Battle of the Greek Islands: Mykonos vs Santorini – Which is Better?
Choosing between the gorgeous Greek islands of Mykonos and Santorini might seem like an impossible choice. But it’s actually not hard at all.
Mykonos or Santorini?
If you’re planning your first trip to the Greek islands, this might be one of the toughest travel decisions you’ll have to make. These two Aegean superstars are among the most famous islands in the world thanks to their awe-inspiring scenery and picture-perfect villages.
And if you’re just judging them by Instagram images, it might seem like an impossible choice.
But, let me tell you, it’s not.
I’ve visited both islands many times and I can assure you that, while they are both exceptional destinations, they are two VERY different travel experiences.
As long as you know what kind of vacation you’re looking for, the decision of Mykonos vs Santorini is an easy one.
For example, in my 20’s, when I was planning trips with my girlfriends and looking for amazing beaches and a fun nightlight scene, I knew exactly which island to choose.
And now that I’m (ahem) older and married, I also know exactly which island I’d choose.
So which Greek island is right for you?
Both islands offer incredible views, delicious food, and warm Greek hospitality. But they couldn’t be more different in vibe.
Mykonos is the ultimate party island, known for its beach clubs, luxury shopping, and chic cocktail bars.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will undoubtedly blow on more flights (it’s a vicious cycle). All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
Santorini, on the other hand, is a honeymoon paradise, home to stunning caldera sunsets, romantic boutique hotels, and iconic white-washed homes and churches with blue domes.
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So, which one is best for your Greek islands vacation? Whether you’re looking for romance, adventure, nightlife, or relaxation, I’m here to help you decide.
But first, let’s start with a quick recap of each island.
First, Let’s Talk About Mykonos
Mykonos is Greece’s glitziest island, known for its sophisticated party scene and stunning beaches. Whether you want to dance till dawn at a beach club, explore chic boutiques lining the narrow streets of Mykonos Town, or sip sunset cocktails on a terrace overhanging the sea in Little Venice, Mykonos delivers on all fronts.
But beyond the high-energy vibe, Mykonos also has a softer side. With its charming Old Town, hidden coves, and Cycladic charm, there’s plenty to enjoy even if you’re not here to party.
In fact, popular beach resort areas like Platis Gialos offer affordable resorts and a more family-friendly vibe.
Now, Let’s Talk About Santorini
Santorini is Greece’s most iconic island for good reason. The volcanic island is famous for dazzling caldera views (especially from the clifftop village of Oia), romance, and budget-busting luxury hotels.
This island of Santorini is perfect for honeymooners and photographers. But Santorini isn’t just about the views—it’s also home to black sand beaches, historic villages, and some of Greece’s best wineries.
What they have in common…
Before I dive deeper into the differences between the two islands, I should mention one thing they both have in common.
As two of Greece’s most popular islands with visitors, both Mykonos and Santorini are packed during the peak season summer months of July and August.
That’s mostly due to the many cruise ships that call on both islands almost daily. If you’re visiting either island on a day when multiple cruise ships are in port…avoid the main towns like the plague.
If you can, avoid those high season months entirely on your trip. In my opinion, the best time to visit the Greek islands is during the shoulder season months of May and September (but early June is a great time, too!).
Now that we have a quick overview of each island, let’s break down some of the most popular travel categories!
Mykonos vs Santorini: A Comparison
Ease of Access
My Pick: Mykonos
Both Mykonos and Santorini have international airports with frequent direct flights from Athens and other European cities. So, if you’re flying, I’d call this one a draw. However, Mykonos definitely has the edge when it comes to ferry access.
Getting to Mykonos
Mykonos is closer to Athens and easier to reach by ferry from the Greek capital. Fast ferries like Seajets cover the distance in under 3 hours while larger ferries like Blue Star (my preference) range from 4-6 hours.
But before you depart Athens…
If this is your first trip to Greece, you absolutely must stop over for at least a few days to see the incredible historic sights. I know, I know, the Greek Islands are enticing. But Athens is literally the birthplace of Western civilization. And that’s pretty darn impressive.
If time is short, here’s a foolproof one-day itinerary: 24 Hours in Athens.
But the island really shines when it comes to inter-island connections. Mykonos is centrally located in the Cyclades with lots of terrific islands nearby. For example, the lovely island of Tinos is just a 15-minute ferry connection away.
In 40 minutes you can be on Naxos, Paros, or Syros (three more of my favorite Greek islands!). Any of these islands would make a terrific day trip.
So if you’re hoping to do some island hopping on your Greek islands vacation, Mykonos is a clear winner.
Getting to Santorini
By comparison, Santorini is much farther south in the Aegean Sea and the ferry ride from Athens can take up to 8 hours, depending on the route.
Even the fast ferry takes a minimum of 5 hours. And I would never recommend taking a 5-hour fast ferry ride! Yikes.
Santorini’s port is also my least favorite in the Greek islands. It’s well known for its crowded, chaotic arrivals and you’ll want to be sure to have your hotel transportation arranged in advance.
When it comes to day trips, Naxos is possible with a ferry journey of less than 2 hours. But the schedule doesn’t leave you as much time to explore as you’d probably like.
And you can get to my absolute favorite Greek island for beaches, tiny Koufonisia, in less than 2 hours. But the mid-day departure time means it’s less viable as a day trip.
Note: If you’re staying on Crete, a day trip from Crete to Santorini is totally possible. Unfortunately, the ferry schedule math doesn’t work in reverse.
Tip: The absolute best site for booking ferries in Greece is FerryHopper.com.
Best for Fabulous Hotels
My Pick: Santorini
Both islands are known for stunning hotels, but Santorini’s hotels are on another level (that applies to the price, too).
Santorini Hotels
Santorini is world-famous for boutique cave hotels with private infinity pools and hot tubs overlooking the caldera (especially if you’re staying in the main town of Oia).
If you’re looking for luxury, romance, and jaw-dropping views, Santorini is the clear winner.
Hotels like Katikies Santorini, Canaves, and Cavo Tagoo Santorini are the stuff of honeymoon dreams and you won’t find anything quite like them anywhere else in the world.
Just keep in mind that rates at many of those 5-star hotels are just as jaw-dropping as the views, often topping $1000 per night. And many are stacked on top of each other in a compact area and don’t offer as much privacy as you might expect for that price.
But there are a few great deals in Santorini where you don’t have to sacrifice views – like the charming Prekas Apartments, where we stayed on our honeymoon.
Or the luxurious Kasimatis by La Perla, where we stayed on our most recent visit. With a private hot tub and epic views, it was a 5-star experience at half the price of the hotels I mentioned above.
Read More: Yes, Santorini is an Expensive Honeymoon Destination (but it doesn’t have to be!)
Mykonos Hotels
Of course, you can find luxurious sea views on Mykonos, too. For example, the Myconian Utopia Relais & Chateaux, The Coast Bill & Coo, and the charming Nissaki Boutique Hotel.
And unlike Santorini, Mykonos delivers on luxury beach resorts, too.
Mykonos also has more variety. From family-friendly beachfront resorts to budget-friendly apartment hotels in Mykonos Town (like my favorite place to stay on the island, Marietta’s Mykonos).
For family-friendly beach resorts, there are several great choices near tranquil Platis Gialos beach like the Petinos Beach Hotel, the Petasos Beach Resort & Spa, and the Palladium Hotel.
Read More: A Visit to This Picture-Perfect Greek Island Inspired a Lifetime of Wanderlust
Best Food Scene
My Pick: Santorini
Foodies will love both islands, but Santorini edges out Mykonos thanks to its incredible wineries and traditional Greek tavernas with caldera views.
The island is known for unique volcanic-grown produce, including cherry tomatoes, fava beans, and white eggplant.
Mykonos, on the other hand, has a more international food scene with trendy restaurants and high-end seafood spots. If you’re looking for glamorous fine dining, Mykonos has some of the best in Greece.
Best for Nightlife
My Pick: Mykonos
If you’re coming to dance, drink, and experience Greece’s most famous beach clubs, Mykonos wins this category hands down. From sunset beach parties to all-night DJ sets, Mykonos is the Ibiza of Greece.
Santorini does have a few lively spots in Fira, but compared to Mykonos, its nightlife is much more low-key and romantic. If you want luxe beach bars and world-famous DJs, Mykonos is the place to be.
Best for Beaches
My Pick: Mykonos
Mykonos also easily takes the win for best beaches. In fact, I consider it one of the very best Greek Islands for beaches.
If your Greek island dream includes crystal-clear waters and long stretches of golden sandy beaches, Mykonos wins hands down. Beautiful beaches like Psarou, Ornos, and Elia Beach are perfect for sunbathing, while Super Paradise Beach is famous for its all-day party scene.
Santorini’s beaches, on the other hand, are more dramatic. From volcanic black sand beaches to an unusual red sand beach, the beaches are unique but not the best for swimming.
Red Beach is definitely worth a visit, but if you’re looking for a classic beach experience, Mykonos is the better choice.
Best for Romance
My Pick: Santorini
Santorini is one of the most romantic places on earth and the ultimate honeymoon destination (that’s why it was a must on our Round-the-World honeymoon itinerary!). With its stunning cliffside views, sunset catamaran cruises, and private pool villas, it’s hard to beat.
Mykonos, while beautiful and luxurious, has more of a social, energetic vibe, which may not be ideal for couples looking for a secluded getaway. If romance is your top priority, Santorini is the clear winner.
Best for History, Culture, & Things to Do
My Pick: It Depends
There are plenty of fun things to do on both Mykonos and Santorini. So which island you’ll like better depends on your interests.
Santorini Things to Do
Santorini is steeped in history, with some of Greece’s most fascinating archaeological sites. The ruins of Akrotiri, an ancient Minoan city buried under volcanic ash (much like Pompeii), provide a glimpse into life before the catastrophic eruption that shaped Santorini’s landscape.
Santorini’s volcanic past means it has unique natural attractions, like volcanic beaches and the hot springs near the volcanic islets of Nea Kameni. On our honeymoon, we did the Santorini Volcano and Hot Springs Cruise Tour and it was a lot of fun!
Wine lovers will also love touring Santorini’s famous wineries, where volcanic soil produces some of Greece’s most distinctive wines, like Assyrtiko. Wine tasting is one of Santorini’s best day trips.
Mykonos Things to Do
One of the best things to do in Mykonos is to explore Mykonos Town (Chora), where you’ll find whitewashed streets, designer boutiques, stylish cafés, and the famous Mykonos windmills that overlook the Aegean Sea.
Little Venice is another must-visit spot, with its colorful waterfront houses and lively bars perfect for sunset drinks.
Don’t miss a day trip to the island of Delos, one of Greece’s most important ancient sites and the legendary birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is filled with ancient temples, mosaics, and an amphitheater.
The Bottom Line
The Mykonos vs Santorini debate is real.
There’s a reason these Cycladic Islands are Greece’s two most popular destinations. They’re both incredibly beautiful and either could be perfect for your next trip.
It’s impossible to argue with the natural beauty of Santorini. If you’re looking for romance and spectacular views, Santorini is the better choice.
If you want excellent beaches and a high-energy nightlife scene, Mykonos is the perfect place.
Of course, the best solution? Visit both!
The ferry between Mykonos and Santorini takes just two hours and runs several times a day. So why not enjoy the best of both worlds on your Greece vacation?
And if you’re looking for more great destinations in Greece, start here:
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