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

Should you visit Athens or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife. 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 ancient, vibrant, and energetic 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 food, shopping, and museums.

Tenerife

Tenerife is a volcanic, scenic, and vibrant island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, nightlife, and food.

Athens and Tenerife: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Tenerife?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Athens than Tenerife, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Athens is better known for its museums, food, historical sights, and big city activities, while Tenerife is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty. Tenerife is more touristy than Athens and is known for its volcanic landscapes, built-up resorts, and fun-filled beaches. 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 Tenerife?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Athens is very popular for its museums and history. However, Tenerife is lacking in good options for its 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.

Tenerife offers a few options for museum-goers. The island is filled with national parks, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches, but if you're not into outdoor activities, then you won't find many museums or other historical sights to visit.

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

Athens is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Athens is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Tenerife. Many visitors stick to the major touristy areas, eating in their resorts or other nearby restaurants. If you want to try a bit of the island's authentic Canarian cuisine, you'll need to do a little research. Head into the local areas near the markets for the best chance of finding something a little more authentic. Local dishes often include fish and seafood as well as local meats, but you'll rarely find beef as there isn't a lot of land for cows to graze on the island.

Is Athens or Tenerife Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is world-class in both Athens and Tenerife.

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.

Tenerife is a world class party destination. The island has a variety of nightclubs that range in style and personality. There are all night wild beach parties as well as laid back beach clubs and hole-in-the-wall pubs. Many bars have happy hours where you can relax with a drink and many nightclubs host famous DJs that keep the party going into the early morning hours.

Is Athens or Tenerife Better for Resorts?

Tenerife is great for its luxury resorts. However, Athens is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Tenerife to choose from. You'll find everything from world-class resorts like the Ritz to more budget-friendly hotels and even some hostels around the island. You'll find most of the resorts on the south side of the island, which is also where you'll find the best weather.

Athens is not a resort destination.

Is Athens or Tenerife Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Tenerife is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Tenerife. A highlight of snorkeling in this area is the opportunity to swim with sea turtles. Some of the best snorkeling is in El Puertito, which is known for its many turtles and there is no shortage of organized snorkeling trips to the area. The island also has excellent scuba diving trips with a variety of shipwrecks and marine species.

Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Athens or Tenerife Better for Beaches?

Tenerife is great for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Tenerife for it's beautiful beaches. The island has a large number of beaches that attract tourists, particularly during the peak winter months. The island's volcanic nature means that many of its natural beaches have black sand. The golden sand from the more developed beaches typically comes from the Sahara Desert. A favorite beach on the island is the 2 kilometer long Playa de las Teresitas.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Tenerife Better for its Old Town?

Athens is very popular for its historic old town. However, Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Athens has a world-famous historical area. 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.

Tenerife does not have a historic old town.

Is Athens or Tenerife Better for Hiking?

Tenerife is an unbeatable place for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Tenerife is well-known for its hiking and trekking. The island's volcanic landscapes mean that there are dramatic and breathtaking hikes throughout the island. Some of the best hikes are found in the Anaga Rural Park, Teide National Park, and the Teno Mountains.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Tenerife?

Tenerife 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 Tenerife. The island's low tax rates make it a popular shopping destination for tourists. The are shopping streets, local markets, and luxury malls that you can explore.

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 Tenerife Better for Families?

Tenerife 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, Tenerife is very family-friendly. The island has many great waterparks for kids, with one of the best being Siam Park. Other family-friendly destinations include Aqualand, Loro Parque, Jungle Park, and Monkey Park. There are whale watching trips, outdoor adventures, and kid-friendly beaches as well.

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 Tenerife Better for Couples?

Tenerife is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Tenerife is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. The natural beauty, great landscapes, and lively beaches make this a great island for a romantic getaway. There's hiking and outdoor adventures as well as swimming, boat rides, and even whale watching.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Tenerife Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Tenerife is a good city to visit for backpackers. The island is large enough that there are a decent number of hostels and budget-friendly places to stay for backpackers.

Is Athens or Tenerife Better for Students?

Athens is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Tenerife is not popular with students.

Athens is a great city to visit as a student. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

Tenerife is not popular with students.

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

Athens is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Athens is fairly effecient and thorough. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

You'll find some public transit in Tenerife, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. The island has a decent bus service that is operated by a company called "TITSA".

Is Athens or Tenerife a more walkable city?

Athens is a very popular place for its walkability. Also, Tenerife is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Tenerife is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks on the island that make for a fun way to explore the setting.

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

Should I spend more time in Tenerife or Athens?

How long in Athens or Tenerife?

Both Athens and Tenerife have a number of activities to choose from. You can spend a similar amount of time exploring either. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Tenerife than Athens. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tenerife that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Tenerife 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 Tenerife?

Athens is a big city with plenty to do. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the destination of Tenerife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Tenerife?

Athens is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Tenerife 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 Tenerife?

Athens is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Athens, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tenerife. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Tenerife?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. This city offers something for everyone.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Tenerife. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Spain, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Spain.

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

When is the best time to visit Athens or Tenerife?

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 Tenerife in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Tenerife. Many visitors come to Athens in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Tenerife for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Athens is a little warmer than Tenerife. Typically, the summer temperatures in Athens in July average around 27°C (81°F), and Tenerife averages at about 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tenerife this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives more sunshine than Tenerife during summer. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Tenerife receives 268 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Athens usually receives more rain than Tenerife. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Athens or Tenerife in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Athens as well as Tenerife. 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. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Tenerife because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Athens is generally cooler than Tenerife. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 19°C (67°F), and Tenerife fluctuates around 22°C (72°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Tenerife. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the autumn, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Tenerife. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tenerife receives 200 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets more rain in October than Tenerife. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Tenerife in the Winter?

Both Tenerife 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. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Tenerife this time of year.

Athens is much colder than Tenerife in the winter. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 10°C (51°F) in January, and Tenerife fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Athens usually receives less sunshine than Tenerife during winter. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Tenerife receives 191 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Athens usually receives around the same amount of rain as Tenerife. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Athens or Tenerife in the Spring?

Both Tenerife 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. Also, many travelers come to Tenerife for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Athens is cooler than Tenerife. Typically, the spring temperatures in Athens in April average around 16°C (60°F), and Tenerife averages at about 18°C (64°F).

In Tenerife, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Athens. In the spring, Athens often gets more sunshine than Tenerife. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tenerife receives 205 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets more rain in April than Tenerife. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Tenerife receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Tenerife and Athens