A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Ios vs. Delphi for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Ios or Delphi?

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

Should I visit Ios or Delphi? 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 backpacker-friendly, historical, and party-oriented island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Delphi

Delphi is a fascinating, world-renowned, and historic archeological site. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Ios and Delphi: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Ios or Delphi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ios. Although Ios and Delphi are both popular with visitors, Ios has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ios is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Delphi is known for its museums. Delphi is more touristy than Ios and is popular for its world renowned archeological ruins and its connection to Greek mythology. Ios is popular for its party hard atmosphere that attracts a younger and rowdier crowd. It is also home to Skarkos Archeological Site.

How is Ios different from Delphi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ios
Delphi

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

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Delphi are among the most recognizable in the world. This is one of the most popular archeological sites in Greece. You will find the Temple of Apollo and most of the monuments are dedicated to this God. There is an Ancient Theatre, an Ancient Stadium, as well as an Archaeological Museum. There's also the Sanctuary of Athena Pronea and the Treasury of the Athenians.

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 Delphi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ios
Delphi

Ios is great for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Ios has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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.

Delphi offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are a number of restaurant options in the area, some of them offering spectacular views. There are traditional Greek restaurants as well as modern cafes with international cuisine. You'll find all of the standard Greek staples such as gyros, lamb chops, and seafood.

Is Ios or Delphi Better for Nightlife?

Ios
Delphi

Ios is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Delphi is not a good destination for nightlife.

Ios is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. 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.

People don't go to Delphi for the nightlife. This is a quiet town that shuts down in the evening. If you're looking for more of a nightlife scene, head to nearby Arachova, which is just a 10 minute drive away.

Is Ios or Delphi Better for Resorts?

Ios
Delphi

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

Ios is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Delphi is not a resort destination.


Is Ios or Delphi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios
Delphi

Ios is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Delphi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Ios has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are some nice snorkeling and diving areas around the island as well as vendors who organize snorkeling and dive trips.

Delphi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ios or Delphi Better for Beaches?

Ios
Delphi

Ios is renowned for the beach. However, Delphi is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Ios are among the best in the world. 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.

Delphi is not a beach destination.

Is Ios or Delphi Better for Hiking?

Ios
Delphi

Ios is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Delphi is not a hiking destination.

Ios has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Delphi is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ios or Delphi?

Ios
Delphi

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

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.

Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ios or Delphi Better for Families?

Ios
Delphi

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

Delphi is a family-friendly place to visit. The archeological ruins are world class, and kids who enjoy mythology and history will love this place. It's the perfect place for kids to let their imagination run wild.

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 Delphi Better for Couples?

Ios
Delphi

Ios is great for couples. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for romance.

Ios is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Delphi is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination that is a great addition to any couple's itinerary to Greece.


Is Ios or Delphi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ios
Delphi

Ios is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Ios, as it is a very popular island for budget travelers. 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.

Delphi is a good island to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two in the area, and the prices are reasonable for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Ios
Delphi

Ios is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Ios. 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.

Delphi has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to Delphi from Greece.

Is Ios or Delphi a more walkable city?

Ios
Delphi

Delphi is notable 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.

Delphi is a very walkable archeological site. Both the museum are archeological site are within walking distance of the town. The town is also small enough to explore 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 Delphi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Delphi or Ios?

How long in Ios or Delphi?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Ios or Delphi to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Ios than Delphi 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 Delphi.

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

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


  • How many days in Ios or Delphi? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ios 1-3 
    Delphi 1-2

One day in Ios or Delphi?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Ios. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

With food and museums around the historic destination of Delphi, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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 Delphi?

Ios 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.

Many people visit Delphi for a weekend. With museums and food around the fascinating archeological site of Delphi, there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Ios or Delphi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ios. Most people come for the beaches. 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.

The destination of Delphi offers food and museums. It offers something for everyone. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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 Delphi?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the backpacker-friendly destination of Ios. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Delphi, a popular archeological site, 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 2-Week Tours in Greece, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Delphi or Ios?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ios is €91, while the average daily cost in Delphi is €102. 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 Ios and Delphi in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ios 39
    Delphi 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ios 78
    Delphi 118
Compare Hotels in Ios and Delphi

Looking for a hotel in Ios or Delphi? 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 Ios


Hotels in Delphi


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: Ios Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ios 16
    Delphi 8.57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ios

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ios:

  • 1-Way Private Helicopter Transfer to the Greek Islands: $2,461

Is it cheaper to fly into Ios or Delphi?

Prices for flights to both Delphi and Ios 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
    Ios 33
    Delphi 36

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ios 26
    Delphi 11

Tours and Activities in Ios

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Ios are as follows:

  • 5 -6 Hour Private Chora E-Bike Tours: $133
  • Electric Bike Tour Chora to Diaseli Cheesery: $111
  • Electric Bike Tour Chora to Homer's Tomp: $111
  • From RIB Boat Trip to Sikinos Island and Winery Tour: $86
  • Ios Island Trekking Tours: Discover Ios Unexplored: $28
  • Ios Island: Speedboat Cruise from Mylopotas Beach: $53
  • 4-Hour Cruise of the Best Beaches: $64
  • Private Orienteering Experience in Mylopotas: $166

Tours and Activities in Delphi

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

  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in Earth's Navel: $4.68
  • Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.61
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Guide: $9.80
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • Self-Guided Virtual Tour Experience from your Home: $17
  • Self-guided audio tour in French or English: $22
  • Full Day Delphi Tour with Minivan: $98
  • Private Delphi tour: $109
  • Delphi Guided Walking Tour and Admission Ticket: $109
  • Delphi Navel Of Earth Hosios Loukas Full Day Private Tour: $185
  • Delphi&Thermopylae private full day tour: $206
  • Visit Thermopylae & Delphi Navel of Earth Private Tour 8H: $207

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ios 33
    Delphi 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Ios

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

  • Bar Crawl Ios Ticket in Cyclades: $39


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


Which is Bigger, Ios or Delphi?

Delphi has a larger population, and is about 310 times larger than the population of Ios. When comparing the sizes of Ios and Delphi, 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.