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

Should you visit Paros or Positano?

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 Positano. 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Positano

Positano is a colorful, stunning, and luxurious Mediterranean village. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. 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 beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Paros and Positano: 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as popular for scuba diving and snorkeling
  • Less attractive beach


Is there more to do in Paros or Positano?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Positano are both popular with visitors, Paros has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paros is more popular for its museums, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Positano is known for its resorts, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Positano is more touristy than Paros and is known for its beautiful cliffside setting, its colorful buildings, and its quintessential Amalfi atmosphere. 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.

How is Paros different from Positano?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paros
Positano

Paros is great for its historical sights. However, Positano does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Positano does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Paros
Positano

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

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, Positano is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Seafood is the obvious choice along the Amalfi Coast but Positano is also famous for its salami, chestnuts, cheese, and figs.

Is Paros or Positano Better for Nightlife?

Paros
Positano

Paros is great for its evening party scene. However, Positano 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 Positano specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The town has a relaxing nightlife that is usually centered around the clubs found at nearby resorts.

Is Paros or Positano Better for Resorts?

Paros
Positano

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

Vacationers flock to Positano for its luxury resorts. The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

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 Positano Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros
Positano

Paros is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Positano is not a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling.

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.

Snorkeling is an option in Positano. There are snorkeling boat trips that you can book to enjoy exploring the undersea world.

Is Paros or Positano Better for Beaches?

Paros
Positano

Paros is a must-visit destination for the beach. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village for its beaches.

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.

Positano is a good option for a beach vacation. Like the rest of the Amalfi Coast, beaches near Positano tend to be pebbly instead of sandy. They can also get a bit crowded during the summer months. Still, the picturesque setting makes these beaches truly amazing. The main beach at the edge of town is Spiaggia Grande, but there are several others nearby as well.

Is Paros or Positano Better for its Old Town?

Paros
Positano

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

Positano has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Exploring the old town, soaking up the atmosphere, and simply enjoying the colorful buildings is what a trip to Positano is all about.

Paros does not have a historic old town.


Is Paros or Positano Better for Hiking?

Paros
Positano

Positano is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Positano. The best way to explore the area out of town is on foot. There are a number of foot paths and trails that will take you through the stunning landscapes.

Paros is a good destination for hiking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Positano?

Paros
Positano

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

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 Positano. The main street in town is lined with quaint shops that sell local lemon products, ceramics, clothing, and more.

Is Paros or Positano Better for Families?

Paros
Positano

Paros is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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.

Positano is a family-friendly place to visit. Fun activities include boat rides, eating gelato, and hanging out at the beach. Some of the best family-friendly beaches are Spiaggia Grande, Fornillo Beach, and Arienzo Beach.


Is Paros or Positano Better for Couples?

Paros
Positano

Paros and Positano 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.

Positano makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It is a picturesque coast town that is both romantic and fun. Wandering through the streets and sampling Italian food make this the perfect honeymoon getaway.

Is Paros or Positano Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros
Positano

Paros is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Positano. The town has a handful of great hostels that make the Amalfi Coast accessible to backpackers on a budget.

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

Paros
Positano

Paros is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Positano is not as popular, but is still a nice Mediterranean village 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.

Positano has a few public transit options. You can walk everywhere once you arrive, and the SITA bus travels to and from the town.


Is Paros or Positano a more walkable city?

Paros
Positano

Positano 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 Positano. The town is best explored on foot. You can wander the quaint streets or take the foot path to the beach or nearby castles.

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 Positano Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Positano or Paros?

How long in Paros or Positano?

Both Paros and Positano have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Positano than in Paros. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paros, and 2-7 days is enough time in Positano.

Families should spend more time in Paros than Positano. 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 Positano. 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 Positano 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 Positano? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paros 3-5 
    Positano 2-7

One day in Paros or Positano?

The beautiful island of Paros offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Even though Positano is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Lots of people come for the food. This Mediterranean village 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 Positano?

Paros is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Positano. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Positano?

Paros is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paros, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Positano is a fun place to experience. Positano is a small town with plenty to do. Lots of people come for the food. 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 Positano?

Paros is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.

Positano might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the food. One week is often enough time to do most activities.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Positano 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 Positano is €222. 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 Positano in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paros 53
    Positano 148
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paros 106
    Positano 296
Compare Hotels in Paros and Positano

Looking for a hotel in Paros or Positano? 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 Positano


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 Positano Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paros 37
    Positano 7.73

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: $55

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Positano

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Positano:


  • Bus Ticket
    1.60

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Positano

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

  • private transfer from Sorrento to Naples: $264
  • private transfer from Positano to Naples or reverse: $83
  • private transfer from POSITANO to NAPLES: $110
  • Transfer- Naples Train Station/area to Positano with a stop Sorrento: $154
  • Transfer from Positano to The Path of the Gods: $110
  • Transfer from Positano to Naples: $142
  • Transfer from Naples to Positano : $206
  • Transfer Positano to Naples: $88
  • Transfer Naples - Positano: $275
  • Shared Transfer from Sorrento to Naples Airport: $42
  • Shared Transfer from Positano to Naples Airport: $53
  • Private transfer from Positano to Naples by the scenic coast: $110

Is it cheaper to fly into Paros or Positano?

Prices for flights to both Positano 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
    Positano 53

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
  • Naxos Town Food Tour : $93
  • Cretan Cooking Class and Dinner: Evening in a Rethymno Home : $97
  • Naxos Perivoli Farm Experience & Wood-fire Cooking Class: $105
  • Naxos:Half-day cooking class at Basiliko : $107
  • Greek Cooking Class with Full Meal: $115
  • Food Tasting and Cooking Class on Naxos with Local Market Visit: $116
  • Paros Cooking Class: $117
  • Naxos Old Town Private Food Tour with Dinner and Pickup: $154
  • Naxos Villages Food Tour : $163
  • Cooking Class with 6-Course Menu and Drinks: $652

Typical Food Prices in Positano

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Positano:


  • Sitdown Dinner (for Two)
    31
  • Pizza in a Restaurant
    9.32
  • Sandwich in a Restaurant
    12

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Positano

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

  • Dinner on the farm: $55
  • Cooking class with Pasta, mozzarella and Tiramisu with wine: $68
  • Cooking lesson in amalfi coast: $77
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Sant'Agnello with Show Cooking: $93
  • Sorrento Pizza School Activity in Italy: $99
  • Gluten Free Cooking School in Sorrento: $109
  • Pizza e Tiramisù class with local mum in Positano: $137
  • Small Group Positano Cooking Class Gnocchi Tiramisù with Drinks : $148
  • Lemon & sea food cooking class at local's home: $171
  • Small Group Home Cooking Class with a Local: $194
  • Pasta and Tiramisu Cooking Class with Wine: $194
  • Neapolitan Cooking class in Sorrento: $195

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paros 22
    Positano 60

Tours and Activities in Paros

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

  • Full One-Day Tour Naxos & Heraklia: $176
  • Sightseeing Tours by Alexander Boat: $55
  • 2-Hour Private Beach Picnic Experience in Paros: $82
  • All inclusive day sailing tour from Naxos to the small cyclades: $154
  • All-Inclusive Catamaran Day Cruise: $165
  • Antiparos & Despotiko full day cruise from Paros: $99
  • Boat Cruise to Iraklia & Schinousa with BBQ: $77
  • Catamaran Full-Day Cruise around Naxos or Paros with Lunch: $154
  • DAY CRUISE Koufonisi traditional Kaiki from Paros : $121
  • Daily Cruise - Koufonissia & Rina Cave: $88
  • Daily Cruise from Paros to Delos Mykonos: $84
  • Daily Cruise from Paros to Santorini: $107

Typical Entertainment Prices in Positano

For Positano, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Chair & Umbrella at Spiaggia Grande
    17
  • Day Trip of Capri & Amalfi
    80
  • Sunset Cruise
    24
  • Full Day Wine Tour
    97
  • Cooking Class
    65

Tours and Activities in Positano

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

  • Boat tour from Amalfi Coast Snorkelling - Half Day: $142
  • Guided Tour Pompeii And Vesuvius from Positano Skip the Line: $299
  • Amalfi Coast Premium Boat Tour From Sorrento Max 8 People: $249
  • Amalfi Coast Private Half Day Tour from Positano/Praiano: $1,378
  • Amalfi Coast Tour: secret caves and stunning beaches: $869
  • Amalfi Coast: Path of the Gods Private Walking Tour: $136
  • Amalfi Coast: Romantic Sunset Cruise with Music & Cocktails: $162
  • Amalfi and Positano Boat Tour: $212
  • Capri : Private Yacht Tour from Sorrento Capri and Positano: $2,040
  • Capri All Inclusive Small Group Tour from Positano: $219
  • Capri full day tour: $187
  • Climbing Experience - The path of the Gods: $187

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paros 25
    Positano 15

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: $61
  • Citron Tasting and Distillery 1-Hour Guided Tour in Naxos: $66
  • 3 Hour Tour in Paros Wine Tasting: $165
  • Paros wine tour and tasting: $168

Typical Alcohol Prices in Positano

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Positano:


  • Bottle of Limoncello
    16

Sample the Local Flavors in Positano

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

  • Organic Wine Tasting with Mozzarella and Gnocchi workshop: $71
  • Private Food and Wine Tasting on the Sorrento Coast: $110
  • Pompeii Wine Tasting Tour from Positano: $247
  • Pompeii Tour with Lunch and Wine Tasting from Positano: $274


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


Which is Bigger, Paros or Positano?

Paros has a larger population, and is about 36% larger than the population of Positano. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Positano, 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.