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

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Should you visit Mykonos or Positano?

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 Positano. 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.

Positano

Positano is a colorful, stunning, and luxurious Mediterranean village. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. 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 food, beaches, and hiking.

Mykonos and Positano: Pros and Cons

Mykonos
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Cons
  • Less hiking options
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Positano
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Cons
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Positano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mykonos. Although Mykonos and Positano are both popular with visitors, Mykonos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mykonos is more popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Positano is known for its hiking and small town charm. Mykonos is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. It is also home to the traditional windmills near Chora. Positano is popular for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere.

How is Mykonos different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mykonos
Positano

Mykonos is a good destination for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Mykonos or Positano? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Positano

Dining out at restaurants in both Mykonos and Positano 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, Positano is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

Is Mykonos or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Positano

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. However, Positano is not a good destination for nightlife.

Mykonos is a world class party destination. 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.

Most people don't head to Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Mykonos or Positano Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Positano

There are terrific resorts to choose from in both Mykonos and Positano.

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.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Positano is a great choice. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.


Is Mykonos or Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Positano

Mykonos is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Positano is not a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Snorkeling is an option in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Is Mykonos or Positano Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Positano

Mykonos is great for the beach. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its 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.

Positano is a good option for a beach vacation. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Is Mykonos or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Positano

Visitors enjoy the terrific old town areas in both Mykonos and Positano.

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 Positano can be explored in its historical center. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.


Is Mykonos or Positano Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Positano

Positano is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its hiking trails.

Positano is a popular spot for hiking. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

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 the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Positano?

Mykonos
Positano

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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.

Positano is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Is Mykonos or Positano Better for Families?

Mykonos
Positano

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

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.

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 Positano Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Positano

Mykonos and Positano both terrific 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.

Positano makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

Is Mykonos or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Positano

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

Positano is a good Mediterranean village to visit for backpackers. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

Mykonos is a good destination for this activity. 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 Positano Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mykonos
Positano

Both Mykonos and Positano 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.

Positano has some public transit options. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.


Is Mykonos or Positano a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Positano

Mykonos and Positano both are terrific 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 Positano. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Positano?

Both Mykonos and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Mykonos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

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

Couples should spend more time in Mykonos than Positano. 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.


  • How many days in Mykonos or Positano? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Positano 2-7

One day in Mykonos or Positano?

The beautiful Greek island of Mykonos offers museums and nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Positano is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This Mediterranean village 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 Positano?

Mykonos is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Positano might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Positano has to offer.


Five days in Mykonos or Positano?

Mykonos is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mykonos, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

A week in Mykonos or Positano?

Mykonos is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This Greek island offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Positano. Positano is a small town where visitors enjoy the shopping and food. One reason most visitors come is for the food. It's also a relaxing resort destination. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Which place is cheaper, Positano 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 Positano is €222. 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 Positano in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos €74
    Positano €148
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos €148
    Positano €296
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Positano

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Positano? 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 Positano


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 Positano Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos €24
    Positano €7.73
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:

  • Private Helicopter Transfer from Mykonos to Chania: $3,550
  • Private Helicopter Transfer from Mykonos to Crete: $3,399
  • Private Helicopter Transfer from Mykonos to Heraklion: $3,399
  • Private Helicopter Transfer from Mykonos to Elounda: $3,334
  • Private Helicopter Transfer from Mykonos to Amanzoe: $3,031
  • Private Helicopter Transfer from Mykonos to Porto Heli: $2,814
  • Private Helicopter Transfer from Mykonos to Spetses: $2,749
  • Private Helicopter Transfer from Mykonos to Hydra: $2,673
  • From Helicopter Transfer to Athens or Greek Island: $2,558
  • Private Helicopter Transfer from Mykonos to Athens: $2,392
  • Private Helicopter Transfer from Mykonos to Santorini: $2,024
  • Private Helicopter Transfer from Mykonos to Milos: $1,808

Typical Local Transportation prices in Positano

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


  • Bus Ticket
    €1.60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Positano

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

  • Shared Transfer from Sorrento to Naples Airport: $41
  • Shared Transfer from Positano to Naples Airport: $52
  • Private Transfer: From Positano to Sorrento with hotel pick-up and drop-off: $60
  • Positano or Ravello to Naples airport/station private departure transfer: $73
  • Private Transfer: From Positano (hotel) to Naples (hotel-airport-train station): $82
  • Transfer Positano to Naples: $87
  • Transfer Naples Positano: $108
  • Private transfer from POSITANO to SALERNO: $108
  • private transfer from POSITANO to NAPLES: $109
  • Private transfer Positano to Naples: $119
  • Private transfer from Positano to Naples: $119
  • One-Way Private Transfer to Naples: $133

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Positano?

Prices for flights to both Positano 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
    Positano €53
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: $70
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class with Locals: $130
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $160
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $162
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $195
  • Private Food Tour & Wine Tasting In Tinos Island with a Local: $209
  • Private Authentic Greek Brunch Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Local: $210
  • Mykonos Cooking Class of Local Specialties: $216
  • Private Greek Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Food Professional: $224
  • Cooking experience in Naxos: $276
  • Private Greek Cooking Class in Naxos with Hotel Transfer included: $296

Typical Food prices in Positano

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


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    €31
  • Pizza in a Restaurant
    €9.32
  • Sandwich in a Restaurant
    €12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Positano

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

  • Amalfi Coast: Cooking Class on the Farm: $70
  • Cooking lesson in amalfi coast: $76
  • Sorrento Pizza School Activity in Italy: $76
  • Pasta and Tiramisù Cooking Class on the Amalfi Coast: $80
  • Amalfi Coast Cooking Class: Tiramisù Mozzarella & Pasta with Wine: $86
  • 3 Hours Sorrento Cooking Class in Sorrento Coast with Pickup: $113
  • Positano Cooking class gnocchi e tiramisù : $135
  • Pizza and Tiramisù class with local mum in Positano: $135
  • Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at Local's Home in Positano: $150
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Sant'Agnello: $157
  • Neapolitan Cooking class in Sorrento: $174
  • 3 Hours Private Cooking Class in Positano: $184

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos €23
    Positano €60

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • Mykonos Island Tour: $82
  • Private sailing cruise-Mykonos Southern Beach Hopping withLunch : $1,862
  • 2 Hours Mykonos Sunset Cruise on Traditional Boat: $38
  • 4 Hours Private Luxury Cruise to The Southern Coast of Mykonos: $888
  • 4-Hours Private Tour in Mykonos: $157
  • 5 Hour Private Yacht Cruise in Delos Rhenia Technohull 40 Thunder: $2,171
  • 5 Hour Private Yacht Cruise in Mykonos Technohull 40 "Thunder": $2,068
  • 5 hour Private Yacht Cruise in Delos Rhenia Mykonos Azimut 80: $5,621
  • 5 hour Private Yacht Cruise in Delos Rhenia Mykonos Fjord 38 : $2,518
  • 5 hour Private Yacht Cruise in Delos Rhenia Mykonos Mangusta 72: $5,093
  • 5 hour Private Yacht Cruise in Delos Rhenia Mykonos Scorpion 28: $1,362
  • 5 hour Private Yacht Cruise in Delos Rhenia Mykonos Skipper 42: $2,171

Typical Entertainment prices in Positano

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


  • Chair & Umbrella at Spiaggia Grande
    €17
  • Day Trip of Capri & Amalfi
    €80
  • Sunset Cruise
    €24
  • Full Day Wine Tour
    €97
  • Cooking Class
    €65

Tours and Activities in Positano

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

  • Guided tour of the history and tradition of the Sorrento lemon: $43
  • Swim Experience with Lifeguard and GoPro Videos: $51
  • Positano Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $65
  • From Amalfi Coast Sunset Cruise - Group Tour: $91
  • Small Group Amalfi Coast Sunset Cruise Experience: $92
  • Sunset Group Boat Tour from Positano or Praiano: $97
  • Small Group Tour to Positano by Boat at Sunset: $97
  • AMALFI COAST EXPERIENCE Amalfi, Ravello, Sorrento - From Positano: $101
  • Pompeii and Herculaneum small group tour skip the line from Amalfi Coast: $103
  • Old Town Walking Tour with Archaeologist Guide: $106
  • Naples: Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello Tour on a Luxury Bus: $107
  • Sorrento: Small Group Tour to Positano, Amalfi and Ravello: $112

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos €20
    Positano €15

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: $81
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $117
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Mykonos : $119
  • Wine Tasting In Mykonos with Greek Ancient varieties : $130
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $160
  • Guided walking tour & wine tasting in Mykonos town: $162
  • Wine Tasting & Rural Mykonos: $974

Typical Alcohol prices in Positano

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


  • Bottle of Limoncello
    €16

Sample the Local Flavors in Positano

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

  • Private Food and Wine Tasting on the Sorrento Coast: $74
  • 5 Wine Tastings with Typical Products in Sorrento Coast: $76
  • Positano Small Group Wine Tasting Tour: $103
  • Pompeii Wine Tasting Tour from Positano: $227
  • Pompeii Guided Tour With Lunch and Wine Tasting from Positano: $233
  • Pompeii Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting from Positano: $259
  • Pompeii & Vesuvius with Lunch & wine tasting from Positano all inclusive: $275
  • Private Irpinia Wine Tour from POSITANO, AMALFI or RAVELLO: $374
  • Amalfi coast private tour with Amalfi Ravello and Wine Tour from Positano: $455

How are these travel costs calculated?

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Positano, we can see that Positano 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 Positano would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Positano than you might in Mykonos.

Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Positano?

Mykonos is bigger, and its population is about 152 times larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the population of Mykonos vs. Positano, 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 and the activities that interest you.

Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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Mykonos vs. Positano Travel Comparison

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