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

Should you visit Paros or Windsor?

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 Windsor. 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. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Windsor

Windsor is a royal, traditional, and touristy town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, museums, and nightlife.

Paros and Windsor: 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
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Windsor Castle
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food


Is there more to do in Paros or Windsor?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paros than Windsor, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paros is better known for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and shopping, while Windsor is more popular for its historical sights and small town charm. Paros is well known for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. Also, Paros is famous for The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Windsor is well known for being home to the largest and oldest operating castle in the world.

How is Paros different from Windsor?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paros
Windsor

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Paros and Windsor.

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.

Windsor offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. The main draw is the Windsor Castle, which many people explore in a few hours. Then you can pass some time wandering around the town.


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

Paros
Windsor

Paros is a world-class destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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.

Windsor is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are cafes, pubs, and local restaurants that let you sample regional dishes. There are also chain restaurants and international options including Japanese and Thai food.

Is Paros or Windsor Better for Nightlife?

Paros
Windsor

Paros is well known for nightlife and partying. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for its evening party scene.

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.

If you're looking for night time activities Windsor has a few options to choose from. There's a low key nightlife scene with local pubs and a theater. Dinner cruises are also a fun activity.

Is Paros or Windsor Better for Resorts?

Paros
Windsor

Paros is well known for its resorts. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a resort destination.


Is Paros or Windsor Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros
Windsor

Paros is well known for its diving and snorkeling. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Windsor Better for Beaches?

Paros
Windsor

Paros is a world-class destination for the beache. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a beach destination.

Is Paros or Windsor Better for its Old Town?

Paros
Windsor

Windsor 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 Windsor. The old town is opposite the castle and caters specifically to tourists with its restaurants, pubs, and a few shops.

Paros does not have a historic old town.


Is Paros or Windsor Better for Hiking?

Paros
Windsor

Paros is a popular place for its hiking experiences. However, Windsor 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.

Windsor is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Windsor?

Paros
Windsor

Paros is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Paros is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Windsor is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Paros or Windsor Better for Families?

Paros
Windsor

Paros is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Windsor offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy seeing a working castle when they visit Windsor Castle. While a visit to Windsor Castle is the obvious draw to the town, there are also river cruises, parks, and even the Royal Windsor Maze at the Goswells Park that the whole family will enjoy. There is also a Legoland in the area for those who have more time.


Is Paros or Windsor Better for Couples?

Paros
Windsor

Paros is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Windsor is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Exploring the Windsor Castle, taking a river cruise, and wandering the parks and gardens hand in hand make this a great place for a couples retreat.

Is Paros or Windsor Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paros
Windsor

Paros is well known for backpackers. However, Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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.

Windsor is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Paros
Windsor

Paros is well known for its public transit. Also, Windsor is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Windsor offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system around town.


Is Paros or Windsor a more walkable city?

Paros
Windsor

Windsor is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Windsor is a very walkable town. The town is compact and relatively easy to walk around. There are also several walking routes in the area.

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 Windsor Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Windsor or Paros?

How long in Paros or Windsor?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paros or Windsor to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paros than Windsor 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 Windsor.

Families should spend more time in Paros than Windsor. 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 Windsor. 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 Windsor 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 Windsor? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paros 3-5 
    Windsor 1-2

One day in Paros or Windsor?

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.

Even though Windsor is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. 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 Windsor?

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 Windsor. 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 Windsor?

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.

Windsor is a fun place to experience. Windsor 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 Windsor?

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.

Windsor 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 Historical Tours in United Kingdom, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Windsor 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 Windsor is €175. 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 Windsor in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paros 53
    Windsor 82
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paros 106
    Windsor 164
Compare Hotels in Paros and Windsor

Looking for a hotel in Paros or Windsor? 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 Windsor


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 Windsor Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paros 37
    Windsor 77

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Windsor

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Windsor:

  • Windsor Castle Ticket & Private Transfer: $319
  • London: Windsor Castle Private Tour with Hotel Transfers: $562
  • London: Transfer to Southampton with Windsor Castle Visit: $161
  • "Private Transfer: From London Heathrow Airport to Windsor": $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Paros or Windsor?

Prices for flights to both Windsor 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
    Windsor 46

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

Typical Food Prices in Windsor

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Windsor:


  • Morning Tea
    2.92

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paros 22
    Windsor 31

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 Windsor

Here are a few actual costs in Windsor for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 1,000 Years of Royal History from Windsor to Eton: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • 3 Hour Private Tour in Windsor Old Town and Castle: $191
  • From London: Half-Day Trip to Windsor with Castle Tickets: $111
  • From Southampton: Bath and Windsor Tour with London Drop-Off: $230
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort 2 Day Admission Ticket: $66
  • LEGOLAND Windsor Resort: Entrance Ticket: $44
  • Private Tour Windsor, Eton & Hampton Court: $650
  • Private Windsor Town & Guided Castle Walking Tour: $350
  • Private Windsor Walking Tour: $146
  • Royal Windsor & Stonehenge Private Tour: $1,998
  • Royal Windsor Castle Tour Private including tickets: $362
  • Stonehenge and Windsor Castle Tour from London With Entry Tickets: $126

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paros 25
    Windsor 8.82

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


Which is Bigger, Paros or Windsor?

Windsor has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Windsor, 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.