A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Corinth vs. Athens for Attractions, Food, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Corinth or Athens?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Corinth or Athens, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Corinth

Corinth is a fascinating, ancient, and unique archeological site. It's also popular because of the museums.

Athens

Athens is a ancient, vibrant, and energetic city. As it's a big city, visitors will find plenty to do, too. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Corinth and Athens: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Corinth or Athens?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens than Corinth. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Corinth is famous for its historical ruins and fascinating temples. Athens is famous for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also well known for The Acropolis.

The Acropolis
The Acropolis

How is Corinth different from Athens?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Athens and Corinth. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Corinth or Athens?

Corinth
Athens

Athens is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Corinth is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Athens has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Corinth. Visitors come to explore the ancient city of Corinth, which is now a significant archeological site. The Apollo Temple is an important landmark on the site. In a separate area you'll find the Acrocorinth, which is the ancient city's acropolis. Also a must-see is the Corinth Canal.


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

Corinth
Athens

Athens is an unbeatable place for its restaurants. However, Corinth is lacking in good options 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.

Corinth offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a couple of restaurants where you can grab a quick bite to eat in the area, but most are not convenient.

Is Corinth or Athens Better for Nightlife?

Corinth
Athens

Athens is an unbeatable place for its evening party scene. However, Corinth is lacking in good options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Corinth. Most people visit the archeological sights and the canal as a day trip from Athens, so nightlife is not part of their itinerary.

Is Corinth or Athens Better for its Old Town?

Corinth
Athens

Athens is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. However, Corinth 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.

Corinth does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Corinth or Athens?

Corinth
Athens

Athens is a nice place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Corinth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Corinth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Corinth or Athens Better for Families?

Corinth
Athens

Athens is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Corinth is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Corinth. These archeological ruins will have a special draw for those kids who enjoy the Percy Jackson book series. The ruins and corresponding museum tell the story of lives lived millennia ago. For kids with an active imagination, this is a fascinating place to explore.

Is Corinth or Athens Better for Couples?

Corinth
Athens

Corinth and Athens are both nice to visit as a couple.

Corinth is a good archeological site for couples to visit. An easy day trip from Athens, these archeological ruins are unique and impressive to explore for couples who enjoy history and Greek mythology.

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 Corinth or Athens Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Corinth
Athens

Athens is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Corinth is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Athens, as it is a very popular city for budget travelers. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Corinth is a good archeological site to visit for backpackers. Most visitors come as a day trip from Athens. Public transportation options are plentiful so backpackers will find this an easy, independent trip to make.

Is Corinth or Athens Better for Students?

Corinth
Athens

Athens is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Corinth 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.

Corinth is not popular with students.

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

Corinth
Athens

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

The public transit in Athens can get you to most places easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

You'll find some public transit in Corinth, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses and trains that connect Athens and Corinth but confirm that the schedule is convenient for your trip.


Is Corinth or Athens a more walkable city?

Corinth
Athens

Athens is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Corinth is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Corinth is generally not very walkable. Many areas are spread out, so some parts are easily walkable and others are not.

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

Should I spend more time in Athens or Corinth?

How long in Corinth or Athens?

Both Corinth and Athens have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Corinth. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Corinth, and 3-7 days is enough time in Athens.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Corinth 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.


  • How many days in Corinth or Athens? Ideal Length of Stay
    Corinth 1-2 
    Athens 3-7

One day in Corinth or Athens?

Many travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the destination of Corinth. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

A weekend in Corinth or Athens?

Corinth 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.

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.


Five days in Corinth or Athens?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Corinth. 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.

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.

A week in Corinth or Athens?

Travelers enjoy the museums when visiting the unique destination of Corinth. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, and The Best Contiki Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Athens or Corinth?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Corinth is €121, while the average daily cost in Athens is €127. 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 Corinth and Athens in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Corinth 72
    Athens 63
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Corinth 144
    Athens 126
Compare Hotels in Corinth and Athens

Looking for a hotel in Corinth or Athens? 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 Corinth


Hotels in Athens


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Corinth 7.14
    Athens 27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Corinth

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

  • Private Transfer from Nafplio to Athens Airport : $277
  • Private Transfer & Guide in Mycenae and Epidaurus from Nafplio: $277
  • One-way Private Transfer from Nafplio or Tolo to Athens: $266
  • Transfer from Corinth-Loutraki-Agioi Theodoroi to Athens-Pireaus-Athens Airport: $222
  • Taxi Transfer from Nafplio - Tolo to Athens Airport - Private up to 4 persons: $222
  • Private Transfer from Nafplio to Mycenae: $127
  • Shared Transfer to Mycenae & Epidaurus from Nafplio: $123
  • Private Transfer from Nafplio Cruise Port to Athens Airport (ATH): $94
  • Private Transfer from Nafplio Cruise Port to Athens City Hotels: $94

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 : $211
  • Vip Transfer From/To Piraeus Port - Athens Airport: $277
  • Vip Transfer From/To Athens Center - Rafina Port : $222
  • Vip Transfer From/To Athens Center - Lavrio Port: $277
  • Vip Transfer From /To Athens Center - Athens Airport : $222
  • VIP VAN Athens Airport Transfer 1 - 8 persons: $144
  • VIP VAN Athens Airport Transfer 1 - 4 persons: $90
  • VIP Transfer services from/to Athens airport : $72
  • VIP High Class Limos & Chauffeurs Transfer to Athens: $67
  • VIP Ferry Ticket from Piraeus Port To Mykonos & Private Transfer included: $254
  • VIP Ferry Ticket From Piraeus Port To Santorini & Private Transfer Included: $254
  • Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Athens HTL-APT (ATH): $63

Is it cheaper to fly into Corinth or Athens?

Prices for flights to both Athens and Corinth 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
    Corinth 40
    Athens 37

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Corinth

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

  • Sustainbable Cooking class, explore a mountainous village: $109
  • Savor Nafplio Cooking Class: $128
  • Cooking Class OR Demonstration & lunch in Nafplio: $129
  • Nafplio Food Tour: $139
  • Nafplio Walking Food Tour: $143

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: $25
  • Hard Rock Cafe Athens with Set Lunch or Dinner: $27
  • Street Food Tour Market & City Centre: $42
  • Foodies’ Favorite Food tour: $47
  • Greek Street Food Tour: $52
  • Athens Street Food Tour: Explore City's Iconic Eateries: $53
  • Greek Traditional Vegan Cooking Class with Meal: $53
  • Middle-eastern Cuisine Cooking Class with Meal: $53
  • Street Food Tour with Local Guide and 7 Tastings: $58
  • Greek Spirits & Meze, Food Tour in Athens: $63
  • Cooking Class on Vegan Moroccan Cuisine with Meal: $64
  • Alternative, truly authentic food tour in secret Athens: $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Corinth 21
    Athens 36

Tours and Activities in Corinth

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

  • 3in1; Cycling, sightseeing, tasting: $233
  • Ancient Corinth & Nemea Tour to Culture from Nafplio: $144
  • Ancient Corinth Isthmus Canal Luxury Private Tour 5 Hours: $134
  • Ancient Corinth Private Day Tour from Athens & Audio Tour: $359
  • Ancient Corinth Private Tour from Corinth: $69
  • Ancient Corinth Self-Guided Audio Tour with 3D Representations: $7.76
  • Ancient Epidaurus Theater and Canal of Corinth Private Tour from Corinth: $83
  • Aphrodite island kayak tour-Tolo: $89
  • Biblical Corinth in 7 hours private tour: $468
  • 3D Representations & Audiovisual Self-Guided tour: $7.61
  • Cycling Tour at Nafplio: $113
  • Epidaurus: Admission Ticket for the Temple of Asclepius & Theatre: $9.99

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: $94
  • Ancient Corinth Canal Epidavrous Nafplio Private Tour 8Hours: $183
  • Apostle Paul's Footsteps in Athens Christian Private Tour 5Hours: $153
  • Athens Gems & Charms for the First Time Cruiser: $47
  • Athens Private Day Tour Best place to visit: $277
  • DELPHI and THERMOPYLAE: Full Day Private Tour Visit Arachova 8 H: $196
  • DISCOVER ATHENS IN 6HRS Private Tour BEST INTRODUCTION-FOR FIRST TIME VISITORS : $222
  • Delphi full day V.R audio guided tour with entry ticket: $49
  • EPIDAURUS & NAFPLIO : Private Full Day Tour From Athens 6 Hours : $166
  • Essential Athens Highlights Half-Day Private Tour with Flexible Options: $264
  • Food Experience in Athens including Unlimited Lunch : $64
  • Full Day Tour in Athens with Lunch: $155

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Corinth 16
    Athens 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Corinth

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

  • Winery Tour and Organic Fine Wine Tastings: $16
  • Corinth Winery Tour and Organic Fine Wine Tastings: $17
  • 3. Wine Tasting: Introduction to the wine region PDO Nemea: $75
  • 4. Wine Tasting: The ambassador grape varieties of Greece: $153
  • Nemea - Wine Tasting from Nafplion: $178
  • Nemea Wine Tour from Athens, Nafplio or Nemea with Oenologists: $181
  • 1. Wine Tour Nemea: The Lion of Nemea: $186
  • Wine tour at the footsteps of Hercules in Nemea from Nafplio: $190
  • 2. Wine Tour Nemea: The new wines of Nemea: $220
  • 5. Wine tasting: The modern wines of Greece with BBQ in the vineyard: $220
  • Mantineia Wine Tour with Winemaker in Tripoli from Nafplio: $277

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
  • Liquer tasting in Polykala's Distillery Show Room in Athens: $18
  • The Original Athens Pub Crawl - Athens Drunk Tour: $21
  • The NightCrawlers | Athens Pub Crawl: $22
  • Greek Wine Tasting: $23
  • Premium Wine Tastings: $36
  • Athens Speakeasy & Alternative Bar Crawl: Discover Hidden Gems: $39
  • Athens Old Town: Wine Tasting based on Ancient Greek Grapes: $40
  • Noble Greeks Acropolis Wine Tasting with Private Sommelier: $43
  • Greek Wine Tasting Experience with a Sommelier: $44
  • Organic and Vegan Indigenous Wine Tasting Private Experience: $44
  • 1 Hour Private Four Greek Wine Tasting and Food Pairing in Athens: $44


When comparing the travel costs between Corinth and Athens, 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 Corinth Expensive? and Is Athens Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Corinth or Athens?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 28% larger than the population of Corinth. When comparing the sizes of Corinth and Athens, 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 Corinth or Athens?

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 Corinth or Athens in the Summer?

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

Corinth is around the same temperature as Athens in the summer. The daily temperature in Corinth averages around 27°C (81°F) in July, and Athens fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In Corinth, it's very sunny this time of the year. Corinth usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Athens during summer. Corinth gets 357 hours of sunny skies, while Athens receives 357 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Corinth usually receives around the same amount of rain as Athens. Corinth gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Athens receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Corinth 27°C (81°F) 
    Athens 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Corinth or Athens in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Corinth as well as Athens. Also, 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.

In the autumn, Corinth is around the same temperature as Athens. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Corinth in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Athens averages at about 19°C (67°F).

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

Corinth usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Athens. Corinth gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Athens receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Corinth 19°C (67°F) 
    Athens 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Corinth or Athens in the Winter?

Both Athens and Corinth are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Corinth for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Athens because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Corinth is generally around the same temperature as Athens. Daily temperatures in Corinth average around 10°C (51°F), and Athens fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Corinth usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Athens during winter. Corinth gets 143 hours of sunny skies, while Athens receives 143 hours of full sun in the winter.

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


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

Should I visit Corinth or Athens in the Spring?

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

Corinth is around the same temperature as Athens in the spring. The daily temperature in Corinth averages around 16°C (60°F) in April, and Athens fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Corinth. In the spring, Corinth often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Athens. Corinth gets 226 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Athens receives 226 hours of full sun.

Corinth usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Athens. Corinth gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Athens receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Corinth 16°C (60°F) 
    Athens 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Athens and Corinth

Corinth Athens
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in)
May 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in) 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Jun 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Sep 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in) 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in) 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Dec 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)