Mykonos vs Paros: Which Island Should You Visit?
Are you stuck on your Greek island hopping itinerary and have to choose between Mykonos vs. Paros?
Then you’ve landed on the perfect post! After visiting both islands, I can help you decide which will suit your tastes on Mykonos vs. Paros.
One of the most challenging parts of planning a Greek vacation is deciding which islands to visit. Greece has over 200 inhabited islands, so the options are endless!
No two Greek islands are precisely the same, and Mykonos and Paros are no exception! They both offer unique experiences and are two beautiful islands in the Cyclades.
If you want the ultimate party experience and a luxurious vacation, Mykonos will be perfect! On the other hand, if you’re looking for an island with charming villages and beaches, and hiking opportunities, then Paros is ideal.
This post will provide a guide to aid your choice between Mykonos or Paros. Keep reading to compare the different things to do, costs, how to get around, and more between the two islands.
Going On A Trip To Greece? 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.
Mykonos vs. Paros: Which Greek Island is Better?
Choosing between Mykonos or Paros can be a tough decision! These two islands are some of the most popular in the Cyclades.
These islands’ beaches, nightlife, landmarks, and activities cater to various interests. There’s something for anyone to partake in and appreciate.
Nonetheless, there’s still a question: which of the two destinations, Mykonos or Paros, is your ideal choice?
Honestly, it depends! Even though they’re in the same island region and share similarities, each offers a different overall experience.
For example, if you’re trying to experience the best parties and luxurious restaurants Greece offers, Mykonos will be the best island for you. In addition, Mykonos is home to the famous Windmills of Mykonos, the Church of Panagia Paraportiani, and Little Venice.
Meanwhile, if you want to explore more beautiful villages, have lower costs, and have better beaches, you should go with Paros. This island also offers the chance to see the Venetian Fortress and take a day trip to Antiparos.
Next, we’ll compare the two more deeply to see which island better matches your interests.
Best Things To Do in Mykonos
Mykonos is best known as a party destination, but there is so much more to the island! Read on to discover some of the best things to do in Mykonos.
✅ Visit Mykonos Town and Little Venice
Undoubtedly, one of the highlights of a trip to Mykonos is the opportunity to visit Mykonos Town (Chora).
This is where the most famous photos from Mykonos come from, with the classic Cycladic white-washed houses and scenic pathways.
Located within Mykonos Town is Little Venice. As you can probably guess, its name is derived from the historical influence of Venetian architecture by sailors and merchants. As a result, Little Venice greatly mimics the famous Italian city.
Little Venice is known for being home to some of the best sunset locations, shops, restaurants, and bars. If you’re interested, you can book a tour that visits this famous neighborhood.
➡️Book this Highlights of Mykonos Tour that stops at Little Venice!
✅ Do a Delos Day Trip Excursion
A day trip from Mykonos to the historic island of Delos offers the chance to learn about ancient Greek history and mythology. Delos is one of the best day trips from Mykonos to do.
The short boat ride has scenic views of the Aegean Sea. Upon arrival, you’ll be able to view the ruins of what’s said to be the birthplace of Apollo. Exploring the well-preserved ruins, including the iconic Terrace of the Lions and the Sacred Lake, unveils the Delos’s former state.
Delos is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a significant landmark of the country. Plus, visiting is an easy way to see another island during your trip to Greece.
➡️Don’t miss out on a Delos and Rhenia Day Trip from Mykonos.
✅ Enjoy a Beach Club
When most people think of Mykonos, they think of its reputation as a party island. One of the best ways to enjoy this part of Mykonos is by visiting one of their world-famous beach clubs.
Even if you’re not a partier, you should attend at least one beach club during your trip! The parties typically start at 16:00, so you can arrive beforehand if that isn’t your scene.
Some of the best beach clubs in Mykonos to visit are Tropicana, Scorpios, SantAnna, and Kalua for a great party. There are even more relaxing beach clubs, such as Lohan Beach House.
Famous DJs perform at these clubs throughout the season, with the most popular acts happening during July and August. You won’t want to miss the chance to relax on beautiful beaches, eat delicious food, and listen to trendy music!
✅ Relax on a Day or Sunset Catamaran Cruise
Booking a catamaran cruise is one of the best ways to appreciate the Aegean Sea and the scenic coastline. You can choose between a daytime cruise or sunset for your cruise.
In addition to the views, you can enjoy a meal, traditional wine, and other refreshments. The cruise will also make stops so you can dip in the sea and cool off.
Whether you come solo or with others, it’s also a great way to meet other worldwide travelers! Hotel pickup and drop-off are also offered.
➡️This is the Catamaran Cruise in Mykonos I recommend.
Best Things To Do in Paros
Paros is an island that has been growing in popularity year after year, and it’s no surprise why! This island is beautiful and has several quaint villages to explore, stunning beaches, hiking options, and a promising nightlife.
✅ Explore Naoussa Village
Exploring the picturesque fishing village of Naoussa is a must when visiting Paros. When people describe Paros as the next Mykonos, this village resembles it the most.
As the island’s second-largest town, it is full of Greek charm, boutiques, winding pathways, and stunning views. Naoussa is also home to the Venetian Fortress, which was constructed to safeguard Paros against pirate incursions.
Its quaint alleyways have typical Cycladic whitewashed houses, Aegean-blue shutters, and cobblestone paths. You can stroll through the town, exploring its elegant boutiques, views, and dining options before heading to the harbor.
Naoussa is also a nightlife hub in Paros. You’ll have a variety of options to choose from to promise a fun night!
✅ Enjoy an Antiparos Day Trip
If you have more than just a couple of days in Paros, a day trip to its sister island, Antiparos, is a must!
Numerous boat tours offer visits to Antiparos, often including Despotiko, an uninhabited island, as a bonus!
Alternatively, the ferry from Pounta provides another option to reach Antiparos from Paros. This is ideal if you want more time to explore the island or stay overnight. Catching one of the early morning boats is advisable to make the most of your time.
Once you arrive, meander through Chora, the main village of Antiparos. You can also discover the historic Antiparos Castle, explore the island’s enchanting beach caves, and witness a breathtaking sunset at Sifneiko Beach.
➡️I recommend this Antiparos and Despotiko Cruise!
✅ Visit the Charming Villages
Paros is the perfect island to get lost in numerous scenic villages! They each offer a unique character and things to explore.
Lefkes, a village in the island’s center, is popular due to its traditional architecture, churches, and dining options. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike the Byzantine path while you’re there.
When researching Paros, you may see a famous picture of a Cycladic house with a pink door. That can be found in the beautiful village of Marpissa.
Even more quaint than Lefkes, Marpissa is a village bursting with charm. Its streets are decorated with beautiful flowers and cobblestones, creating a perfect scene. Don’t forget to visit the windmills of Marpissa while you’re there!
✅ Discover the Stunning Beaches
Visiting the beaches in Paros is a delight, offering a variety of coastal gems to explore.
Paros has it all if you want a traditional golden sandy beach, a rocky adventurous one, or a lively one with beach clubs! Some of the best beaches to visit in Paros include Kolymbithres Beach, Santa Maria Beach, and Chrissi Atki Beach.
These beaches are home to beautiful blue waters and views of neighboring islands. Paros is a great choice if you’re looking for a beach getaway!
Mykonos or Paros: Beaches
Wondering which island has better beaches with Mykonos vs. Paros? Paros beaches are commonly considered the best, but you can find excellent beaches on both islands. Read on to see what separates the islands in this category.
Mykonos Beaches
Mykonos beaches are popular for their beauty, vibrant atmosphere, and cosmopolitan charm.
From the iconic party scenes of Paradise and Paraga beaches to the serene shores of Agios Stefanos and Kapari, Mykonos offers diverse coastal experiences to suit every traveler’s preference.
With their golden sands, turquoise waters, and Aegean Sea views, Mykonos beaches are perfect for relaxing, swimming, partying, and water sports. Many beaches are lined with beach clubs, bars, and restaurants for you to enjoy.
The best beach in Mykonos is arguably Platis Gialos Beach. This beach is one of Mykonos’s most picturesque and full of beach clubs, restaurants, and other activities.
Paros Beaches
Although Paros beaches are generally smaller than Mykonos’s, they have remarkable variety.
One of the best beaches to visit in Paros is Kolymbithres Beach. This beach is known for its unique rock formations that create a unique landscape. The waters are crystal-clear and perfect for swimming and water sports.
Two other top beaches in Paros are Golden Beach and Santa Maria Beach. You can find great beach clubs and restaurants at Golden Beach, and Santa Maria Beach has different water activities.
The versatility of Paros beaches contributes to why they are generally superior to Mykonos beaches. You will also have fewer beaches in Paros filled with beach beds.
🏖️ Paros vs. Mykonos for beaches? Paros!
Mykonos or Paros: Costs
Trips to the Cycladic Islands are generally not considered the cheapest of vacation options. However, when comparing Paros and Mykonos, Paros has more affordable prices.
Additionally, various choices don’t have to break the bank when visiting Paros and Mykonos. Keep reading to discover which destination is more economical for your travel budget.
Accommodations in Mykonos
Mykonos edges on the pricier side for accommodation. This is especially true during July and August, the island’s peak season. If you want to stay in some top resorts, you can quickly expect to pay over $1,000 per night!
Despite the island’s notoriety for being an expensive destination, there’s a variety of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, mid-range stays, and even hostels!
If you want to save, consider staying further out from the tourist hotspots of Mykonos Town and Paraga Beach.
Luxury lodging typically ranges from $400 to over $800, mid-range options normally fall between $150 and $400, and budget accommodations usually range from $50 to $150.
Where To Stay in Mykonos
📍Semeli Hotel ($$$)
If you’re seeking an unforgettable luxury experience, Semeli Hotel is an ideal 5-star establishment. The hotel has an array of amenities, such as an outdoor pool, jacuzzi, cutting-edge spa facilities, and exceptional dining choices. Moreover, select rooms feature private indoor or outdoor jacuzzis for added perks.
📍Ilio Maris ($$)
Ilio Maris is a superb 4-star hotel located outside Mykonos Town. Having remarkable views of iconic Mykonos windmills and the Aegean Sea, this hotel offers a range of amenities. These include an outdoor swimming pool, a bar, and an excellent breakfast spread. This is where I stayed during my first time in Mykonos.
📍Hotel Milena ($)
Hotel Milena stands out among the few lodging options in Mykonos that maintain pocket-friendly rates throughout peak and off-peak periods.
Nestled within walking distance of Mykonos Town, this hotel provides comfort, convenience, and attentive service. It presents an ideal option for those exploring Mykonos without exceeding their budget.
Accommodations in Paros
Accommodation prices are far more affordable in Paros than in Mykonos. However, Paros has plenty of options if you prefer an ultimate luxury stay.
In Paros, budget accommodation options range from $45 to $100, mid-range options fall between $100 and $200, and luxury hotels are usually $200+.
Where To Stay in Paros
📍Avant Mar ($$$)
For a luxurious experience, look no further than Avant Mar. This 5-star hotel has a pool, select rooms with private pools, and a quality breakfast spread. Additional perks from staying here include complimentary parking, room service, and an airport shuttle.
📍Archipelagos Studios ($$)
Alongside its accommodating staff, Archipelagos Studios has an excellent position in Naoussa, providing a paid shuttle service and comfortable rooms, some of which afford stunning views of the Aegean Sea. This is where I stayed during my first visit to Paros.
📍Ayeri Hotel ($)
Ayeri Hotel is an affordable option in Parikia, offering guests convenient beach access, a central location, and housekeeping services.
💰 Paros vs. Mykonos for costs? Paros!
Mykonos or Paros: Getting Around the Island
If you’re contemplating a visit to Paros or Mykonos, you should familiarize yourself with the transportation options on each island.
Fortunately, several ways to get around both islands cater to different preferences. In addition to getting around each island, multiple ferries can transport you between the two during the tourist season.
Getting Around Mykonos
Mykonos is home to an international airport, Mykonos International Airport (JMK). Like Paros, it can be reached from Athens and Thessaloniki with a short flight, but also benefits from direct flights from Dubai, London, and other foreign destinations.
An additional way to reach Mykonos is by ferry. There are direct routes from Athens and other islands in the Cyclades.
You have several options to get around Mykonos. This includes renting a car, taking a KTEL bus, and taxis.
The bus system is the least costly option and is reliable, serving routers on numerous sought-after beaches across the island. If you choose to drive around Mykonos, drive with extra caution, especially around the Fabrika station, which is known to get chaotic.
While popular services like Uber X are unavailable, you can also order a ride through the Uber app in Mykonos.
➡️Book your rental to explore Mykonos through Discover Cars!
Getting Around Paros
Paros has a domestic airport, Paros Airport (PAS). This airport provides convenient 45-minute flights connecting to and from major mainland cities such as Athens and Thessaloniki.
You can also reach Paros by ferry from Athens, Naxos, or other neighboring islands.
Upon arrival, Paros offers a cost-effective and reliable public bus system ran by the KTEL company. For bus schedules, please refer here.
A great way of getting around Paros is by renting a car through Discover Cars. This allows you to explore numerous charming villages such as Lefkes on your own schedule. Additionally, you’ll find options to rent ATVs and scooters at several shops around the island.
While you can find plenty of taxis on the island, they often represent the priciest mode of transportation. Unlike some islands like Santorini, Paros does not offer Uber services.
🚗 Paros vs. Mykonos for getting around? Both!
Mykonos or Paros: Nightlife
If you’re seeking to party into the early morning hours, a straightforward comparison of nightlife reveals Mykonos as the undeniable victor among the two islands.
However, this isn’t to discount Paros, which is rising in fame across Greece for its nightlife offerings. It’s just that Mykonos offers a notable increase in options, production, and livelier overall experience.
Mykonos Nightlife
Mykonos undoubtedly reigns supreme as the ultimate nightlife destination in the Cyclades.
The island’s nightlife alone attracts millions of worldwide travelers, including celebrities and wealthy individuals. It’s tough to compare Mykonos’s nightlife to anywhere else in Greece.
From sunrise to sunset, Mykonos is a melting pot of energy as its numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties come to life. Whether you’re seeking chic cocktail bars, lively nightclubs, or beach clubs, Mykonos has it all.
With internationally acclaimed DJs spinning tunes until the early hours and an atmosphere charged with excitement that will have you wanting to extend your trip.
Some of the best places to experience the best of Mykonos’s nightlife in Mykonos Town are Negrita, La Barran, and Void. If you want to be on the beaches, opt for Scorpios, Paradise Beach Club, SantAnna, or Tropicana.
Paros Nightlife
Paros earns its nickname “Mini Mykonos” for a reason. The island’s vibrant cocktail bars and clubs truly live up to the hype. Among the most popular party hubs are Parikia and Naoussa.
Don’t miss The Dubliner Irish Bar, Pirate Bar, and BeBop in Parikia for a lively night out.
Meanwhile, in Naoussa, experience the Sante Cocktail Bar, Linardo, and Kosmos Cocktail Bar, where the drinks flow and the dance floor is always lively. However, remember that some establishments may only operate during the tourist season.
While Paros promises a fun and exciting night, the venues don’t match the scale of Mykonos. If you want the best Greece offers, head to Mykonos for nightlife.
🍾 Paros vs. Mykonos for nightlife? Mykonos!
Which Island Is Better for Families?
While you can enjoy a family vacation on both islands, Paros is more family-friendly than Mykonos.
Paros offers great family activities, including day trips, water sports, horse riding, visiting beaches, exploring villages, and other family-friendly attractions. Paros is also a short ferry ride to Naxos, one of the most family-friendly islands in the Cyclades.
While Mykonos does have the same offerings as Paros for families, the island’s target demographic isn’t young families. There may be inappropriate things for young kids to see on the island. Still, you can easily enjoy a family vacation in Mykonos too!
👨👩👧 Paros vs. Mykonos for families? Paros!
Which Island Is Better for Solo Travelers?
Deciding on whether Paros or Mykonos is better for travelers will depend on individual preferences, but both islands are double solo. I traveled as a solo traveler, and I felt safe and thought it was easy to meet people.
Mykonos, with its nightlife, glamorous atmosphere, and lively beach clubs, is great for solo travelers seeking vibrant social scenes to meet new people. Whether at the beach, a beach club, a boat cruise, or exploring Mykonos Town, there are many opportunities to meet people.
On the other hand, Paros offers a more laid-back ambiance, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers looking to unwind, explore charming villages, and immerse themselves in authentic Greek culture.
A few boat tours in Paros are a common place to meet other social travelers. Like Mykonos, you can meet people at beach clubs, excursions, and hostels.
Ultimately, whether Mykonos or Paros is better for solo travelers depends on personal preferences, with both islands offering unique experiences for different tastes.
✈️ Paros vs. Mykonos for solo travelers? Both!
FAQs: Mykonos vs. Paros
Paros and Mykonos are two stunning islands in the Cyclades, making it difficult to declare a precise winner. Nonetheless, several distinctions exist between the two islands that should help you determine a winner for your Greece vacation.
Next, I’ll review some answers to frequently asked questions when comparing Mykonos and Paros.
Is Paros the New Mykonos?
While Paros has undoubtedly seen a surge in popularity in recent years, drawing comparisons to Mykonos, it remains distinct in its own right. Paros offers a more laid-back and authentic Cycladic experience than what you’ll find in Mykonos.
Although both islands boast picturesque villages, stunning beaches, and vibrant nightlife, Paros maintains a calmer atmosphere. As a result, this makes it a better choice for those seeking a balance between relaxation and excitement.
While it may be nicknamed the “new Mykonos” by some, Paros ultimately stands as a destination with its unique charm, attracting travelers eager to explore its timeless beauty, beaches, and villages.
What Is Better, Mykonos or Paros?
Whether Mykonos or Paros is better depends on individual preferences and travel priorities.
Mykonos is renowned for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious accommodations and venues. This makes Mykonos a magnet for those seeking glamour and an epic party.
In contrast, Paros offers a more laid-back Cycladic experience with traditional Greek charm villages, impressive beaches, and a calmer atmosphere. Its diverse landscape appeals to both adventure seekers and those craving relaxation, with opportunities for hiking, water sports, and exploring historic sites.
Costs in Paros are also a fraction of some of the price tags in Mykonos. This makes it a better option if you’re a budget-conscious traveler.
Is It Worth Going to Paros, Greece?
Yes, Paros is undoubtedly worth visiting!
With its stunning beaches, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage, Paros offers an excellent blend of relaxation and exploration.
You can wander through several scenic villages, including Naoussa, Lefkes, and Marpissa. These villages have admirable traditional Cycladic architecture and plenty of restaurants and cafes to visit.
Paros’s coastline has crystal-clear waters and golden sands, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, Paros provides an ideal backdrop for unforgettable memories and experiences.
Why Is Paros So Popular?
While it doesn’t yet have the fame of Mykonos, Paros has risen to prominence as one of the most sought-after destinations in the Cyclades for several reasons.
Its stunning coastline has picturesque beaches with golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Whether you want to relax and sunbathe or engage in water sports, there’s something that caters to anyone on Paros beaches.
The island’s charming villages, with their whitewashed buildings and cobblestone streets, will easily impress you. Some villages you won’t want to miss include Marpissa and Lefkes.
If you’re looking for a great night out, Naoussa is an excellent place for nightlife in Paros. You can also find some fun places in Parikia and beach clubs across the island. The offerings are building their way up to competing with nightlife in Santorini and Mykonos.
Beyond the island’s natural beauty, Paros offers a promising culinary scene, with traditional tavernas serving delicious Greek cuisine alongside trendy cafes and gourmet restaurants.
Its central location within the Cycladic region makes it accessible from other islands, including Milos and Naxos. This further enhances its appeal if you want to discover more Cyclades islands during your Greece trip.
To Sum Up: Mykonos vs. Paros
I completely understand if you’re still considering a decision on Mykonos vs. Paros.
Both islands are renowned as two of Greece’s most picturesque destinations in the Cyclades, and rightfully so. Deciding which Greek islands to explore can indeed be quite challenging.
If you’re about to, I suggest visiting both islands during your Greece vacation. However, if that’s not feasible, perhaps the following overview of each island will aid in making your decision easier:
If you want the ultimate luxury experience and nightlife, choose a trip to Mykonos. The island also offers more than just luxury and partying. Some of this includes boat tours, significant landmarks, and enjoying the charm of Chora.
If you want better beaches, numerous traditional villages to explore, and a calmer environment, go with Paros. This island is often said to be turning into the new Mykonos. You can still find exciting nightlife, shopping, and luxury accommodations on the island.
No matter which island you choose, there is so much to appreciate.
Enjoy your time in Paros or Mykonos… maybe even both! If you choose Paros, then Naxos is a great day trip option!
