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

Should you visit Mykonos or Lucerne?

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 Lucerne. 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.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a vibrant, scenic, and active city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping.

Mykonos and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Lucerne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mykonos than Lucerne, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Mykonos is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Lucerne is known for its museums and big city activities. Mykonos is more touristy than Lucerne and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. It is also home to the traditional windmills near Chora. Lucerne is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips.

How is Mykonos different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mykonos
Lucerne

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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 Lucerne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Lucerne

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

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.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Mykonos or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Lucerne

Mykonos is very popular for its evening party scene. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife.

Mykonos is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. 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.

Lucerne has plenty to do after the sun goes down. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Mykonos or Lucerne Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Lucerne

Mykonos is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Lucerne is not a resort destination.

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.

Lucerne is not a resort destination.


Is Mykonos or Lucerne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Lucerne

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

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.

Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Lucerne Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Lucerne

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

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.

Lucerne is not a beach destination.

Is Mykonos or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Lucerne

Mykonos is very popular for its historic old town charm. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its historic old town.

Mykonos has a world-famous historical area. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.


Is Mykonos or Lucerne Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Lucerne

Mykonos is mediocre for hiking. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Lucerne?

Mykonos
Lucerne

Mykonos is very popular for its shopping areas. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Lucerne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Is Mykonos or Lucerne Better for Families?

Mykonos
Lucerne

Lucerne is a good destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

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 Lucerne Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Lucerne

Mykonos is very popular for couples. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

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

Mykonos
Lucerne

Both Mykonos and Lucerne 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.

Lucerne has some public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Mykonos or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Lucerne

Mykonos is very popular for its ease of walking around. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Lucerne is somewhat walkable. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.


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

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Lucerne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mykonos and Lucerne. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Mykonos than in Lucerne. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 1-3 days is enough time in Lucerne.

Families should spend more time in Mykonos than Lucerne. 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 Lucerne. 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 Lucerne 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 Lucerne? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Lucerne 1-3

One day in Mykonos or Lucerne?

In Mykonos, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This Greek island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Lucerne, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A weekend in Mykonos or Lucerne?

In Mykonos, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

In Lucerne, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Lucerne has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Lucerne?

Mykonos 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 Mykonos has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Lucerne 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 Lucerne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mykonos. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Mykonos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Lucerne. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Lucerne. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Lucerne 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 Lucerne is €200. 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 Lucerne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Lucerne 128
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Lucerne 256
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Lucerne

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Lucerne? 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 Lucerne


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 Lucerne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Lucerne 12
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: $2,567
  • Boat Tour / Transfer in Mykonos: $1,069
  • Private Catamaran Cruise w/ Food, Drinks & Transfer: $802
  • 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
  • Mykonos 6hrs sailing cruise: Delos Rhenia with lunch & transfer : $153
  • Combo Yacht Cruise to Rhenia and Guided Tour of Delos (free transfers): $153
  • Mykonos Private Transfer Up To 8 Persons: $152
  • Rhenia Cruise and Delos Guided Tour with Transfers: $150
  • Catamaran Cruise with Lunch, Drinks and Transfer: $145
  • Mykonos Sail Cruise to Delos&Rhenia, BBQ&Drinks, optional Delos Tour & Transfer: $136

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lucerne

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

  • Bad Ragaz Resorts to Zurich Airport ZRH - Departure Transfer: $126
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich English Speaking Driver: $134
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Bad Ragaz Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $251
  • From Canyoning in Interlaken w/ Return Transfer: $257
  • Rafting in Interlaken with Return Transfer from Lucerne: $257
  • Private Transfer from Lucerne to Zurich Airport: $284
  • Lucerne City to Zurich City One-Way Private Transfer : $300
  • Private transfer from Zurich airport to Lucerne: $547
  • LAUTERBRUNNEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $722
  • INTERLAKEN Private Transfer from Zurich Airport: $744

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Lucerne?

Prices for flights to both Lucerne 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
    Lucerne 58
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: $70
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $100
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $108
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $109
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $160
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $164
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $196
  • Private Authentic Greek Brunch Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Local: $254
  • Private Food Tour & Wine Tasting In Tinos Island with a Local: $284
  • Private Cooking Class At The Home Of A Mykonian Family: $610

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lucerne

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

  • Swiss Alps: Traditional Swiss Fondue Cooking Class: $82
  • Lake Candlelight Dinner Cruise: $141
  • From Zurich: 2-Day Mt.Titlis including 4-course dinner: $547

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Lucerne 32

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • Mykonos Island Tour: $83
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $38
  • 4 Hour Mykonos Tour Explorer : $164
  • 5 Hour Mykonos Beach-Club-Crawl Experience: $90
  • 6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht: $153
  • All Inclusive Mykonos Island Tour & Greek Food Tasting: $150
  • All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation): $153
  • All inclusive Sunset Cruise Delos & Rhenia - free transpotation: $136
  • All inclusive cruise-Mykonos Delos&Rhenia beaches(free transport): $119
  • Ancient Delos Tour: $82
  • Authentic Jeep Adventure Tour: $172
  • Best of Mykonos Island 4-Hour Private Tour: $289

Typical Entertainment Prices in Lucerne

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


  • 1 Day Bicycle Rental
    32
  • The Swiss Transport Museum Entrance Fee
    33

Tours and Activities in Lucerne

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Revealing Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Smartphone walking tour - cool Lucerne old town: $5.47
  • Walking Tour - Around the Old Town Lucerne: $5.60
  • The Lives and Legends of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Lucerne Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Revealing Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Porrentruy Secret Tour: $13
  • Scavenger Hunt and Self-guided Walking Tour: $15
  • Swiss Chocolate Adventure Experience: $20
  • Guided Walking Tour with an Official Guide: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Lucerne 21

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: $80
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $82
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $128
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $128
  • Luxurious All-in-One Mykonos Party Tour with Wine Tasting: $163

Sample the Local Flavors in Lucerne

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

  • 3 Hour Unique Wine Tour - Half Day in Swiss Alps: $166
  • Lake Lucerne Region Wine Tasting: $273


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Lucerne, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. And not only is Mykonos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Mykonos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Mykonos 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 Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne than you might in Mykonos.

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


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Lucerne?

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