A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mykonos vs. Washington for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Couples

Should you visit Mykonos or Washington?

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 Washington. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Washington

Washington is a international, diverse, and active city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. And you can't forget about the museums, theater, and nightlife.

Mykonos and Washington: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Numerous theater shows
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Popular at Christmas
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Washington Monument and the White House
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Washington?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Washington. Although Mykonos and Washington are popular destinations, Washington has more sights and attractions for tourists. Washington is very popular for its museums, theatre productions, music, hiking, and big city activities, while Mykonos attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Mykonos is more touristy than Washington and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Washington is famous for its reputation as the capital of the United States, but it's also known for its many monuments, memorials, and museums. It is also well known for The Washington Monument and the White House.

How is Mykonos different from Washington?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mykonos
Washington

Washington 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 Washington are among the most recognizable in the world. The city has world class museums that are often free. The Smithsonian Museums are arguably some of the most impressive museums in the United States. The city also has a large collection of monuments that are dedicated to past presidents or historical events. Many are best experienced at night when the sun sets and the lights come on.

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 Mykonos or Washington Better for Theater?

Mykonos
Washington

Washington is a well-known place for its theatre productions. However, Mykonos is not a theatre destination.

Washington offers many theater and performance venues for visitors. Theater is popular in the city. From major theaters like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theater, to lesser known smaller venues, there are options for everyone.

Mykonos is not a theatre destination.

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

Mykonos
Washington

Dining out at restaurants in both Mykonos and Washington 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, Washington is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. This city is among the most diverse in the country, so you can find restaurants from almost any cuisine here. It's worth exploring and stepping out of your comfort zone. There are popular neighborhoods for Ethiopian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, and Chinese food, among many others.

Is Mykonos or Washington Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Washington

Mykonos is a world-class destination for nightlife. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for nightlife and partying.

People head to Mykonos just to party. 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.

Washington has plenty to do after the sun goes down. Many visitors head straight to the museums and the National Mall, and don't realize what a livable and fun city this is. Some of the best nightlife is found in Dupont Circle, U Street, and even Arlington, VA. The city's young population ensures that there's never a dull moment.


Is Mykonos or Washington Better for Music?

Mykonos
Washington

Washington is a good destination for its live music scene. However, Mykonos is not a live music destination.

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue in Washington. Notable live music venues include the 9:30 Club, the Anthem, and Union Stage.

Mykonos is not a live music destination.

Is Mykonos or Washington Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Washington

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Washington 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.

Washington is not a resort destination.

Is Mykonos or Washington Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Washington

Mykonos is great for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Washington 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.

Washington is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Mykonos or Washington Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Washington

Mykonos is great for its beaches. However, Washington 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.

Washington is not a beach destination.

Is Mykonos or Washington Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Washington

Mykonos is a world-class destination for its historic old town. However, Washington does not have a historic old town.

The historic old town of Mykonos is revered around the world. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Washington does not have a historic old town.

Is Mykonos or Washington Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Washington

Washington is a moderate city for the nearby hiking options. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its hiking trails.

Many visitors include a hike while visiting Washington. Just outside of Washington DC you'll find plenty of places to go hiking. There's also an elaborate bike and walking trail system in the city. To enjoy a bit of nature, head to Teddy Roosevelt Island.

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 Washington?

Mykonos
Washington

Mykonos is a world-class destination for shopping. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Washington is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Head to Georgetown and Dupont Circle for some of the city's best local shopping. There are name brand chains mixed in with local boutiques. You'll also find plenty of souvenir shops in the more touristy areas if you're looking to pick up some trinkets.

Is Mykonos or Washington Better for Christmas?

Mykonos
Washington

Washington is an unbeatable place for its Christmas activities. However, Mykonos does not offer Christmas activities.

Washington is a world class destination during the Christmas season. With it's beautiful lights and holiday shows, Christmas is beautiful in the capital of the United States.

Mykonos does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Mykonos or Washington Better for Families?

Mykonos
Washington

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

Washington is a very kid-friendly city. It is a fun and educational destination where kids can explore world class museums and try unique foods from all around the world. The city has nationally recognized landmarks, monuments, and memorials and it's also home to some of the best (free) museums in the United States including the world class Smithsonian Institutions. Many schools visit Washington DC as a field trip, particularly during the Spring months, so you'll kids groups in colorful t-shirts running around the National Mall.

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 Washington Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Washington

Mykonos is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Washington is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its romantic activities.

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.

Washington is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city lights up at night, so couples will enjoy wandering by the monuments in the evening or taking in a dinner and show. During the Spring months you'll find couples wandering through the Cherry Blossoms or along the waterfront.

Is Mykonos or Washington Better for Students?

Mykonos
Washington

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

Washington is a very popular place to visit for students. International students come from around the world to study, learn, intern, and work in the capital of the United States. There are many internships available through the federal government as well as NGOs and nonprofits.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Mykonos
Washington

Washington 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 Washington can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The metro system and the bus system are reliable and efficient ways to explore the city.

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 Washington a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Washington

Mykonos and Washington 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 Washington. Many neighborhoods around the city are easy to explore on foot. Most tourists spend a lot of time in the Mall area, which is very pedestrian friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Washington or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Washington?

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

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

Couples should spend more time in Mykonos than Washington. 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 Washington? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Washington 3-7

One day in Mykonos or Washington?

With food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the ritzy Greek island of Mykonos, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

With scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the destination of Mykonos, there's plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Because Washington 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. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Mykonos or Washington?

Mykonos, a popular Greek island, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Visiting the old town is also a must. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this Greek island. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Washington is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Washington has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Mykonos or Washington?

Mykonos is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Washington. Because Washington is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Washington or Mykonos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is $254, while the average daily cost in Washington is $198. 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 Washington in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos $79
    Washington $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos $158
    Washington $226
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Washington

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Washington? 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 Washington


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 Washington Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos $26
    Washington $47
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)
    $6.00
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    $14

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • From Helicopter Transfer to Athens or Greek Island: $2,583
  • Boat Tour / Transfer in Mykonos: $1,076
  • Private Catamaran Cruise w/ Food, Drinks & Transfer: $727
  • Private Transfer via Luxury Car in Mykonos: $218
  • 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
  • Combo Yacht Cruise to Rhenia and Guided Tour of Delos (free transfers): $153
  • Superior Cruise to Rhenia Island and Delos Guided Tour (free transfers): $153
  • Rhenia Cruise and Delos Guided Tour with Transfers: $151
  • Catamaran Cruise with Lunch, Drinks and Transfer: $146
  • Mykonos Private Short Distance Transfer Up To 8 Persons: $142

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Washington

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Washington are as follows:


  • Metro Day Pass
    $9.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Washington

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

  • Washington DC: Bus transfer from/to Philadelphia: $5.74
  • Washington R. Reagan Airport (DCA) to Washington - Arrival Private Transfer: $52
  • Transfer in private car from Washington Ronald Reagan Airport to Washington City: $53
  • Private Departure Transfer to Baltimore Washington Airport BWI: $60
  • Washington to Washington Airport (IAD) Departure Private Transfer: $64
  • Washington to Baltimore Airport (BWI) Departure Private Transfer: $75
  • Private Transfer- Washington City Center to Dulles Airport (IAD): $81
  • Private Transfer- Dulles Airport (IAD) to Washington City Center: $81
  • Transfer in private vehicle from Washington City to Dulles Airport: $88
  • Washington to Baltimore Washington Airport (BWI) - Departure Private Transfer: $93
  • Arrival Transfer Dulles Airport IAD to Washington DC by Sedan: $106
  • Washington DC: DCA Private Transfer from/to Downtown: $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Washington?

Prices for flights to both Washington 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 $51
    Washington $38
Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    $4.82

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: $101
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $108
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $109
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $161
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $164
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $197
  • Private Food Tour & Wine Tasting In Tinos Island with a Local: $282
  • Private Cooking Class At The Home Of A Mykonian Family: $613

Typical Food Prices in Washington

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


  • Water
    $2.00
  • Snacks on Monuments Tour
    $6.15

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Washington

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

  • DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit: $69
  • Washington DC Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • DC: Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Odyssey: $74
  • Acquired Taste Food Tour in Georgetown: $85
  • Washington D.C.: Georgetown Guided Secret Food Tour: $98
  • Washington, DC: African American History Tour with Dinner: $108
  • Washington,DC: Union Market Private Food Tour: $125
  • Washington D.C.: Taste of Georgetown Walking Food Tour: $129
  • Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise: $140
  • Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise: $144
  • Washington DC: Personalized & Private Food Tour with a Local: $152
  • Private Traditional Filipino Cooking Class Near Washington DC : $154

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos $24
    Washington $24

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • Mykonos Gems for the First Time Cruise Visitors: $84
  • Mykonos Island Tour: $83
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $38
  • 3 Hours Private Sunset Tour in Greece with Free Drinks & Snacks: $262
  • 4 Hour Private Island Tour in Mykonos & Lunch included : $169
  • 5 Hour Mykonos Beach-Club-Crawl Experience: $89
  • 6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht: $153
  • All Inclusive Mykonos Island Tour & Greek Food Tasting: $151
  • All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation): $153
  • All inclusive Sunset Cruise Delos & Rhenia - free transpotation: $137
  • All inclusive cruise-Mykonos Delos&Rhenia beaches(free transport): $130
  • Authentic Jeep Adventure Tour: $191

Tours and Activities in Washington

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

  • Private Audio Guided Walking Tour in Washington: $5.45
  • Washington D.C.’s Tidal Basin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Kennedy Homes of Georgetown: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Scandals & Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • DC's Presidents, Pubs, and Parties: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • The Kennedy Homes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Blossoming Friendship: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Washington D.C.’s Tidal Basin: $5.99
  • Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in Washington DC: $5.99
  • Washington, DC: Lincoln Assassination Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Washington DC: National Mall Self Guided App Walking Tour: $6.50
  • Lincoln Memorial to the Cap Hill D.C. Smart Phone App/GPS Tour: $6.75
  • Washington DC Outdoor Escape Game Tour: FBI vs. Bank Robbers: $7.09

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos $22
    Washington $19

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: $81
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $82
  • Mykonos Town: Wine tour in Greek Gastronony with a local: $103
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $129
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $129

Sample the Local Flavors in Washington

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Washington:

  • Epic Washington DC Bar Crawl: By Let’s Roam: $12
  • Washington DC: Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl: $35
  • Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C.: $59
  • Washington, D.C.: History Tour Pub Crawl: $59
  • DC: Guided Craft Brewery Tours with a Snack: $105
  • From Washington DC: Seneca Creek Region Wine Tour with Lunch: $175
  • Full-Day Private Virginia Wine Tour Experience from Washington : $242
  • Private Washington DC Virginia Winery Wine Tasting Tour -Spirited: $255


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

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


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Washington?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 7% larger than the population of Washington. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Washington, 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.