A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paros vs. Auxerre for Food, Couples, Attractions, and Nightlife

Should you visit Paros or Auxerre?

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 Auxerre. 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 historical, diverse, and stunning island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Auxerre

Auxerre is a under-rated, undiscovered, and authentic town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Paros and Auxerre: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Paros or Auxerre?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Auxerre are both popular with visitors, Paros has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paros is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Auxerre is known for its small town charm. Paros is more touristy than Auxerre and is known for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. It is also home to The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Auxerre is popular for its food, wine, and art history.

How is Paros different from Auxerre?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is great for its historical sights. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Many visitors head to Paros specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

Auxerre is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Although the town is often overlooked by tourists, there are many nice cathedrals and churches around town.


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

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is an amazing island to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Paros has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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.

Auxerre offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Is Paros or Auxerre Better for Nightlife?

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is great for its evening party scene. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for nightlife.

Many people head to Paros for the nightlife scene. 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.

Most people don't head to Auxerre specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It has a quiet nightlife with some nice bars and pubs.

Is Paros or Auxerre Better for Resorts?

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is great for its luxury resorts. However, Auxerre is not a resort destination.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Paros. 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.

Auxerre is not a resort destination.


Is Paros or Auxerre Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Auxerre is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There is a nice variety of marine life that makes scuba diving and snorkeling great in Paros. 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.

Auxerre is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Auxerre Better for Beaches?

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is an amazing island to visit for the beach. However, Auxerre is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Paros is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Auxerre is not a beach destination.

Is Paros or Auxerre Better for Hiking?

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is very good for hiking. However, Auxerre is not a hiking destination.

Many people include a hike when visiting Paros. 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.

Auxerre is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Auxerre?

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is great for its shopping areas. However, Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Paros. 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.

Auxerre is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Paros or Auxerre Better for Families?

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Paros. 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.

Auxerre is a family-friendly place to visit. There's the Zoo de La Fleche and the Aquarium de Touraine. You can also wander through Musee de l'Avallon or des Plantes.

Is Paros or Auxerre Better for Couples?

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is an amazing island to visit for couples. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

For those traveling as a couple, Paros has plenty to offer. 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.

Auxerre is a nice destination for couples. There are many great eateries as well nice architecture and, of course, excellent wine.


Is Paros or Auxerre Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Auxerre is not a good destination for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers 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.

Auxerre is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular stop off on the backpacker circuit, but you will find some affordable accommodation options.

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

Paros
Auxerre

Paros is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Auxerre is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its public transit.

The public transit in Paros can get you to most places easily. 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.

Auxerre has a few public transit options. There are buses around town.

Is Paros or Auxerre a more walkable city?

Paros
Auxerre

Paros and Auxerre are good 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.

Auxerre is a somewhat walkable island. The center is walkable but it is a bit more difficult to navigate than some nearby towns.


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

Should I spend more time in Auxerre or Paros?

How long in Paros or Auxerre?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paros or Auxerre to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paros than Auxerre because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paros, and 1-2 days is enough time in Auxerre.

Families should spend more time in Paros than Auxerre. 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 Auxerre. 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 Auxerre 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.


  • How many days in Paros or Auxerre? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paros 3-5 
    Auxerre 1-2

One day in Paros or Auxerre?

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

In Auxerre, many people enjoy the food and museums that this undiscovered destination offers. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Paros or Auxerre?

In Paros, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Auxerre. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. 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 Auxerre?

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

Auxerre is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Auxerre. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.


A week in Paros or Auxerre?

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

You'll find museums and food around the undiscovered destination of Auxerre. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, and The Best 2-Week Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Auxerre or Paros?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Paros is €122, while the average daily cost in Auxerre is €113. 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 Paros and Auxerre in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paros 53
    Auxerre 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paros 106
    Auxerre 102
Compare Hotels in Paros and Auxerre

Looking for a hotel in Paros or Auxerre? 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 Paros


Hotels in Auxerre


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: Paros Hotel Prices and Auxerre Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paros 37
    Auxerre 46

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paros

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

  • Private Transfer From Naxos Port-Airport To All Destinations: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Paros or Auxerre?

Prices for flights to both Auxerre and Paros 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
    Paros 45
    Auxerre 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paros

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

  • Two and half-hours Traditional Greek Cooking Class in Amorgos: $59
  • Naxos Town Food Tour : $92
  • Cretan Cooking Class and Dinner: Evening in a Rethymno Home : $96
  • 4 Hour Traditional Cooking Class for Small Group: $96
  • Naxos Perivoli Farm Experience & Wood-fire Cooking Class: $104
  • Naxos:Half-day cooking class at Basiliko : $106
  • Greek Cooking Class with Full Meal: $113
  • Food Tasting and Cooking Class on Naxos with Local Market Visit: $115
  • Paros Cooking Class: $116
  • Naxos Old Town Private Food Tour with Dinner and Pickup: $153
  • Naxos Villages Food Tour : $161
  • Cooking Class with 6-Course Menu and Drinks: $642

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paros 22
    Auxerre 18

Tours and Activities in Paros

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

  • Essence of Naxos Tour: $33
  • Full One-Day Tour Naxos & Heraklia: $175
  • 2-Hour Private Beach Picnic Experience in Paros: $81
  • 5 Hours Private Guided Tour Around Santorini : $124
  • All inclusive day sailing tour from Naxos to the small cyclades: $153
  • All-Inclusive Catamaran Day Cruise: $164
  • Antiparos & Despotiko full day cruise from Paros: $98
  • Beautiful Sunset Photo Walk Tour on Paros: $163
  • Boat Cruise to Rina's Cave & Ano/Kato Koufonisi with BBQ Lunch: $76
  • Catamaran Full-Day Cruise around Naxos or Paros with Lunch: $153
  • Cruise from Naxos to Santorini: $82
  • Cruises to Delos-Mykonos, Santorini and Koufonisi by Alexander : $49

Tours and Activities in Auxerre

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

  • Chocolate Tour with Tasting: $16
  • Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local: $112
  • e-Mehari Tour et dégustation Chablis Clotilde Davenne: $92

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paros 25
    Auxerre 6.14

Sample the Local Flavors in Paros

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

  • Wine Tasting and Tour in Saint Anna Winery in Naxos: $60
  • Citron Tasting and Distillery 1-Hour Guided Tour in Naxos: $65
  • 3 Hour Tour in Paros Wine Tasting: $164
  • Paros wine tour and tasting: $166

Sample the Local Flavors in Auxerre

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

  • From Dutch Barge Full-Day Cruise with Wine Tasting: $85
  • Chablis & Northern Burgundy Wine Tour: $273


When comparing the travel costs between Paros and Auxerre, 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 Auxerre Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Paros or Auxerre?

Auxerre has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Auxerre, 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.