A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Ios vs. The Hague for Nightlife, Backpackers, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Ios or The Hague?

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

Should I visit Ios or The Hague? 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. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, nightlife, and food.

The Hague

The Hague is a global, international, and bustling city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the nightlife, live music, and food.

Ios and The Hague: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Ios or The Hague?

Both The Hague and Ios have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Ios is very popular for its museums, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while The Hague attracts visitors for its music, shopping, and big city activities. Ios is more touristy than The Hague and is popular for its party hard atmosphere that attracts a younger and rowdier crowd. The Hague is famous for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy.

How is Ios different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Ios is very good for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

Ios is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Ios and The Hague offer great 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.

The Hague has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is Ios or The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Ios is an amazing island to visit for nightlife. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Ios has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. 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.

The people in The Hague know how to have a good time. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

Is Ios or The Hague Better for Music?

The Hague is notable for its live music scene. However, Ios is not a live music destination.

If you love music, you'll find something to enjoy in The Hague. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Ios is not a live music destination.

Is Ios or The Hague Better for Resorts?

Ios is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a resort destination.

Is Ios or The Hague Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Ios or The Hague Better for Beaches?

Ios is an amazing island to visit for its beaches. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a beach destination.

Is Ios or The Hague Better for Hiking?

Ios is very good for its hiking trails. However, The Hague 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.

The Hague is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Ios or The Hague?

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

The Hague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

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 The Hague Better for Families?

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

The Hague is a family-friendly place to visit. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.

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 The Hague Better for Couples?

Ios is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is Ios or The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ios is an amazing island to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Is Ios or The Hague Better for Students?

The Hague is very popular for students. However, Ios is not popular with students.

Many students frequent The Hague. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

Ios is not popular with students.

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

Both Ios and The Hague offer great 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.

The public transit in The Hague can get you to most places easily. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

Is Ios or The Hague a more walkable city?

Ios and The Hague both are nice when exploring on foot.

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

The Hague is a somewhat walkable island. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

For even more information, also check out Is Ios Worth Visiting? and Is The Hague Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Ios?

How long in Ios or The Hague?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ios and The Hague. In our opinion, Ios has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ios than The Hague. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Ios than The Hague. 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 The Hague 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.

One day in Ios or The Hague?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Ios. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Ios has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

When visiting The Hague, people usually allow for lots of time. 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 The Hague?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the party-oriented destination of Ios. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit The Hague for a weekend. When visiting The Hague, people usually allow for lots of time. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Ios or The Hague?

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the touristy island of Ios. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The big city destination of The Hague offers food and shopping. 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 The Hague?

Ios is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The Hague, a popular city, 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 Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.

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

Which is Bigger, Ios or The Hague?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 260 times larger than the population of Ios. When comparing the sizes of Ios and The Hague, 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.