A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Paros vs. Arachova for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Paros or Arachova?

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 Paros and Arachova. 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.

Paros

Paros is a diverse, stunning, and breathtaking island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Arachova

Arachova is a outdoorsy, bustling, and beautiful town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Paros and Arachova: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Arachova?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Arachova are popular destinations, Paros has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paros is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Arachova attracts visitors for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Paros is famous for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. It is also well known for The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Arachova is famous for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing.

How is Paros different from Arachova?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Paros or Arachova Better for Skiing?

Arachova is a good destination for skiing and snowboarding. However, Paros is not a skiing destination.

For winter sports and skiing, Arachova is a great destination to visit. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Paros is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paros or Arachova?

Paros is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Paros can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

Is the Food Better in Paros or Arachova? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paros is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paros is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Is Paros or Arachova Better for Nightlife?

The great nightlife scene is relatively similar in Paros and Arachova.

Paros has a large number of nightlife venues. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

Arachova is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

Is Paros or Arachova Better for Resorts?

Paros is well known for its resorts. However, Arachova is not a resort destination.

Paros is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.

Arachova is not a resort destination.

Is Paros or Arachova Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is well known for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Paros to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Arachova Better for Beaches?

Paros is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Paros are among the best in the world. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Paros or Arachova Better for its Old Town?

Arachova is a very popular place for its old town. However, Paros does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Arachova. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

Paros does not have a historic old town.

Is Paros or Arachova Better for Hiking?

Arachova is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Paros is a good destination for hiking. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Arachova?

Paros is well known for shopping. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Paros is an extremely popular place for shoppers. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Is Paros or Arachova Better for Families?

Both Paros and Arachova are great family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paros is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

Arachova is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Is Paros or Arachova Better for Couples?

Paros is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Paros has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

Arachova is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Paros or Arachova Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Paros. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.

Is Paros or Arachova Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paros is well known for its public transit. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Paros is fairly effecient and thorough. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

While Arachova offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are some public buses in the area.

Is Paros or Arachova a more walkable city?

Paros and Arachova are nice when it comes to walkability.

Paros is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable island. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Paros Worth Visiting? and Is Arachova Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arachova or Paros?

How long in Paros or Arachova?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paros and Arachova. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paros than in Arachova. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paros, and 2-3 days is enough time in Arachova.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paros than Arachova 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 Paros.

One day in Paros or Arachova?

The beautiful island of Paros offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Arachova, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this bustling destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Paros or Arachova?

Paros 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arachova. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paros or Arachova?

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

Arachova is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Arachova. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paros or Arachova?

Paros is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

You'll find museums and skiing around the beautiful destination of Arachova. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Greece, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Greece.

When comparing the travel costs between Paros and Arachova, we can see that Paros 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 Paros Expensive? and Is Arachova Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paros or Arachova?

Paros has a larger population, and is about 32% larger than the population of Arachova. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Arachova, 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.