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

Should you visit Mykonos or Genoa?

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 Genoa. 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 postcard perfect, glamourous, and party-oriented Greek island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Genoa

Genoa is a historic, vibrant, and colorful port city. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Mykonos and Genoa: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Genoa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mykonos. Although Mykonos and Genoa are both popular with visitors, Mykonos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mykonos is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Genoa is known for its museums. Mykonos is more touristy than Genoa and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. It is also home to the traditional windmills near Chora. Genoa is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Mykonos different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mykonos
Genoa

Genoa 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 Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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 Genoa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Mykonos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Genoa makes for a great culinary experience. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Mykonos is a must-see party destination. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a resort destination.


Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Genoa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Genoa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is great for the beach. However, Genoa is not a good destination for its beaches.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Mykonos. 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.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

Mykonos has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.


Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is mediocre for hiking. However, Genoa is not a hiking destination.

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.

Genoa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Genoa?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Mykonos specifically to go shopping. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Families?

Mykonos
Genoa

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

Genoa is a very kid-friendly port city. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

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 Genoa Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for couples. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city 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.

Genoa is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Genoa

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

Genoa is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

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 Genoa Better for Students?

Mykonos
Genoa

Genoa is a well-known place for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with students.

Many students visit Genoa. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Mykonos is not popular with students.


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

Mykonos
Genoa

Genoa 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.

Genoa has some very good public transit options. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

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 Genoa a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

Mykonos is a very easy Greek island to get around on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

Genoa is very walkable. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Mykonos or Genoa. 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 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

Families should spend more time in Mykonos than Genoa. 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 Genoa. 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 Genoa 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 Genoa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Genoa 2-4

One day in Mykonos or Genoa?

In Mykonos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this postcard perfect destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This Greek island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Genoa, you'll find nightlife and food. This port 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 Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mykonos. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Genoa, 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 Genoa has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Genoa?

Mykonos is a fun place to experience. In Mykonos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Genoa 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 Genoa?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the picturesque destination of Mykonos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Genoa. 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 Contiki Tours to Greece, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Genoa or Mykonos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €149, while the average daily cost in Genoa is €150. 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 Genoa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Genoa 88
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Genoa 176
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Genoa

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Genoa? 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 Genoa


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 Genoa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Genoa 8.69
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:

  • From Helicopter Transfer to Athens or Greek Island: $2,614
  • Private Catamaran Cruise w/ Food, Drinks & Transfer: $817
  • Boat Tour / Transfer in Mykonos: $762
  • Mykonos Airport or Port from/to Point to Point Private Transfers: $216
  • Mykonos Private Long Distance Transfer Up To 12 Persons: $207
  • Mykonos Private Short Distance Transfer Up To 12 Persons: $192
  • Mykonos transfer: $166
  • Combo Yacht Cruise to Rhenia and Guided Tour of Delos (free transfers): $155
  • Superior Cruise to Rhenia Island and Delos Guided Tour (free transfers): $155
  • Mykonos Private Transfer Up To 8 Persons: $155
  • Rhenia Cruise and Delos Guided Tour with Transfers: $152
  • Mykonos Private Short Distance Transfer Up To 8 Persons: $144

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Genoa

Also for Genoa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Genoa Cruise Port to Genoa city - Arrival Private Transfer: $27
  • Private Transfer from Genoa Hotels to Genoa Cruise Port: $27
  • Genoa city to Genoa Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $27
  • Private Transfer from Genoa Cruise Port to Genoa hotels: $27
  • Genoa to Genoa Airport (GOA) - Departure Private Transfer: $28
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Genoa - Arrival Private Transfer: $28
  • Private Transfer: GOA Airport to Genoa city, Savona or Portofino by business car: $44
  • Private Transfer from Genoa city to Santa Margherita Cruise Port: $44
  • Private Transfer from Santa Margherita Cruise Port to Genoa city: $44
  • Private Transfer from Genoa Airport GOA to Santa Margherita Port: $44
  • Private Transfer from Santa Margherita Port to Genoa Airport GOA: $44
  • Private Transfer Genoa Cruise Port to Genoa, Savona or Portofino by Business Car: $44

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Genoa?

Prices for flights to both Genoa 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
    Genoa 51
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: $102
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $110
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $111
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class with Locals: $133
  • 5 Hours Sunset Tour to Delos and Rhenia Island with Dinner : $144
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $163
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $166
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $200
  • Mykonos Cooking Class of Local Specialties: $222
  • Private Greek Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Food Professional: $224

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Genoa

For Genoa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Genoese cooking lesson in the garden with lunch: $69
  • Genoa Old town Food Tour: $75
  • Itinerant dinner in the old town: $76
  • Street Food Tour: $86
  • Do Eat Better Experience - Food Tours in Genoa: $88
  • Traditional Food Tour: $93
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Camogli: $94
  • Lunch or dinner and cooking demo at a local home in Savona: $94
  • Traditional Home Cooking Class in Genoa: $94
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Santa Margherita Ligure with Show Cooking: $94
  • Tour of Genoa historic center and wine tasting with dinner: $94
  • Lunch or dinner with an Italian family with cooking demo and wines - Rapallo: $94

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Genoa 20

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • All Inclusive Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with S/Y Olga M: $155
  • Mykonos Deluxe Tour for the First-Time Cruisers: $86
  • Mykonos Gems for the First Time Cruise Visitors: $85
  • Mykonos Island Tour: $84
  • "Mykonos Private Tour: Town Wonders & Beach Break : $210
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $39
  • 3 Hours Private Sunset Tour in Greece with Free Drinks & Snacks: $266
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Mykonos : $166
  • 5 Hour Mykonos Beach-Club-Crawl Experience: $93
  • 6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht: $155
  • All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation): $155
  • Ancient Delos Tour: $67

Tours and Activities in Genoa

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Genoa.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.27
  • Genoa Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.65
  • Skip the Line: Single ticket to visit the Open Air Museum, Museum, Lighthouse: $6.65
  • City Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $7.08
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $7.08
  • Lighthouse Entrance Ticket: $8.71
  • Finance and Nobility: Explore medieval Genoa on a self-guided audio tour: $8.99
  • Finance and Nobility Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Historic Guided Tour of Christopher Columbus' House: $11
  • The City of Children and Young Museum Entry Ticket: $13
  • Calvino Cantafavole Entry Ticket: $14
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of the Historical Center: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Genoa 10

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: $131
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $131
  • Wine Tasting In Mykonos with Greek Ancient varieties : $133
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Mykonos : $133

Sample the Local Flavors in Genoa

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

  • 3 Hour Pesto Making and Wine Tasting Activity in Campetto Genoa: $92
  • CAMOGLI: PRIVATE Ligurian Wine Tasting Experience and walking on National Park: $127


When comparing the travel costs between Mykonos and Genoa, we can see that Genoa is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Genoa?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Mykonos. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Genoa, 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.