A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Nafplio vs. Mykonos for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Nafplio or Mykonos?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Nafplio or Mykonos? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Nafplio

Nafplio is a beautiful, picturesque, and romantic city. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, beaches, and shopping.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a postcard perfect, glamourous, and party-oriented Greek island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Nafplio and Mykonos: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Nafplio or Mykonos?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mykonos. Although Nafplio and Mykonos are both popular with visitors, Mykonos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mykonos is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Nafplio is known for its museums. Mykonos is more touristy than Nafplio and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. It is also home to the traditional windmills near Chora. Nafplio is popular for its romantic atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and impressive Venetian castles.

How is Nafplio different from Mykonos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Mykonos and Nafplio. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nafplio or Mykonos?

Nafplio
Mykonos

Nafplio 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 Nafplio. There are a number of historic sights that are accessible from the town. One of the most iconic sights is the Palamidi Castle. You'll also find several fortresses in the area. There's also an archeological museum in town as well as the Folklore 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 Nafplio or Mykonos? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nafplio
Mykonos

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Mykonos is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Nafplio makes for a great culinary experience. The local restaurants serve up traditional Greek dishes that are local to the region and country. You'll find fresh seafood on most menus as well as moussaka, souvlaki, the famous Greek salad.

Is Nafplio or Mykonos Better for Nightlife?

Nafplio
Mykonos

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for its evening party scene. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

The people in Nafplio know how to have a good time. You'll find a good concentration of bars and clubs along the waterfront. There are also a number of smaller bars and cafes near Syntagma Square and the nearby streets. In the later hours, many bars turn up the music and turn into dance clubs.

Is Nafplio or Mykonos Better for Resorts?

Nafplio
Mykonos

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

For the ultimate resort vacation, Mykonos is a great 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.

Nafplio is not a resort destination.


Is Nafplio or Mykonos Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Nafplio
Mykonos

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

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Nafplio is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Nafplio or Mykonos Better for Beaches?

Nafplio
Mykonos

Mykonos is an excellent place to visit for the beach. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Mykonos is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Many people head to Nafplio to enjoy the beach. If you head outside of the city, you'll find some nice beaches where you can spend a day. The most notable beaches in the area are Tolo, Kandia, and Nea Kios.

Is Nafplio or Mykonos Better for its Old Town?

Nafplio
Mykonos

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for its historic old town charm. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its historic old town.

The rich history of Mykonos can be explored in its historical center. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Nafplio. The charming old town spreads out from Syntagma Square. It's a great place to start your day with many cafes spilling into the streets.


Is Nafplio or Mykonos Better for Hiking?

Nafplio
Mykonos

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

While not known for its hiking, Mykonos has a few options. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Nafplio is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nafplio or Mykonos?

Nafplio
Mykonos

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for its shopping areas. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Nafplio is a great destination for shopping. Shopping in the old town is charming, but for the best retail options, you'll actually want to visit the new town. There are a variety of clothing and fashion outlets, with some of the best shopping streets being Sidiras Merarchias, Argous, and Asklipiou.

Is Nafplio or Mykonos Better for Families?

Nafplio
Mykonos

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

Nafplio is a family-friendly place to visit. The charming, car-free center is fun to explore for all ages. There are several archeological sights around town as well as playgrounds and a great castle.

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 Nafplio or Mykonos Better for Couples?

Nafplio
Mykonos

Mykonos is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Nafplio is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Mykonos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Couples visit Nafplio frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Many people consider this to be one of the most romantic towns in Greece. You can explore the quaint village center and sample the cuisine at one of the many restaurants. It's easy to reach from Athens and the seaside setting is perfect any time of the year.

Is Nafplio or Mykonos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nafplio
Mykonos

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

Plenty of backpackers visit Nafplio. There are pensions and other affordable accommodation options around town, if you decide to spend a night here.

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

Nafplio
Mykonos

Visitors will find good public transit in both Nafplio and Mykonos.

Nafplio has some public transit options. There are buses through the region that are operated by KTEL Argolidas. Most routes leave from the central bus station.

You'll find some public transit in Mykonos, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 Nafplio or Mykonos a more walkable city?

Nafplio
Mykonos

Nafplio and Mykonos are amazing when it comes to walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Nafplio. There are parts of the center of town that are car-free and there are many great areas that you can explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Mykonos or Nafplio?

How long in Nafplio or Mykonos?

In either Nafplio or Mykonos, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Mykonos than Nafplio because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Nafplio, and 3-5 days is enough time in Mykonos.

Couples should spend more time in Mykonos than Nafplio. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mykonos that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mykonos than Nafplio 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.


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

One day in Nafplio or Mykonos?

In Nafplio, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

In Mykonos, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This Greek island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Nafplio or Mykonos?

In Nafplio, you'll find food and shopping. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Nafplio has to offer.

In Mykonos, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.


Five days in Nafplio or Mykonos?

Nafplio is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. 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.

Mykonos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mykonos has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Nafplio or Mykonos?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nafplio. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Nafplio. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mykonos. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Mykonos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Tours for Seniors to Greece, and The Best Contiki Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Mykonos or Nafplio?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Nafplio is €112, while the average daily cost in Mykonos is €149. 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 Nafplio and Mykonos in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nafplio 50
    Mykonos 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nafplio 100
    Mykonos 148
Compare Hotels in Nafplio and Mykonos

Looking for a hotel in Nafplio or Mykonos? 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 Nafplio


Hotels in Mykonos


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: Nafplio Hotel Prices and Mykonos Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nafplio 46
    Mykonos 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nafplio

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

  • Athens: Bus Transfer to/from Nafplio: $16
  • To Hydra Island from Athens: A Sightseeing Tour & Transfer: $392

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:

  • Transfer services and Tours: $89
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Ftelia area up to 6 customers: $78
  • Transfer Service in Mykonos: $44
  • Sunset South Coast Sail Cruise with lunch,drinks, optional transfer : $122
  • Schatz Luxury Transfer : $89
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel-mini van: $65
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel-mini bus: $76
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel with Sedan: $54
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with minivan: $65
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with minibus: $76
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with Sedan: $54
  • Private Transfer:From your hotel to Windmills with mini van: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Nafplio or Mykonos?

Prices for flights to both Mykonos and Nafplio 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
    Nafplio 34
    Mykonos 48

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: $71
  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner with Drinks in Mykonos: $72
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $102
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $110
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $111
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class with Locals: $133
  • 5 Hours Sunset Tour to Delos and Rhenia Island with Dinner : $144
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $163
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $166
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $200
  • Mykonos Cooking Class of Local Specialties: $222
  • Private Greek Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Food Professional: $224

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nafplio 22
    Mykonos 23

Tours and Activities in Nafplio

For Nafplio, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $11
  • Nafplio Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour: $11
  • Highlights Walking Tour: $60
  • City Walking Tour: $87
  • Mycenae-Nafplio-Epidaurus Private Full Day Tour with Sedan: $93
  • Ancient Corinth Canal - Nafplio Private Tour From Athens 6H: $163
  • From Nafplion: Mycenae, Corinth Canal and Epidavros Day Tour: $185
  • Visit Ancient Corinth Mycenae Nafplio Canal Private Tour 8H: $192
  • Mycenae Epidavrous Nafplio Isthmus Canal Full Day Tour 8 H: $192
  • Private tour of Peloponnese with a Pickup: $240
  • From Hydra Island Private-Tour to Nafplio, Epidaurus&Mycenae: $392
  • Argolis: Full-Day Private Peloponnese Tour from Athens: $435

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • All Inclusive Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with S/Y Olga M: $155
  • Mykonos Deluxe Tour for the First-Time Cruisers: $86
  • Mykonos Gems for the First Time Cruise Visitors: $85
  • Mykonos Island Tour: $84
  • "Mykonos Private Tour: Town Wonders & Beach Break : $210
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $39
  • 3 Hours Private Sunset Tour in Greece with Free Drinks & Snacks: $266
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Mykonos : $166
  • 5 Hour Mykonos Beach-Club-Crawl Experience: $93
  • 6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht: $155
  • All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation): $155
  • Ancient Delos Tour: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nafplio 6.86
    Mykonos 20

Sample the Local Flavors in Nafplio

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

  • Nafplion: Nemea Vineyards Wine Tour: $174

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: $74
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $75
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $82
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $83
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $131
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $131
  • Wine Tasting In Mykonos with Greek Ancient varieties : $133
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Mykonos : $133


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

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


Which is Bigger, Nafplio or Mykonos?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Nafplio. When comparing the sizes of Nafplio and Mykonos, 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.