Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Calgary. One day is often enough time to do most activities.
A weekend in Athens or Calgary?
Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.
Calgary 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.
Five days in Athens or Calgary?
Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Calgary. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
A week in Athens or Calgary?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.
Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the western destination of Calgary. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Athens, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, The Best 3-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vancouver.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayAthens €127Calgary €141
The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €127, while the average daily cost in Calgary is €141. 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 Athens and Calgary in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personAthens €63Calgary €67
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomAthens €126Calgary €134
Compare Hotels in Athens and Calgary
Looking for a hotel in Athens or Calgary? 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.
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: Athens Hotel Prices and Calgary Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Athens €27Calgary €11
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Athens
Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:
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Airport Bus for Two€6.40
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Metro€1.50
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Metro€2.00
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Metro from Airport to City Center€8.00
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Taxi from Airport€35
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens
Also for Athens, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Athens Airport To Piraeus Port / Hotel Private Luxury Transfer : $42
- Private Transfer from /to Athens International Airport: $33
- Santorini Airport JTR Private Transfer with Wi-Fi: $28
- Transfer from Athens-Pireaus-Athens Airport to Corinth-Loutraki-Agioi Theodoroi: $226
- "Luxurious Transfer": $49
- Airport Private Transfers: $81
- Airport Transfer: Athens Airport ATH to Athens by Business Car: $88
- Airport Transfer: Athens Airport ATH to Athens by Luxury Car: $138
- Airport Transfer: Athens Airport ATH to Athens by Luxury Van: $123
- Airport Transfer: Athens to Athens Airport ATH by Business Car: $89
- Arrival Private Transfer from Athens Airport ATH to Athens City by Luxury car: $109
- Arrival Private Transfer from Athens Airport ATH to Athens City by Minibus: $113
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Calgary
Some specific examples of transportation prices in Calgary:
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Vancouver: $2,209
- Banff, Lake Louise, or Jasper Shuttle Transfer: $1,289
- Private Transfer to Banff or Canmore: $625
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Fernie, BC: $530
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Edmonton: $515
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Golden BC: $515
- Lake Louise: Calgary to Lake Louise Private Transfer 1 Way: $478
- Private Shuttle: Airport/Calgary to Canmore/Banff Transfers: $434
- Calgary Airport: Private Transfer to Lake Louis: $368
- Banff To Calgary Airport - Private Transfer: $367
- Calgary Airport (YYC) to Lake Louise | Private Transfer: $299
- Calgary to Lake Louise private group transfer: $297
Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Calgary?
Prices for flights to both Calgary and Athens 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
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Food Meals for one dayAthens €37Calgary €28
Typical Food Prices in Athens
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:
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Ice cream€3.00
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Souvlaki€2.20
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Athens
For Athens, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $25
- Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Lunch or Dinner: $27
- Street Food Tour Market & City Centre: $43
- Greek Street Food Tour: $55
- "A Night in Dinner and Music Under the Stars": $61
- Greek Spirits & Meze, Food Tour in Athens: $64
- Street Food Tour with 7 Tastings: $67
- Street Food Tour - Sample the Food the Locals Love: $67
- Eat like an Athenian food tour of Athens: $67
- The Authentic Greek Food Tour: $72
- Traditional Greek Cooking Class and Organic Lunch on Poros: $73
- The Bizarre Food Tour of Athens: $73
Typical Food Prices in Calgary
Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Calgary:
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Bread, Chips, Cheese€7.41
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Calgary
Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Calgary.
- Light Brunch & Food Tour at Calgary Farmers' Market WEST: $82
- Iconic Eats of Calgary Food Tour: $130
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Athens €36Calgary €14
Tours and Activities in Athens
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.
- Self-guided First Discovery Walk and Reading Tour: $3.32
- Self Guided Tour In Athens With 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.38
- Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour into Byzantine Gems: $4.76
- A Neoclassical Capital: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.50
- Ancient Athens Quest Experience: $6.20
- Herakleidon Museum of Ancient Greek Technology: Entry Ticket: $6.65
- Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Athens: $6.77
- Greek Mythology Quest Experience in Athens: $7.33
- South Slope of the Acropolis audiovisual self-guided tour: $7.74
- Ancient Agora: Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.74
- Athens Olympic Museum: Skip-the-Line Entry Ticket: $7.75
- Athens Self-Guided Historical Walking Tour: $7.90
Typical Entertainment Prices in Calgary
Here are a few typical costs in Calgary for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:
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Stampede Admission (for 2)€20
Tours and Activities in Calgary
Here are a few actual costs in Calgary for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:
- 1 Day tour of Calgary Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Emerald Lake: $75
- /Banff/Canmore/Full Day Tour at Columbia Icefield : $211
- 1 Day Tour of Calgary Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Peyto Lake: $75
- 1 Day Tour of Calgary Lake Louise, Moraine, Emerald & Peyto Lake: $172
- 1-Day Banff Guided Tour, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise: $104
- 2 Day Guided Tour in Banff National Park: $299
- 6-Hour Private City Tour Drive to Calgary Tower: $700
- Banff Area & Johnston Canyon 1-Day Tour from Calgary or Banff: $75
- Banff Audio Guided Tour from Calgary: $16
- Banff Deep 1 Day Tour in Banff National Park: $141
- Banff Explorer Tour w/ Moraine Lake & Lake Louise | Private: $366
- Best of Banff National Park and Iconic Lakes - Ultimate Day Tour: $108
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayAthens €23Calgary €10
Sample the Local Flavors in Athens
Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:
- Polykala Distillery showroom. A125 years of history along with liqueur tasting.: $16
- The NightCrawlers | Athens Bar Hopping | Pub Crawl: $18
- Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $18
- Athens Party Pub Crawl with Unlimited Drinks & Nightclub Access: $20
- Athens Party Pub Crawl with Unlimited Drinks & Club Access: $22
- Saturday Night Bar Crawl in Athens, Greece: $25
- Small-Group Rooftop & Offbeat Nightlife Gems Pub Crawl: $40
- Greek Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $44
- Athens Greek Wine Tasting with Expert Sommelier: $45
- Old Town Wine Tasting: $54
- Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $54
- Best rated Acropolis Wine Tasting : $55
Sample the Local Flavors in Calgary
Also in Calgary, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Calgary Bar Crawl: Cruisin' Calgary: $12
- Calgary Brewery and Wine Tours at Award Winning Venues: $84
- Calgary Brewery Tour: $90
When comparing the travel costs between Athens and Calgary, we can see that Calgary 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. Even though Athens is in Europe and Calgary is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Athens Expensive? and Is Calgary Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Athens or Calgary?
Calgary has a larger population, and is about 40% larger than the population of Athens. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Calgary, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.