A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mykonos vs. Bucharest for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Mykonos or Bucharest?

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 Mykonos and Bucharest. 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.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a picturesque, postcard perfect, and glamourous Greek island. The famous beauty of Mykonos is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Mykonos travel costs.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a undiscovered, cultural, and charming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Bucharest travel costs.

Mykonos and Bucharest: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Bucharest?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Mykonos than Bucharest. While Bucharest is larger than Mykonos, Mykonos has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Mykonos is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Bucharest is more popular for its big city activities. Mykonos is more touristy than Bucharest and is known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Also, Mykonos is famous for the traditional windmills near Chora. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Mykonos different from Bucharest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mykonos or Bucharest?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Plenty of people visit the notable sights and museums in both Mykonos and Bucharest.

Mykonos offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.


Is the Food Better in Mykonos or Bucharest? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Mykonos is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Mykonos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Mykonos or Bucharest Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Mykonos is renowned for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Mykonos is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Mykonos or Bucharest Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Mykonos is renowned for its resorts. However, Bucharest is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Mykonos for its luxury resorts. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

Bucharest is not a resort destination.


Is Mykonos or Bucharest Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Mykonos is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bucharest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Bucharest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Bucharest Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Mykonos is well known for the beach. However, Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Mykonos for it's beautiful beaches. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Is Mykonos or Bucharest Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Mykonos is renowned for its old town. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Mykonos is one of the most recognized in the world. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets. It's a scenic area that has long been popular for its beautiful setting.

Bucharest has an old town worth visiting. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.


Is Mykonos or Bucharest Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Mykonos is not so good for its hiking experiences. However, Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

A few hiking trails can be found near Mykonos. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Bucharest?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Mykonos is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Mykonos or Bucharest More Beautiful?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Mykonos is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Bucharest is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Mykonos is one of the main draws. With its stunning blue waters and postcard perfect towns, this island is filled with beauty.

Bucharest is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Mykonos or Bucharest Better for Families?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Most people don't think of either Mykonos or Bucharest as a family destination.

Mykonos is not the most family-friendly destination. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

Bucharest is not always a place people visit with their families. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Mykonos or Bucharest Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Mykonos is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Mykonos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Mykonos or Bucharest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Bucharest is a good destination for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.


Is Mykonos or Bucharest Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Bucharest is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Bucharest has some very good public transit options. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Mykonos has some public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

Is Mykonos or Bucharest a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Bucharest

Mykonos is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Mykonos on foot is easy. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable Greek island. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

For even more information, also check out Is Mykonos Worth Visiting? and Is Bucharest Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bucharest or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Bucharest?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mykonos and Bucharest. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mykonos than in Bucharest. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bucharest.

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

Couples should spend more time in Mykonos than Bucharest. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mykonos that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mykonos than Bucharest 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 Mykonos.


  • How many days in Mykonos or Bucharest? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Bucharest 1-3

One day in Mykonos or Bucharest?

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint Greek island of Mykonos. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Bucharest, you'll find nightlife and food. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Mykonos or Bucharest?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the opulent destination of Mykonos. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This Greek island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Bucharest, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Bucharest has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Bucharest?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the ritzy Greek island of Mykonos. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this Greek island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this Greek island has to offer.

Bucharest is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Mykonos or Bucharest?

Mykonos 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bucharest. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Greece, The Best Bicycle Tours in Greece, The Best Luxury Tours to Romania, and The Best Budget Tours to Romania.


Which place is cheaper, Bucharest or Mykonos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €237, while the average daily cost in Bucharest is €169. 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 Mykonos and Bucharest in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Bucharest 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Bucharest 118
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Bucharest

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Bucharest? 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 Mykonos


Hotels in Bucharest


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: Mykonos Hotel Prices and Bucharest Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Bucharest 24
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • Delos Island: Roundtrip Boat Transfer from Mykonos Island: $32
  • From Helicopter Transfer to Athens or Greek Island: $2,609
  • Minibus Private Transfer from Mykonos Airport JMK to Mykonos by : $88
  • Mykonos Airport (JMK) to Mykonos City - Arrival Private Transfer: $36
  • Mykonos Airport Transfer: $77
  • Mykonos Airport or Port from/to Point to Point Private Transfers: $215
  • Mykonos Airport to Mykonos Town Private Transfer: $48
  • Mykonos Airport: Private Mykonos, Elia, or Kalafati Transfer: $83
  • Mykonos Catamaran Delos Rhenia Cruise with Lunch and Transfer: $188
  • Mykonos Catamaran Sunset Semi private Cruise with transfer: $155
  • Mykonos Port Transfer: $77
  • Mykonos Port or Airport Private Transfer : $77

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bucharest

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Bucharest:

  • Bucharest Airport Transfer: $11
  • Bucuresti: Transfer Therme Bucuresti different hours: $12
  • Express Transfer to Therme Bucuresti: $15
  • Airport Transfer: $15
  • Therme Bucharest Express Shuttle Transfer: $16
  • Airport Transfer -One way Bucharest Otopeni Henri Coandă Airport : $18
  • Bucharest Transfer Service: $19
  • Bucharest Private Airport Transfer from or to City Center Hotel: $22
  • Bucharest Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Tecuci: $23
  • Bucharest Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Barlad: $25
  • Bucharest Airport: Bus Transfer to/from Vaslui OMV: $27
  • Bucharest Otopeni Airport OTP to Bucharest City Center Hotel - private transfer: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Bucharest?

Prices for flights to both Bucharest and Mykonos 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
    Mykonos 48
    Bucharest 94
Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Mykonos.

  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $71
  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner with Drinks in Mykonos: $72
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $120
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class with Locals: $133
  • Private Mykonos Island Tour & Greek Lunch/Dinner (Included): $143
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $166
  • Private Authentic Greek Brunch Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Local: $270
  • Cooking experience in Naxos: $282
  • Private Food Tour & Wine Tasting In Tinos Island with a Local: $285

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bucharest

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Bucharest.

  • Dinner &tour at Museum of Communism after closing: $51
  • Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Traditional Food Tour: $83
  • Street Food Tour with a Local Guide: $86
  • Unhealthy Food Tour of Bucharest – 4 hours: $87
  • Cooking Class traditional food: $88
  • Bucharest Evening Tour and Traditional Dinner: $97
  • Discover Private Highlights and Traditional Food Tour: $109
  • Private Bucharest Food Tour with a Local Foodie: $130
  • 4-Hour Walking Food Tour in the Old Town: $205
  • Bucharest City Tour & Traditional Home-made Cooking Experience: $231

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Bucharest 14

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • Find your (queer) god Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.82
  • Mykonian Farm Entrance Ticket : $11
  • Feel like a local - Walking Tour in Mykonos Town 2hours: $22
  • 2 Hours Feel Like A Local Walking Tour in Mykonos Town: $22
  • Cellar Tour & Beer Tasting at Mykonos Brewing Company: $27
  • Highlights Walking Tour with a Local: $27
  • Walking Tour as a Local: $28
  • Cellar Tour & Beer Tasting at Mykonos Brewing Company : $31
  • Sunset Party Boat Cruise with 1 Drink: $33
  • For Cruise Ships: Beach Escape and Free Time in Mykonos Town: $39
  • Mykonos Walking Tour: $42
  • From Ano Mera Farm Tour: $49

Tours and Activities in Bucharest

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

  • Life in Communist Quest Experience: $6.10
  • Ghost Hunt Quest Experience: $6.10
  • Bucharest Old Town Secrets Self-Guided Tour and Exploration Game: $6.10
  • Quest Experience in Bellu Cemetery Bucharest: $6.10
  • Bucharest 1989 Revolution Self-Guided Walking Tour: $6.39
  • Bucharest 1989 Revolution Walking Tour with Smartphone App: $6.51
  • Entry ticket at the Museum of Communism: $8.81
  • Museum of Communism Ticket with Communist Coffee: $9.78
  • Museum of Senses Entry Ticket: $11
  • Reptiland Bucharest Entry Ticket: $11
  • Alternative Bucharest Walking Tour: $11
  • Bucharest Old Centre Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Bucharest 8.62

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

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

  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $74
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $75
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $82
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $83
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $130
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $130
  • Mykonos Town: Wine tour in Greek Gastronony with a local: $130

Sample the Local Flavors in Bucharest

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

  • Weekend Pub Crawl: $24
  • Romanian Wine Tasting Experience at Corks: $28
  • Bachelor Party Custom Bar Crawl: $38
  • Bucharest Guided Pub Crawl: $39
  • Bar Crawling: $44
  • Pub Crawl in the Old CIty and Rooftop Hopping in Bucharest: $48
  • Private Romanian Wine Tasting in Urlați: $52
  • Wine Tasting in Bucharest: $53
  • Private Wine Tasting Experience: $54
  • Guided Pub Crawl in Bucharest: $57
  • Bucharest Private Old Town Pub and Bar Crawl with Guide: $57
  • Private Bar Crawling in Bucharest Old City: $61


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Bucharest, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is Bucharest much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bucharest would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bucharest 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 Mykonos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mykonos than you might in Bucharest.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mykonos Expensive? and Is Bucharest Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Bucharest?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Mykonos. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Bucharest, 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.