A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Mykonos vs. Chania for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Old Town

Should you visit Mykonos or Chania?

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 Chania. 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 ritzy, opulent, and picturesque Greek island. The famous beauty of Mykonos is one of the main draws. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Mykonos travel costs.

Chania

Chania is a historic, idyllic, 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 scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. See Chania travel costs.

Mykonos and Chania: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Chania?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Chania than Mykonos. While Mykonos is larger than Chania, Chania has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Chania is more popular for its museums and attractions, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Mykonos is known for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Mykonos is more touristy than Chania and is known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Chania is popular for its beautiful beaches, impressive historic sights, and diverse local cuisine. It is also home to The Venetian Harbor.

How is Mykonos different from Chania?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mykonos
Chania

Chania is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Chania. The city is filled with historic sights such as the Venetian Lighthouse, the Castle of Gramvoussa, the Ottoman Baths, and the Clock Tower. There's also the Archeological Museum, where you can learn about the history of the area.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.


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

Mykonos
Chania

Dining out at restaurants in both Mykonos and Chania can be an enjoyable experience.

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.

For foodies, Chania is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city is filled with traditional and modern restaurants that serve fresh and delicious dishes. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the many invaders of the island. You'll note culinary influences from the Venetians, Egyptians, and Ottomans. The island also traded with the Jewish, Arab, and European populations, so they have also influenced the cuisine.

Is Mykonos or Chania Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Chania

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its evening party scene. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife.

People head to Mykonos just to party. 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 Chania has a few options to choose from. The town is more known for its relaxed vibe in the evening than its all-night parties. Many visitors enjoy a laid back night in one of the town's many local pubs. You'll find the most charming places tucked away down side alleys in the old town.

Is Mykonos or Chania Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Chania

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Chania is not a resort destination.

Mykonos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Chania is not a resort destination.


Is Mykonos or Chania Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Chania

Mykonos is well known for snorkeling and scuba diving. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

Many visitors go to Mykonos to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Chania. There are snorkeling trips from town that take you to some of the better snorkeling sights in the area.

Is Mykonos or Chania Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Chania

Chania is an unbeatable place for the beach. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for the beach.

Chania offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. You'll find picturesque beaches near town that have white sand or colored pebbles. The beaches range from urban and crowded to hidden gems, but each has striking blue water and the atmosphere of paradise. Favorite beaches in the area include Balos, Falassarna, and Elafonissi.

Mykonos is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Is Mykonos or Chania Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Chania

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

The historic old town of Mykonos is revered around 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.

Chania is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Surrounding the Venetian Harbor is the town's old town. It's filled with restaurants, shops, and cafes that offer a quaint atmosphere for visitors.


Is Mykonos or Chania Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Chania

Chania is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its hiking trails.

Chania is a popular spot for hiking. Outside of town there are many hikes that take you through beautiful gorges, along the scenic coastline, or through the unique countryside.

While not known for its hiking, Mykonos has a few options. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Chania?

Mykonos
Chania

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Mykonos is a world class destination for shoppers. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Chania. Head to the old town to browse shops selling local favorites such as traditional island knives and locally made ceramics. There are also jewelry boutiques and other clothing shops around town.

Is Mykonos or Chania More Beautiful?

Mykonos
Chania

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Chania 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.

Chania is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Mykonos or Chania Better for Families?

Mykonos
Chania

Chania is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

Chania is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring the old town, with its many markets and shops. Wandering around the harbor is also a highlight for many families. There are also several kid-friendly museums such as the Minoan's World 3D Museum and 9D Cinema, the Maritime Museum, and the Archaeological Museum of Chania. There are also kid-friendly activities just outside of town like a visit to Lake Kournas or any of the nearby archeological sites.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. 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.

Is Mykonos or Chania Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Chania

Mykonos is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Mykonos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Chania is a great Greek island if you're traveling as a couple. The old town, waterfront harbor, and outstanding restaurants make this a great place to stop on any romantic trip.

Is Mykonos or Chania Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Chania

Chania is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Chania is a great city to visit for backpackers. There is no shortage of hostels around town that make this an affordable place to stay for backpackers.

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 Chania Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mykonos
Chania

Both Mykonos and Chania offer good public transit options.

Mykonos has a few 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.

Chania has some public transit options. KTEL bus service operates routes both within town and to nearby localities.

Is Mykonos or Chania a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Chania

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Chania is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Chania is very walkable. The historic center and harbor areas are compact and walkable. There are some beaches outside of town that can be walked to as well if necessary.

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

Should I spend more time in Chania or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Chania?

It's fun to spend time in either Mykonos or Chania. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mykonos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 3-4 days is enough time in Chania.

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

Couples should spend more time in Mykonos than Chania. 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 Chania than Mykonos 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 Chania.


  • How many days in Mykonos or Chania? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Chania 3-4

One day in Mykonos or Chania?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Mykonos. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Chania, you'll find shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Mykonos or Chania?

Mykonos is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Chania, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Five days in Mykonos or Chania?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mykonos. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Chania is a great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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 Chania?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the picturesque destination of Mykonos. This Greek island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chania. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Chania. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Chania 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 Chania is €93. 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 Chania in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Chania 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Chania 92
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Chania

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Chania? 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 Chania


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 Chania Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Chania 15
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 Chania

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Chania:

  • Private Transfer from Chania Hotels to Chania Souda Cruise Port: $23
  • One-Way Shared Transfer To/From Chania Air-Georgioupolis/Kavros: $23
  • Elafonisi Beach Day Trip with Elos Stop and Transfer: $35
  • Cretan Folklore Night with Buffet and transfer: $36
  • Crete Private Transfer to & from Chania Port Airport to all Crete: $41
  • Private Airport Transfer (CHQ) from/to Chania city: $49
  • Private Transfer Services Crete Chania Airport-Port-Hotel: $52
  • Transfer from Chania airport to Agioi Apostoli up to 3 customers: $65
  • Private Airport Transfers from Chania Airport to Chania town: $70
  • Transfer from Chania airport to Agia Marina up to 3 customers: $72
  • Private Airport Transfer from Chania Airport to Kolymbari: $77
  • Transfer from Chania airport to Platanias up to 3 or vise versa: $81

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Chania?

Prices for flights to both Chania 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
    Chania 32
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: $287

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Chania

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

  • The Delicious Chania Street Food Tour : $88
  • Half Day Sunset Tour in Rethymno with Dinner and Wine: $93
  • Chania Walking Food Tours Crete with a local!: $100
  • Authentic and Traditional Cooking Class in Chania Crete: $100
  • Chania Cooking Class in Crete with rustic, delicious and homely Cretan food!: $100
  • Greek Cooking Class with Meal & Drinks: $103
  • CHANIA CRETE COOKING CLASSES – 3 HOURS: $109
  • CHANIA WALKING FOOD TOURS – 3 HOUR WALKING TOUR: $109
  • Authentic Cooking Class: $120
  • Guided Walking Food Tour with Tasting: $125
  • From The Ultimate Food Tour Of Chania Villages: $125
  • Sunset Craft Beer & Food Tour: $130

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Chania 21

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
  • Highlights Walking Tour with a Local: $27
  • Cellar Tour & Beer Tasting at Mykonos Brewing Company: $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 Chania

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

  • Archaeological Museum Entry Ticket and Audio Guide: $11
  • Full-Day Tour Gramvousa Balos Bay from Rethymno with French Guide: $19
  • Spili Agia Galini and Matala Tour Day Trip from Rethymno: $23
  • Day Tour To Chania City: $25
  • Full Day Guided Botanic Garden Tour in Spili, Preveli and Plakias: $28
  • Limnoupolis Water Admission Ticket: $28
  • From Chania; Elafonisi Island Day Tour by Bus: $30
  • Elafonissi Beach Tour from Chania with stop in Elos Village: $31
  • Knossos & Heraklion City Day Tour from Rethimno: $31
  • 6-Hours Safari Tour in Damnoni and Skinaria Beach, from Plakias: $31
  • Full day Samaria Gorge Tour from Chania Through Easy Way: $33
  • From Falassarna Morning or Sunset Tour: $39

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Chania 18

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 Chania

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Chania:

  • Wine Tasting: Meet the Cretan Vineyard at West Chania: $55
  • Milia Mountain Tour w/Lunch Olive Oil/Wine Tastings: $158
  • Gastronomy tour and wine tasting in traditional villages : $199
  • Wines, Olives, and History: A Private Wine Tour from Chania: $804


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Chania, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is Chania much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Chania would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Chania 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 Chania.

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


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Chania?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Chania. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Chania, 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.