A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ios vs. Saint-Tropez for Nightlife, Resorts, Scuba Diving & Snorkeling, and Beaches

Should you visit Ios or Saint-Tropez?

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

Should I visit Ios or Saint-Tropez? 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 historical, party-oriented, and vibrant island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is a extravagant, luxurious, and glamourous resort town. 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 shopping.

Ios and Saint-Tropez: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Ios or Saint-Tropez?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ios than Saint-Tropez, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ios is better known for its museums, food, beaches, and hiking, while Saint-Tropez is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Ios is well known for its party hard atmosphere that attracts a younger and rowdier crowd. Also, Ios is famous for Skarkos Archeological Site. Saint-Tropez is well known for its trendy beach clubs around the Bay of Pampelonne, as well as its popularity with celebrities and the extravagantly wealthy.

How is Ios different from Saint-Tropez?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Ios is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Saint-Tropez does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Ios or Saint-Tropez? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Ios is a great destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Saint-Tropez is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food is all about the local flavors. You'll find plenty of local seafood as well as local organic meats, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, garlic, and truffles. Cheese is a common ingredient as well. There are many different soups and stews, and bouillabaisse is a common fish soup found in the restaurants around town. Daube is another popular stew that is made with beef. Ratatouille is a vegetable casserole that has made a name for itself both inside and outside of France. And, of course, you have to try the local salads and pastries. Because it's such a touristy area, there are many restaurants geared specifically to the tourists, many of which are overpriced.

Is Ios or Saint-Tropez Better for Nightlife?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Evening events are first-rate in both Ios and Saint-Tropez.

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 Saint-Tropez just to party. It is a place to see and be seen, so if you're looking for A-list celebrities, glamourous yacht parties, and ritzy dance clubs, then this is your place. While the nightlife scene is filled with extravagance, there are still laid back clubs where you can sip a cocktail in style. The best season to come and party is during the summer months, but you'll still find plenty to do throughout the year.

Is Ios or Saint-Tropez Better for Resorts?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its resorts. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its luxury resorts.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Saint-Tropez is a great choice. Luxury and extravagance is what this resort town is all about. If you have the money to spend, you'll have no trouble finding a glamourous villa or luxury hotel where you can relax, party, or soak up the French Riviera sun.

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.


Is Ios or Saint-Tropez Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving.

The clear water and abundant marine life make Saint-Tropez a world-class scuba diving and snorkeling destination. The Gulf of Saint Tropez is one of the best places to snorkel and scuba dive along the French Riviera. There are wreck dives including the most famous, The Rubis, a submarine that is surrounded by marine life. Although you're not allowed to enter the vessel, there is still plenty to see. There are also plenty of dive spots that feature rock formations, schools of fish, and lobsters.

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.

Is Ios or Saint-Tropez Better for Beaches?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Ios is an amazing island to visit for the beache. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Saint-Tropez is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. The beaches are frequented by celebrities, so you'll find plenty of glitz and glamour by the water. For some of the best beaches, you'll want to head a little out of town. The most famous beach in the area is Pampelonne Beach which is popular with Hollywood celebrities during the summer months. Bouillabaisse Beach is the place to go if you want to look at the yachts, but for a more natural setting head to Graniers Beach.

Is Ios or Saint-Tropez Better for Hiking?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Ios is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Saint-Tropez is not a hiking destination.

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.

Saint-Tropez is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Ios or Saint-Tropez?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its shopping opportunities. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Saint-Tropez make it a world-class shopping destination. Surrounded by luxury, shopping is a must in this glamourous resort town. There are international luxury brands as well as local designer boutiques. Whether you're looking for yachting clothes, cigars, jewelry, or perfume, this is one of the best shopping destinations along the Cote d'Azur. Art is a particularly popular item to purchase while you're in town.

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 Saint-Tropez Better for Families?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its family-friendly activities. However, Ios is a mediocre island for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Saint-Tropez is a very family-friendly destination. With great beaches, several amusement parks, waterparks, and even Marineland, there are an endless supply of activities for kids. There's also a zoo and nature reserve for wildlife enthusiasts. For adventure lovers, there are a number of different watersports to try and if the weather isn't cooperating, there are a few good museums and other indoor activities as well.

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 Saint-Tropez Better for Couples?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Ios is not as famous, but is still a good island to visit for couples.

Saint-Tropez makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Whether you're honeymooning or taking a short getaway to the French Riviera, this is a great option for couples. You can take a stroll at sunset, relax on one of the beautiful beaches, dine on local seafood, and soak up the rich local culture. The romance and beauty of this French Riviera city make it a world class romantic destination.

Ios makes for a fun place to visit for 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.


Is Ios or Saint-Tropez Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Ios is an amazing island to visit for backpackers. Also, Saint-Tropez is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Saint-Tropez is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. For many backpackers it may seem cost prohibitive to visit the French Riviera, but for those with the money, it is well worth the splurge. You can save some money by staying outside of town or finding a vacation rental where you can cook meals. There are also hostels and rooms in local homes that come at a more reasonable price.

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

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Ios is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects many parts of the area.

Is Ios or Saint-Tropez a more walkable city?

Ios
Saint-Tropez

Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez on foot. It's easy to explore many places on foot, passing by beautiful beaches, stunning views, impressive yachts, and glamourous villas.

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 Saint-Tropez Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint-Tropez or Ios?

How long in Ios or Saint-Tropez?

It's fun to spend time in either Ios or Saint-Tropez. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ios than Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ios 1-3 
    Saint-Tropez 2-4

One day in Ios or Saint-Tropez?

In Ios, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this backpacker-friendly island offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this island.

With nightlife and food around the celebrity-filled destination of Saint-Tropez, 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 Saint-Tropez?

Ios is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Many people visit Saint-Tropez for a weekend. With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the opulent resort town of Saint-Tropez, there's plenty to do. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Ios or Saint-Tropez?

You'll find nightlife and food around the touristy destination of Ios. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

The destination of Saint-Tropez offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Saint-Tropez?

Ios is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Saint-Tropez, a popular resort town, 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.


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 Food and Culinary Tours in France, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Tropez 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 Saint-Tropez is €148. 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 Saint-Tropez in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ios 39
    Saint-Tropez 86
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ios 78
    Saint-Tropez 172
Compare Hotels in Ios and Saint-Tropez

Looking for a hotel in Ios or Saint-Tropez? 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 Saint-Tropez


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 Saint-Tropez Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ios 16
    Saint-Tropez 34

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Saint-Tropez

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Saint-Tropez:

  • Santorini Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Santorini: $60
  • Private Direct Transfer From Saint Tropez to Nice: $162
  • Private Direct Transfer From Saint Tropez to Marseille: $186
  • Private Transfer From Saint Tropez To Nice, 2 Hour Stop in Cannes: $222
  • Private Transfer From Saint Tropez to Marseille, 2 Hour Stop: $244
  • Private Direct Transfer From Saint Tropez to Monaco: $260

Is it cheaper to fly into Ios or Saint-Tropez?

Prices for flights to both Saint-Tropez 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
    Saint-Tropez 38

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Saint-Tropez

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Saint-Tropez.

  • Saint Tropez : Food tour and highlights: $119
  • Saint Tropez unical food tour !: $121

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ios 26
    Saint-Tropez 26

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

Tours and Activities in Saint-Tropez

Here are a few actual costs in Saint-Tropez for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Guided walking tour of Saint Tropez: $27
  • Kayak Experience in Ramatuelle Reserve: $41
  • FREJUS - ACTIVITY and ADVENTURE in Survival Techniques KATALANTA: $50
  • Ramatuelle: Tracks & Tasting Winery Tour by Mountain E-Bike: $81
  • Saint Tropez : Netflix Emily in Paris Tour: $103
  • From BB to Emily in Paris: the beauties' tour of Saint Tropez: $105
  • Saint Tropez : Private Walking tour with a Tropezienne guide: $130
  • From Cannes: St Tropez & Port Grimaud Sightseeing Tour: $136
  • From Nice: St Tropez & Port Grimaud Full Day Tour: $136
  • Saint Tropez : tour and sweet tasting: $163
  • Saint Tropez Guided Tour and Tarte Tropezienne Tasting: $166
  • 2 hours - Private tour of Saint Tropez with a local guide!: $243

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ios 33
    Saint-Tropez 19

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Saint-Tropez

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

  • Horse riding in the vineyards of Grimaud + wine tasting: $87
  • Horse back riding + wine tasting in Ramatuelle: $97
  • Small group wine tour from Saint-Tropez: $118
  • Provence Day, Saint Tropez Grimaud village Wine tasting: $119
  • Small group wine tour in the vineyards of the Gulf of St-Tropez: $120
  • Private 1/2 day wine tour St-Tropez: $131
  • Private wine tour in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez: $253
  • Vintage wine tour in Saint-Tropez: $597


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


Which is Bigger, Ios or Saint-Tropez?

Saint-Tropez has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Ios. When comparing the sizes of Ios and Saint-Tropez, 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.