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

Should you visit Paros or Villach?

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 Villach. 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. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Villach

Villach is a historic, nature-filled, and outdoorsy town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking, museums, and nightlife.

Paros and Villach: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Paros or Villach?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paros. Although Paros and Villach are both popular with visitors, Paros has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paros is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Villach is known for its historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Paros is more touristy than Villach and is popular for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. It is also home to The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Villach is popular for its many alpine hikes, nearby lakes, and its quaint main square.

How is Paros different from Villach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paros
Villach

Paros is notable for its sights and museums. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Villach is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical buildings in town such as the Parish Church of St. Jakob, the Holy Cross Church, and the Parish Church of St. Martin. Also worth a visit is the Museum of the City of Villach.


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

Paros
Villach

Paros is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Villach is a mediocre town 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.

Villach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find the standard options of pizza and burgers around town. While the food scene isn't particularly special, the quality is decent and reliable.

Is Paros or Villach Better for Nightlife?

Paros
Villach

Paros is notable for its evening party scene. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for nightlife.

Paros has plenty to do after the sun goes down. 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 Villach. The weekends are when you'll find the best nightlife. There are some local bars and clubs that come to life and attract a young crowd on a weekend night.

Is Paros or Villach Better for Resorts?

Paros
Villach

Paros is notable for its resorts. However, Villach 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.

Villach is not a resort destination.


Is Paros or Villach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros
Villach

Paros is notable for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Villach 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.

Villach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Villach Better for Beaches?

Paros
Villach

Paros is terrific for the beach. However, Villach 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.

Villach is not a beach destination.

Is Paros or Villach Better for its Old Town?

Paros
Villach

Villach is a good destination for its old town. However, Paros does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Villach. You'll find churches and gardens throughout the charming old town. At the heart of the town is the main square.

Paros does not have a historic old town.


Is Paros or Villach Better for Hiking?

Paros
Villach

Villach 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 Villach. The surrounding countryside is filled with both short and long hikes. You can take a short stroll or spend hours (or days) exploring the alpine scenery. Breathtaking views and peaceful retreats make this a wonderful area for hiking.

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 Villach?

Paros
Villach

Paros is notable for its shopping areas. However, Villach is a mediocre town for shopping.

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.

Villach is a good destination for shopping. There are your standard shopping centers where you can pick up clothes or anything you may have forgotten for your trip.

Is Paros or Villach Better for Families?

Paros
Villach

Both Paros and Villach are superb family-friendly destinations.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paros is very family-friendly. 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.

Villach is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family will enjoy. There's kid-friendly hiking, adventure parks, nature parks, and some swimming areas.


Is Paros or Villach Better for Couples?

Paros
Villach

Paros is terrific for couples. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Villach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures, beautiful hikes, and stunning scenery will appreciate a visit to this area.

Is Paros or Villach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros
Villach

Paros and Villach 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.

Villach is a very popular island for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a number of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers who enjoy the outdoor setting and beautiful hikes that are nearby.

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

Paros
Villach

Paros is notable for its public transit. However, Villach is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Paros offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Villach. There are buses and trains in the area, but to experience the nearby nature you'll want to have a car.


Is Paros or Villach a more walkable city?

Paros
Villach

Paros is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its walkability.

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.

Villach is generally not a very walkable island. Parts of the town are walkable but the surrounding natural areas are most easily accessed with a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Villach or Paros?

How long in Paros or Villach?

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

Families should spend more time in Paros than Villach. 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 Villach. 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 Villach 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 Villach? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paros 3-5 
    Villach 1-3

One day in Paros or Villach?

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 Villach, many people enjoy the nightlife and museums that this outdoorsy destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This 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 Villach?

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 Villach. 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 Villach?

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.

Villach is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the destination of Villach. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paros or Villach?

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 nature-filled destination of Villach. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.


Which place is cheaper, Villach 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 Villach is €116. 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 Villach in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paros 53
    Villach 69
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paros 106
    Villach 138
Compare Hotels in Paros and Villach

Looking for a hotel in Paros or Villach? 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 Villach


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 Villach Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paros 37
    Villach 18

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: $60

Is it cheaper to fly into Paros or Villach?

Prices for flights to both Villach 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
    Villach 35

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: $59
  • Naxos Town Food Tour : $92
  • Cretan Cooking Class and Dinner: Evening in a Rethymno Home : $96
  • 4 Hour Traditional Cooking Class for Small Group: $96
  • Naxos Perivoli Farm Experience & Wood-fire Cooking Class: $104
  • Naxos:Half-day cooking class at Basiliko : $106
  • Greek Cooking Class with Full Meal: $113
  • Food Tasting and Cooking Class on Naxos with Local Market Visit: $115
  • Paros Cooking Class: $116
  • Naxos Old Town Private Food Tour with Dinner and Pickup: $153
  • Naxos Villages Food Tour : $161
  • Cooking Class with 6-Course Menu and Drinks: $642

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paros 22
    Villach 15

Tours and Activities in Paros

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

  • Naxos Highlights Bus Tour with Free Time for Lunch at Apeiranthos: $33
  • Naxos Half Day History and Culture Guided Tour: $33
  • Naxos Town & Portara Sunset Walking Tour: $33
  • Essence of Naxos Tour: $33
  • Naxos: Highlights of Naxos Day Tour: $33
  • Naxos Sunset Walking Tour : $40
  • Hiking tour on Kythnos: $49
  • Cruises to Delos-Mykonos, Santorini and Koufonisi by Alexander : $49
  • Full Day Bus Tour in Paros and Antiparos Islands from Paros : $61
  • One Day Cruise to Koufonissi from Paros Island: $61
  • Naxos Boat Trip Tour to Delos and Mykonos: $65
  • Sunset Experience in Paros: $71

Tours and Activities in Villach

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

  • Villach Private Walking Tour with Professional Guide: $250
  • Magic Christmas Tour: $769
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paros 25
    Villach 14

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: $60
  • Citron Tasting and Distillery 1-Hour Guided Tour in Naxos: $65
  • 3 Hour Tour in Paros Wine Tasting: $164
  • Paros wine tour and tasting: $166


When comparing the travel costs between Paros and Villach, we can see that Paros is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Paros Expensive? and Is Villach Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Paros or Villach?

Villach has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Villach, 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.