A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Kalampaka (Meteora) vs. Ios for Attractions, Backpackers, Food, and Couples

Should you visit Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Kalampaka (Meteora) and Ios. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a spiritual, dramatic, and historic destination. 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

Ios is a touristy, backpacker-friendly, and historical island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Kalampaka (Meteora) and Ios: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Ios than Kalampaka (Meteora), as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Ios is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Kalampaka (Meteora) is more popular for its museums. Kalampaka (Meteora) is well known for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations. Ios is well known for its party hard atmosphere that attracts a younger and rowdier crowd. Also, Ios is famous for Skarkos Archeological Site.

How is Kalampaka (Meteora) different from Ios?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios?

Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) are among the most recognizable in the world. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ios is a very popular place for its restaurants. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Ios has a huge number of terrific 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.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kalampaka (Meteora) area. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios Better for Nightlife?

Ios is terrific for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios Better for Resorts?

Ios is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Ios to choose from. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a resort destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Ios is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Ios. There are some nice snorkeling and diving areas around the island as well as vendors who organize snorkeling and dive trips.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios Better for Beaches?

Ios is terrific for the beache. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Ios offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios Better for Hiking?

Ios is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.

Ios offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios?

Ios is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Ios. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios Better for Families?

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a popular place for its family-friendly activities. However, Ios is a mediocre island for its kid-friendly activities.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a family-friendly place to visit. There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios Better for Couples?

Ios is a very popular place for its romantic activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a good destination for couples to visit. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ios is terrific for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Ios is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Ios is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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.

Public transit is generally limited in Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

Is Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios a more walkable city?

Ios is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting? and Is Ios Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Ios or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

How long in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Ios. In our opinion, Ios has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Ios than Kalampaka (Meteora). In general, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Kalampaka (Meteora), and 1-3 days is enough time in Ios.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ios than Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios?

With food and museums around the spiritual destination of Kalampaka (Meteora), there's plenty to do. One of the main draws to the area is the museums. 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.

In Ios, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios?

Many people visit Kalampaka (Meteora) for a weekend. With museums and food around the historic destination of Kalampaka (Meteora), 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.

Many people visit Ios for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Most people come for the beaches. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Ios, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios?

The destination of Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

The beautiful destination of Ios offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios?

Kalampaka (Meteora), a popular destination, 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Ios. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This island offers something for everyone. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, and The Best Budget Tours to Greece.

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

Which is Bigger, Kalampaka (Meteora) or Ios?

Kalampaka (Meteora) has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Ios. When comparing the sizes of Kalampaka (Meteora) and Ios, 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.