A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mykonos vs. Honolulu for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

Should you visit Mykonos or Honolulu?

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 Honolulu. 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 opulent, picturesque, and postcard perfect Greek island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Honolulu

Honolulu is a vibrant, multi-cultural, and energetic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Mykonos and Honolulu: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less hiking options
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Pearl Harbor


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Honolulu?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Honolulu than Mykonos. While Mykonos is larger than Honolulu, Honolulu has more sights and attractions for tourists. Honolulu is very popular for its museums, beaches, hiking, and big city activities, while Mykonos attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Mykonos is famous for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Honolulu is famous for its multicultural atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and iconic hikes. It is also well known for Pearl Harbor.

How is Mykonos different from Honolulu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mykonos
Honolulu

Honolulu is an unbeatable 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.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Honolulu are among the most recognizable in the world. For many visitors, a trip to Pearl Harbor is one of the most memorable experiences while they're in Hawaii. It's still an active naval base, but it's also a National Historic Landmark that memorializes that historic day in 1941. There are many sights that reflect on the past and you can also pick up tours to the USS Arizona at the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Other cultural sights around Honolulu include the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Shangri-La Museum, and Iolani Palace.

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 Honolulu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Honolulu

Mykonos is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Mykonos have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Honolulu. The city offers a mix of internationally recognized chain restaurants as well as local mom and pop shops. You'll find a mix of cuisines that reflect the city's multicultural personality. There is plenty of Japanese food around town as well as local Hawaiian dishes. Spam is incorporated into many dishes, but you'll also find seafood and tropical fruits.

Is Mykonos or Honolulu Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Honolulu

Mykonos is an unbeatable place for nightlife. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

The nightlife in Mykonos is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. 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.

Honolulu has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has the most active nightlife scene on all of the Hawaiian islands. If you're looking for a party, then this is the place to stay. You'll find many bars, clubs, and entertainment options around town, as well as beach parties and festivals. For tourists, the highest concentration of nightlife venues is around Waikiki, which is also where you'll find the most hotels.

Is Mykonos or Honolulu Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Honolulu

There are fantastic resorts to choose from in both Mykonos and Honolulu.

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.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Honolulu is a great choice. The highest concentration of resorts are around Waikiki where you'll find all of the major names such as the Hilton, Marriott, and the Hyatt.


Is Mykonos or Honolulu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Honolulu

You'll find very good places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Mykonos and Honolulu.

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.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Honolulu. There are great beaches around the island and near the city where you can enjoy diving and snorkeling. You'll find coral and tropical fish that make for a wonderful experience.

Is Mykonos or Honolulu Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Honolulu

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

Honolulu offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. Nearby there are countless beach destinations such as the famed Waikiki Beach. There are also more local and lesser known stretches of sand where you can escape the tourist crowds. Other great beaches in the area include Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, Magic Island, and Lanikai Beach.

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 Honolulu Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Honolulu

Mykonos is an unbeatable place for its historic old town. However, Honolulu does not have a historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Mykonos offers plenty to see. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Honolulu does not have a historic old town.


Is Mykonos or Honolulu Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Honolulu

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its hiking trails.

Honolulu is well-known for its hiking and trekking. Both in the city and nearby you'll find world famous hiking trails that offer spectacular views and breathtaking landscapes. There are many natural landmarks and dramatic mountains. Moanalua Valley Trail, also known as the Stairway to Heaven, is one of the top hiking trails in the area. Other popular options include Kuliouou Ridge Trail and Diamond Head Crater Hike.

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 Honolulu?

Mykonos
Honolulu

Mykonos is an unbeatable place for shopping. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Mykonos. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

Honolulu is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city has some of the best shopping opportunities in the Hawaiian islands. There are brand name fashion outlets, large shopping malls, and boutique local vendors. Many of the malls are open air and let you enjoy the Hawaiian climate while you browse. Downtown Honolulu and Waikiki both have many shopping opportunities.

Is Mykonos or Honolulu Better for Families?

Mykonos
Honolulu

Honolulu is an unbeatable place for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

With a huge array of activities for kids, Honolulu is very family-friendly. There are many kid-friendly beaches, hiking trails, and activities that appeal to families. While Waikiki Beach can get crowded, it is also a great option for kids. Kids will also enjoy snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or taking surfing lessons. For a cold treat, everyone can enjoy shave ice and the perfect way to wrap up a day is a fun luau.

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 Honolulu Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Honolulu

Mykonos and Honolulu both fantastic destinations for a couple.

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.

Honolulu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Romantic resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning hikes make this a top honeymoon destination for couples. The city has an energy that is unlike anywhere else on the Hawaiian islands, but there are also nature trails and outdoor adventures nearby. There are a diversity of restaurants that highlight both local and international cuisines, and a nightlife scene that will keep you entertained.

Is Mykonos or Honolulu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Honolulu

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

Honolulu is a great city to visit for backpackers. This is one of the easier places to stay in Hawaii as a backpacker. There are a handful of hostels, and public transit is available so having a car isn't as crucial as it is everywhere else.

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

Mykonos
Honolulu

Both Mykonos and Honolulu offer nice 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.

Honolulu has some public transit options. TheBus is the public bus system through the city and elsewhere on Oahu.


Is Mykonos or Honolulu a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Honolulu

Mykonos is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Honolulu is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its high level of 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.

Honolulu is a very walkable Greek island. The most walkable areas are around downtown Honolulu and in Waikiki.

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

Should I spend more time in Honolulu or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Honolulu?

Both Mykonos and Honolulu have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Honolulu than in Mykonos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 5-7 days is enough time in Honolulu.

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

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


  • How many days in Mykonos or Honolulu? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Honolulu 5-7

One day in Mykonos or Honolulu?

The beautiful Greek island of Mykonos offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Honolulu?

Mykonos is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. 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 Honolulu?

Mykonos is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mykonos, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Honolulu is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Honolulu has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Mykonos or Honolulu?

Mykonos is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This Greek island offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Honolulu. Because Honolulu is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Honolulu or Mykonos?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is $254, while the average daily cost in Honolulu is $284. 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 Honolulu in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos $79
    Honolulu $183
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos $158
    Honolulu $366
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Honolulu

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Honolulu? 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 Honolulu


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 Honolulu Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos $26
    Honolulu $26
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)
    $6.00
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • From Helicopter Transfer to Athens or Greek Island: $2,583
  • Boat Tour / Transfer in Mykonos: $1,076
  • Private Catamaran Cruise w/ Food, Drinks & Transfer: $727
  • Private Transfer via Luxury Car in Mykonos: $218
  • Mykonos Airport or Port from/to Point to Point Private Transfers: $213
  • Mykonos Private Long Distance Transfer Up To 12 Persons: $204
  • Private Mykonos Transfers up to 15 persons: $158
  • Combo Yacht Cruise to Rhenia and Guided Tour of Delos (free transfers): $153
  • Superior Cruise to Rhenia Island and Delos Guided Tour (free transfers): $153
  • Rhenia Cruise and Delos Guided Tour with Transfers: $151
  • Catamaran Cruise with Lunch, Drinks and Transfer: $146
  • Mykonos Private Short Distance Transfer Up To 8 Persons: $142

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Honolulu

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Honolulu are as follows:


  • Rental Car for One Day
    $35
  • Airport Shuttle for Two
    $30
  • Hilton Parking
    $24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Honolulu

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

  • Arrival Transfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu and Waikiki or Cruise Terminal: $18
  • Departure Transfer: Airport Shuttle Honolulu and Waikiki or Cruise Terminal: $18
  • Shared Departure Transfer from Waikiki Hotels to Honolulu Airport: $18
  • Shared Arrival Transfer from Honolulu Airport to Waikiki Hotels: $18
  • Shared Arrival Transfer: Honolulu Airport to Hotel or Cruise Terminal: $20
  • Shared Departure Transfer: Oahu Hotels or Cruise Terminal to Honolulu Airport: $20
  • Honolulu Airport Private Transfer to or from Waikiki: $32
  • Airport Private Transfer with Arrival Lei Greeting: $35
  • Honolulu Airport -Waikiki Arrival Private Transfer W/Lei Greeting: $35
  • Oahu: Honolulu Shuttle Bus Transfer to Pearl Harbor: $37
  • Private Transfer from Honolulu Airport (HNL) to Honolulu Port: $37
  • Shared Round-Trip Transfer: Honolulu Airport to Hotel or Cruise Terminal: $39

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Honolulu?

Prices for flights to both Honolulu 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 $51
    Honolulu $53
Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

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


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    $4.82

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: $70
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $101
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $108
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $109
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $161
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $164
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $197
  • Private Food Tour & Wine Tasting In Tinos Island with a Local: $282
  • Private Cooking Class At The Home Of A Mykonian Family: $613

Typical Food Prices in Honolulu

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Honolulu:


  • Dinner for Two
    $73
  • Lapperts Hawaii Ice Cream
    $5.55
  • Chai's Island Bistro (for 2)
    $53
  • Cheeseburger Waikiki (for 2)
    $34
  • Matsumoto Shave Ice (for 2)
    $7.50
  • Hot Dog with the Fixins'
    $8.30
  • Sushi Dinner for Two
    $73

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Honolulu

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

  • Hawaii Food Tour - Off The Beaten Path : $150
  • Oahu Da Local's Food Tour: $150
  • Lanai Tabura curated Private Aloha Plate Food Tour from Honolulu: $239
  • Brewery and Local Food Tour: $480

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos $24
    Honolulu $40

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • Mykonos Gems for the First Time Cruise Visitors: $84
  • Mykonos Island Tour: $83
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $38
  • 3 Hours Private Sunset Tour in Greece with Free Drinks & Snacks: $262
  • 4 Hour Private Island Tour in Mykonos & Lunch included : $169
  • 5 Hour Mykonos Beach-Club-Crawl Experience: $89
  • 6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht: $153
  • All Inclusive Mykonos Island Tour & Greek Food Tasting: $151
  • All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation): $153
  • All inclusive Sunset Cruise Delos & Rhenia - free transpotation: $137
  • All inclusive cruise-Mykonos Delos&Rhenia beaches(free transport): $130
  • Authentic Jeep Adventure Tour: $191

Typical Entertainment Prices in Honolulu

For Honolulu, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Parking for Hike
    $5.00
  • Pearl Harbor Audio Tour for Two
    $12
  • 2 hr Dinner Cruise
    $85
  • 1 Day Kayak Rental
    $36

Tours and Activities in Honolulu

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

  • Heart of Waikiki Walking Tour: Audio Tour Guide: $4.99
  • Historic Downtown Honolulu Tour: Audio Tour Guide: $4.99
  • Military and Entertainment in Waikiki: A Self-Guided Tour: $7.99
  • Waikīkī's Beaches and Royalty: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Hawaii‘s Historic Kingdom: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Oahu: USS Arizona Memorial Chief's Narrated Multimedia Tour: $7.99
  • Downtown Honolulu Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $8.49
  • Waikiki Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $8.49
  • Honolulu In-App Audio Tour: Historical & Cultural Treasures: $9.00
  • Honolulu's Backyard Rainforest Tour: Audio Tour Guide: $9.99
  • USS Arizona Commander's Narrated Multimedia Tour - 23 Stops: $11
  • Oahu: Honolulu 3-Hour Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos $22
    Honolulu $6.47

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: $73
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $74
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $81
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $82
  • Mykonos Town: Wine tour in Greek Gastronony with a local: $103
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $129
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $129


When comparing the travel costs between Mykonos and Honolulu, we can see that Honolulu 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. Even though Mykonos is in Europe and Honolulu is in North America, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

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


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Honolulu?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 59% larger than the population of Honolulu. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Honolulu, 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.