A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Orlando for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Athens or Orlando?

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 Orlando. 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 energetic, historic, and ancient city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

Orlando

Orlando is a active, family-friendly, and entertaining city. It's also popular because of the theater, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Orlando: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Orlando?

You'll generally find more things to do in Athens than Orlando. Athens is bigger than Orlando, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Athens is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Orlando is more popular for its theatre productions, resorts, and shopping. Orlando is more touristy than Athens and is known for being the home of Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and many other theme parks and family-friendly activities. Athens is well known for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. Also, Athens is famous for The Acropolis.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Orlando?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Athens is renowned for its historical sights. However, Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Travelers visit Athens from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Orlando does not have museums and landmarks.

Is Athens or Orlando Better for Theater?

Orlando is a good destination for its shows and theatre. However, Athens is not a theatre destination.

If you have some extra time in Orlando, take in a show. The city has a number of local theaters that are fun to explore. As home to Disney World and Universal Studios, there are also a number of shows available that are affiliated with the parks.

Athens is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Athens or Orlando? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Athens is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Orlando. There are a diversity of restaurants on the Disney grounds and nearby. You'll also find many restaurants at Universal CityWalk and Disney Springs. Food can be expensive, and the quality can vary dramatically. Many people enjoy going to dinner shows as well. Restaurants can be challenging also, as reservations must be made months in advance.

Is Athens or Orlando Better for Nightlife?

Athens is renowned for nightlife. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

Athens is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Orlando. If you need a break from the kids, you'll find some of the best nightlife around Orlando at Disney Springs, Wall Street Plaza and Universal CityWalk.

Is Athens or Orlando Better for Resorts?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Athens is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Orlando for its luxury resorts. Disney World is famous for its many iconic resorts. Some of the most popular are the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Port Orleans Resort, and the Grand Floridian Resort. There are also many resorts that aren't affiliated with the major theme parks. These tend to be more affordable, but transportation options to and from the park are limited. You'll also miss out on the perks that come with staying at a theme park resort.

Athens is not a resort destination.

Is Athens or Orlando Better for its Old Town?

Athens is renowned for its historic old town. However, Orlando does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Athens is one of the most recognized in the world. 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.

Orlando does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Orlando?

Orlando is great for its shopping areas. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Orlando. Shopping is a dream for any Disney enthusiast. There are countless malls and shops, both on and off the Disney grounds, that sell all of the Disney paraphernalia. Disney Springs and Universal CityWalk are the most famous areas. During the evenings, these areas can be very crowded, but during the day they're less popular as most people are at the theme parks.

Athens is a great destination for shopping. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Is Athens or Orlando Better for Christmas?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its Christmas holiday experiences. However, Athens does not offer Christmas activities.

With so many activities, Orlando is a top place to visit during Christmas. Christmas at Disney World is lots of fun. There are decorations and all kinds of seasonal activities around town.

Athens does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Athens or Orlando Better for Families?

Orlando is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Orlando is very family-friendly. Known as a theme park capital, here you'll find the iconic Disney World, as well as Universal Studios, SeaWorld and many more. While most people spend their vacation at the Disney or Universal resorts, there is also an endless supply of less mainstream parks and activities in the area.

Athens is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Is Athens or Orlando Better for Couples?

Athens and Orlando both notable 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.

Orlando is a nice destination for couples. While most people visit the area with family, there is a niche crowd that enjoys honeymooning or vacationing here as a couple. There are many beautiful restaurants and interesting activities that couples can enjoy together. This is the perfect trip for fun loving couples who don't take themselves to seriously.

Is Athens or Orlando Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Orlando is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Orlando is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not exactly a backpacker destination, but there are a surprising number of cheap motels that aren't affiliated with the major parks.

Is Athens or Orlando Better for Students?

Athens is great for its student-friendly activities. Also, Orlando is not as popular, but is still a nice city for students.

Athens is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Orlando is a good city to visit for students. Most people don't think about education when they think about Orlando, but there are actually a diversity of internships and opportunities for students to learn in a fun setting.

Is Athens or Orlando Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Athens is great for times when you don't have a car. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its public transit.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Athens. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

Public transit is generally limited in Orlando. If you're staying at a Disney Property, there is excellent transportation around the complex, but otherwise, a car is essential.

Is Athens or Orlando a more walkable city?

Athens is great for its walkability. However, Orlando is not a good destination for its high level of walkability.

Athens is very walkable. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Orlando is not a walkable city. The city is sprawling, so unless you stay on the Disney grounds, it's best to rent a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Orlando Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Orlando or Athens?

How long in Athens or Orlando?

Both Athens and Orlando have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Athens has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Athens than Orlando. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 7 days is enough time in Orlando.

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

Couples should spend more time in Athens than Orlando. 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 Orlando 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.

One day in Athens or Orlando?

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 theater and nightlife when visiting the destination of Orlando. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Orlando?

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.

Orlando is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Orlando?

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 Orlando. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Orlando?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and theater when visiting the family-friendly destination of Orlando. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Orlando, we can see that Orlando is more expensive. And not only is Athens much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Athens is in Europe and Orlando is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Athens would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Athens 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 Orlando would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Orlando than you might in Athens.

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

Which is Bigger, Athens or Orlando?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Orlando. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Orlando, 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.

When is the best time to visit Athens or Orlando?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Orlando in the Summer?

Both Orlando and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The city activities and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Orlando for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Athens is around the same temperature as Orlando. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Orlando averages at about 82°F (28°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Orlando. In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Orlando. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 8.3 inches (211 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Orlando in the Autumn?

Both Orlando and Athens during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Orlando in the autumn for the shopping scene.

In October, Athens is generally cooler than Orlando. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Orlando fluctuates around 75°F (24°C).

Orlando gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Athens usually gets less rain in October than Orlando. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 4.1 inches (103 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Orlando in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Orlando. Many visitors come to Athens in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Orlando for the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, the theater shows, and the cuisine during these months.

Athens is cooler than Orlando in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Orlando fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Orlando. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Orlando in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Athens as well as Orlando. Most visitors come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Athens is cooler than Orlando. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Orlando averages at about 72°F (22°C).

Athens usually gets less rain in April than Orlando. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Orlando receives 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Orlando and Athens