A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paros vs. Monaco for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Paros or Monaco?

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 Monaco. 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the museums, nightlife, and food.

Monaco

Monaco is a glitzy, glamorous, and captivating coastal resort area. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Paros and Monaco: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Monaco?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Monaco than Paros, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Monaco is better known for its nightlife, resorts, shopping, and big city activities, while Paros is more popular for its museums, food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Monaco is more touristy than Paros and is popular for its grand hotels, luxurious casinos, opulent malls, and popularity with celebrities. Also, Monaco is famous for Monte Carlo. Paros is well known for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages.

How is Paros different from Monaco?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paros is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Monaco does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Paros is an amazing island to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Monaco has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The cuisine is heavily influenced by both French and Italian cuisines. You'll find many dishes that take advantage of the coastal location, with seafood being very common. The national dish is Barbagiuan, which is a deep-fried pastry that is filled with ricotta cheese, Swiss chard, and other vegetables.

Is Paros or Monaco Better for Nightlife?

Monaco is terrific for nightlife and partying. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

Monaco is a must-see party destination. It's where sophistication meets glam, with many luxury nightclubs, cocktail bars, casinos, and even opera houses that you can explore. The city attracts celebrities, wealthy business people, and jetsetters who are looking to socialize, see, and be seen.

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.

Is Paros or Monaco Better for Resorts?

Monaco is terrific for its luxury resorts. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its resorts.

Vacationers flock to Monaco for its luxury resorts. As the playground for the rich and famous, this city has its share of luxury resorts. Famous hotels include the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo, Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, and the Fairmont Monte Carlo.

Paros is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Is Paros or Monaco Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is well known for its diving and snorkeling. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for snorkeling and scuba diving.

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.

Monaco has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. There are both beaches that offer walk-in snorkeling spots as well as boat tours that you can book that will take you to some of the best snorkeling and dive sights around Monaco.

Is Paros or Monaco Better for Beaches?

Paros is an amazing island to visit for the beache. Also, Monaco is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Monaco has a beach worth visiting. Located along the French Riviera, the beaches are a mix of pebbles and sand. The only public beach is Plage du Larvotto in Monte Carlo and there are a number of activities available including jet skis and wind-surfing. This is also a very family-friendly beach that kids of all ages can enjoy.

Is Paros or Monaco Better for Hiking?

Paros is very good for its hiking experiences. However, Monaco 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.

Monaco is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Monaco?

Monaco is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Known for shopping, Monaco draws large crowds to its stores. A visit would not be complete without experiencing the city's shopping. There are couture, luxury brands as well as local boutiques that are frequented by the wealthy and famous. Popular shopping areas include Le Metropole Shopping Center, Fontvieille Shopping Centre, and La Condamine Market.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Is Paros or Monaco Better for Families?

Paros is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Monaco 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, Monaco is not always the best place to visit. The city has a few family-friendly activities like an Oceanography Museum, a Zoological Park, and a harbor where kids can explore. You can also check out the Changing of the Guards in the Old Town. The public beach in town, Plage du Larvotto, is very family-friendly as well.

Is Paros or Monaco Better for Couples?

Paros and Monaco both first-rate destinations for a couple.

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.

Monaco makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Filled with luxury, a couple can enjoy perusing the yachts in the harbor, dining on fine cuisine at an award winning restaurant, or staying at one of the many fancy hotels in town. You can also explore the area by air, by taking a truly spectacular helicopter tour.

Is Paros or Monaco Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros is well known for backpackers. However, Monaco is not particularly known 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.

Monaco is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. Known for it's luxury accommodation and posh visitors, this coastal area isn't known for its backpacker friendly atmosphere. Most budget travelers skip the glitz and glam of this microstate in order to save a few bucks.

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

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

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.

While Monaco offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system.

Is Paros or Monaco a more walkable city?

Monaco is terrific for its high level of walkability. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Monaco. It's small and compact size means that it is easy to explore the entire area on foot in a short amount of time.

Paros is a somewhat walkable island. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Monaco or Paros?

How long in Paros or Monaco?

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

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Paros. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Each neighborhood in Monaco has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This coastal resort area 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 Monaco?

Paros is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Monaco. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 Monaco?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paros. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Monaco is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the big city destination of Monaco. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paros or Monaco?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the striking destination of Paros. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the posh big city of Monaco. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paros and Monaco, we can see that Monaco 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 Monaco would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Monaco 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 Monaco Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paros or Monaco?

Paros has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Monaco. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Monaco, 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.