A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mykonos vs. San Jose for Food, Nightlife, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Mykonos or San Jose?

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 San Jose. 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 opulent, picturesque, and postcard perfect Greek island. Mykonos is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Mykonos travel costs.

San Jose

San Jose is a colorful, bustling, and authentic city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See San Jose travel costs.

Mykonos and San Jose: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Mykonos or San Jose?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mykonos than San Jose. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Mykonos is very popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while San Jose attracts visitors for its big city activities. Mykonos is more touristy than San Jose and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. It is also well known for the traditional windmills near Chora. San Jose is famous for its colorful markets and vibrant nightlife, as well as its easy access to the rest of the country.

How is Mykonos different from San Jose?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Plenty of people visit the nice sights and museums in both Mykonos and San Jose.

Mykonos offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around San Jose. Despite most people rushing through town, there are a number of museums, plazas, and interesting buildings that are worth checking out.

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

Mykonos is very popular for its restaurants. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Mykonos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in San Jose. Most people miss out on local cuisine during their time in Costa Rica, but the capital city offers the best opportunities to eat like a local. You can sample favorite local dishes such as chifrijo, gallo pinto, rondón, and casado. You should also wander through the Central Market and dine at one of the many local restaurants.

Is Mykonos or San Jose Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos is very popular for nightlife. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

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.

San Jose is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. This city has the best nightlife in all of Costa Rica. You'll find a diversity of clubs and bars that are fun to explore. Check out the reggae bars, dance clubs, and sports bars (where you can enjoy a soccer game) while you're in town.

Is Mykonos or San Jose Better for Resorts?

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

Mykonos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

San Jose is not a resort destination.

Is Mykonos or San Jose Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos is a very popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, San Jose is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Mykonos to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

San Jose is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or San Jose Better for Beaches?

Mykonos is a very popular place for its beaches. However, San Jose is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Mykonos. 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.

San Jose is not a beach destination.

Is Mykonos or San Jose Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos is very popular for its historic old town. However, San Jose does not have a 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. It's a scenic area that has long been popular for its beautiful setting.

San Jose does not have a historic old town.

Is Mykonos or San Jose Better for Hiking?

Mykonos is not a good area for its hiking trails. However, San Jose is not a hiking destination.

Mykonos has hiking trails for those that seek them out. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

San Jose is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or San Jose?

Mykonos is very popular for shopping. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Mykonos. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

San Jose is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There are a number of unique things you can buy in the city including jewelry, handbags, and wood workings. Make sure you check out the Central Market.

Is Mykonos or San Jose More Beautiful?

Mykonos is very popular for its scenery and beauty. However, San Jose is not a destination known for its beauty.

Mykonos is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its stunning blue waters and postcard perfect towns, this island is filled with beauty.

San Jose is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mykonos or San Jose Better for Families?

Most people don't think of either Mykonos or San Jose as a family destination.

Mykonos is not the most family-friendly destination. 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.

San Jose is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people pass through the city quickly, but if you have a day or two to explore, you can visit the Children's Museum (Museo de los Niños), Spirogyra Butterfly Gardens, or explore the Central Market.

Is Mykonos or San Jose Better for Couples?

Mykonos is very popular for romance. However, San Jose is lacking in good options for its romantic activities.

Mykonos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Most people don't think of San Jose as a couple's destination. While Costa Rica is a popular honeymoon destination, the capital city is often overlooked for the beaches and rainforests around the country.

Is Mykonos or San Jose Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

San Jose is a great city to visit for backpackers. Backpackers appreciate the affordability of the city and the wide range of hostels that you can choose from. The city also offers an authentic glimpse of life in Costa Rica.

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 San Jose Better for Students?

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

San Jose is a good city to visit for students. Many students come to Costa Rica to study the country's amazing environment and unique ecological systems. San Jose makes a good base as its easy to travel to other parts of this small country.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Both Mykonos and San Jose offer nice 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.

San Jose has some public transit options. There are local buses that travel through the city during the daytime hours.

Is Mykonos or San Jose a more walkable city?

Mykonos is very popular for its walkability. Also, San Jose is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

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

San Jose is a somewhat walkable place. It can feel a bit chaotic, but it's relatively easy to get around on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in San Jose or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or San Jose?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Mykonos or San Jose to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Mykonos than San Jose 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 San Jose.

Families should spend more time in Mykonos than San Jose. 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 San Jose. 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 San Jose 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 San Jose?

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.

In San Jose, you'll find nightlife and food. 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 San Jose?

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.

In San Jose, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that San Jose has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or San Jose?

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.

San Jose 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 San Jose?

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 San Jose. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting San Jose. 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 Budget Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and San Jose, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is San Jose much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Mykonos is in Europe and San Jose is in Central America, 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 San Jose would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in San Jose 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 San Jose.

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

Which is Bigger, Mykonos or San Jose?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 76% larger than the population of San Jose. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and San Jose, 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.