A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Athens vs. Pontevedra for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Athens or Pontevedra?

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 Pontevedra. 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.

Where Should I go: Athens or Pontevedra?

Athens

Athens is the capital city of Greece and is home to a population of over 3.7 million people. It's most famous as the birthplace of Classical Greece and the history in the city is incomparable to that found anywhere. It became the national capital of the modern Greek State in the 1830s, before which it was just a small village with a very impressive history. The city was redesigned by architects and city planners and incorporated large public squares, lots of green space, and wide avenues. The city has had its ups and downs both economically and politically, but it remains a beautiful and impressive place to explore.

Pontevedra

An important port city with a medieval past, Pontevedra sits on the northwestern coast of Spain where the Lerez River opens out into the ocean. It is a part of the Galicia region and is known for its seafood, charming plazas, and old world architecture that include a number of chapels, churches, and cathedrals.

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 10-Day Tours in Spain, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Spain.


Which place is cheaper, Pontevedra or Athens?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Athens is €127, while the average daily cost in Pontevedra is €120. 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 Pontevedra in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Athens 63
    Pontevedra 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Athens 126
    Pontevedra 122
Compare Hotels in Athens and Pontevedra

Looking for a hotel in Athens or Pontevedra? 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 Athens


Hotels in Pontevedra


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 Pontevedra Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Athens 27
    Pontevedra 23
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Athens:


  • Airport Bus for Two
    6.40
  • Metro
    1.50
  • Metro
    2.00
  • Metro from Airport to City Center
    8.00
  • Taxi from Airport
    35

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Athens

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

  • VipTransfer From /To Athens Airport - Lavrio Port : $207
  • Vip Transfer From/To Athens Center - Rafina Port : $218
  • Vip Transfer From/To Athens Center - Lavrio Port: $273
  • VIP VAN Athens Airport Transfer 1 - 4 persons: $89
  • VIP High Class Limos & Chauffeurs Transfer to Athens: $65
  • VIP Ferry Ticket from Piraeus Port To Mykonos & Private Transfer included: $250
  • VIP Ferry Ticket From Piraeus Port To Santorini & Private Transfer Included: $250
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Athens HTL-APT (ATH): $63
  • Transfer services from/to Athens Airport: $105
  • Transfer from/to Piraeus Port and Athens city centre hotel: $41
  • Transfer from/to Piraeus Port and Athens International Airport: $142
  • Transfer from/to Athens International Airport to city centre: $125

Is it cheaper to fly into Athens or Pontevedra?

Prices for flights to both Pontevedra 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
  • Food Meals for one day
    Athens 37
    Pontevedra 42
Typical Food Prices in Athens

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Athens:


  • Ice cream
    3.00
  • 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: $24
  • Street Food Tour Market & City Centre: $42
  • Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $46
  • Greek Street Food Tour: $51
  • Athens Street Food Tour: Explore City's Iconic Eateries: $52
  • Middle-eastern Cuisine Cooking Class with Meal: $52
  • Street Food Tour with Local Guide and 7 Tastings: $57
  • Traditional Greek Cooking Class and Organic Lunch on Poros: $60
  • Alternative, truly authentic food tour in secret Athens: $63
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Class with Meal: $63
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Classes in Athina: $64
  • Light Lunch Tasting & Cooking Demo: $67

Typical Food Prices in Pontevedra

For Pontevedra, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Lunch for 2
    11

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Pontevedra

For Pontevedra, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Galician Cooking Class with Chef Instructor: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Athens 36
    Pontevedra 19

Tours and Activities in Athens

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Athens.

  • Acropolis/Athens Highlights Private Evening Tour (5 hours) from Athens, Piraeus: $87
  • Ancient Corinth Canal Epidavrous Nafplio Private Tour 8Hours: $180
  • Apostle Paul's Footsteps in Athens Christian Private Tour 5Hours: $142
  • Delphi full day V.R audio guided tour with entry ticket: $48
  • EPIDAURUS & NAFPLIO : Private Full Day Tour From Athens 6 Hours : $173
  • Full Day Tour in Athens with Lunch: $147
  • Half Day Private Tour on Highlights of Classical Athens: $158
  • Layover Private Tour in Athens: $245
  • Mycenae Lions Gate Epidaurus & Nafplio Full Day Private Tour 8H : $191
  • Self-Guided Tour at the Romantic Island of Hydra from Athens: $284
  • Traditional Villages Full day Tour in Santorini: $59
  • "Acropolis Half-day Tour and City Visit": $168

Tours and Activities in Pontevedra

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

  • NEW!! Private Walking Tour with local guide: $64
  • Pontevedra Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $8.75
  • O Grove Aquarium Experience: $16
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $43
  • Walking Tour and Galician Food Tasting: $64

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Athens 23
    Pontevedra 20

Sample the Local Flavors in Athens

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Athens:

  • Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $17
  • Greek Wine Tasting: $23
  • Premium Wine Tastings: $35
  • Greek Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $43
  • Athens Wine Tasting: $44
  • Old Town Athens Wine Tasting: $52
  • Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $52
  • 2 Hours Wine Tasting Odyssey in Athens: $53
  • Best rated Acropolis Wine Tasting : $53
  • Greek food and wine tasting: $53
  • Rare Greek Wine Tasting w/Sommelier by the Acropolis: $59
  • Wine Tasting and Storytelling in a Historical Square in Athina: $60

Sample the Local Flavors in Pontevedra

Also in Pontevedra, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Albariño Wine Tasting with Winery Tour: $32


When comparing the travel costs between Athens and Pontevedra, we can see that Athens 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 Athens Expensive? and Is Pontevedra Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Athens or Pontevedra?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Pontevedra. When comparing the sizes of Athens and Pontevedra, 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 Pontevedra?

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 Pontevedra in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Pontevedra. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Athens is generally a little warmer than Pontevedra. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Pontevedra fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Pontevedra this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Pontevedra during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Pontevedra receives 299 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives less rain than Pontevedra. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Pontevedra receives 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Athens 27°C (81°F) 
    Pontevedra 21°C (70°F)

Should I visit Athens or Pontevedra in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as Pontevedra. Most visitors come to Athens for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Athens is a little warmer than Pontevedra in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Pontevedra fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the autumn, Athens often gets more sunshine than Pontevedra. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pontevedra receives 174 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Pontevedra. Athens usually gets less rain in October than Pontevedra. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Pontevedra receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Athens 19°C (67°F) 
    Pontevedra 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Athens or Pontevedra in the Winter?

Both Pontevedra and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Athens is around the same temperature as Pontevedra. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Pontevedra averages at about 10°C (50°F).

Athens usually receives more sunshine than Pontevedra during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Pontevedra receives 110 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pontevedra. In January, Athens usually receives less rain than Pontevedra. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Pontevedra receives 232 mm (9.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Athens 10°C (51°F) 
    Pontevedra 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Athens or Pontevedra in the Spring?

Both Pontevedra and Athens during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city and the natural beauty are the main draw to Athens this time of year.

In April, Athens is generally a little warmer than Pontevedra. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Pontevedra fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Athens. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Pontevedra. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pontevedra receives 198 hours of full sun.

Pontevedra gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Athens usually gets less rain in April than Pontevedra. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Pontevedra receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Athens 16°C (60°F) 
    Pontevedra 13°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Pontevedra and Athens

Athens Pontevedra
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (50°F) 232 mm (9.1 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 230 mm (9.1 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 160 mm (6.3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 13°C (56°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 137 mm (5.4 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 19°C (66°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 21°C (70°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 21°C (69°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 20°C (68°F) 118 mm (4.6 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 13°C (55°F) 186 mm (7.3 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 228 mm (9 in)