A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ios vs. Palma de Mallorca for Nightlife, Beaches, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Ios or Palma de Mallorca?

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

Should I visit Ios or Palma de Mallorca? 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 striking, touristy, and backpacker-friendly island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a beautiful, stunning, and cultural island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Ios and Palma de Mallorca: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


How is Ios different from Palma de Mallorca?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Ios or Palma de Mallorca Better for Food?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

Both Ios and Palma de Mallorca offer good 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.

Palma de Mallorca has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.


Is Ios or Palma de Mallorca Better for Nightlife?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

Evening events are similar in both Ios and Palma de Mallorca.

Ios is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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 head to Palma de Mallorca just to party. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

Is Ios or Palma de Mallorca Better for Resorts?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

Ios and Palma de Mallorca offer a relatively similar set of luxury resort options.

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.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Palma de Mallorca. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Is Ios or Palma de Mallorca Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

There's scuba diving or snorkeling available in both Ios and Palma de Mallorca.

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.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Palma de Mallorca. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Is Ios or Palma de Mallorca Better for Beaches?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Ios and Palma de Mallorca are good choices.

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.

With world-famous beaches, Palma de Mallorca is a very popular vacation destination. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.


Is Ios or Palma de Mallorca Better for Hiking?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

If you're looking to go hiking, Ios and Palma de Mallorca both have various trails.

Ios is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Many people include a hike when visiting Palma de Mallorca. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Is Ios or Palma de Mallorca Better for Shopping?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

Both Ios and Palma de Mallorca are good 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.

Palma de Mallorca has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.

Is Ios or Palma de Mallorca Better for Families?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

There's generally more to do with your family in Palma de Mallorca than Ios.

Palma de Mallorca is a very kid-friendly island. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

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 Palma de Mallorca Better for Couples?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

With fun activities for couples, both Ios and Palma de Mallorca make for a good 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.

Palma de Mallorca is a good island for couples to visit. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.


Is Ios or Palma de Mallorca Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

Both Ios and Palma de Mallorca are popular 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.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Palma de Mallorca. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

Is Ios or Palma de Mallorca Better for Public Transit?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

Both Ios and Palma de Mallorca offer public transit options.

Ios has some very good public transit options. 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.

Palma de Mallorca has some public transit options. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

Is Ios or Palma de Mallorca a more walkable city?

Ios
Palma de Mallorca

Ios and Palma de Mallorca both are comparable when exploring on foot.

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

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable island. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.

Should I spend more time in Palma de Mallorca or Ios?

How long in Ios or Palma de Mallorca?

In either Ios or Palma de Mallorca, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than Ios because of the overall number of sights and activities.

The ideal length of time for a trip to Ios is 1-3 days, and the ideal length of time for a trip to Palma de Mallorca is 3-5 days.


  • How many days in Ios or Palma de Mallorca? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ios 1-3 
    Palma de Mallorca 3-5

One day in Ios or Palma de Mallorca?

With shopping and museums around the destination of Ios, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

With shopping and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Palma de Mallorca, there's plenty to do. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Palma de Mallorca?

With museums and nightlife around the touristy island of Ios, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Many people visit Palma de Mallorca for a weekend. With nightlife and live music around the historic island of Palma de Mallorca, there's plenty to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Ios or Palma de Mallorca?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Ios. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

With live music and food around the destination of Palma de Mallorca, there's plenty to do. Many people spend five days here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

A week in Ios or Palma de Mallorca?

Ios is a popular choice for travelers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Palma de Mallorca, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

Which city is cheaper, Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca is €139. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Ios and Palma de Mallorca in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ios 39
    Palma de Mallorca 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ios 78
    Palma de Mallorca 138
Compare Hotels in Ios and Palma de Mallorca

Looking for a hotel in Ios or Palma de Mallorca? 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 Palma de Mallorca


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 Palma de Mallorca Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ios 16
    Palma de Mallorca 25

Typical Local Transportation prices in Palma de Mallorca

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Palma de Mallorca are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    6.80
  • Bus Ride
    1.25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palma de Mallorca

Also for Palma de Mallorca, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Airport Transfer: Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) to Palma de Mallorca: $24
  • Palma de Mallorca Half Day Sightseeing Tour with Transfers: $26
  • Private Transfer: Palma to Palma de Mallorca International Airport (PMI): $48
  • Private Transfer: Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI) to Palma: $48
  • Palma: Private Transfer to/from Mallorca Airport (PMI): $48
  • Mallorca: Private Transfer To/From Palma de Mallorca Airport: $49
  • Private Departure Transfer from Palma de Mallorca to Palma de Mallorca Terminal: $50
  • Arrival Transfer from Palma de Mallorca Airport PMI to Palma in Private Car: $69
  • Arrival Private Transfer Palma de Mallorca Airport PMI to Palma by Business Car: $73
  • Arrival Transfer from Palma de Mallorca Airport PMI to Palma in Private Van: $73
  • Transfer from Palma Airport (Majorca) to Magaluf (Any Hotel): $83
  • Arrival Private Transfers : Mallorca Airport PMI to Palma in Business Car: $84

Is it cheaper to fly into Ios or Palma de Mallorca?

Prices for flights to both Palma de Mallorca 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
    Palma de Mallorca 45

Typical Food prices in Palma de Mallorca

For Palma de Mallorca, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Soda
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Palma de Mallorca

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

  • Palma: Walking Food Tour: $97
  • Show Cooking Paella: $124

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ios 26
    Palma de Mallorca 34

Tours and Activities in Ios

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

  • From Ios to Sikinos Island & Winery Tour: $96
  • Half Day Sunset Sailboat tour (afternoon): $210
  • Ios Speed Boat Adventure: $54

Tours and Activities in Palma de Mallorca

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

  • Alcudia Open Bus City Tour in Mallorca: $21
  • Palma de Mallorca Sightseeing Day Tour: $24
  • El Arenal, Mallorca: Bay of Palma Boat Tour: $27
  • Full-Day Tour with Departure Options: $29
  • Mallorca: Bike Tour Off-the-Beaten-Track: $43
  • Palma de Mallorca Segway Ninebot Tour: $56
  • Express Tour to Drach Caves and Portocristo: $60
  • Palma: 2-Hour Segway Tour: $63
  • From 5-Hour Catamaran Cruise: $64
  • Segway Old Town Tour in Alcudia: $77
  • Segway Lake Tour in Alcudia: $77
  • Mallorca Coasteering Adventure: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ios 33
    Palma de Mallorca 29

Typical Alcohol prices in Palma de Mallorca

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Palma de Mallorca are as follows:


  • Coffee
    3.10

Sample the Local Flavors in Palma de Mallorca

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Palma de Mallorca:

  • Wine Tasting Tour: $111


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Ios and Palma de Mallorca, we can see that Palma de Mallorca 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 Palma de Mallorca would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Palma de Mallorca than you might in Ios.

Budget Your Trip

Budget Your Trip has average travel costs for thousands of cities around the world, all provided by other travelers. You can also register to organize your spending by category and location with graphs, maps, charts, and tables.

Share This Page
Pin This Page
Ios vs. Palma de Mallorca Travel Comparison

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.