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

Should you visit Mykonos or Kyoto?

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 Kyoto. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Mykonos

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

Kyoto

Kyoto is a historic, cultural, and fascinating city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Mykonos and Kyoto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mykonos or Kyoto?

Visitors will generally find more to do in Mykonos than Kyoto. While Kyoto is larger than Mykonos, Mykonos has more sights, attractions, and activities for tourists. Mykonos is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Kyoto is more popular for its museums and big city activities. Mykonos is more touristy than Kyoto and is known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Also, Mykonos is famous for the traditional windmills near Chora. Kyoto is well known for its Buddhist temples, cultural activities, and rich history.

How is Mykonos different from Kyoto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Kyoto 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 Kyoto are among the most recognizable in the world. With its long-running history, there are many traditional buildings and temples in town. Nijo Castle is stunning to explore, but also make sure you visit the Fushimi-Inari Taisha Shrine, the Golden Pavilion, and Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

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 Kyoto? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

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.

Kyoto has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local cuisine is as beautiful as it is delicious. There is a long running history to many of the dishes, and the recipes are expertly prepared by world class chefs at many of the restaurants. You can enjoy everything from a tea ceremony to multi-course meals, referred to as kyo kaiseki.

Is Mykonos or Kyoto Better for Nightlife?

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

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

If you're looking for night time activities Kyoto has a few options to choose from. While it isn't known for its wild nightlife scene, there is a relaxed and active energy in the evenings here. You can visit the beautiful Arashiyama Kimono Forest or explore some of the riverfront areas such as Kamo Riverside.

Is Mykonos or Kyoto Better for Resorts?

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

Mykonos is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Kyoto is not a resort destination.

Is Mykonos or Kyoto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Mykonos is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Kyoto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Kyoto Better for Beaches?

Mykonos is a great destination for the beache. However, Kyoto is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Mykonos attract visitors from all over. 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.

Kyoto is not a beach destination.

Is Mykonos or Kyoto Better for its Old Town?

Visitors enjoy the fantastic old town areas in both Mykonos and Kyoto.

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.

The rich history of Kyoto can be explored in its historical center. This is among the most historic cities in Japan and there are many traditional buildings and temples. Higashiyama is filled with interesting districts and it has many UNESCO World Heritage temples.

Is Mykonos or Kyoto Better for Hiking?

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

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

Kyoto is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Kyoto?

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

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

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Kyoto. There's a mix of modern shopping venues and traditional boutiques. Shijo Street is a popular shopping area, as is the area around JR Kyoto Station.

Is Mykonos or Kyoto Better for Families?

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

Kyoto is a very kid-friendly city. Kids will enjoy exploring Nijo Castle as much as adults. If the weather isn't great, you can head to the Kyoto International Manga Museum which is a bit like a library and is perfect for Manga fans. There are also markets to explore such as the Nishiki Markets, which are lined with shops and restaurants.

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 Kyoto Better for Couples?

Mykonos and Kyoto 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.

Kyoto makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. This is one of the most historic cities in Japan, and it has many romantic neighborhoods where you can enjoy the atmosphere. Visit Sanneizaka Slope for its traditional shops and restaurants or take a ride on the Sagano Romantic Train. Other romantic highlights include Kimono Forest, which is an art exhibit, and Suzumushidera Temple.

Is Mykonos or Kyoto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Kyoto is a great city to visit for backpackers. It's a popular destination in Japan and there are plenty of hostels and free activities that backpackers can enjoy.

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 Kyoto Better for Students?

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

Many students visit Kyoto. It's a great student city with world class universities and a large student population.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Kyoto 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.

Kyoto has some very good public transit options. The city has an extensive system of trains, subways, and buses that make it easy to get around.

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 Kyoto a more walkable city?

Mykonos and Kyoto both are fantastic when exploring on foot.

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

It's very easy to get around on foot in Kyoto. It's one of the most walkable cities in Japan and there are many sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Kyoto or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Kyoto?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mykonos and Kyoto. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mykonos than in Kyoto. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 2-3 days is enough time in Kyoto.

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

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

One day in Mykonos or Kyoto?

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 Kyoto, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Kyoto?

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 Kyoto, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Kyoto has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Kyoto?

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.

Kyoto is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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 Kyoto?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the postcard perfect 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 Kyoto. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kyoto. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best 10-Day Tours from Tokyo, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Tokyo.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Kyoto, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is Kyoto much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Mykonos is in Europe and Kyoto is in Asia, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kyoto would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kyoto 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 Kyoto.

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

Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Kyoto?

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