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

Should you visit Ios or Budapest?

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

Should I visit Ios or Budapest? 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 touristy, backpacker-friendly, and historical island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Budapest

Budapest is a bustling, cultural, and artistic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ios and Budapest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ios or Budapest?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Budapest than Ios, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Budapest is better known for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and big city activities, while Ios is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Ios is well known for its party hard atmosphere that attracts a younger and rowdier crowd. Budapest is well known for its thermal hot springs, European spas, rich culture, and wild nightlife scene. Also, Budapest is famous for The Hungarian Parliament Building.

How is Ios different from Budapest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Budapest is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its museums and history.

Budapest offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Famous sights include the Buda Castle and Castle Hill, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and St. Stephen's Basilica.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Ios. 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.

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

Ios is great for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Budapest is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Ios has a huge number of terrific restaurants. 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.

Budapest may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Traditional dishes tend to be heavy on the meat and bread. They make good comfort food and are very filling meals. The city also has many great pastry shops. Make sure you check out the stuffed cabbage, goulash, and chimney cake.

Is Ios or Budapest Better for Nightlife?

Ios is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Budapest is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its evening party scene.

Ios is a must-see party destination. 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.

Budapest has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city's active nightlife includes dance clubs, local pubs, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Is Ios or Budapest Better for Resorts?

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

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Ios. 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.

Budapest is not a resort destination.

Is Ios or Budapest Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Ios. There are some nice snorkeling and diving areas around the island as well as vendors who organize snorkeling and dive trips.

Budapest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ios or Budapest Better for Beaches?

Ios is terrific for the beache. However, Budapest is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Ios is a very popular vacation 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.

Budapest is not a beach destination.

Is Ios or Budapest Better for its Old Town?

Budapest is notable for its old town. However, Ios does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Budapest. The city grew from the merging of two towns, Buda and Pest, which were divided by the Danube River. Buda is the more historical part of town and Pest is more modern.

Ios does not have a historic old town.

Is Ios or Budapest Better for Hiking?

Ios is very good for hiking. However, Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting 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.

Budapest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ios or Budapest?

Budapest is notable for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

Budapest is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has a diverse shopping scene that you can experience by visiting the Central Market or Váci Street.

Ios has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. 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.

Is Ios or Budapest Better for Families?

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

Budapest is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has the typical trampoline parks and playgrounds, but kids will also enjoy the baths and pools around town. Do take note that most of the museums are less hands on than kids prefer.

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 Budapest Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Ios and Budapest make for a great 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.

Budapest makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With it's many beautiful neighborhoods, and unique entertainment options including the opera, this is a fun city for couples. The baths and spas also make for a great experience for couples.

Is Ios or Budapest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Ios and Budapest are world-class destinations for backpackers.

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.

A large number of backpackers visit Budapest, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. The city is more affordable than many large cities and it has a number of fun hostels to choose from. There's a good backpacker vibe around town with many places to meet and hang out with other travelers.

Is Ios or Budapest Better for Students?

Budapest is very popular for students. However, Ios is not popular with students.

Many students frequent Budapest. The city has a great international vibe with several good universities that are welcoming to international students that are studying abroad.

Ios is not popular with students.

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

Budapest is very popular for its public transit. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Budapest has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The metro, trams, and buses make it easy to get around town.

The public transit in Ios can get you to most places 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.

Is Ios or Budapest a more walkable city?

Budapest 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 Budapest on foot. Pest is very flat, making for an easy stroll, while Buda is more hilly.

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 Budapest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Budapest or Ios?

How long in Ios or Budapest?

In either Ios or Budapest, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Budapest than Ios because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ios, and 2-5 days is enough time in Budapest.

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

Couples should spend more time in Ios than Budapest. 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 Budapest than Ios 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 Budapest.

One day in Ios or Budapest?

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.

When visiting Budapest, people usually allow for lots of time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Ios or Budapest?

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 Budapest for a weekend. When visiting Budapest, people usually allow for lots of time. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Ios or Budapest?

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.

When visiting Budapest, people usually allow for lots of time. Many people spend five days here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Ios or Budapest?

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.

Budapest, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. 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 10-Day Tours from Budapest, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Budapest.

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

Which is Bigger, Ios or Budapest?

Budapest has a larger population, and is about 940 times larger than the population of Ios. When comparing the sizes of Ios and Budapest, 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.