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

Should you visit Paros or Bucharest?

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 Bucharest. 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 breathtaking, striking, and historical island. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Bucharest

Bucharest is a undiscovered, cultural, and charming city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Paros and Bucharest: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Bucharest?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paros than Bucharest, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paros is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Bucharest is more popular for its historical sights and big city activities. Paros is more touristy than Bucharest and is popular for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. Also, Paros is famous for The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Bucharest is well known for its wide avenues and longstanding religious institutions.

How is Paros different from Bucharest?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Paros. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Bucharest. The city is rich in landmarks and historical buildings. Popular sights include the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of the Parliament, Stavropoleos Church, and Curtea Veche.

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

Paros is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eat your way through Paros, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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.

Bucharest is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Is Paros or Bucharest Better for Nightlife?

Paros is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

Paros is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Bucharest has a few options to choose from. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.

Is Paros or Bucharest Better for Resorts?

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

There are plenty of resorts in Paros to choose from. 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.

Bucharest is not a resort destination.

Is Paros or Bucharest Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Bucharest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near 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.

Bucharest is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Bucharest Better for Beaches?

Paros is renowned for the beache. However, Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Paros offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Bucharest is not a beach destination.

Is Paros or Bucharest Better for its Old Town?

Bucharest is a good destination for its old town. However, Paros does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Bucharest. The old town dates back to the 15th and 16th centuries, with much of the historical charm seen in the architecture. Many of the buildings have been restored, but others are still awaiting repairs. This gives the area a sense of authenticity that you often miss in other old towns.

Paros does not have a historic old town.

Is Paros or Bucharest Better for Hiking?

Paros is a good destination for its hiking experiences. However, Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Paros offers some nice hiking trails. 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.

Bucharest is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Bucharest?

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

Paros is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Bucharest has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The residents love fashion, and you'll find many shopping centers around town where you can find a good deal. In addition to the many malls, there are also antique shops, flea markets and boutique clothing stores where you might find a hidden gem.

Is Paros or Bucharest Better for Families?

Paros is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Paros is a very kid-friendly island. 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.

For families, Bucharest is not always the best place to visit. Kid-friendly activities include kid's play areas, museums such as the Museum of the Senses, and water centered activities like rowing in the park or visiting the wellness center Therme.

Is Paros or Bucharest Better for Couples?

Paros is renowned for its romantic activities. However, Bucharest is not particularly known for couples.

Paros is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Bucharest is not always the best place to visit for a couple. The city has some romantic settings such as wandering down Victory Avenue or exploring the historic Cotroceni Neighbourhood. There are also several gardens and a number of nice cafes to explore.

Is Paros or Bucharest Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros is well known for backpackers. Also, Bucharest is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paros is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Bucharest. The city is affordable, but it's often overlooked by backpackers. Part of the charm for many is the sense of authenticity that can often be hard to find in travel these days.

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

Visitors will find excellent public transit in both Paros and Bucharest.

Public transit in Paros can get you to some 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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Bucharest. Public transit options include trams, buses, and trolley buses.

Is Paros or Bucharest a more walkable city?

Paros and Bucharest are notable 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.

Bucharest is a somewhat walkable island. Many of the tourist attractions are within a walkable area.

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

Should I spend more time in Bucharest or Paros?

How long in Paros or Bucharest?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paros and Bucharest. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paros than in Bucharest. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paros, and 1-3 days is enough time in Bucharest.

Families should spend more time in Paros than Bucharest. 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 Bucharest. 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 Bucharest 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 Bucharest?

You'll find nightlife and food around the island of Paros. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Bucharest, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. This city 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 Bucharest?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the historical destination of Paros. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bucharest. 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 Bucharest?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the stunning island of Paros. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

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

A week in Paros or Bucharest?

Paros is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find food and shopping around the charming destination of Bucharest. 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 from Bucharest, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Romania.

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

Which is Bigger, Paros or Bucharest?

Bucharest has a larger population, and is about 350 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Bucharest, 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.