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

Should you visit Mykonos or Milan?

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 Milan. 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.

Milan

Milan is a trendy, chic, and cultural city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping.

Mykonos and Milan: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Milan?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Milan than Mykonos, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Milan is more popular for its museums, music, and big city activities, while Mykonos is known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and quaint atmosphere. Mykonos is more touristy than Milan and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Milan is popular for its grand squares, dramatic architecture, and its leadership in the fashion world. It is also home to Piazza del Duomo.

How is Mykonos different from Milan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mykonos
Milan

Milan 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 Milan. The Milan Cathedral is the most famous landmark in the city, but other sights include Castello Sforzesco, Pinacoteca di Brera, and Sant'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 Milan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Milan

Dining out at restaurants in both Mykonos and Milan 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.

For foodies, Milan is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Is Mykonos or Milan Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Milan

Both Mykonos and Milan are fantastic 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.

Milan is a world class party destination. The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

Is Mykonos or Milan Better for Music?

Mykonos
Milan

Milan is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Mykonos is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Milan The diversity of music ranges from classical concerts to techno raves. Popular venues include Blue Note Milan, Santeria Social Club, and Spirit de Milan.

Mykonos is not a live music destination.


Is Mykonos or Milan Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Milan

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a resort destination.

Is Mykonos or Milan Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Milan

Mykonos is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Milan Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Milan

Mykonos is great for the beach. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a beach destination.


Is Mykonos or Milan Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Milan

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

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 Milan can be explored in its historical center. Known as the Centro Storic, this area is the most popular with tourists. It's where you'll find the most historic buildings and beautiful sights in the city.

Is Mykonos or Milan Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Milan

Mykonos is mediocre for hiking. However, Milan 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.

Milan is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Milan?

Mykonos
Milan

Both Mykonos and Milan are fantastic shopping destinations.

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 people travel to Milan specifically to go shopping. Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.


Is Mykonos or Milan Better for Families?

Mykonos
Milan

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

Milan is a family-friendly place to visit. The city has a science museum and a children's museum, MuBa, that is great for the kids. There are also a number of parks to explore as well as playgrounds where the kids and get out their energy.

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 Milan Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Milan

Mykonos is an amazing Greek island to visit for couples. Also, Milan is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Mykonos is a great Greek island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and romantic restaurants that make for a wonderful couple's getaway.

Is Mykonos or Milan Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Milan

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

Milan is a great city to visit for backpackers. While not as popular with backpackers as some Italian city's, there are a number of hostels and great activities that are fun for visitors.

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 Milan Better for Students?

Mykonos
Milan

Milan is an unbeatable place for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with students.

Milan is a very popular place to visit for students. It is one of the more popular city's for international students in Italy. It is very livable with a lot of culture and a fun nightlife, so you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Mykonos
Milan

Milan is an unbeatable 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.

Visitors in Milan can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. Options include metro, bus, tram, and train lines.

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 Milan a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Milan

Mykonos and Milan 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 Milan. In particular, the city center is walkable.


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

Should I spend more time in Milan or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Milan?

In either Mykonos or Milan, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Milan has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Milan than Mykonos. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 1-5 days is enough time in Milan.

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

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


  • How many days in Mykonos or Milan? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Milan 1-5

One day in Mykonos or Milan?

In Mykonos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this glamourous 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.

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

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.

Because Milan 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. 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 Milan has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Milan?

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.

Milan is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Milan has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Mykonos or Milan?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the opulent 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 Milan. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Milan. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Milan 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 Milan is €166. 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 Milan in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Milan 96
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Milan 192
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Milan

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Milan? 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 Milan


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 Milan Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Milan 35
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: $2,557
  • Private Catamaran Cruise w/ Food, Drinks & Transfer: $799
  • Boat Tour / Transfer in Mykonos: $746
  • Ano Mera & Old town Tour - Premium Transfer Service: $307
  • Private Transfer via Luxury Car in Mykonos: $218
  • Mykonos Airport or Port from/to Point to Point Private Transfers: $212
  • Mykonos Private Short Distance Transfer Up To 12 Persons: $189
  • Mykonos transfer: $163
  • Private Mykonos Transfers up to 15 persons: $158
  • Superior Cruise to Rhenia Island and Delos Guided Tour (free transfers): $152
  • Combo Yacht Cruise to Rhenia and Guided Tour of Delos (free transfers): $152
  • Mykonos Private Transfer Up To 8 Persons: $152

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Milan

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Milan:


  • Train to Airport
    7.00
  • Malpensa Airport Train (for Two)
    22
  • Taxi From Airport
    90
  • Public Transit Day Pass
    4.50
  • Short Taxi Ride
    7.13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Milan

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

  • Linate Airport to/from Milan Central Station Transfer: $5.33
  • Bus Transfer from/to Bergamo Airport: $11
  • Bus Transfer from Malpensa Airport and Milan Central Station: $11
  • Direct Transfer between Malpensa Airport and Center: $11
  • Bergamo Airport Transfer: $11
  • Serravalle Designer Outlet Roundtrip Bus Transfer: $27
  • Luxury Private Day Transfer from Milan to Linate Airport: $38
  • Milan to Bergamo Airport (BGY) - Departure Private Transfer : $46
  • Milan to Como hotels - Private Transfer: $53
  • Luxury Private Night Transfer from Milan to Linate Airport: $55
  • Private Transfer Milan Linate Airport LIN to Milan City in Business Class MB E: $60
  • Milan City Departure Private Transfer to Milan Linate LIN in Business Car: $61

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Milan?

Prices for flights to both Milan 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
    Milan 39
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: $69
  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner with Drinks in Mykonos: $71
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $100
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $108
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $160
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $163
  • 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: $607

Typical Food Prices in Milan

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


  • Snack at Train Station
    8.60
  • Restaurant Pizza
    6.60
  • Casual Cafe Lunch (for Two)
    27
  • Three Course Dinner (for Two)
    64
  • Cappuccino
    1.63

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Milan

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

  • PYT Milano Dinner Show with Live Music and DJ Set: $21
  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
  • Gourmet Street Food Tour with Sightseeing and Tasting: $45
  • Devour Milan Street Food Tour and Sightseeing: $46
  • Eating Milan Street Food Tour with Guided Tasting and Sightseeing: $46
  • Delicious Milan Street Food Tour Tasting and Sightseeing with Local Guide: $46
  • NO DIET CLUB - Best Food Tour in Milan !: $59
  • NO DIET CLUB - Best Food Tour in Milan !: $60
  • Italian Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $69
  • Local Market and Cooking Class with an Italian Chef: $69
  • Local Cuisine Cooking Class with Wine: $72
  • Fresh pasta experience for children - Cooking Class: $72

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Milan 31

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: $152
  • Mykonos Gems for the First Time Cruise Visitors: $84
  • Mykonos Island Tour: $83
  • "Mykonos Private Tour: Town Wonders & Beach Break : $217
  • 2 Hours Gems of Mykonos Private Tour: $109
  • 3 Hours Private Sunset Tour in Greece with Free Drinks & Snacks: $261
  • 4 Hour Mykonos Tour Explorer : $163
  • 4 Hour Private Island Tour in Mykonos & Lunch included : $169
  • 6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht: $152
  • All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation): $152
  • All inclusive Sunset Cruise Delos & Rhenia - free transpotation: $136
  • All inclusive cruise-Mykonos Delos&Rhenia beaches(free transport): $119

Typical Entertainment Prices in Milan

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


  • Stairs to Duomo Rooftop
    7.00

Tours and Activities in Milan

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • The City Storytelling Experience: Art, History and Myths Come Together: $3.26
  • Milano Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Giuseppe Verdi in Self-Guided Audio Tour: $4.58
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Exploring Age-Old Plants: $4.58
  • Unique Self-Guided Audio Tour on Alessandro Manzoni: $4.58
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Exploring the Famous Five Days: $4.58
  • From Italy eSIM Tourist Roaming Data Plan: $4.79
  • Stories of the Fashion Capital: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Milan: $5.49
  • Self-guided Audio tour of Milan's Duomo in French: $5.54
  • Private Self-guided Audio Tour of the Duomo - Milan Cathedral: $5.67
  • Secrets, Myths & Tales Unveiled on a Self-Guided Tour: $5.96

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Milan 24

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: $72
  • 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: $162

Typical Alcohol Prices in Milan

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Milan:


  • Cocktail at a Bar
    8.40
  • Beer
    3.35

Sample the Local Flavors in Milan

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

  • Wine Tasting Experience in the City Centre: $43
  • Wine Tasting Experience in Milan city centre: $44
  • Milan Wine Tasting Experience: $52
  • Italian Wine Tasting in Milan: $53
  • Milan Wine Tasting Aperitivo: $55
  • Milan Wine Tasting with Italian Sommelier: $86
  • Private Food and Wine Tasting Experience in the Center of Milan: $87
  • Wine Tasting with an Italian Sommelier: $93
  • Best of Guided Tour with Duomo, Food & Wine Tasting: $159
  • Food and Wine Tasting enjoying the New Milan: $164
  • Brescia & Franciacorta Guided Tour with Wine Tasting: $180
  • Brescia and Franciacorta winery area. Cultural and wine tasting small group tour: $184


When comparing the travel costs between Mykonos and Milan, we can see that Milan 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 Milan Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Milan?

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