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

Should you visit Paros or Utrecht?

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 Utrecht. 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 striking, historical, and diverse island. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Utrecht

The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Because of its quaint atmosphere, it draws plenty of visitors, too. Visitors also love the food, shopping, and museums.

Paros and Utrecht: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Utrecht?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Utrecht are popular destinations, Paros has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paros is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Utrecht attracts visitors for its historical sights and quaint atmosphere. Paros is famous for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. It is also well known for The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Utrecht is famous for its beautiful canals, huge number of bikes, and charming old town.

How is Paros different from Utrecht?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Paros offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

Utrecht offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Dom Tower and St. Martin's Cathedral is a highlight of the city, but you'll also find smaller, more local museums and several beautiful churches. If you're up for heading out of town, you can visit De Haar Castle, which is most accessible if you have a private vehicle.

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

Paros is a world-class destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its restaurants.

For foodies, Paros is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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.

Utrecht has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a number of interesting international restaurants around town including Greek, Italian, and Spanish tapas. It's particularly fun to dine canal-side and sip wine as the boats pass by.

Is Paros or Utrecht Better for Nightlife?

The superb nightlife scene is relatively similar in Paros and Utrecht.

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.

Utrecht is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The student population keeps the nightlife scene fun and lively. There are plenty of bars in the old town and you'll find tourists and locals hanging out at the same spots.

Is Paros or Utrecht Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Utrecht is not a resort destination.

Is Paros or Utrecht Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is a well-known place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Utrecht is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors partake in scuba diving or snorkeing while visiting 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.

Utrecht is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Utrecht Better for Beaches?

Paros is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Utrecht is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Paros. 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.

Utrecht is not a beach destination.

Is Paros or Utrecht Better for its Old Town?

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

Utrecht has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. The old town is large, charming, and filled with locals. There are canals that that see a frequent stream of boats and kayakers. There are also historic buildings and cobblestone streets. The city is unique because many cafes offer seating directly next to the canals.

Paros does not have a historic old town.

Is Paros or Utrecht Better for Hiking?

Paros is a popular place for the nearby hiking options. However, Utrecht is not a hiking destination.

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.

Utrecht is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Utrecht?

Shoppers can find a variety of superb stores in both Paros and Utrecht.

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 Utrecht. You'll find both local shops and European chains throughout the old town. There's also a large mall right next to the main tourist area.

Is Paros or Utrecht Better for Families?

Paros is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Paros is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Utrecht is a family-friendly island. There are a few museums around town that are fun for kids. Make sure you check out the Miffy Museum, which is great for younger kids. The Museum Speelklok is fun for kids and adults alike. Families will also enjoy renting bikes for the day or taking a canal boat tour. Also make sure you try some local pancakes.

Is Paros or Utrecht Better for Couples?

Paros is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Utrecht is not as famous, but is still a good to visit for its romantic activities.

Paros makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Utrecht makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The charming old town and cozy cafes make for a wonderful date day. You can take a canal boat tour, sip coffee at a cafe by a canal, or explore the city as it lights up at night.

Is Paros or Utrecht Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros and Utrecht are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many 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.

Utrecht is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. It's a university city with a young population and plenty to do in the evening. There are also a decent number of hostels to choose from and a lively atmosphere with fun activities and festivals.

Is Paros or Utrecht Better for Students?

Utrecht is a very popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Paros is not popular with students.

Many students visit Utrecht. This is a great university city. The population is young, but housing can be challenging to find and very expensive.

Paros is not popular with students.

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

Visitors will find superb public transit in both Paros and Utrecht.

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.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Utrecht. There are buses around town and two tram lines that travel to the suburbs.

Is Paros or Utrecht a more walkable city?

Utrecht 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 Utrecht. The old town is easy to explore on foot, but don't walk in a bike lane or you'll likely receive a firm scolding from a local. Utrecht is regularly ranked as one of the world's most bike-friendly cities.

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 Utrecht Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Utrecht or Paros?

How long in Paros or Utrecht?

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

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

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

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 Utrecht. 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 Utrecht?

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.

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

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 vibrant destination of Utrecht. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Netherlands, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Netherlands.

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

Which is Bigger, Paros or Utrecht?

Utrecht has a larger population, and is about 50 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Utrecht, 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.