A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ios vs. Bellagio for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Ios or Bellagio?

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

Should I visit Ios or Bellagio? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Ios

Ios is a beautiful, striking, and touristy island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Bellagio

Bellagio is a glamorous, opulent, and beautiful town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and shopping.

Ios and Bellagio: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ios or Bellagio?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ios than Bellagio, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ios is better known for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Bellagio is more popular for its small town charm. Bellagio is more touristy than Ios and is known for its luxurious villas, stunning views, and charming boutique lined streets. Ios is well known for its party hard atmosphere that attracts a younger and rowdier crowd. Also, Ios is famous for Skarkos Archeological Site.

How is Ios different from Bellagio?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Ios or Bellagio?

Ios is a island with good options for its museums and landmarks. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

Ios offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. If you can pull yourself away from the beaches or parties, there are a number of archaeological and historic sights around the island. Churches like Panayia Gremiotissa Church and Evangelisimos Cathedral are worth visiting. Other attractions include Odysseas Elytis Theatre, Homer’s Tomb, and Skarkos Hill.

While most people don't head to Bellagio specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The town's atmosphere and views are what attract the tourists, but if you're looking for historical sights, check out the Basilica of San Giacomo.

Is the Food Better in Ios or Bellagio? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Ios and Bellagio offer excellent local cuisine and restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Ios. Most of the island's restaurants are found in the port area or in the town of Chora, but you'll also find several options near Mylopotas Beach. Most restaurants offer typical Greek dishes, but they often have a local twist. You'll often find local cheeses or a slightly different take on an old favorite. Popular ingredients include cheese, yogurt, fish, olives, honey, olive oil, and grains. Common meats include lamb, beef, and even rabbit, but seafood is obviously popular as well.

Bellagio has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. You'll find many fine dining restaurants that offer a luxurious atmosphere and well crafted dishes. There are also Michelin starred restaurants in town which offer a unique, world-class experience.

Is Ios or Bellagio Better for Nightlife?

Ios is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Ios is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. This is one of the quintessential party islands in Greece. Many young backpackers come here just to party, particularly during the summer months. You'll find many parties start around midnight or later and carry on well into the morning. Most of the clubs and bars are around the main square and nearby streets in Chora, but there are also clubs spread throughout the town. Outside of town, Mylopotas Beach is another popular party area.

Bellagio doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The town is filled with opulence and luxury, and the nightlife is no exception. Sip cocktails and fine wine while you listen to music or take in the atmosphere.

Is Ios or Bellagio Better for Resorts?

Ios is a great destination for its resorts. However, Bellagio is not a resort destination.

In Ios, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of resort areas around the island with families preferring the areas around Yialos Beach and Manganari Beach. Partiers usually head to Chora and the great beaches near Mylopotas, but if you want to escape the crowds, head to Agia Theodoti.

Bellagio is not a resort destination.

Is Ios or Bellagio Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios is a island with good options for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bellagio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Ios. There are some nice snorkeling and diving areas around the island as well as vendors who organize snorkeling and dive trips.

Bellagio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ios or Bellagio Better for Beaches?

Ios is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Bellagio is not a beach destination.

Ios is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The island has beautiful sandy beaches that range from family-friendly to party hard. There are popular and more developed beaches near Chora like Koumbara and Mylopotas as well as more relaxing beaches a little more removed like Kalamos and Manganari. Because of their striking beauty, the beaches around the island have been featured in a few films.

Bellagio is not a beach destination.

Is Ios or Bellagio Better for Hiking?

Ios is a island with good options for its hiking experiences. However, Bellagio is not a hiking destination.

Plenty of visitors go hiking around Ios. The island has a barren and rocky landscape that offers spectacular views. Many of the hikes are quite challenging, but there are a few options for beginners as well. Many also pass by the spectacular ruins around the island.

Bellagio is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ios or Bellagio?

Both Ios and Bellagio are notable shopping destinations.

Ios offers some nice shopping areas. There are a number of local souvenirs that you can pick up. Many visitors prefer to take home unique items such as a tin of olives or olive oil. Jewelry, honey, and local ceramics also make good gifts.

Bellagio has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find traditional shops mixed in with modern stores. There are high end brands and more local specialty markets that are fun to peruse.

Is Ios or Bellagio Better for Families?

Bellagio is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Ios is a mediocre island for its kid-friendly activities.

Bellagio is a family-friendly place to visit. The town has a playground, a small train, and a Museum of Navigational Instruments that kids may enjoy. There's also a beach where everyone can take a swim.

Ios is not always a place people visit with their families. While the island is known as one of the top party destinations in Greece, it also has a more cultural side. There are impressive archaeological ruins and stunning beaches that kids will enjoy. The island also has snorkeling and plenty of kid-friendly food. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are in Manganari Bay and Yialos Beach is a nice family-friendly area.

Is Ios or Bellagio Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Ios and Bellagio make for a excellent place to visit.

Ios is a very popular place to visit for couples. Because it's so close to Santorini, many people visit as a day trip. While the island is synonymous with partying, there are still many world-class archaeological sites and romantic beaches that make for an active and fun honeymoon. It's a bit quieter outside of the peak summer months.

Bellagio makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The town is a favorite on Lake Como, and couples will appreciate its charming atmosphere and beautiful lake front setting. In a few hours you can soak up the character and magic or this beautiful area.

Is Ios or Bellagio Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ios is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Bellagio is a town with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Ios. For many backpackers, partying in Ios is a quintessential European experience. Nights are spent at all night clubs or beach raves, while days are spent nursing a hangover on the beach. There are plenty of venues that cater to the budget crowd, with cheap food available at different places.

Bellagio is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Many people visit the town as a day trip, as it can easily be explored in a few hours. Backpackers who don't want to pay the high hotel prices can still enjoy the setting without staying the night.

Is Ios or Bellagio Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ios is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Bellagio is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Ios can get you around easily. There are public buses that travel to most of the tourist sights around the island including several of the more remote beaches like Manganari and Agia Theodoti.

While Bellagio offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses and ferries to town, or you can take a taxi.

Is Ios or Bellagio a more walkable city?

Bellagio is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its ease of walking around.

It is easy to get around Bellagio on foot. The town is small and compact with many pedestrian streets that are best explored on foot.

Ios is a somewhat walkable island. Chora is the most walkable part of the island.

For even more information, also check out Is Ios Worth Visiting? and Is Bellagio Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bellagio or Ios?

How long in Ios or Bellagio?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ios or Bellagio to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ios than Bellagio because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ios, and 1-2 days is enough time in Bellagio.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ios than Bellagio 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 Ios.

One day in Ios or Bellagio?

The beautiful island of Ios offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Bellagio is a small town with plenty to do. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Ios or Bellagio?

Ios is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ios, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Many people visit Bellagio for a weekend. Bellagio might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Ios or Bellagio?

Ios is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Because Bellagio is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. It offers something for everyone. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

A week in Ios or Bellagio?

Ios is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Bellagio, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best 3-Day Tours in Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ios and Bellagio, we can see that Bellagio is more expensive. And not only is Ios much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ios would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ios 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 Bellagio would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Bellagio than you might in Ios.

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

Which is Bigger, Ios or Bellagio?

Bellagio has a larger population, and is about 64% larger than the population of Ios. When comparing the sizes of Ios and Bellagio, 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.