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

Should you visit Mykonos or Zurich?

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 Zurich. 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 picturesque, postcard perfect, and glamourous Greek island. You'll find world class beauty in Mykonos as well. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Mykonos travel costs.

Zurich

Zurich is a beautiful, historic, and liberal city. The beauty of Zurich is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping. See Zurich travel costs.

Mykonos and Zurich: 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
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
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Zurich?

You'll generally find more things to do in Mykonos than Zurich. Mykonos is bigger than Zurich, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Mykonos is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Zurich is more popular for its museums and attractions and music. Mykonos is more touristy than Zurich and is known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Also, Mykonos is famous for the traditional windmills near Chora. Zurich is well known for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices.

How is Mykonos different from Zurich?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Mykonos
Zurich

Zurich 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 Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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 Zurich? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Zurich

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

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.

Zurich has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

Is Mykonos or Zurich Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Zurich

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for nightlife and partying. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its evening party scene.

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.

Zurich has a large number of nightlife venues. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

Is Mykonos or Zurich Better for Music?

Mykonos
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Mykonos is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich is very popular with diverse venues. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Mykonos is not a live music destination.


Is Mykonos or Zurich Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Zurich

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Zurich is not a resort destination.

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.

Zurich is not a resort destination.

Is Mykonos or Zurich Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Zurich

Mykonos is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Zurich is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Zurich Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Zurich

Mykonos is a well-known place for the beach. However, Zurich is not a beach destination.

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.

Zurich is not a beach destination.


Is Mykonos or Zurich Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Zurich

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

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. It's a scenic area that has long been popular for its beautiful setting.

The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Is Mykonos or Zurich Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Zurich

Mykonos is not a good place to visit for the nearby hiking options. However, Zurich is not a hiking destination.

A few hiking trails can be found near Mykonos. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Zurich is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Zurich?

Mykonos
Zurich

Both Mykonos and Zurich are terrific 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 Zurich specifically to go shopping. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.


Is Mykonos or Zurich More Beautiful?

Mykonos
Zurich

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Mykonos as well. With its stunning blue waters and postcard perfect towns, this island is filled with beauty.

With stunning beauty, Zurich attracts visitors from all around. With Lake Zurich and the mountains as a backdrop, this is a truly beautiful city.

Is Mykonos or Zurich Better for Families?

Mykonos
Zurich

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

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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 Zurich Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Zurich

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

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.

Zurich makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.


Is Mykonos or Zurich Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Zurich

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

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 Zurich Better for Students?

Mykonos
Zurich

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

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for students. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Mykonos
Zurich

Zurich is a well-known 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.

Zurich has some very good public transit options. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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 Zurich a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Zurich

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Zurich is a very walkable destination. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Zurich or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Zurich?

In either Mykonos or Zurich, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Mykonos has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Mykonos than Zurich. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 2-5 days is enough time in Zurich.

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


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

One day in Mykonos or Zurich?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Mykonos. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Zurich, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Zurich?

Mykonos is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Zurich, you'll find museums and nightlife. 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. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Zurich has to offer.


Five days in Mykonos or Zurich?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mykonos. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

A week in Mykonos or Zurich?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the party-oriented destination of Mykonos. This Greek island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Zurich. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Zurich. One reason most visitors come is for the shopping. 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 Switzerland, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland.


Which place is cheaper, Zurich or Mykonos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €272, while the average daily cost in Zurich is €307. 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 Zurich in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Zurich 166
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Zurich 332
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Zurich

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Zurich? 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 Zurich


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 Zurich Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Zurich 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:

  • Private Luxury Transfer: $23
  • Mykonos Private Luxury Transfers: $23
  • Professional Private Transfer for Groups: $23
  • Private Transfer from Mykonos Airport(JMK) to Mykonos Cruise Port: $25
  • Round Trip Beach Transfer for Cruise Ship Passengers: $26
  • Mykonos Arrival : Private Airport and Port Transfer 24 hours: $28
  • Mykonos Private Driver - Hourly Hire for Highlights & Transfers: $29
  • Best Of Mykonos Private Transfer: $29
  • Mykonos to Mykonos Airport (JMK) - Departure Private Transfer: $32
  • Mykonos Airport (JMK) to Mykonos City - Arrival Private Transfer: $32
  • Delos Island: Roundtrip Boat Transfer from Mykonos Island: $33
  • Mykonos Private Transfer | Affordable Airport & Port Transfer: $35

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • Zurich Airport Stress-Free Private Transfer: $35
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer from Zurich to Zurich Airport: $70
  • Transfer from Zurich City Center to Zurich Airport (ZRH): $79
  • Private Zurich Airport Transfer to City - one way or round-trip: $82
  • Transfer from Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich City Center: $82
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Titisee-Neustadt Thermal Arrival Transfer: $82
  • From Zurich Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer To Zurich Hotel: $88
  • Private Transfer Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich by Luxury Sedan: $88
  • Private Transfer Zurich to Zurich Airport ZRH by Luxury Sedan: $88
  • Airport Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich by Business Car: $93
  • Airport Transfer: Zurich to Zurich Airport ZRH by Business Car: $93
  • Private Transfer: Zurich to Zurich Airport ZRH by Luxury Van: $99

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Zurich?

Prices for flights to both Zurich 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 83
    Zurich 105
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: $74
  • Group Cooking Class at the Home of a Local Family: $74
  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner with Drinks in Mykonos: $76
  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at Mykonian Farm: $76
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - Famous Tastings: $116
  • Mykonos Cooking Class Experience for Cruise Travelers: $137
  • Mykonos Small-Group Cooking Class with Sunset Option: $137
  • Mykonos Small Group Cooking Class with Sunset Option: $141
  • Mykonos Cooking Class and Sunset View for Cruise Travelers: $141
  • Mykonos Cooking Class Experience for Cruise Travelers: $141
  • Hands-On Cooking Class with a Professional Chef: $155
  • Food Tour in Mykonos Walking and Tasting Experience: $163

Typical Food Prices in Zurich

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


  • Breakfast for 2
    13

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Zurich

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Zurich.

  • Zurich Food Tour with 10 Local Delicacies, Cheeses & Chocolates: $176
  • Culinary Tour from Zurich with Traditional Swiss Cheese Fondue Dinner: $189

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Zurich 35

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • Find your (queer) god Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.38
  • Mykonian Farm Entrance Ticket: $12
  • Mykonos' Old Town: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Private Canoeing Experience in Mykonos: $23
  • For Cruise Ships: Beach Escape and Free Time in Mykonos Town: $28
  • Iconic A Guided Walking Tour of Highlights: $28
  • Iconic Mykonos Guided Walking Tour of Highlights: $29
  • Super Paradise Beach Paddle Boat Experience: $34
  • Rings Water Tubing Experience at Super Paradise Beach: $35
  • 2 Hours in Mykonos, The Essential Express Tour: $39
  • Feel like a local - Walking Tour in Mykonos Town 2hours: $40
  • Mykonos Walking Tour: $41

Tours and Activities in Zurich

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

  • Original Zürich Self-Guided City Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt: $5.66
  • Zurich Audio Guided Walking Tour 1h45 and 20 audio reviews: $6.94
  • Zurich Old Town Self Guided Tour of Saints and Sausages: $7.99
  • TOP Zurich : Private guided tour with your mobile: $12
  • Self-Guided Audio City Tour in Zurich: $13
  • Guided Walking Tour: $25
  • City tour Zurich milieu: $31
  • Reformation in Zurich Tour: $31
  • FIFA Museum Tickets: $33
  • Zurich 1 Hour Scenic Lake Cruise Ticket: $33
  • Swiss Chocolate Walking Tour of Zurich: $39
  • Old Town Tour with Cathedral and Collegiate Library: $41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Zurich 29

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

Also in Mykonos, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting in Tinos: Sea-View Terrace Tour & Sommelier Guide: $52
  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $77
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land: $80
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $85
  • Kafedena's Olive oil and Wine Tasting with Mezzes: $91
  • Mykonos Highlights Tour & Wine Tasting: $131
  • Mykonos Gems & Wine Tasting: $131
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $159
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Mykonos: $164
  • Naxos in a Glass - Island Wine Tasting Experience: $210

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Zurich: $38


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


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Zurich?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 73% larger than the population of Zurich. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Zurich, 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.