If you’re planning your summer vacation to Greece, you’ve probably run the Santorini vs Mykonos debate at least a couple of times in your head. Look on the bright side, you’ve narrowed it down to these two. With over 200 inhabited islands around Greece, it could be a lot worse.
The Mykonos vs Santorini debate is not an easy one, and for good reason. Ideally, it’s great to try to spend a few nights on both islands, as both are stunning, have a lot to offer, and are among the most popular summer destinations in the world. In Santorini, you can witness and photograph stunning sunsets over the caldera. In Mykonos, you can spend the entire day on the beach and party all night long. But if you have to pick one, which island is the right one for you?
Which is closer to Athens, Mykonos or Santorini?
Although there are direct seasonal flights to Mykonos and Santorini from several European cities, most travelers combine a trip to either island with a visit to Athens, Greece’s capital.
Both islands are part of the Cyclades, an island group in the Aegean Sea, southeast of mainland Greece. Mykonos is closer to Athens, about 2.5 hours by ferry. Santorini is further south, and it’s a minimum 4.5-hour ferry ride from Athens. If you decide to catch a flight from Athens Airport, both islands are less than an hour away.
Mykonos vs Santorini: Who should pick Mykonos
Mykonos is renowned for its bustling nightlife, luxurious beach clubs, and iconic whitewashed architecture. The island offers a blend of cosmopolitan flair and traditional charm, attracting visitors seeking both relaxation and entertainment.
Despite its high-end side, Mykonos is an island for all budgets, allowing you to go as fancy or as basic as you wish. Finally, in the debate, Mykonos or Santorini for families, the winner is Mykonos, as it offers more family-friendly activities compared to Santorini.
Who it’s for
Nightlife Enthusiasts: Mykonos is home to some of the best nightlife in the world, with beach clubs and parties that start late at night and go into the early morning hours.
Beachgoers: The island’s beaches are designed for partying, sunbathing, and enjoying the sea.
Luxury Travelers: With several upscale accommodations and dining options, Mykonos caters to those seeking a high-end experience.
When to visit
Shoulder seasons (Late April–Early June & Mid-September–Early October): These periods usually offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for visitors looking to enjoy the island without the peak season hustle.
Peak Season (Late June–August): For those wanting to experience the full vibrancy of Mykonos’s nightlife and beach parties, the summer months are the most active.
Top picks in Mykonos
Beaches: Paradise Beach, Super Paradise Beach, and Psarou Beach are among the most popular for their lively atmospheres and amenities.
Dining: Little Venice offers a range of restaurants with stunning sea views, perfect for evening meals.
Activities: Planning a day trip to the historic island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must for history enthusiasts.
Mykonos vs Santorini: Who should pick Santorini
Santorini is famed for its dramatic caldera views, unique volcanic beaches, and romantic ambiance. The island’s picturesque villages and stunning sunsets make it a favorite destination for honeymooners and photographers.
In the debate, is Santorini or Mykonos more expensive, although by a little, Santorini is generally more expensive, with fewer budget-friendly alternatives. Another thing to keep in mind is that most villages in Santorini are set on cliffs, which can be challenging for families with young children and travelers with mobility issues.
Who it’s for
Romance seekers: The island’s secluded cave hotels and breathtaking sunsets offer an intimate setting for couples.
Photographers: Santorini’s unique landscapes and architecture provide endless opportunities for stunning photographs.
Culture enthusiasts: With archaeological sites like Akrotiri and Ancient Thera, the island offers rich historical experiences.
When to visit
Shoulder seasons (Late April–June & September–October): These months usually provide pleasant weather and fewer tourists, which is ideal for sightseeing and enjoying the island’s beauty.
Peak Season (July–August): While the island is busier, visitors can enjoy warm beach weather and vibrant nightlife during these months.
Top picks in Santorini
Villages: Oia and Fira are renowned for their stunning views, charming streets, and vibrant atmospheres.
Beaches: Perissa and Kamari offer unique black sand beaches resulting from the island’s volcanic activity.
Activities: Hiking from Fira to Oia along the caldera edge provides panoramic views of the island’s landscape.
So, is Mykonos or Santorini better?
There is no correct answer, as everyone’s dream vacation is different. The good news is, there’s no wrong answer either. Whichever you choose, Santorini or Mykonos, your next vacation will be one to remember.
Let’s go over the basics in case you still haven’t made up your mind.
Is Santorini or Mykonos better?
Ideally, you should visit both islands, but if that’s not an option, choose Santorini or Mykonos based on the type of vacation you dream of. Santorini is best for sightseeing as it offers some stunning views and can be a very romantic destination for couples. Mykonos has a bustling nightlife and beautiful beaches, and it gives a better overall experience than the typical summer in Greece.
Is Mykonos the most expensive island?
Mykonos is indeed quite an expensive island, especially for Greek standards, but it’s not necessarily the most expensive one. It may be, when it comes to beach clubs and high-end restaurants, but you can definitely plan a trip with a lower budget if you avoid the celebrity hotspots and choose some of the less popular spots.
Is Mykonos hotter than Santorini?
The weather is pretty much the same on both islands, ranging from warm to very warm during the summer months. In fact, Mykonos is often referred to as “The Island of the Winds”, so it can be cooler than Santorini at times.
Which is more romantic, Santorini or Mykonos?
The stunning views from Oia, especially during sunset, make Santorini one of the most romantic destinations in the world. In fact, many couples plan their wedding on the beautiful Greek island. However, this doesn’t mean that Mykonos lacks a romantic atmosphere, as there are more than a few scenic spots on the island.
Is Mykonos more expensive than Santorini?
Both Mykonos and Santorini are two of the most expensive Greek destinations. Although Mykonos is generally more expensive when it comes to beach clubs and high-end restaurants, it has several alternatives for a range of budgets. Accommodation tends to be more expensive in Santorini, especially if you want to wake up with a view of the caldera, and there are fewer choices price-wise.
Which island is better, Mykonos or Santorini?
It’s not really a matter of which is better, Santorini or Mykonos, but of what your ideal vacation is. Santorini is best for couples looking to enjoy the island’s romantic atmosphere and upscale accommodation options. Mykonos is best for partygoers looking to experience the island’s intense nightlife or families looking to explore the island’s quieter side.
Can you do a day trip from Santorini to Mykonos?
Planning a day trip from Santorini to Mykonos or from Mykonos to Santorini is possible. Ferries depart several times per day, and the trip duration is around 2-3 hours. However, this is recommended if you’re on a longer vacation, otherwise, it’s not really worth it. It’s best to spend at least two to three days on each island to make the most of your trip.
