A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ios vs. Finale Ligure for Nightlife, Beaches, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Ios or Finale Ligure?

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

Should I visit Ios or Finale Ligure? 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and museums.

Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is a historic, relaxing, and beautiful area. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Ios and Finale Ligure: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 Finale Ligure?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Ios. Although Ios and Finale Ligure are popular destinations, Ios has more sights and attractions for tourists. Ios is very popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Finale Ligure attracts visitors for its hiking. Ios is more touristy than Finale Ligure and is known for its party hard atmosphere that attracts a younger and rowdier crowd. It is also well known for Skarkos Archeological Site. Finale Ligure is famous for its sandy beaches and great food.

How is Ios different from Finale Ligure?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ios
Finale Ligure

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Ios and Finale Ligure.

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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Finale Ligure. The natural beauty is the main attraction to this part of Liguria, but there are also medieval towns such as Finalborgo and historic places such as Castel Gavone.


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

Ios
Finale Ligure

Both Ios and Finale Ligure offer high quality 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.

Finale Ligure has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood, local flavors, and even a couple of Michelin starred restaurants make this area a foodie's paradise. The dishes are rich in flavors and fine dining is common throughout the area.

Is Ios or Finale Ligure Better for Nightlife?

Ios
Finale Ligure

Ios is terrific for nightlife. However, Finale Ligure is a area with minimal options for nightlife and partying.

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.

Finale Ligure doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. This beautiful coastline is filled with fine dining restaurants and some nice wine and cocktail bars. It's not known for its party scene, but there are some nice places to spend the evening.

Is Ios or Finale Ligure Better for Resorts?

Ios
Finale Ligure

Ios is a great destination for its resorts. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its luxury resorts.

Ios is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

With a selection of resorts, Finale Ligure makes a nice vacation spot. You'll find a mix of smaller local hotels, many with pools, along the coastline. There are also a number of apartments to choose from.


Is Ios or Finale Ligure Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios
Finale Ligure

Ios is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Finale Ligure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Ios has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some nice snorkeling and diving areas around the island as well as vendors who organize snorkeling and dive trips.

Finale Ligure is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ios or Finale Ligure Better for Beaches?

Ios
Finale Ligure

Ios is terrific for its beaches. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beache.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Ios. 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.

Finale Ligure is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. This stretch of coastline has the longest sandy beaches in Liguria. You'll also find dramatic cliffs and beautiful views.

Is Ios or Finale Ligure Better for Hiking?

Ios
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is notable for the nearby hiking options. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its hiking trails.

Finale Ligure is a popular spot for hiking. There are many walking and trekking trails along the coast and through the hills. You'll pass medieval towns and beautiful viewpoints that let you experience the Ligurian coastline in all of its beauty.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Ios or Finale Ligure?

Ios
Finale Ligure

Both Ios and Finale Ligure are nice 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.

Finale Ligure has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find clothing boutiques, food specialty stores, and places to pick up anything that you may have forgotten.

Is Ios or Finale Ligure Better for Families?

Ios
Finale Ligure

Finale Ligure is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Ios is a mediocre island for its kid-friendly activities.

Finale Ligure is a very kid-friendly area. This section of the Italian Riviera has the longest sandy beach in Liguria. There are also places where kids can swim and just relax from sightseeing and travel.

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 Finale Ligure Better for Couples?

Ios
Finale Ligure

With fun activities for couples, both Ios and Finale Ligure make for a high quality 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.

Finale Ligure makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With its sandy beaches and seaside cliffs, this area makes a great romantic getaway. Italian food on the Italian Riviera - what could be more romantic.


Is Ios or Finale Ligure Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ios
Finale Ligure

Ios is terrific for backpackers. Also, Finale Ligure is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Ios is a mecca for backpackers and 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.

Finale Ligure is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While there aren't a lot of hostels, there are a few reasonably priced guesthouses to choose from.

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

Ios
Finale Ligure

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

Visitors to Ios can move around easily with public transportation. 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 Finale Ligure offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are both trains and buses through the area.

Is Ios or Finale Ligure a more walkable city?

Ios
Finale Ligure

Ios and Finale Ligure both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

Finale Ligure is a somewhat walkable island. There are many walking routes throughout this stretch of coastline.


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

Should I spend more time in Finale Ligure or Ios?

How long in Ios or Finale Ligure?

It's fun to spend time in either Ios or Finale Ligure. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Finale Ligure due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ios, and 2-4 days is enough time in Finale Ligure.

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

Couples should spend more time in Ios than Finale Ligure. 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 Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ios 1-3 
    Finale Ligure 2-4

One day in Ios or Finale Ligure?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the striking destination of Ios. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here.

With shopping and museums around the historic destination of Finale Ligure, there's plenty to do. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Finale Ligure?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Ios. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Many people visit Finale Ligure for a weekend. With museums and food around the beautiful area of Finale Ligure, there's plenty to do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Ios or Finale Ligure?

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the striking destination of Ios. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 destination of Finale Ligure offers food and shopping. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 Finale Ligure?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the beautiful island of Ios. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Finale Ligure, a popular area, is full of activities for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure is €143. 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 Finale Ligure in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ios 39
    Finale Ligure 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ios 78
    Finale Ligure 148
Compare Hotels in Ios and Finale Ligure

Looking for a hotel in Ios or Finale Ligure? 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 Finale Ligure


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 and Finale Ligure Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ios 16
    Finale Ligure 56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ios

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ios:

  • 1-Way Private Helicopter Transfer to the Greek Islands: $2,454

Is it cheaper to fly into Ios or Finale Ligure?

Prices for flights to both Finale Ligure 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
    Finale Ligure 34

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ios 26
    Finale Ligure 28

Tours and Activities in Ios

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

  • Ios Island Trekking Tours: Discover Ios Unexplored: $28
  • Ios Island: Speedboat Cruise from Mylopotas Beach: $53
  • 4-Hour Cruise of the Best Beaches: $64
  • From RIB Boat Trip to Sikinos Island and Winery Tour: $86
  • Electric Bike Tour Chora to Homer's Tomp: $110
  • Electric Bike Tour Chora to Diaseli Cheesery: $110
  • 5 -6 Hour Private Chora E-Bike Tours: $132
  • Private Orienteering Experience in Mylopotas: $165

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ios 33
    Finale Ligure 6.99

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ios and Finale Ligure, we can see that Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Finale Ligure 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 Finale Ligure Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ios or Finale Ligure?

Finale Ligure has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Ios. When comparing the sizes of Ios and Finale Ligure, 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.