A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Paros vs. Mykonos for Food, Nightlife, Resorts, and Beaches

Should you visit Paros or Mykonos?

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 Mykonos. 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. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a party-oriented, ritzy, and opulent Greek island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Paros and Mykonos: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Paros or Mykonos?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Mykonos than Paros, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Mykonos is better known for its nightlife, resorts, historical sights, shopping, and quaint atmosphere, while Paros is more popular for its museums, beaches, and hiking. Mykonos is more touristy than Paros and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Also, Mykonos is famous for the traditional windmills near Chora. Paros is well known for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages.

How is Paros different from Mykonos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paros
Mykonos

Paros is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

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 Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.


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

Paros
Mykonos

Local dishes at restaurants are fun to try in both Paros and Mykonos.

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.

For foodies, Mykonos is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

Is Paros or Mykonos Better for Nightlife?

Paros
Mykonos

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

Mykonos is a must-see party destination. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

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 Mykonos Better for Resorts?

Paros
Mykonos

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

Vacationers flock to Mykonos for its luxury resorts. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

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 Mykonos Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros
Mykonos

You'll find excellent places where you can go scuba diving or snorkeling in Paros and Mykonos.

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.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting Mykonos. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Is Paros or Mykonos Better for Beaches?

Paros
Mykonos

Paros is an unbeatable place for the beache. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for the beach.

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.

Mykonos is considered a top beach destination. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Is Paros or Mykonos Better for its Old Town?

Paros
Mykonos

Mykonos is terrific for its old town. However, Paros does not have a historic old town.

Mykonos has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets.

Paros does not have a historic old town.


Is Paros or Mykonos Better for Hiking?

Paros
Mykonos

Paros is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its hiking trails.

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.

While not known for its hiking, Mykonos has a few options. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Mykonos?

Paros
Mykonos

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

Known for shopping, Mykonos draws large crowds to its stores. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

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 Mykonos Better for Families?

Paros
Mykonos

Paros is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island 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.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.


Is Paros or Mykonos Better for Couples?

Paros
Mykonos

Paros and Mykonos both terrific 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.

Mykonos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Is Paros or Mykonos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros
Mykonos

Paros is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island 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.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.

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

Paros
Mykonos

Paros is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Paros has some very good public transit options. 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.

Mykonos has some public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.


Is Paros or Mykonos a more walkable city?

Paros
Mykonos

Mykonos 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 Mykonos. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

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 Mykonos Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mykonos or Paros?

How long in Paros or Mykonos?

In either Paros or Mykonos, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Paros has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paros than Mykonos. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paros than Mykonos 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 Mykonos? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paros 3-5 
    Mykonos 3-5

One day in Paros or Mykonos?

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 Mykonos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this picturesque destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This Greek island 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 Mykonos?

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 Mykonos. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Paros or Mykonos?

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.

Mykonos is a fun place to experience. In Mykonos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Paros or Mykonos?

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 nightlife around the glamourous destination of Mykonos. 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, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Greece, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Mykonos 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 Mykonos is €149. 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 Mykonos in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paros 53
    Mykonos 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paros 106
    Mykonos 148
Compare Hotels in Paros and Mykonos

Looking for a hotel in Paros or Mykonos? 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 Mykonos


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 Mykonos Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paros 37
    Mykonos 24

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • Transfer services and Tours: $89
  • Transfer from Mykonos Airport to Ftelia area up to 6 customers: $78
  • Transfer Service in Mykonos: $44
  • Sunset South Coast Sail Cruise with lunch,drinks, optional transfer : $122
  • Schatz Luxury Transfer : $89
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel-mini van: $65
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel-mini bus: $76
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your hotel with Sedan: $54
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with minivan: $65
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with minibus: $76
  • Private Transfer:Mykonos Old Port to your Villa with Sedan: $54
  • Private Transfer:From your hotel to Windmills with mini van: $65

Is it cheaper to fly into Paros or Mykonos?

Prices for flights to both Mykonos 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
    Mykonos 48

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: $60
  • Cretan Cooking Class and Dinner: Evening in a Rethymno Home : $97
  • Greek Cooking Class with Full Meal: $115
  • Cooking Class with 6-Course Menu and Drinks: $653

Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Mykonos.

  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $71
  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner with Drinks in Mykonos: $72
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $102
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - 10 Tastings : $110
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class in Mykonos: $111
  • Souvlaki Cooking Class with Locals: $133
  • 5 Hours Sunset Tour to Delos and Rhenia Island with Dinner : $144
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $163
  • Cooking Classes in Mykonos Greece: $166
  • Private Cooking Class on Naxos Island with Pick Up: $200
  • Mykonos Cooking Class of Local Specialties: $222
  • Private Greek Cooking Class in Mykonos with a Food Professional: $224

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paros 22
    Mykonos 23

Tours and Activities in Paros

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

  • Hiking tour on Kythnos: $50
  • One Day Cruise to Koufonissi from Paros Island: $62
  • Paros Island Highlights Bus Tour & Boat Trip to Antiparos: $76
  • Kea Food-e-bike Tour: $78
  • Horse Riding Adventure: $82
  • Hiking and Sightseeing Tour in Amorgos: $90
  • From Antiparos and Despotiko Full-Day Swim Cruise: $98
  • 5 Hours Private Guided Tour Around Santorini : $115
  • Privet Full-Day Sailing Yacht Cruise: $163
  • Iraklia, Schinoussa, & Naxos Sailing Tour with Lunch: $185
  • Full-Day Sailing Yacht Cruise: $201
  • Catamaran Cruise with Swimming, Meal and Drinks: $294

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Mykonos are as follows:

  • All Inclusive Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with S/Y Olga M: $155
  • Mykonos Deluxe Tour for the First-Time Cruisers: $86
  • Mykonos Gems for the First Time Cruise Visitors: $85
  • Mykonos Island Tour: $84
  • "Mykonos Private Tour: Town Wonders & Beach Break : $210
  • 1-Hour Guided Snorkeling Adventure with Go Pro Pictures : $39
  • 3 Hours Private Sunset Tour in Greece with Free Drinks & Snacks: $266
  • 4 Hour Private Tour in Mykonos : $166
  • 5 Hour Mykonos Beach-Club-Crawl Experience: $93
  • 6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht: $155
  • All inclusive Delos & Rhenia Islands tour up to 12 pax (free transportation): $155
  • Ancient Delos Tour: $67

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paros 25
    Mykonos 20

Sample the Local Flavors in Paros

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

  • Paros wine tour and tasting: $169

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

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

  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $74
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $75
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $82
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $83
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $131
  • Ancient Greek Wine Tasting on the Beach with a Sommelier: $131
  • Wine Tasting In Mykonos with Greek Ancient varieties : $133
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting Tour in Mykonos : $133


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


Which is Bigger, Paros or Mykonos?

Mykonos has a larger population, and is about 110 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Mykonos, 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.