Is Mykonos Expensive To Visit In 2024? Cost Breakdown
Are you planning a Greece trip and wondering if Mykonos is expensive?
I spent a month in Mykonos, so I can assure you that you’re getting relevant information about if it’s expensive. I’ve got you covered!
Mykonos is, without a doubt, one of Greece’s most sought-after island destinations. This Cycladic gem is known for its beautiful beaches, endless parties, cobbled streets, and whitewashed houses.
However, many travelers wonder about the expenses of visiting Mykonos. Between world-class beach clubs, shopping, and nightlife, Mykonos is an ultimate luxury getaway. Despite its luxurious image, it is still possible to discover the island without breaking the bank.
I even wondered how expensive the island would be as it was the first stop of my summer trip, and I didn’t want to burn through my wallet!
This article will explain that Mykonos can be expensive but will also provide tips on how to visit the island on a budget, making it accessible to everyone. If you are planning a trip to Mykonos, then here is some information that might be useful.
Going On A Trip To Mykonos? Check Out These Resources!
🛌 Accommodations: I always use Booking.com for my lodging.
🚘 Car Rentals: To find the best prices, I use Discover Cars!
✈️ Flights: To find great flight prices, I check on Expedia.
📍Tours: I use Viator to find memorable experiences.
Is Mykonos Expensive?
To get a simple answer, yes, Mykonos is an expensive destination.
Mykonos is in the Cycladic island region of Greece, also home to the famous and equally expensive island of Santorini.
Prices in Mykonos will be notably higher than those of other Greek destinations, including neighboring islands such as Tinos, Paros, and Syros. This goes from everything from food to rental car expenses.
The powers of supply and demand come into play with Mykonos’s immense popularity, especially during the peak season months of July and August.
The surge in tourist numbers causes accommodation, transportation, and other activities to rise dramatically.
If you plan on thoroughly enjoying all that Mykonos has to offer, then be prepared to spend a decent penny because the ultimate Mykonos experience can be expensive.
And yet, it is still possible to do Mykonos on a budget. Some helpful ways to save on a Mykonos vacation are visiting in the shoulder season months, booking accommodations outside tourist hotspots, and finding alternatives to luxury restaurants and bars.
But for a simple yes or no, yes, Mykonos is expensive. But don’t worry; I’ll share some tips to make your Mykonos trip more budget-friendly, even though the island is generally costly.
Why Is Myknos So Expensive?
Mykonos is an expensive island for several reasons. First, it’s one of the most visited destinations in Greece. The popularity leads to a surge in demand for accommodation, dining, excursions, and transportation.
Mykonos sees over two million tourists yearly, and there is only so much space to accommodate this many people on a single island.
The limited space and building regulations mean hotels and taxis can get away with charging high prices in Mykonos due to the high demand.
For example, I paid €35 ($37) for a 6-minute drive to my hotel from the airport! Some price surges have even contributed to a fall in tourist numbers recently.
The most intense demand occurs in the peak season months of July and August. Due to this, it is the most expensive time to visit Mykonos, with prices increasing up to 100% more than during other points of the year. Given that, visiting outside peak season can save a lot of money!
Another notable reason Mykonos is so expensive is that it’s pretty popular with wealthy travelers, athletes, and celebrities.
These individuals come to enjoy the island’s luxury hotels and entertainment performances and explore the crystal-clear blue waters. In return, this leads to premium price tags for various expenses.
These influential individuals have also led to the development of a luxurious shopping environment in Mykonos. In Nammos Village and Mykonos Town, you can find high-end stores such as Louis Vuitton and Dior.
In addition, Mykonos has a reputation for holding some of the world’s most lavish beach clubs, restaurants, and nightlife scenes. Some of these venues have minimum spends of hundreds per person! In effect, visiting these luxurious spots will come with a price tag.
How Much Does the Average Trip to Mykonos Cost? Full Breakdown
Now that we know a trip to Mykonos can be pretty expensive, let’s explore the full breakdown of the average cost of a trip to Mykonos in detail.
How Much Are Flights to Mykonos?
Luckily, Mykonos and Santorini have direct flights from many destinations around Europe and a few outside.
You will most likely need a connection in Athens for other regions globally.
Depending on your origin, this could be one of your most significant expenses when visiting Mykonos. In addition, prices will be higher during peak season than during the off-season.
Here is what you can expect to pay from a few worldwide destinations:
- London, U.K. to Mykonos, Greece= $100- $500
- Dubai, U.A.E to Mykonos, Greece= $550- $1,100
- Capetown, South Africa to Mykonos, Greece= $700- $1,400
- New York, U.S.A to Mykonos, Greece= $700- $1,500
- São Paulo, Brazil to Mykonos, Greece= $1,000- $1,600
- Sydney, Australia to Mykonos, Greece= $1,200- $2,600
✈️I recommend using Expedia to find great deals on flights!
Accommodation Costs in Mykonos
The accommodation you choose in Mykonos will significantly impact your trip to the island. Mykonos offers a variety of accommodations, including luxury hotels, private villas, mid-range hotels, homestays, and even a hostel!
Several factors can affect prices, such as where you stay and when during the year. Regarding where you stay, areas such as Platis Gialos and Mykonos Town will be more expensive than staying on the outskirts or in a nearby village.
When it comes to when you visit, prices outside of the peak season months of July and August can be significantly less.
Generally, you can expect to pay $400-$800+ for luxury accommodation, $150-$400 for mid-range accommodation, and $50-$150 for budget accommodation.
While you get what you pay for, you can find somewhere lovely to stay on the island regardless of your budget. Here is one of the best places to stay for each budget.
📍Semeli Hotel ($$$)
9/10 (400+ reviews)
Semeli Hotel is one of the premier properties located in Mykonos Town. This 5-star property is the perfect luxury destination if you’re looking for a memorable experience.
The hotel has a variety of offerings for its guests, including an outdoor pool, jacuzzi, state-of-the-art spa, and superb dining options. In addition, some rooms even have private indoor or outdoor jacuzzis.
Undoubtedly, one of the best parts about Semeli is its location. Being in Mykonos Town will allow you to easily explore its charming streets, nightlife, and other attractions.
➡️Book your luxurious getaway at Semeli today!⬅️
📍Ilio Maris ($$)
9/10 (900+ reviews)
Ilio Maris is an excellent 4-star hotel on the edge of Mykonos Town. This hotel offers stunning ocean and famous Mykonos windmills.
This hotel has multiple amenities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a bar, and a delicious breakfast.
One of the best features is the hotel’s proximity to Mykonos town. It’s only a 5-minute walk to the town’s center, allowing easy access to all the nearby attractions.
➡️Book your unforgettable stay at Ilio Maris today!⬅️
📍Hotel Milena ($)
9.4/10 (600+ reviews)
Hotel Milena is one of a few accommodations in Mykonos that maintain budget-friendly prices during peak and off-season seasons.
This hotel offers comfort, convenience, and service within walking distance of Mykonos Town. This hotel is an excellent choice if you want to visit Mykonos without breaking the bank.
Milena also has a bar for guests to grab a cocktail or refreshments. Each room has a private bathroom, refrigerator, TV, and complimentary toiletries.
➡️Book your time at the great, family-run Hotel Milena here!⬅️
How Much Does a Meal Cost in Mykonos?
Unfortunately, dining in Mykonos can be pricier than other places in Greece. You will find that some restaurants charge a premium as they rely on tourists willing to pay for the experience. The prices you pay will also depend on where you go.
Expect dining experiences to range between €15-40 ($16-42) per dish. Cocktails can also be expensive, easily being €20 ($21) at the more touristy restaurants and bars. Despite this, there are budget-friendly dining options in Mykonos.
There are also a variety of culinary offerings in Mykonos, in addition to delicious Greek cuisine. You’ll be able to find Asian, Italian, French, and more foods on the island.
👉Try local eateries such as traditional Greek tavernas to save on food expenses during your Mykonos trip. These are usually cheaper than tourist restaurants, and you can expect to pay around €12-15 ($13-16) per dish. Finding a good gyro spot is also a great way to save money, as these cost €5 ($5) or less.
👉If you’re staying in a homestay or aparthotel, consider buying local ingredients and cooking your meals. This will significantly lower dining out costs and help maintain lower prices in Mykonos.
How Much Is a Beer in Mykonos?
You can expect a beer in Mykonos to cost €7-10 ($8-11). Domestic beers will cost less than imported beers on the island.
Are Excursions in Mykonos Expensive?
The cost of excursions in Mykonos is generally on the pricey side. If you’re looking to save money, some activities that can save you money will be hiking, relaxing on the beaches, and wandering Mykonos Town and other villages.
Tours in Mykonos usually cost around $75-250 per person.
Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for tours in Mykonos:
- Wine Tasting Tour– $75
- Sea Kayaking Tour– $85
- Half-Day Highlights of Mykonos Tour– $106
- Souvlaki Cooking Class with Locals– $130
- Delos & Rhenia Islands Tour– $135
- Catamaran Daytime or Sunset Cruise– $190
- Flying Dress Photoshoot– $230
How to Do Mykonos on a Budget
Although Mykonos is an expensive destination, it doesn’t mean you must break the bank for a Greek vacation here. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the island and its beauty on a budget.
Here are some tips to save money while visiting Mykonos:
✔️Visit Outside of Peak Season
Like many European destinations, visiting Mykonos from July to August is prime time.
The weather has the hottest temperatures of the year during this timeframe, and numerous locations are packed with visitors and entertainment.
To steer clear of this, I suggest exploring Mykonos during the shoulder seasons, such as May through June or September through early October.
During these times, Mykonos offers lower prices, diminished tourist crowds, and more pleasant weather compared to the summer months.
✔️Use the Bus System
The Mykonos bus system is both efficient and easy to use. You can save money by taking advantage of it and avoid renting a car or other transportation to get around the island.
The buses visit several hotspots on the island, including Paradise Beach, Paraga, Platis Gialos, and the airport.
The most popular bus station is Fabrika, located in Mykonos town. The Mykonos bus schedule can be viewed here. Ticket fares are between €1 and €3, and it’s the least expensive way to get around Mykonos.
Although many people choose to rent a quad or car for more flexibility, it’s essential to remember what to expect with the driving conditions. Several roads may be winding and narrow.
In addition, you may have to use elevated senses while driving as some people may ignore the road rules.
You might be wondering if Uber is available in Mykonos. The answer is yes, but remember that it’s slightly different from the one you are used to back home. The Uber situation in Santorini is the same.
✔️Skip the Expensive Dining
Mykonos can easily be one of the most expensive places to dine in Greece. Because the island attracts so many wealthy and famous tourists, the touristy restaurants, beach clubs, and bars can be costly.
Instead, look for the local tavernas, which offer delicious Greek food at a fraction of the price. In addition, you can even opt to pick up groceries from the local market and cook your meals to save even more.
✔️Book Your Trip in Advance
A significant key to reducing costs for Mykonos involves booking at the right time, usually in advance. Due to the high number of tourists in Mykonos, you will have more choices for accommodations and excursions, ensuring you have the best options for your budget.
You can maximize available flight deals and stay within your budget by eyeing for fare reductions. Additionally, due to Mykonos’s tourist demands, accommodation is best booked for the busy months at least two to three months in advance.
Also, booking flights, accommodation, and more lets you plan your itinerary carefully. Overall, this can lead to a smoother and more cost-effective Mykonos trip.
Is Mykonos Expensive: FAQs
Visiting Mykonos at least once is a must! It’s a lively, beautiful island attracting millions each year. Despite its expensive reputation, you can still plan your Greece vacation to meet your budget.
Next, here are some answers to more questions that you may have when planning your Mykonos trip.
Is Mykonos More Expensive than Santorini?
Mykonos and Santorini are two of the most popular destinations in Greece, attracting millions of visitors each year.
However, when it comes to comparing expenses, Santorini is considered to be slightly more expensive to visit than Mykonos.
On average, accommodation and dining are pricier in Santorini. Of course, this can be subjective depending on how many luxurious experiences you choose in Mykonos.
If you go to multiple beach clubs and stay in luxurious hotels, your Mykonos trip may become more expensive than your trip to Santorini.
Is Mykonos Worth Visiting?
Undoubtedly, Mykonos is worth visiting at least once. While it does have a reputation for being expensive and luxurious, there is more to the island. It has stunning beauty, sunsets, beaches, and charming villages.
If you are interested in visiting some of the trendy restaurants and nightlife on the island, you will be in for a treat. The level of production and service at the venues in Mykonos is excellent!
Despite not being the most authentic nor cheapest island to visit in Greece, Mykonos has something to offer anyone.
In addition, you can take fast ferries from Mykonos to neighboring islands such as Paros and Tinos.
How Expensive is Mykonos Nightlife?
Even though Mykonos nightlife is beautiful and limitless, it comes with a price tag. So, be prepared to spend at least $50-200 for the night. The night can add up quickly between possible cover charges, premium drink prices, and more.
The nightlife in Mykonos can be pricey due to the high cocktails costs, which can be around €20- 30 ($21- 32) each. If you want bottle services, be prepared to spend a minimum of $500, especially at the trendy venues.
Places like Scorpios, SantAnna, and Cavo Paradiso will be more expensive for nightlife. If those are outside your budget, Paradise Beach Club and Tropicana Beach Club are Mykonos’s two most affordable beach clubs.
Can Mykonos be Affordable?
Mykonos is regarded as a luxurious and high-end destination, home to some of the top beach club and restaurant experiences worldwide. Surprisingly, you can visit Mykonos within a budget.
A few ways to find a more affordable Greece vacation on this island include booking in advance, using the local buses, dining at local tavernas instead of touristy options, and visiting during the shoulder season.
Consider Paros if you’re looking for an island with a vibe similar to Mykonos. Between Paros and Mykonos, Paros is more affordable and offers an incredible experience.
Is Mykonos a Party Island?
Undoubtedly, Mykonos is a party island and the top party island in Greece. The island has a variety of beach clubs, bars, and nightclubs that come with upbeat music, dance floors, and a blend of local and international visitors.
Mykonos’s reputation as a party capital attracts some of the world’s top DJs and entertainers, promising its visitors an unforgettable time.
Regardless of whether you’re looking to relax with a cocktail at a beach club or dance the night away at a lively bar, Mykonos has everything!
Do You Tip in Mykonos?
In Greece as a whole, there is no expectation of tipping. However, it is always appreciated. Remember that those on the island work very long days for around seven straight months of the year for tourism.
If you want to leave a tip, a good tip in Greece falls between 10-15% of the bill at cafes, restaurants, and bars.
Beyond restaurants and bars, tipping in Mykonos extends to services such as transportation, hotel staff, and tour guides. Again, it’s not obligatory, but the service provider will greatly appreciate it.
To Sum Up: Is Mykonos Expensive?
So, is Mykonos expensive? Yes, it is, unfortunately, expensive. While prices are significantly costlier than nearby islands like Syros, with this guide, you can still reach this Greek island and see that it can cater to various budgets.
To be budget-friendly, you can stay in budget accommodation, book your flight in advance, and avoid the super touristy restaurants and bars.
You can also save significant money by visiting during shoulder season, which will still have great weather and activity.
I hope this information helps you plan how expensive you can expect your Mykonos vacation to be. So, if you want an adventure on this beautiful Greek island, now is the time to start planning and packing your bags!
Now that you know more about the costs of visiting this stunning Greek island, why not find out if Greece is worth visiting? And if you’re wondering about other islands that aren’t notoriously expensive like Mykonos, check out Corfu Island!
