A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paros vs. Saint Andrews for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Paros or Saint Andrews?

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 Saint Andrews. 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 diverse, stunning, and breathtaking island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Saint Andrews

Saint Andrews is a quaint, peaceful, and historic university town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Paros and Saint Andrews: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Saint Andrews?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paros than Saint Andrews, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paros is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Saint Andrews is more popular for its small town charm. Paros is more touristy than Saint Andrews 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. Saint Andrews is well known for its reputation as the birthplace of golf.

How is Paros different from Saint Andrews?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paros is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its museums and history.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Paros can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Saint Andrews. For many, a highlight of their trip is to play a round of golf at St. Andrews Links Golf Courses. Golf enthusiasts will also appreciate a visit to the British Golf Museum. Other interesting sights in the area include a visit to the ruins of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, visiting the St. Andrews University Museums, or stopping by St. Andrews Castle.

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

Paros is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its restaurants.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paros is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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.

Saint Andrews has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town holds on to its history and heritage, and that stands out with the restaurant selection. There are a range of of independent cafes and pubs and surprisingly few major chain restaurants and fast food joints.

Is Paros or Saint Andrews Better for Nightlife?

Paros is a well-known place for nightlife and partying. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for its evening party scene.

Paros offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Saint Andrews. There are a large number of pubs and bars throughout the town, and you'll find students hanging out and keeping things lively.

Is Paros or Saint Andrews Better for Resorts?

Paros is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Saint Andrews is not a resort destination.

Paros is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. 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.

Saint Andrews is not a resort destination.

Is Paros or Saint Andrews Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Saint Andrews is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Paros to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. 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.

Saint Andrews is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Saint Andrews Better for Beaches?

Paros is terrific for the beache. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for the beach.

The beaches in Paros are among the best in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Saint Andrews. Adding to the natural beauty is the beautiful coastline around St. Andrews. Some of the best beaches include West Sands Beach, Kingsbarns Beach, Castle Sands, and Saint Andrews Beach.

Is Paros or Saint Andrews Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Paros and Saint Andrews, and they are notable.

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.

Saint Andrews is a good destination for hiking. There are some beautiful hikes just outside of town. Check out the views from Chamcook Mountain or wander down the Van Horne Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Saint Andrews?

Shoppers can find a variety of great stores in both Paros and Saint Andrews.

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 Saint Andrews. The town is filled with boutique shops and local markets where you can buy unique items like artisan food, handmade crafts, or local art.

Is Paros or Saint Andrews Better for Families?

Paros is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit 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.

Saint Andrews is a family-friendly island. There are some great playgrounds, parks, and gardens that kids will enjoy. Check out Kingbrae Gardens, Ministers Island, and Katy’s Cove. For museums, head to Ross Memorial Museum and Huntsman Fundy Discovery Aquarium.

Is Paros or Saint Andrews Better for Couples?

Paros is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Saint Andrews is not as famous, but is still a good university town to visit for couples.

Paros has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Saint Andrews makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The scenic landscapes, stunning views, and quaint charm make this a perfect place for couples to escape to. You can enjoy boat rides, seafood restaurants, golfing, and spas all while you soak up the natural beauty.

Is Paros or Saint Andrews Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Saint Andrews is not a good university town 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.

Saint Andrews is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not really a backpacker's destination, but there are some guesthouses and apartments that are more affordable.

Is Paros or Saint Andrews Better for Students?

Saint Andrews is terrific for its student-friendly activities. However, Paros is not popular with students.

Saint Andrews is a very popular place to visit for students. At its heart, this is a university town with a long standing history in teaching. You'll find the town's population doubles when students are in town.

Paros is not popular with students.

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

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

The public transit in Paros can get you around 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.

Saint Andrews has some public transit options. There are buses through St. Andrews.

Is Paros or Saint Andrews a more walkable city?

Paros and Saint Andrews 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.

Saint Andrews is a somewhat walkable island. Parts of the town are compact enough to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Saint Andrews or Paros?

How long in Paros or Saint Andrews?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paros or Saint Andrews to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paros than Saint Andrews because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paros, and 1-2 days is enough time in Saint Andrews.

Families should spend more time in Paros than Saint Andrews. 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 Saint Andrews. 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 Saint Andrews 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 Saint Andrews?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the striking destination of Paros. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Even though Saint Andrews is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. This university town 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 Saint Andrews?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paros. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the diverse destination of Paros. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Saint Andrews is a fun place to experience. Saint Andrews is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paros or Saint Andrews?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the beautiful island of Paros. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Saint Andrews is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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 Adventure Tours to United Kingdom, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Paros or Saint Andrews?

Saint Andrews has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Saint Andrews, 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.