A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mykonos vs. Pompeii for Attractions, Couples, Families, and Backpackers

Should you visit Mykonos or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. 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. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. 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.

Pompeii

Pompeii is a ancient, famous, and iconic archeological site. And you can't forget about the museums.

Mykonos and Pompeii: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mykonos or Pompeii?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mykonos. Although Mykonos and Pompeii are both popular with visitors, Mykonos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mykonos is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Pompeii is known for its museums. Mykonos is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. It is also home to the traditional windmills near Chora. Pompeii is popular for its well preserved archaeological ruins that are still intact following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.

How is Mykonos different from Pompeii?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Pompeii 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 Pompeii are among the most recognizable in the world. Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

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 Pompeii? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos is renowned for its restaurants. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for its restaurant scene.

Mykonos has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

While Pompeii is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. While there is a café near the Forum, the quality of the food isn't great and it can get crowded. You'd do best to bring your own food as the site is large and you'll want to eat on your own schedule.

Is Mykonos or Pompeii Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos is renowned for its evening party scene. However, Pompeii is lacking in options for nightlife.

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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Pompeii. As a popular tourist destination, you'll find some bars nearby, but most people visit as a day trip and head out of town before the evening hours.

Is Mykonos or Pompeii Better for Resorts?

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Mykonos is a perfect choice. 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.

Pompeii is not a resort destination.

Is Mykonos or Pompeii Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos is an excellent place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Pompeii is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Pompeii Better for Beaches?

Mykonos is an excellent place to visit for the beach. However, Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Mykonos is a very popular place to visit for its 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.

Pompeii is not a beach destination.

Is Mykonos or Pompeii Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Mykonos is one of the most recognized in the world. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Pompeii does not have a historic old town.

Is Mykonos or Pompeii Better for Hiking?

Mykonos is not a good area for its hiking trails. However, Pompeii 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.

Pompeii is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Pompeii?

Mykonos is renowned for its shopping areas. However, Pompeii is lacking in options 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.

Pompeii has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some souvenir stands outside of the site where you can buy trinkets to remember your visit.

Is Mykonos or Pompeii Better for Families?

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

Pompeii is a very kid-friendly archeological site. Its a city frozen in time, and even kids will get lost in the history and story behind Pompeii. The trick is to find a kid-friendly tour and understand the layout before you arrive. Because it's so big, you want to know which places to visit and which you might want to skip with kids who have short attention spans.

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 Pompeii Better for Couples?

Mykonos is renowned for couples. Also, Pompeii is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Mykonos 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.

Pompeii is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination in Italy, and should be added to any Italian trip itinerary. It's not exactly a romantic destination, but it's something that every visitor should see.

Is Mykonos or Pompeii Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pompeii is a good destination for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Pompeii. It's touristy and crowded, but also world renowned and not-to-be-missed. Whether you're a backpacker or a luxury traveler, Pompeii is on most itineraries.

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 Pompeii Better for Students?

Pompeii is a good destination for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with students.

Pompeii is a good archeological site to visit for students. It's history and educational significance make it a great study abroad destination, whether you visit alone, with friends, or as part of a tour group.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Both Mykonos and Pompeii 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.

Pompeii has some public transit options. Many visitors from Sorrento and Naples arrive via the the Circumvesuviana train. There are also buses from many different locations.

Is Mykonos or Pompeii a more walkable city?

Mykonos and Pompeii both are first-rate 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 Pompeii. You can walk around the entire site in about 4 hours, but you'll really want to allow a full day if you want to see everything in depth.

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

Should I spend more time in Pompeii or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Pompeii?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Mykonos or Pompeii to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Mykonos than Pompeii because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pompeii.

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

One day in Mykonos or Pompeii?

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 Pompeii, you'll find museums. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This archeological site 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii, you'll find museums. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. 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 Pompeii has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Pompeii?

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.

Pompeii is a great place to explore. 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 Pompeii?

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 Pompeii. Many people enjoy the museums when visiting Pompeii. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy, and The Best Walking Tours in Italy.

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