Deciding between two beautiful Greek islands can be difficult. Last spring, I encountered the same problem while organising my trip. Both places offer amazing sunsets, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches—but which one is the best fit for you?
After looking into both in April and May 2023, I have some valuable information to share. These destinations provide very different experiences, from expenses to beach atmospheres. No matter if you want a luxury experience or are travelling on a budget, my detailed guide will assist you in choosing the ideal getaway.
Main Points
- The costs are quite different between the two islands.
- Beach experiences vary—consider black sand compared to golden shores.
- Nightlife varies from laid-back to lively parties.
- Both are included in the well-known “American Triangle” route.
- When is the ideal time to go? Spring balances the number of people and the weather.
Santorini or Mykonos: Which Island Is Right for You?
Every island has its own unique taste of paradise. One enjoys the excitement of volcanic cliffs and villages with cobalt blue domes. The other has beautiful golden beaches and winding streets. Your choice depends on what matters to you the most.
Why comparing these Greek gems isn’t straightforward
The land influences everything. The first was the result of a volcanic eruption, and it had steep caldera views. At the same time, the second area features a flat, sandy landscape that is ideal for biking.
Getting around can be very different. A small town is easy to walk around, with whitewashed shops scattered throughout. The other needs buses or ATVs to travel along the cliffside roads.
- Famous views: sunset landscapes or lakeside windmills.
- Things to do: hiking on trails or enjoying DJ parties at the beach.
- Feelings: A private romantic atmosphere or lively social interaction.
Neither is superior. If you want a peaceful and elegant experience, choose the cliffside location. Do you enjoy continuous fun? The party islands are the best. Both should be on every world traveller’s list, but for different reasons.
Cost Breakdown: Understanding How Your Money is Spent
Budgeting for these islands showed some unexpected differences. Both offer beautiful views, but your expenses will quickly differ. From transportation to pillow options, here’s where your money goes further—or disappears.
Be aware of extra charges.
Riding public buses in the caldera costs between €1.60 and €2.50. Does it seem inexpensive? They can’t be avoided if you don’t rent a car. Three rides each day total over €20 a week. I avoided taking cabs, which cost over €25 each trip, but ended up paying €10 for a 5-minute ride on a donkey in Oia.
Getting good sleep
Hotels display a clear difference. The Rochari Hotel in Mykonos has sea-view rooms starting at $100 per night. At the same time, Sunny Villas in Santorini, designed in a cave style, begin at $300. Even simple accommodations there are twice as expensive. Tip: Consider booking a ferry combo deal, as some come with transfers included.
Mykonos offers unexpected luxury deals. The infinity pool suites at Amazon Resort cost $400, which is half the price of similar cliffside accommodations. Both islands are most popular from June to August, but staying in spring is 30% less expensive.
- Extras in Santorini: Enjoy cocktails with a caldera view starting at €15, or rent an ATV for €50 per day.
- Mykonos offers great deals: enjoy happy-hour beers for €5 and free beach loungers at affordable accommodations.
Nightlife Showdown: Peaceful Stargazing vs. Nonstop Dancing
As night falls, each island shows its true character—one vibrates with music, while the other whispers of romance. If you enjoy vibrant dance floors or sipping wine under the moonlight, your choice will shape the experience.
The Rhythm Goes On
The beach clubs in Mykonos are famous. At Alemagou, DJs play music until 2AM while the waves crash nearby. What’s the vibe? Electric vibes—imagine VIP tables, flowing champagne, and €50 sunbeds at Super Paradise.
For an unforgettable night, visit Mykonos Town. Clubs such as Scorpios remain busy until the sun comes up. Most places are for ages 18 and up, and bouncers make sure everyone follows the dress code.
Peaceful Sunset Uncorked
The atmosphere in Santorini is calm, yet still enchanting. Sigalas Winery provides tastings while the sky shines in orange hues. Avoid the crowded sunset viewpoint in Oia. Instead, try hidden bars like Franco’s for better views without the crowds.
Most bars shut down by midnight, making it ideal for couples. Families enjoy the relaxed clubs in Fira, where live jazz takes the place of loud bass.
- Tip: The best time for parties in Mykonos is from July to August. Santorini has a romantic atmosphere that is beautiful all year long.
- Note on budget: Cocktails in Oia are priced at €15 and above, but there are many happy hour options in Mykonos.
Beach Showdown: Instagram Style vs. Energetic Atmosphere
As I stepped onto these shores, it felt like I was entering two distinct worlds. One displayed striking volcanic beauty, while the other radiated vibrant golden-sand energy. Your perfect day at the beach depends on if you want peace and quiet or lively music.
The place where the land and ocean come together is striking.
Perissa’s black sand beaches amazed me—until I walked on them barefoot. Volcanic rocks can be sharp, so it’s a good idea to bring water shoes. The 15-minute hike to Red Beach offers beautiful rust-coloured cliffs, so it’s best to get there early. The small cove fills up quickly.
I quietly entered White Beach at dawn for some solitude. There are no loungers and no noise—only the sound of the sea gently touching the pebbles. Bring some snacks because there aren’t many services available here.
The party goes on and on.
The energy from Super Paradise’s DJ was infectious. By noon, sunbeds turned into dance floors. Jet skis raced by (€10/hour at Psarou), and champagne was plentiful. Keep in mind that the clothing-optional area at Paradise Beach may not be suitable for those who are shy.
The golden beaches of Mykonos were alive with Euro-pop music and sun-kissed people. What about the coves in Santorini? The only sound is the waves. Both are great for your feed, but only one allows you to dance in your swimsuit.
- For a great experience, consider renting an ATV in Santorini to explore the hidden coves.
- Here’s a budget tip: the southern beaches of Mykonos provide free loungers when you order drinks.
Beautiful Views: Which Island Leaves You in Awe?
I was not ready for how much the landscape changed. One island amazes with its steep cliffs, while the other calms with its gentle hills. Your perfect travel plan depends on whether you want stunning excitement or subtle beauty.
The Beauty of the Cliffside That Meets Expectations
The views of the caldera near Fira took my breath away. I hiked the 6-mile trail to Oia and saw whitewashed chapels sitting above the Aegean Sea. The sunset at Skaros Rock coloured the cliffs in bright shades—every steep step was worth it.
Volcanic soil creates clear differences: black beaches next to turquoise waves. However, many people gather at Oia’s blue domes by 10 AM. To find some peace, I would wander into quiet alleys or go out early in the morning.
Soft Beauty Beyond the Postcards
The beauty of Mykonos is subtle yet still enchanting. The Armenistis Lighthouse provides wide views in a calm setting. Close to Ano Mera village, olive groves and stone windmills seem unaffected by tourism.
The island may not have the dramatic features of Santorini, but its golden hills and turquoise bays offer a laid-back beauty. To capture the best photos, I sought the morning light at the famous windmills—there were no crowds, just gentle sea breezes.
- Here’s a helpful tip: Santorini’s Profitis Ilias stands at 567 metres, which is much taller than Mykonos’ highest point at 341 metres. The walk offers stunning views all around.
- Hidden gem: Agrari Beach in Mykonos—soft sand and no party crowds.
Getting Around: A Comparison of How Easy It Is to Explore
Travelling through these islands taught me how transportation influences the experience. One made it easy to explore, while the other needed careful planning. Your decision depends on if you like walking or planning.
The Walking Haven of Mykonos
Mykonos Town (Chora) is a paradise for those who love to walk. The streets are flat and filled with shops, creating a maze-like layout. I got to Paradise Beach in 10 minutes on a scooter for €5 a day. It was much easier than the €80 ATVs in Santorini.
The buses here are straightforward, and they go to the main beaches. Taxis from the airport cost €15, which is half of what you would pay in Santorini. Tip: Reserve your ferry tickets in advance to enjoy the sunset views.
The Challenges of Santorini’s Cliffs
The beauty of the caldera involves some planning. The bus ride from Fira to Oia takes 25 minutes, and then there’s a 15-minute walk uphill. The routes are broken up—I missed my connections twice and had to wait for 2 hours.
Steep steps and narrow roads make it hard to walk. Taxis from the airport cost €30, and renting a car is expensive. Reduce stress by choosing hotels that offer shuttle services.
- Budget tip: Mykonos’ €5 scooters are better than Santorini’s ATV rentals.
- To save time, be prepared for some waiting with Santorini’s buses; bring along some snacks.
- Here’s a helpful tip: planning your trip to both islands in advance is beneficial.
Foodie Face-Off: A Spotlight on Greek Cuisine
Eating in these islands showed me how much location can change everything, even when the dishes are similar. Both offer fresh seafood and creamy tzatziki, but the experiences are quite different. From elegant cliffside dining to relaxed beachfront meals, here’s how the food scenes compare.
Same ingredients, very different feelings
At Limnios Taverna in Mykonos, I enjoyed grilled octopus (€18) while taking in the sea views and the lively atmosphere. In Oia, the same dish was priced at over €25 in a fancy restaurant, where cutlery clinked while sunset photographers competed for the best spot. Both were tasty, but only one helped me unwind.
Family-owned places away from tourist areas provide better value. I discovered a €5 fava me koukia, a local chickpea dish, in Pyrgos village in Santorini. The backstreets of Mykonos had souvlaki stands for €3.50, which is half the price of the restaurants by the boardwalk.
The mainland remains the top choice.
The Plaka district in Athens set a high standard for Greek food that I haven’t found anywhere else. Taverna Tou Psirri offered smoky lamb chops (€12) that were better than any meal on the island. Even simple dishes like dolmades had a deeper flavour, thanks to recipes handed down through generations.
- Save money by avoiding €8 tzatziki in tourist areas; you can find it for just €3 at local markets.
- You have to try Santorini’s cherry tomatoes. They are grown in volcanic soil and have a sweet and tangy flavour.
- Smart tip: Choose hotels with kitchenettes to take advantage of fresh markets.
Love or Going Alone? Choosing Your Style
Your perfect Greek vacation relies completely on the vibe you want to experience. One island feels like a soft love song, while the other vibrates with DJ music. I experienced both—here’s how they stack up against each other.
Where Love Grows at Dusk
Oia’s luxury cave hotels transform the idea of romance. I had dinner under the stars at Canaves Oia Suites with a private chef. It cost €1,000 a night, but it was worth every euro. Candlelit terraces and infinity pools create the perfect setting for proposals.
Couples also visit Santorini for its yoga retreats. The morning sessions offer a view of the caldera, and then there are wine tastings. Even alone, I sensed the magic—just steer clear of honeymooners showing affection at breakfast.
Where strangers turn into friends
Mykonos’ MyCocoon Hostel offers €30 beds and organises nightly pub crawls. At 10 PM, we were dancing on the tables at Jackie O’s. The LGBTQ+ beach parties on Elia Island were full of happiness, complete with body glitter.
If you’re travelling alone, consider booking a sailing trip. I became part of a catamaran group and swam in secret coves with 20 new friends. No clubs required—just saltwater and laughter together.
- Here’s a helpful tip: in Santorini, you can find five-star hotels with private plunge pools, while Mykonos has hostels that feature rooftop hot tubs.
- The decision comes down to silk robes or shot glasses—each offers lasting memories.
My Final Choice – And Who Could Have a Different Opinion
After weeks of visiting different islands, I would choose the Greek islands with their golden beaches and lively atmosphere every time. Getting around was easy—walkable towns and affordable scooters were better than steep cliffside hikes.
However, photographers and hikers may have a different opinion. The other place offers amazing photo opportunities with its striking cliffs and whitewashed churches. People looking for luxury often prefer its exclusive resorts that feature private pools.
Not sure what to choose? Take the 2-hour ferry ride between them. Both are essential for any guide to the Cyclades, each offering a unique atmosphere. Sneakers for one person, dancing shoes for another.
Would you like additional information? Take a look at my vlog for sunset comparisons and some hidden beach treasures!
FAQ
Which island is more suitable for budget travellers?
Mykonos has more mid-range choices than expected, while the views of Santorini’s caldera are priced higher. Staying in hostels and shared villas can help save money in Mykonos.
Where is the best place for nightlife?
Mykonos is thhands downnner with beach clubs such as Scorpios. Santorini offers stylish wine bars, focussing more on enjoying sunset cocktails rather than dancing all night.
Which beaches are nicer, Santorini or Mykonos?
Mykonos features golden sand and vibrant beach parties, while Santorini’s volcanic beaches provide stunning views—but remember to bring water shoes for the rocky entrance.
Which island is more romantic?
The cliffside suites and caldera views in Santorini are perfect for couples. Mykonos is charming, but the lively party atmosphere can sometimes overshadow the romantic feel.
How simple is it to travel without a car?
Mykonos Town is easy to explore on foot, but in Santorini, you need buses or ATVs to get between the villages. Ferries between the islands run often, but it’s a good idea to book in advance during the busy season.
Where is the food better?
Both offer amazing Greek dishes, but the farm-to-table wineries in Santorini are exceptional. For affordable meals, the tavernas by the harbour in Mykonos are tough to surpass.
Which island has more places to take great photos for Instagram?
Santorini’s blue-domed churches and whitewashed cliffs are popular in photos, but Mykonos’ windmills and Little Venice also provide famous scenery.
Is one island busier than the other?
Both are crowded in July and August, but the narrow paths in Santorini feel more cramped. Go to Mykonos in June or September for fewer people around.
