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

Should you visit Paros or Lucerne?

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 Lucerne. 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. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Lucerne

Lucerne is a vibrant, scenic, and active city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Paros and Lucerne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Lucerne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Lucerne are both popular with visitors, Paros has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paros is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Lucerne is known for its historical sights and big city activities. Paros is popular for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. It is also home to The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Lucerne is popular for it's wooden bridge, its waterfront setting, and the many nearby alpine day trips.

How is Paros different from Lucerne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Paros and Lucerne.

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.

Lucerne offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Top sights in town include the famous Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument and the town walls and towers. There are also a number of museums including the Swiss Transport Museum and Museum Sammlung Rosengart.

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

Paros is very popular for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

Lucerne offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Food is expensive around town, but there are some unique specialties like fondue, brätwurst, and of course, chocolate. It's nice to sit out by the river and enjoy a hearty meal while you soak up the view.

Is Paros or Lucerne Better for Nightlife?

The excellent nightlife scene is relatively similar in Paros and Lucerne.

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.

Lucerne is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland, with many lively clubs, bars, and pubs. There are also many local events that are hosted in town and bring in a crowd.

Is Paros or Lucerne Better for Resorts?

Paros is great for its luxury resorts. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a resort destination.

Is Paros or Lucerne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Lucerne Better for Beaches?

Paros is very popular for the beach. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a beach destination.

Is Paros or Lucerne Better for its Old Town?

Lucerne 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 Lucerne. Sitting on the water's edge, this old town has a number of historic buildings and the beautiful Chapel Bridge.

Paros does not have a historic old town.

Is Paros or Lucerne Better for Hiking?

Paros is a good destination for hiking. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Lucerne?

Shoppers can find a variety of excellent stores in both Paros and Lucerne.

Paros is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Lucerne. The city is filled with high end shopping opportunities with everything from boutique shops to major chains. Popular items to purchase in town include chocolate, watches, jewelry, and Swiss army knives.

Is Paros or Lucerne Better for Families?

Paros is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city 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.

Lucerne is a family-friendly place to visit. The city is filled with history and there are a number of playgrounds around town. Also make sure you pop in a chocolate shop so that everyone can enjoy a sweet treat. If the weather's warm, you can also take a swim in Lake Lucerne. Many kids enjoy escaping the city and doing a day trip to the amazing Mt. Titlis, or other peaks that are nearby.

Is Paros or Lucerne Better for Couples?

Paros is very popular for couples. Also, Lucerne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

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.

Lucerne is a very popular place to visit for couples. The city has many pleasant squares, excellent restaurants, and a romantic atmosphere that makes for a great couple's getaway. There are a number of nice hotels to choose from as well.

Is Paros or Lucerne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Prices are high everywhere in the area but there are a few hostels that attract backpackers. It's also possible to find free activities like swimming in the lake or simply wandering around town. Prices at restaurants are very high, so you'll do best to pick up food at supermarkets and prepare your own meals. Because it's a larger city, there are options that you might not find in smaller towns around Switzerland.

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

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Paros. 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.

Lucerne has a few public transit options. There's a comprehensive system of buses around town.

Is Paros or Lucerne a more walkable city?

Paros and Lucerne 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.

Lucerne is a somewhat walkable island. The major tourist areas are fairly walkable if your hotel is in a convenient location.

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

Should I spend more time in Lucerne or Paros?

How long in Paros or Lucerne?

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

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

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 Lucerne, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Lucerne?

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 Lucerne. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 Lucerne?

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.

Lucerne is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Lucerne. 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 Lucerne?

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 food and shopping around the cultural destination of Lucerne. 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paros and Lucerne, we can see that Lucerne is more expensive. And not only is Paros much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Paros would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Paros 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 Lucerne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Lucerne than you might in Paros.

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

Which is Bigger, Paros or Lucerne?

Lucerne has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Lucerne, 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.