A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Mykonos vs. Ios for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Mykonos or Ios?

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

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

Mykonos

Mykonos is a picturesque, postcard perfect, and glamourous Greek island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Ios

Ios is a beautiful, striking, and touristy island. 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 Ios: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Cons
  • 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
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Cons
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable


How is Mykonos different from Ios?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Mykonos or Ios Better for Museums and Historical Sights?

Mykonos
Ios

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

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 Ios. If you can pull yourself away from the beaches or parties, there are a number of archaeological and historic sights around the island. Churches like Panayia Gremiotissa Church and Evangelisimos Cathedral are worth visiting. Other attractions include Odysseas Elytis Theatre, Homer’s Tomb, and Skarkos Hill.


Is Mykonos or Ios Better for Food?

Mykonos
Ios

Dining out at restaurants in both Mykonos and Ios 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.

Ios has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Most of the island's restaurants are found in the port area or in the town of Chora, but you'll also find several options near Mylopotas Beach. Most restaurants offer typical Greek dishes, but they often have a local twist. You'll often find local cheeses or a slightly different take on an old favorite. Popular ingredients include cheese, yogurt, fish, olives, honey, olive oil, and grains. Common meats include lamb, beef, and even rabbit, but seafood is obviously popular as well.

Is Mykonos or Ios Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Ios

Both Mykonos and Ios are comparable when it comes to 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.

Ios is a world class party destination. This is one of the quintessential party islands in Greece. Many young backpackers come here just to party, particularly during the summer months. You'll find many parties start around midnight or later and carry on well into the morning. Most of the clubs and bars are around the main square and nearby streets in Chora, but there are also clubs spread throughout the town. Outside of town, Mylopotas Beach is another popular party area.

Is Mykonos or Ios Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Ios

There are resorts to choose from in both Mykonos and Ios.

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.

Ios is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are a number of resort areas around the island with families preferring the areas around Yialos Beach and Manganari Beach. Partiers usually head to Chora and the great beaches near Mylopotas, but if you want to escape the crowds, head to Agia Theodoti.

Is Mykonos or Ios Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Ios

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

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.

Ios has a few good snorkeling spots. There are some nice snorkeling and diving areas around the island as well as vendors who organize snorkeling and dive trips.


Is Mykonos or Ios Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Ios

Mykonos and Ios both offer beautiful beaches.

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.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Ios. The island has beautiful sandy beaches that range from family-friendly to party hard. There are popular and more developed beaches near Chora like Koumbara and Mylopotas as well as more relaxing beaches a little more removed like Kalamos and Manganari. Because of their striking beauty, the beaches around the island have been featured in a few films.

Is Mykonos or Ios Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Ios

Ios is generally considered to be a better destination for hiking.

Ios offers some nice hiking trails. The island has a barren and rocky landscape that offers spectacular views. Many of the hikes are quite challenging, but there are a few options for beginners as well. Many also pass by the spectacular ruins around the island.

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 Mykonos or Ios Better for Shopping?

Mykonos
Ios

Mykonos is generally considered to be a more popular shopping destination.

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.

Ios has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of local souvenirs that you can pick up. Many visitors prefer to take home unique items such as a tin of olives or olive oil. Jewelry, honey, and local ceramics also make good gifts.

Is Mykonos or Ios Better for Families?

Mykonos
Ios

Most people don't think of either Mykonos or Ios 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.

Ios is not always a place people visit with their families. While the island is known as one of the top party destinations in Greece, it also has a more cultural side. There are impressive archaeological ruins and stunning beaches that kids will enjoy. The island also has snorkeling and plenty of kid-friendly food. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are in Manganari Bay and Yialos Beach is a nice family-friendly area.


Is Mykonos or Ios Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Ios

Mykonos and Ios both fun 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.

Ios makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Because it's so close to Santorini, many people visit as a day trip. While the island is synonymous with partying, there are still many world-class archaeological sites and romantic beaches that make for an active and fun honeymoon. It's a bit quieter outside of the peak summer months.

Is Mykonos or Ios Better for Public Transit?

Mykonos
Ios

Both Mykonos and Ios offer 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.

The public transit in Ios can get you to most places easily. There are public buses that travel to most of the tourist sights around the island including several of the more remote beaches like Manganari and Agia Theodoti.

Is Mykonos or Ios a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Ios

Mykonos is considered more walkable than Ios.

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

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

Which city is cheaper, Ios 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 Ios is €91. 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 city. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mykonos and Ios in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Ios 39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Ios 78
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Ios

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Ios? 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 Ios


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 Ios Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Ios 16
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:

  • Transfer Service: $45
  • Private Transfer to/from Mykonos Airport (JMK): $52
  • One Way Private Transfer within Mykonos Island MINI VAN: $73
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Choulakia area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Glastros area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Tourlos area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Drafaki area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Vryssi area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Agrari area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Platis Yalos area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Chora area up to 6 customers: $98
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Aghios Stefanos - Mykonos area up to 6 customers: $98

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Ios?

Prices for flights to both Ios 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
    Ios 33
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: $74
  • Mykonos Cooking Class: $159

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Ios 26

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • Mykonos Walking Tour: $40
  • Half-Day City Walking Tour and Island Bus Tour: $44
  • Discover Authentic Mykonos Tour: $51
  • Little Venice Sunset Cruise: $57
  • The Original Morning Delos Guided Tour: $68
  • Tinos Tour: $93
  • One Day Cruise to Delos-Mykonos from Paros Island: $93
  • From 6.5-Hour Cruise to Delos and Rhenia: $100
  • One Day Cruise to Delos-Mykonos from Paros Island: $129
  • South Coast Beach Hopping Boat Tour with BBQ Lunch: $139
  • Full-Day Sightseeing Tour with Lunch: $159
  • Mykonos Shore Excursion: City & Island Tour: $250

Tours and Activities in Ios

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

  • Ios Speed Boat Adventure: $54
  • From Ios to Sikinos Island & Winery Tour: $96
  • Half Day Sunset Sailboat tour (afternoon): $210

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Ios 33


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Ios, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is Ios much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Ios would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Ios and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in 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 Ios.

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Mykonos vs. Ios Travel Comparison

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