A Travel Price Comparison for Greece Santorini vs. Delphi for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Santorini or Delphi?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Santorini or Delphi, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Santorini

Santorini is a romantic, stunning, and historic island. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Delphi

Delphi is a fascinating, world-renowned, and historic archeological site. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Santorini and Delphi: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 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
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Santorini or Delphi?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Santorini. Although Santorini and Delphi are about the same size, Santorini has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Santorini is more popular for its nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Delphi is known for its museums. Santorini is popular for its beautiful volcanic beaches, stunning natural beauty, and breathtaking sunsets over the whitewashed villages. It is also home to The Caldera and Volcano of Santorini. Delphi is popular for its world renowned archeological ruins and its connection to Greek mythology.

How is Santorini different from Delphi?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Delphi and Santorini. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santorini or Delphi?

Santorini
Delphi

Delphi is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Delphi are world-renowned. This is one of the most popular archeological sites in Greece. You will find the Temple of Apollo and most of the monuments are dedicated to this God. There is an Ancient Theatre, an Ancient Stadium, as well as an Archaeological Museum. There's also the Sanctuary of Athena Pronea and the Treasury of the Athenians.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Santorini. One of the most impressive historical sights is Akrotiri Archaeological Site. The island has many archeological sites as well as the Archeological Museum in Fira.


Is the Food Better in Santorini or Delphi? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Santorini
Delphi

Dining out at restaurants in both Santorini and Delphi can be an enjoyable experience.

Santorini has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. Popular foods on this island include fava, Greek salad, and kofta.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Delphi area. There are a number of restaurant options in the area, some of them offering spectacular views. There are traditional Greek restaurants as well as modern cafes with international cuisine. You'll find all of the standard Greek staples such as gyros, lamb chops, and seafood.

Is Santorini or Delphi Better for Nightlife?

Santorini
Delphi

Santorini is a nice place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Delphi is not a good destination for nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Santorini has a few options to choose from. It is one of the calmer, more romantic islands in Greece. For the best nightlife, you'll want to stay near Fira.

People don't go to Delphi for the nightlife. This is a quiet town that shuts down in the evening. If you're looking for more of a nightlife scene, head to nearby Arachova, which is just a 10 minute drive away.

Is Santorini or Delphi Better for Resorts?

Santorini
Delphi

Santorini is renowned for its luxury resorts. However, Delphi is not a resort destination.

Santorini offers an unforgettable resort vacation. The resorts range from all-inclusive options to resorts with a more local feel. The island is one of the most romantic of the Greek Islands, and the resorts are no exception.

Delphi is not a resort destination.


Is Santorini or Delphi Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Santorini
Delphi

Santorini is a nice place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Delphi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Santorini has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. Some of the best snorkeling places are found at Red Beach, White Beach, and the less accessible Kambia. One of the island's best diving spots is Caldera Beach.

Delphi is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Santorini or Delphi Better for Beaches?

Santorini
Delphi

Santorini is a nice place to visit for the beach. However, Delphi is not a beach destination.

Santorini has a beach worth visiting. The island has many beaches, most of which are made of black pebbly sand that are a result of the island's volcanic history. Popular beaches include Perissa Beach, Kamari Beach, and Perivolos Beach.

Delphi is not a beach destination.

Is Santorini or Delphi Better for Hiking?

Santorini
Delphi

Santorini is a nice place to visit for hiking. However, Delphi is not a hiking destination.

Santorini has hiking trails worth exploring. The best hiking trails on the island pass by quaint villages and offers stunning ocean views. You can also hike along the edge of a volcano.

Delphi is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Santorini or Delphi?

Santorini
Delphi

Santorini is great for its shopping areas. However, Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Santorini. Towns around the island are filled with clothing and jewelry boutiques as well as many unique Greek shopping experiences.

Delphi is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Santorini or Delphi Better for Families?

Santorini
Delphi

Santorini and Delphi are both good destinations for the whole family.

Santorini offers lots of family activities. It is a calmer destination than many of the Greek Islands. While it's a great place to relax with kids, the beaches aren't as good as they are on some of the other islands. Most families hang out in Kamari and Perissa Beach.

Delphi is a family-friendly place to visit. The archeological ruins are world class, and kids who enjoy mythology and history will love this place. It's the perfect place for kids to let their imagination run wild.

Is Santorini or Delphi Better for Couples?

Santorini
Delphi

Santorini is renowned for couples. Also, Delphi is not as popular, but is still a nice archeological site for romance.

Santorini has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a dream honeymoon destination that is famous for its picturesque setting and luxury resorts. For many couples, this is a top pick for a romantic trip to the Greek Isles.

Delphi is a nice destination for couples. It's an iconic destination that is a great addition to any couple's itinerary to Greece.


Is Santorini or Delphi Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Santorini
Delphi

For backpackers, both Santorini and Delphi are good places to visit.

It's common for backpackers to visit Santorini. The island has its share of 5 star resorts, but if you head a few streets in you'll find some surprisingly affordable accommodation. Backpackers are welcomed on the island and beaches are free, so it's possible to get by on a relatively low budget.

Delphi is a good island to visit for backpackers. There's a hostel or two in the area, and the prices are reasonable for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Santorini or Delphi Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Santorini
Delphi

Santorini and Delphi both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Santorini offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system, KTEL Santorini Buses, that runs 23 buses during the summer months but only a small fraction of that operate during the winter months.

Delphi has a few public transit options. There are buses that travel to Delphi from Greece.

Is Santorini or Delphi a more walkable city?

Santorini
Delphi

Delphi is a great archeological site for its high level of walkability. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.

Delphi is a very walkable archeological site. Both the museum are archeological site are within walking distance of the town. The town is also small enough to explore on foot.

Santorini is a somewhat walkable island. Many towns on the island are walkable, including Fira, but the actual island is too large to explore on foot.


For even more information, also check out Is Santorini Worth Visiting? and Is Delphi Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Delphi or Santorini?

How long in Santorini or Delphi?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Santorini or Delphi to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Santorini than Delphi because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Santorini, and 1-2 days is enough time in Delphi.

Families should spend more time in Santorini than Delphi. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Santorini, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Santorini than Delphi. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Santorini that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Santorini than Delphi 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 Santorini.


  • How many days in Santorini or Delphi? Ideal Length of Stay
    Santorini 3-7 
    Delphi 1-2

One day in Santorini or Delphi?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Santorini. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find food and museums around the archeological site of Delphi. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Delphi has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Santorini or Delphi?

Santorini is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find museums and food around the historic destination of Delphi. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this archeological site has to offer. This archeological site offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Santorini or Delphi?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santorini. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic archeological site of Delphi. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the museums. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in Santorini or Delphi?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the romantic destination of Santorini. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Delphi is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


Which place is cheaper, Delphi or Santorini?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Santorini is €175, while the average daily cost in Delphi is €102. 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 Santorini and Delphi in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Santorini 93
    Delphi 59
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Santorini 186
    Delphi 118
Compare Hotels in Santorini and Delphi

Looking for a hotel in Santorini or Delphi? 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 Santorini


Hotels in Delphi


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: Santorini Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Santorini 28
    Delphi 8.57

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santorini

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

  • Helicopter Transfer between Mykonos & Santorini: $3,812
  • Private Sunset Tour with Picnic & Transfer: $163
  • Santorini Shore Excursion with Boat Transfer - Skip Cable Car: $154
  • Santorini Airport(JTR) to Santorini - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $144
  • Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip(BBQ,drinks, transfer): $144
  • Santorini Luxury Catamaran Day Cruise with BBQ,drinks,transfer: $144
  • Santorini Luxury Catamaran Sunset Cruise with BBQ, Drink and Transfer: $144
  • Caldera Cruise with Greek Meal and Transfer: $142
  • Santorini to Heraklion Crete: Ferry Ticket & Hotel Transfer: $127
  • Santorini to Mykonos: Ferry Ticket & Hotel Transfer: $127
  • Santorini Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Drinks and Transfer: $122
  • Santorini Private transfer up to 8 persons: $122

Is it cheaper to fly into Santorini or Delphi?

Prices for flights to both Delphi and Santorini 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
    Santorini 48
    Delphi 36

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Santorini

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

  • Live Virtual Cooking Class: $25
  • Traditional Greek Night live Music & Dinner Show in Santorini: $55
  • Santorini Caldera: Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $71
  • Romantic Sunset Caldera Cruise with Dinner: $71
  • Virtual Private Cooking Class Live from Santorini: $72
  • Volcanic Sunset Cruise with Dinner: $82
  • Santorini Caldera Sunset Sailing Cruise with Dinner and Wine: $89
  • Catamaran Tour with BBQ Dinner, Drinks, and Music: $93
  • Volcano and Hot Springs Sunset Dinner Cruise: $98
  • Santorini Sunset Dinner Cruise Including Nea Kameni Visit: $100
  • Greek Cuisine Cooking Class in Santorini: $105
  • Santorini Volcano Sunset Cruise Including Dinner on Board: $110

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Santorini 36
    Delphi 11

Tours and Activities in Santorini

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

  • Majestic Shore Adventure for the First-Time Cruisers: $74
  • Motor Yacht Day Cruise with Delicious Homemade Buffet Lunch: $172
  • Santorini Panoramic Blue Shade Tour-Firostefani, Imerovigli, Oia: $63
  • Santorini Secrets & Gems for Cruise Passengers: $98
  • Oia Sunset- Cultural Walking Tour : $67
  • 1 Hour Private Photoshoot Experience in Oia : $222
  • 2-Day Santorini Bus Tour with Volcanic Cruise: $111
  • 3 Hour Sightseeing Tour in the Magical Santorini: $75
  • 3 Hours Private Santorini Tour: $139
  • 3-Hour Private Tour in Oia: $222
  • 3-Hour Santorini Highlights Tour: $72
  • 4 Hour Private Guided Tour in Santorini: $222

Tours and Activities in Delphi

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

  • Athens: 2-Day tour to Delphi and Meteora: $1,013
  • Delphi Guided Walking Tour and Admission Ticket: $109
  • Delphi Navel Of Earth Hosios Loukas Full Day Private Tour: $185
  • Delphi and Monastery of Hosios Loukas family day tour: $447
  • Delphi&Thermopylae private full day tour: $206
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Guide: $9.80
  • Archaeological Site & Museum Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • Audiovisual self-guided tour with 3D models: $7.61
  • Exclusive Self-Guided Audio Tour in Earth's Navel: $4.68
  • Self-Guided Virtual Tour Experience from your Home: $17
  • Self-guided audio tour in French or English: $22
  • From Athens: Delphi Full-Day Tour: $588

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Santorini 26
    Delphi 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Santorini

Also in Santorini, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Half Day Simply Santorini Tour with Wine Tasting: $61
  • Top Sights Day Trip, Wine Tasting, & Oia Sunset: $70
  • Fira Town Walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $76
  • Visit to a Wine Museum and Wine Tasting in Santorini : $78
  • 2 Hours Private Wine Tasting Tour in Santorini With Pick Up: $89
  • Notos Day Tour through History & Wine Tasting: $100
  • Santorini 4-Hour Private Tour including Wine Tasting, Shore Excursion: $105
  • Santorini 4 Hour Private Oia Tour & Wine Tasting : $106
  • Santorini Highlights Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting from Fira: $111
  • 5 towns in 5 hours: Santorini Most Popular Tour with Wine tasting: $119
  • Wine Tour Santorini: $120
  • Wine Tour with Sunset in Oia: $120


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Santorini and Delphi, we can see that Santorini is more expensive. And not only is Delphi much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Delphi would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Delphi 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 Santorini would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Santorini than you might in Delphi.

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


Which is Bigger, Santorini or Delphi?

Santorini has a larger population, and is about 9% larger than the population of Delphi. When comparing the sizes of Santorini and Delphi, 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.