Santorini vs Mykonos
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting both of these Greek Islands, and I definitely have an opinion when it comes to Santorini vs Mykonos.
Despite my belief that there is definite winner, I enjoyed my time on both of these islands! If one works better for your trip, then go with it because both are great. However, I do consider one an unmissable, bucket list kind of destination due to its stunning landscapes!
So you might have figured out, Santorini is my choice in this debate. However, I enjoyed my time on both islands. I’ll drill into the various reasons and I’ll also go over any considerations you need to make when planning a trip as one island might be better for your next trip.
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Overview of Greece’s Most Visited Islands
Santorini | Santorini vs Mykonos
Santorini is a stunning island in the Aegean Sea and it’s part of the Cyclades group. The island’s unique topography was shaped by a volcanic eruption around 3,600 years ago, leaving behind the caldera and creating steep cliffs that provide spectacular views over the striking waters.
Santorini is also rich in history and culture, with ancient sites such as the ruins of Akrotiri. Visitors can explore the island’s unique beaches, including black sand shores like Kamari and Perissa or the striking Red Beach. Santorini offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and culture.
Mykonos | Santorini vs Mykonos
Mykonos is also an island in the Aegean Sea, and part of the Cyclades. Famous for its stunning beaches, including Psarou and Super Paradise, Mykonos has become a hotspot for beach clubs, and glamorous beach parties.
Whether lounging by the beach, enjoying a world-class meal, or dancing the night away at an exclusive club, Mykonos offers a dynamic blend of relaxation and excitement that attracts travelers from around the world.
Scenic Beauty | Santorini vs Mykonos
Sunsets
The sunsets in Oia, Santorini are famous and for good reason! They are spectacular! Of course, with them being so beautiful, you won’t be enjoying them alone.
Mykonos has its sunset spots as well, but it’s just not comparable to the beauty of Santorini. However, sharing the sunset with hundreds of people can dampen the moment.
As far as Greek Islands I’ve visited, the favorite part of my Tinos itinerary was chasing the sunsets! They were amazing and with no crowds, but even Tinos doesn’t offer the same sunset you’ll get in Santorini. It’s special and worth seeing with your own eyes! Just time your visit, so you’re not sharing the experience with hoards of people.
Cliffs
The only true cliffs I remember in Mykonos were by the lighthouse, though there are some hills that offer beautiful views of beaches. Overall, Mykonos feels flat in comparison to Santorini.
Santorini with its caldera and dramatic cliffs is just absolutely breathtaking! When visiting Santorini, I recommend taking in the views from every angle possible! Viewpoints in Oia and Fira, and a boat tour of some kind is a must!
Boat Tours
Speaking of boat tours, Santorini is just so breathtaking you will want to book a boat tour! Whether you visit the volcano and hot springs or just enjoy a meal and a sunset, such as the ones listed below. The island of Santorini is too stunning not to admire it from the Sea.
Santorini Caldera Cruise Tour (Volcano, Hot Springs, Thirassia)
Santorini Luxury Caldera Cruise with Full Greek Meal and Sunset
Mykonos offers great boat tours as well! While the actual island doesn’t offer the awe Santorini does, the boat tour to Rhenia and Delos was memorable! Delos offers a view into ancient history, but in terms of scenic beauty it’s Rhenia that stands out. I have never seen water so vividly aqua anywhere else! It’s absolutely breathtaking!
Mykonos: Yacht Cruise to Rhenia and Guided Tour of Delos
Mykonos:Sail Cruise to Delos & Rhenia islands with BBQ&Drinks
Beaches
When it comes to beaches both islands deliver but in different ways! Mykonos has the white sand beaches most people consider a picturesque beach and I can confirm they are beautiful!
Santorini has a white sand beach, but also has the more rare, volcanic black sand beaches! And then there’s red beach! The dramatic red cliffs that you will never forget!
Mykonos offers more beaches overall and they are beautiful. Santorini’s black sand beaches are lined with lounge chairs and their white sand beach is rarely visited due to how difficult it can be to get there, but offers dramatic cliffs.
If you want a white sand beach to relax on, then Mykonos will be your best bet. However, the drama of landscapes that Santorini offers is special.
Winner?
Santorini is the winner in my opinion! It’s the natural beauty of this island that truly sets it apart! Those cliffs, the caldera, the dramatic beaches are otherworldly and stunning!
Plus, I was born in paradise (Barbados) and live in Florida. I’m blessed when it comes to white sand beaches and I’m not in Greece to relax on a beach. If you are, then Mykonos might be the winner for you.
Activities and Attractions | Santorini vs Mykonos
Cute Towns
Both Santorini and Mykonos deliver on cute towns! In Santorini, there is Oia (pronounced ee-uh) and Fira. The most famous one is Oia and just about any photo of Greek Islands probably involve Oia in Santorini! It’s absolutely picturesque.
Mykonos Town is also cute and full of white washed buildings and narrow streets. It gives a similar feel to Oia, but it’s not on a mountain so it’s easier to get to and walking around isn’t as taxing. Little Venice is charming and full of places right on the water! Of course, it doesn’t offer the dramatic cliffs and stunning views you will find in Oia.
History
Again, both islands deliver when it comes to history, but in different ways. Santorini has Akrotiri, an ancient Minoan city buried by a catastrophic volcanic eruption around 1600 BC, preserving it under layers of ash.
Near Mykonos is the island of Delos, renowned for its extensive archaeological ruins and historical significance as a major religious and cultural center in ancient Greece. This island is a UNESCO World Heritage site and absolutely fascinating!
Wine
While I’ve been to Napa Valley and enjoyed wine tasting in Cyprus, I wouldn’t say I’m into wine. There was plenty for me to do in Santorini that didn’t involve wine, so I can’t speak to this experience. However, the Santorini Wine Adventure, linked below, has over 1,300 five star reviews!
Santorini Wine Adventure with 12 Wine Tastings, Tapas and Sunset
In Mykonos, I also didn’t do a wine tasting, but the farm visit was a highlight! My friend had some wine there and enjoyed it. The below Mykonos tour has 4.9 stars, so it’s also a well loved wine tour!
Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land
Hiking & Kayaking
In Santorini, there is a Fira to Oia hike. I didn’t do the whole thing, but I can confirm the views are beautiful from Fira and Oia! Even if you don’t do the entire hike, definitely check out parts of it!
There is also kayaking in Santorini! The below tour passes Red Beach and offers a picnic lunch on the secluded White Beach! While I didn’t kayak in Santorini, I would definitely add this to my list when I return.
The hikes offered in Mykonos aren’t as stunning, because it’s a much flatter island. However, they do offer kayaking! With so many beaches on offer, there are plenty of areas to kayak or participate in other water sports.
Sea kayaking Mykonos natural beauty beaches
ATV Around
I rented ATVs on both islands and loved it! It’s worth noting, in both cases, I was visiting during the less crowded shoulder season months. I was in Santorini in May and Mykonos end of September!
Driving in Santorini is more intimidating with it’s mountainous landscape and dramatic cliffs. There is a main road between Fira and Oia with a guardrail overlooking a cliff. While I was enjoying the views from the ATV, my friend who is afraid of heights was freaking out. On the way back, we took the longer way which avoided the steep highway. Or you could just keep the ATV exploring to the southern end of the island.
Santorini ATV-Quad Experience Tour Transportation
ATV Santorini Highlights Tour
Mykonos as a whole is flatter and less intimidating for driving around! There are hills in Mykonos, but no dramatic cliffs. It also felt more spread out overall, and with the time of year we were there, it didn’t feel crowded.
Rent an ATV/QUAD 450cc and explore mykonos, on wheels
Winner?
Except for the hiking, they basically tie when it comes to activities! Regardless which island you choose, there is plenty to see and do!
Hotels and Restaurants | Santorini vs Mykonos
Both islands are very touristy and have a range of hotels and restaurants to choose from! Whether you want 5 Star or you’re on a budget, you will find a place to stay!
Restaurants in Santorini tend to be more traditional Greek food, but also range in price and experience. Though you can experience those magical views for a variety of price points! I had several meals with beautiful views including an afternoon dessert with a view!
The restaurants in Mykonos have more international offerings, but again at varying price points and experiences! Some restaurants will have amazing views as well! I remember enjoying breakfast from a restaurant on a hill, overlooking the sea.
Winner?
It’s a tie! You can’t go wrong in Santorini or Mykonos as both have plenty of options at varying price points!
Santorini Accommodations
Accommodation prices are subject to change and will also vary based on time of year.
Luxury over $1,000 | Canaves Oia Suites
Under $1,000 Luxury | Aspaki Exclusive Hotel by Art Maisons
Sleeps 4 | Astra Suites
Sleeps 6 | Three bedroom villa with Caldera view and heated Jacuzzi pool
Under $300 | Hotel Sunny Villas
Budget Under $100 | Villa Kavallaris & Apartments
Mykonos Accommodations
Accommodation prices are subject to change and will also vary based on time of year.
Luxury over $1,000 | Cavo Tagoo Mykonos
Under $400 5 Star Resort | Amazon Mykonos Resort
5 Star Room for a Family | Mykonos Grand Hotel
Sleeps 6 | ANTHOS HOUSE ORNOS BEACH
Under $250 | Rochari Hotel
Under $100 | Milena Hotel
Island Hopping | Santorini vs Mykonos
If you’re goal is to island hop, there is no clear winner for Santorini vs Mykonos! Both islands have airports offering direct flights from several major cities, especially during the high and shoulder seasons!
Additionally, both islands are easy to ferry in and out of and both islands have other lesser visited Greek islands nearby! Of course, cruise ships also dock at both islands adding to the crowds.
Santorini’s best island hopping options include Ios, Milos and Folegandros. Of course, you can ferry just about anywhere, but those islands can be reached (though ferry times can vary) in under three hours! Thirasia is right next to Santorini and an island I visited for a brief period of time on a day tour. Also, with its proximity to Santorini, Thirasia would make a much quieter vacation if you want to stay there and visit Santorini during the day.
Mykonos’ closest island is Tinos! While I took the short ferry there and stayed to explore Tinos for a couple days, you could also make it a day trip from Mykonos! Though Tinos is the quieter island, so it could be worth staying in Tinos and you could make Mykonos the day trip in that case. Other close islands to Mykonos include Naxos and Paros and both should be reachable in under two hours.
Santorini to Mykonos can also be reached by ferry, with times varying depending on the ferry speed and route. Between the two islands are so many Greek islands you can easily add to your holiday! With both Santorini and Mykonos having airports you can easily fly into one and out of the other! So island hopping from both of these islands are easy!
Winner?
It’s a tie! Both islands are great for island hopping since flying in and out is easy and there’s always plenty of ferry options! Even if you’ve been to both of these islands, but want to explore some of the lesser visited islands, Santorini and Mykonos make great a great start and/or end point as you can grab a flight easily in or out.
Sailing Greek Islands
I have yet to sail the Mediterranean, but SEARADAR is a great site to check if you want to book your own boat. You can book just the boat if you’re experienced or one with a captain and crew!
Considerations | Santorini vs Mykonos
Crowds
Both islands see an insane amount of visitors every year! If you are wanting to visit Greek islands during the peak months of July and August, I recommend visiting the lesser known islands. I just don’t think visiting when the islands are crowded is worth it.
I visited both of these islands during the shoulder months and there were plenty of people around, but it wasn’t bad! When a place is too crowded, it negatively impacts the experience for me. If you aren’t bothered by crowds, then you don’t have to worry about when you go. However, if you’re like me, definitely avoid high season!
Parties and Nightlight
I’m not into partying and drinking, but Mykonos is known for this! If that is something of interest to you, then Mykonos would win in this category. It is not to say that Santorini doesn’t offer some clubs or partying, but overall Mykonos is built upon the party scene and definitely has the edge!
Hills and Cliffs
Santorini’s dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views are why I think it’s worth visiting! However, it’s also what can make visiting difficult, so it’s worth mentioning.
Walking in Oia and Fira is charming, but both are high up and can be difficult to get around if you aren’t used to hills. There’s really no avoiding hills, though there are some easier areas to navigate.
Additionally, I remember being dropped off after the boat tour to watch the sunset in Oia. Our options for getting from the dock to Oia was either walk hundreds and hundreds of stairs, or pay to ride a donkey. Santorini is not for the faint of heart.
Mykonos is flatter and the smalls hills are minor. It’s much easier to walk around Mykonos and explore the cute town. If you are nursing an injury or just not as mobile as you’d like, then Mykonos would probably be a better island to choose for now.
The Island I Consider Unmissable
So what is the island I consider unmissable when it comes to Santorini vs Mykonos? Santorini!
Santorini is absolutely magical! The views, the cliffs, and the dreamy sunsets completely set it apart. Yes, other Greek islands have beautiful sunsets, I loved them in Tinos, but the caldera and cliffs just add something unique to Santorni! Then add stunning beaches that are not the norm, like black sand beaches and red beach. Santorini is just so breathtaking!
Mykonos was a wonderful island and I enjoyed my time there, but the island itself is more plain. I loved Tinos more and dare I say other Greek islands would easily hold their own against Mykonos and with less crowds!
Ultimately, I don’t consider this is a fair competition because Santorini is unique! Yes, I enjoyed Mykonos, but I wouldn’t consider it bucket list worthy like dreamy and magical Santorini!
Weather and Best Time to Visit | Santorini vs Mykonos
Of all the travel tips for these islands, this is the most important in my opinion. The best time to visit for both islands is the shoulder season! April, May, September and October see beautiful weather and less crowds!
The spring is cooler, especially in the evenings, which is great for being outdoors but not for water activities. In the fall months, the weather is still warm but not crazy hot and there are way less crowds!
The summer is hot and crowded for both destinations. Unless you really want to swim, I think it’s worth avoiding the crowds. Since I’m used to a warm ocean in the summer, the Sea temperatures aren’t a draw for me anyway! It only gets to the mid 70s in terms of sea temperature, which I consider a bit too cool.
Summer will see lows in the 70s and highs in the 80s for both islands. The winter for both islands are in the 50s. The weather is mild, but the islands are quiet with a lot of places closing.
Shoulder Months
April | Mid 50s to mid 60s
May | Low 60s to low 70s
September | Low 70s to high 70s
October | Upper 50s to high 60s
How to Get to Santorini or Mykonos
Both islands so super easy to get to by plane or ferry due to their popularity!
While other Greek islands also have airports, flights tend to run higher than flights to Santorini or Mykonos! During the shoulder and high seasons, you can fly nonstop from major cities throughout Europe including London, Paris, Milan, Dublin (to Santorini direct), and of course, Athens!
My Trips
For one trip, I flew from Orlando to London (because that was the cheapest ticket for me to Europe). Then I flew from London to Athens, staying in Athens for a couple nights before flying to Santorini. All my flights were less than $700 total.
For my second trip to Greece, I also flew to London first. From London flew direct to Mykonos, then took a ferry to Tinos. Took the ferry back to Mykonos to fly direct to Cyprus and after a week in Cyprus flew direct to London. In total the flights cost less than $800.
Overall, if you’re short on time, I recommend flying where possible! If you pack light, you can really save money getting around Europe once you’re there!
My experience on the ferry from Mykonos to Tinos and back was great! It was very organized and the ferry was comfortable! Athens is a popular port for ferries to the islands. If you wanted to island hop, there are plenty of islands to visit between Athens and either island!
Booking flights is best done these days with the airline directly! On a rare occasion, I buy plane tickets through Expedia.com, Booking.com or a similar site. I do this either because it’s easier and the flight is cheap or maybe I’ve found in my research that booking the flight and hotel together is a better deal.
If you’re traveling during a less busy time, you don’t really have to pre-book the ferry. However, if you are planning your visit during high season or Easter holidays then definitely book in advance! Of course, it doesn’t hurt to book your tickets early no matter when you travel!
Entry Requirements | Santorini vs Mykonos
Both of these islands are part of Greece and US Citizens do not need a visa for stays less than 90 days. You will need a passport of course, and as a general rule the passport must not expire within six months of your trip.
How many days do you need in Santorini and Mykonos?
Three or four days for each island is good. However, if you want to relax and see everything consider adding more days.
Santorini has more to do in my opinion, but at least a few days are needed to see the island.
Mykonos itself could be explored within a couple days, but I recommend a day trip to Delos and Rhenia. So definitely give yourself a few days for Mykonos as well.
Is Santorini closer to Athens or Mykonos?
Santorini is closer to Mykonos than Athens in terms of distance.
By ferry, Athens to Santorini can take 5 to 8 hours depending on which ferry you book, while Santorini to Mykonos takes 2 to 4 hours.
I don’t see any flights offered between Santorini and Mykonos. A flight from Santorini to Athens is about 55 minutes.
Is Santorini or Mykonos better for families?
Overall, I think Santorini is the more relaxed and family friendly destination!
Mykonos in high season will have more of a party atmosphere, but you could find quiet places to stay for families, especially during the shoulder months. You can also consider staying in Tinos and just making day trips to Mykonos with your family.
Is Santorini and Mykonos the same?
Absolutely not! They are both Greek Islands with cute white-washed towns, but Santorini has scenery that Mykonos or other Greek Islands just don’t have.
Santorini is dreamy and stunning!
Is Santorini or Mykonos better for partying?
Mykonos is known for partying! While Santorini does offer some nightlife, if you’re looking to party definitely head to Mykonos!
Santorini vs Mykonos | Which is Better?
While I loved my trips to both islands, Santorini is one of the most beautiful places! If Mykonos works better for the trip you are planning, it’s also a charming Greek island so you can’t really go wrong!
Of course, if you’re asking me which island is bucket list worthy, then Santorini all the way! If you get to visit both islands, let me know what you think!
I hope this comparison of Santorini vs Mykonos was helpful! Enjoy your time exploring Greece and have the best trip!
