A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Mykonos vs. Dublin for Food, Nightlife, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Mykonos or Dublin?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Mykonos and Dublin. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Mykonos

Mykonos is a picturesque, postcard perfect, and glamourous Greek island. The famous beauty of Mykonos is one of the main draws. It also has a unique and quaint vibe that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Mykonos travel costs.

Dublin

Dublin is a friendly, welcoming, and fun city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. And you can't forget about the live music, food, and shopping. See Dublin travel costs.

Mykonos and Dublin: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Known for its beauty
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Dublin?

You'll generally find more things to do in Dublin than Mykonos. Dublin is bigger than Mykonos, and it also has more attractions and activities for travelers. Dublin is better known for its museums and attractions, music, and big city activities, while Mykonos is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere. Mykonos is more touristy than Dublin and is known for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. Dublin is well known for its friendly and social nightlife, its local pubs, and its role as the birthplace of Guinness. Also, Dublin is famous for The Guinness Storehouse.

How is Mykonos different from Dublin?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dublin and Mykonos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Mykonos or Dublin?

Mykonos
Dublin

Dublin is a well-known place for its sights and museums. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Dublin. There are a number of museums around town including the National Museum of Ireland, the Little Museum of Dublin, and the National Gallery of Ireland.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Mykonos. Visitors enjoy checking out the windmills and churches around the island. You can also hop over to Delos to see its archeological sites.


Is the Food Better in Mykonos or Dublin? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Dublin

Mykonos is terrific for its restaurant scene. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Mykonos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. Like most things on the island, food is expensive, but its also very good. Make sure you try the louza sausage, kopanisti cheese, and melopita pie.

Dublin has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Seafood has become popular around town, but you can also try traditional favorites like stew, pancakes, or coddle.

Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Dublin

Both Mykonos and Dublin are world-class when it comes to partying.

The nightlife in Mykonos is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. With many exclusive clubs and bars, this island is among the best for nightlife in Greece. Popular options include Tropicana Club, Scarpa, and Super Paradise Beach Club.

Dublin is a world class party destination. Temple Bar is where you'll find the greatest concentration of pubs and nightlife. The city is among the friendliest and most welcoming, and this is seen even in the vibe around town at night.

Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for Music?

Mykonos
Dublin

Dublin is a well-known place for its live music scene. However, Mykonos is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Dublin is very popular with diverse venues. The best places to hear live music around town are the back street pubs that feature local groups.

Mykonos is not a live music destination.


Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Dublin

Mykonos is terrific for its resorts. However, Dublin is not a resort destination.

Mykonos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. There are many world class luxury resorts on the island that offer a variety of amenities including pools, restaurants, and spas. Popular options include Myconian Avaton Resort, Myconian Imperial Resort and Villas, and Myconian Utopia Resort.

Dublin is not a resort destination.

Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Dublin

Mykonos is a great destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Dublin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Mykonos to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. There are many good diving and snorkeling spots around the island include shipwrecks and reefs with good visibility.

Dublin is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Dublin

Mykonos is a great destination for the beach. However, Dublin is not a beach destination.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Mykonos. This island has become popular for its sandy beaches, but these days they come with a high price. Many are lined with umbrellas and sunbeds that you can rent. They often have bars that bring high energy and loud music. The water is often calm enough to enjoy swimming or water sports. Most of the best beaches are on the southern side of the island, but there are less crowds on the northern side, although the weather may not be as good.

Dublin is not a beach destination.


Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Dublin

Mykonos is terrific for its old town. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

Mykonos has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. Chora, the old town and largest town on the island, is filled with windmills, cafes, churches, and charming streets. It's a scenic area that has long been popular for its beautiful setting.

Dublin is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. On the south side of the River Liffey are three different historic parts to the city. The Medieval Quarter is the oldest. To the east is Temple Bar, and further east is the Georgian Quarter.

Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Dublin

Mykonos is not so good for its hiking experiences. However, Dublin is not a hiking destination.

A few hiking trails can be found near Mykonos. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Dublin is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Dublin?

Mykonos
Dublin

Mykonos is terrific for its shopping opportunities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Mykonos make it a world-class shopping destination. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Dublin. Head to Grafton Street to see a number of brand name and local shops. It's a pedestrian street that is fun to wander around.


Is Mykonos or Dublin More Beautiful?

Mykonos
Dublin

Mykonos is terrific for its scenery and beauty. However, Dublin is not a destination known for its beauty.

The famous beauty of Mykonos is one of the main draws. With its stunning blue waters and postcard perfect towns, this island is filled with beauty.

Dublin is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for Families?

Mykonos
Dublin

Dublin is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for its kid-friendly activities.

Dublin is a very kid-friendly city. Explore the waterways with the viking splash, learn about the vikings at the museum Dublina, or visit any of the other kid-friendly museums around town, or see a show at The Gaiety.

Mykonos is not always a place people visit with their families. This island is a bit of a party destination, so many people choose alternative islands when visiting Greece with their kids. If you do head to Mykonos, you'll find nice beaches and some good museums.

Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Dublin

Mykonos is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Dublin is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Mykonos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. Couples who enjoy beautiful coastal settings with a great party scene will love a vacation or honeymoon to this Greek island.

Dublin is a great Greek island if you're traveling as a couple. It's laid-back vibe and countless pubs make it a fun weekend getaway for couples.


Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Dublin

Dublin is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Mykonos is not a good Greek island for backpackers and budget travelers.

Dublin is a great city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of popular backpacker hostels around town. The pub scene is also popular with the young crowd.

Mykonos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The island appeals to the wealthy and glamourous, but for backpackers and budget travelers, there are a few budget-friendly hotels. It'll be a bit harder to find affordable food though, as restaurants can be quite expensive.

Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for Students?

Mykonos
Dublin

Dublin is a good destination for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with students.

Dublin is a good city to visit for students. While student accommodation can be a bit expensive in town, the nightlife and social aspect of living in the city center makes it well worth it.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

Is Mykonos or Dublin Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Mykonos
Dublin

Both Mykonos and Dublin offer notable public transit options.

Mykonos has a few public transit options. There is a bus system that connects the towns and beaches on the island. Both major bus stations are on the western side of the island.

Dublin has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around town.


Is Mykonos or Dublin a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Dublin

Mykonos and Dublin both are world-class when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Mykonos on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Dublin. Because it is so compact and flat, it is easy to explore the city center on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Mykonos Worth Visiting? and Is Dublin Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dublin or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Dublin?

In either Mykonos or Dublin, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Mykonos has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Mykonos than Dublin. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 2-5 days is enough time in Dublin.

Couples should spend more time in Mykonos than Dublin. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mykonos that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Dublin than Mykonos if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Dublin.


  • How many days in Mykonos or Dublin? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Dublin 2-5

One day in Mykonos or Dublin?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the quaint destination of Mykonos. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Dublin, you'll find shopping and museums. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Mykonos or Dublin?

Mykonos is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Dublin, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dublin has to offer.


Five days in Mykonos or Dublin?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mykonos. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Dublin is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Dublin has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Mykonos or Dublin?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the picturesque destination of Mykonos. This Greek island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dublin. Many people enjoy the live music and food when visiting Dublin. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Greece, The Best G Adventures Tours to Greece, The Best Walking Tours in Ireland, and The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Dublin or Mykonos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Mykonos is €272, while the average daily cost in Dublin is €179. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Mykonos and Dublin in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Dublin 68
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Dublin 136
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Dublin

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Dublin? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Mykonos


Hotels in Dublin


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Mykonos Hotel Prices and Dublin Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Dublin 19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Mykonos

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Mykonos:


  • Bus to Paradise Beach (for 2)
    5.60
  • Taxi to Kalafatis
    13

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Mykonos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Mykonos:

  • Delos Island: Roundtrip Boat Transfer from Mykonos Island: $34
  • From Helicopter Transfer to Athens or Greek Island: $2,955
  • Mykonos Private Transfer Airport - Port: $65
  • Mykonos Private Transfer: From Port to Airport: $65
  • Mykonos Private Transfer: From your villa in Principote: $59
  • BitTransfer Taxi Services: $117
  • Catamaran Cruise with Lunch, Drinks and Transfer: $164
  • Delos Boat Transfer with Cell Phone Audioguide: $52
  • Luxury Private Transfer Service: $59
  • Private Catamaran Cruise w/ Food, Drinks & Transfer: $880
  • Rhenia Island Sunset Cruise with Transfer and Meal: $135
  • Sights, Super Paradise Beach, Sunbeds, & Transfers: $106

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Dublin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Dublin:


  • Rental Car for a Day
    15

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dublin

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dublin:

  • One-Way Bus Transfer from/to Dublin Airport: $12
  • Dublin DUB Airport to City Centre Private Transfer: $36
  • Airport Transfer and Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Ticket: $43
  • Dublin Cruise Ship Shore Excursion|Hop-on Hop-off & Rail Transfer: $44
  • Private Dublin Arrival Transfer - Airport to Hotel / Accommodation: $66
  • Dublin Airport (DUB) Private Transfer to Dublin City Centre: $82
  • Driven by Excellence , Defined by Prestige Wheels Transfers: $94
  • Private Sedan (4 seats) Transfer from Dublin Airport to Dublin City Center: $105
  • Departure Transfer: Dublin to Dublin Airport DUB in Business Car: $119
  • Private Transfer: Dublin to Dublin Airport DUB in Business Car: $119
  • Departure Transfer Dublin to Dublin Airport by Van or Minibus: $127
  • Arrival Transfer Dublin Airport to Dublin City by Van or Minibus: $127

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Dublin?

Prices for flights to both Dublin and Mykonos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Mykonos 83
    Dublin 85
Typical Food Prices in Mykonos

Some typical examples of dining costs in Mykonos are as follows:


  • Two Ice cream Cones
    4.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Mykonos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Mykonos.

  • Food Tour: Aperitivo In Mykonos Town: $76
  • Traditional Lunch or Dinner at the Mykonian Spiti: $76
  • Sunset Boat Cruise with Light Dinner & Drinks: $101
  • Sunset Sail Cruise to Rhenia, Beach Hopping, Dinner: $111
  • Group Cooking Class at the Home of a Local Family: $117
  • Greek Cooking Class with Meal and Wine: $141
  • Hands-On Cooking Class with a Professional Chef: $141
  • Mykonos Cooking Class Experience for Cruise Travelers: $141
  • Cooking Class with Food and Wine: $176

Typical Food Prices in Dublin

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Dublin:


  • Lunch Lynam's Pub
    3.95

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Dublin

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Dublin.

  • Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $32
  • Food on Foot: Dublin Street Food Tour with Local Guide: $33
  • Dublin Irish House Party Live Show, Dinner Option Available: $36
  • Belvedere Irish Night Show, Dance and Traditional 3-Course Dinner: $59
  • Dublin Holiday Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour: $70
  • Grand Canal Cruise with Dinner: $82
  • Irish Dinner & Dance Show at Johnnie Fox’s: $88
  • Ultimate Dublin Food Tour: $93
  • Delicious Walking Food Tour: $94
  • Delicious Dublin Food Tour: $96
  • Skip the Line: Irish Night Show Including 4-Course Dinner Ticket: $102
  • Howth Coastal Craft Beer and Seafood Tour: $116

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Dublin 25

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Mykonos are as follows:

  • Mykonos Old Town Historic and Cultural Walking Tour.: $18
  • Iconic A Guided Walking Tour of Highlights: $29
  • Highlights Walking Tour with a Local: $34
  • Mykonos Walking Tour: $41
  • Old Town Walking Tour with Certified Local Guide: $41
  • Feel like a local - Walking Tour in Mykonos Town 2hours: $41
  • Sunset Party Boat Cruise with 1 Drink: $45
  • Small Group Mykonos Walk with Cruise terminal pick up: $53
  • From Ano Mera Farm Tour: $53
  • Island Highlights & Chora Walking Tour: $59
  • Half-Day City Walking Tour and Island Bus Tour: $59
  • Sunset Cruise with Drinks: $59

Typical Entertainment Prices in Dublin

Here are a few typical costs in Dublin for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Wild Wicklow Tour
    26
  • Guinness Brewery for Two
    27
  • St Pauls Cathedral
    4.50
  • Dublin Writer's Museum
    6.30

Tours and Activities in Dublin

Here are a few actual costs in Dublin for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Self Guided Tours Dublin With 100 Captivating Audio Stories: $3.59
  • Historic Landmarks Walking Tour: $4.70
  • Dublin Scavenger Hunt and Highlights Self-Guided Tour: $5.88
  • Dublin Ghost Hunt Exploration Game and Tour: $6.00
  • Ardgillan Castle Entry Ticket: $7.05
  • Interactive Guided Tour of Printing History: $7.21
  • Dublin Walking Tour with Audioguide on Your Smartphone: $8.40
  • Dublin Downtown Smartphone Guided GPS Audio Walking Tour: $9.75
  • The Mystical Hill of Tara: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour of Scenic Coastal Dublin (Dun Laoghaire): $10
  • A Self Guided Walking Tour of Dublin's Docklands: $12
  • Dublin Highlights Self Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $12

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Dublin 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Mykonos

Also in Mykonos, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Mykonos Town & Brewery:2-Hour Walking Tour with Beer Tasting: $76
  • Mykonos Bar Crawl with a Local: $76
  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $80
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $88
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $164

Sample the Local Flavors in Dublin

Also in Dublin, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Generation Pub Crawl: $16
  • Teeling Whiskey Distillery Tour & Tasting: $24
  • The Black Experience Pub Tour: $24
  • Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery Experience: $26
  • Pearse Lyons Whiskey Distillery: Trilogy Experience: $26
  • City Pub Crawl Experience: $29
  • Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour with Tastings: $36
  • Dublin Jameson Distillery Bow St. Tour and Tasting 45 mins: $37
  • Dublin Jameson Distillery Guided tour and Tasting in French: $37
  • Pub Crawl Walking Tour Through the Heart of Irelands Capital: $38
  • Jameson Distillery Secret Whiskey Tasting Experience: $47
  • Gin Tasting Masterclass In Stillgarden Distillery: $48


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Dublin, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is Dublin much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Dublin would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Dublin and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Mykonos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mykonos than you might in Dublin.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Mykonos Expensive? and Is Dublin Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Dublin?

Dublin has a larger population, and is about 74% larger than the population of Mykonos. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Dublin, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.