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

Should you visit Mykonos or Genoa?

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 Genoa. 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 postcard perfect, glamourous, and party-oriented Greek island. Many visitors also come to Mykonos because of it's amazing beauty. As it offers a special and quaint atmosphere, visitors come from all over to experience this destination. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Mykonos travel costs.

Genoa

Genoa is a historic, vibrant, and colorful port city. Genoa is a beautiful place to visit, too. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and shopping. See Genoa travel costs.

Mykonos and Genoa: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • 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
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less charming


Is there more to do in Mykonos or Genoa?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Mykonos. Although Mykonos and Genoa are both popular with visitors, Mykonos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Mykonos is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Genoa is known for its museums and attractions. Mykonos is more touristy than Genoa and is popular for its active party scene, luxury accommodation, and picturesque villages. It is also home to the traditional windmills near Chora. Genoa is popular for its maritime history, its vibrant cultural scene, and being the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

How is Mykonos different from Genoa?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Genoa 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 Genoa?

Mykonos
Genoa

Genoa 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 Genoa. The city has a long history and it is filled with monuments, palaces, and museums. Popular places to visit include the Via Garibaldi Palaces, the aquarium (one of the largest in Europe), the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, and Santi Ambrogio.

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 Genoa? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Genoa makes for a great culinary experience. The city's maritime roots have influenced its cuisine and you'll find seafood in many local dishes. Other classic Genoese flavors include pesto, anchovies, fried squid, and focaccia and cheese.

Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Nightlife?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its evening party scene. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for nightlife.

Mykonos is a must-see party destination. 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.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Genoa. The city lights up at night and it's fun to experience the activity and energy. There's a nice evening atmosphere with many people out and about. You can grab drinks in Piazza Lavagna or see live music in Porto Antico. There are also many bars and clubs around town.

Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Resorts?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a resort destination.


Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is great for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Genoa 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.

Genoa is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Beaches?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is great for the beach. However, Genoa is not a good destination for its beaches.

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.

Genoa is a good spot to see the beach. While many people head to other nearby towns to enjoy the beach, you will also find a beach just ten minutes from the old town by bus. Boccadasse is one of the closest beaches to town. It's also possible to do a day trip to other more famous beaches in the area, but you need to be prepared to travel a bit farther.

Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for its Old Town?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its historic old town charm. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its historic old town.

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.

Many visitors go to Genoa to see the historical old town. The old town is large and complex, with many different time periods represented in the architecture and development style.


Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Hiking?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is mediocre for hiking. However, Genoa is not a hiking destination.

While not known for its hiking, Mykonos has a few options. This island doesn't have any real hiking but you can walk to the beach along the road. The island is mostly flat.

Genoa is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Mykonos or Genoa?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its shopping areas. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for shopping.

Many people travel to Mykonos specifically to go shopping. This island has become the playground for celebrities and the wealthy, so there are plenty of shopping opportunities in town.

Genoa is a great destination for shopping. You can pick up a number of different souvenirs around town including baskets, t-shirts, and local pesto. Popular shopping areas include Galleria Mazzini, Via Roma, and Via XX Settembr.

Is Mykonos or Genoa More Beautiful?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its scenery and beauty. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Mykonos because of it's amazing beauty. With its stunning blue waters and postcard perfect towns, this island is filled with beauty.

Genoa is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a beautiful port city that has many cathedrals, palaces, and piazzas that you can explore.


Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Families?

Mykonos
Genoa

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

Genoa is a very kid-friendly port city. The city is home to the second biggest aquarium in Europe as well as the Galata Maritime Museum and the Nazario Sauro Submarine. In the port there's also Vascello Nettuno, which was a pirate ship that was used in the filming of the movie 'Pirates' by Roman Polanski. Other fun kid-friendly attractions include La Biosfera, The Children's Museum, and the Bigo Lift.

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 Genoa Better for Couples?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for couples. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for romance.

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.

Genoa is a very popular place to visit for couples. It's a beautiful port city with charming neighborhoods and some great restaurants. Couples will enjoy exploring this beautiful city and visiting its palaces and cathedrals.

Is Mykonos or Genoa Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mykonos
Genoa

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

Genoa is a great port city to visit for backpackers. There are a number of affordable hostels in the area, and while this isn't the top backpacker destination in Italy, it is a nice place to spend some time.

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 Genoa Better for Students?

Mykonos
Genoa

Genoa is a well-known place for students. However, Mykonos is not popular with students.

Many students visit Genoa. It's a popular study abroad destination so you'll find a number of international students in the area. The city is also well connected for exploring the region.

Mykonos is not popular with students.

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

Mykonos
Genoa

Genoa is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Mykonos is not as famous, but is still a good Greek island to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Genoa has some very good public transit options. There's a wide range of different public transit options that are all operated by AMT. The system includes buses, an underground (one line), funiculars (two), lifts (ten), a boat, cogwheel and narrow gauge railways.

Mykonos has some 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.

Is Mykonos or Genoa a more walkable city?

Mykonos
Genoa

Mykonos is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Genoa is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its walkability.

Mykonos is a very easy Greek island to get around on foot. Walking is actually one of the only ways to get around town.

Genoa is very walkable. The old town, where most tourists spend the majority of their time, is easy to explore on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Genoa or Mykonos?

How long in Mykonos or Genoa?

It's fun to spend time in either Mykonos or Genoa. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Mykonos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Mykonos, and 2-4 days is enough time in Genoa.

Families should spend more time in Mykonos than Genoa. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Mykonos, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Mykonos than Genoa. 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 Mykonos than Genoa 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 Mykonos.


  • How many days in Mykonos or Genoa? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mykonos 3-5 
    Genoa 2-4

One day in Mykonos or Genoa?

In Mykonos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this opulent destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This Greek island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Genoa, you'll find nightlife and food. This port 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 Genoa?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mykonos. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

In Genoa, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Genoa has to offer.

Five days in Mykonos or Genoa?

Mykonos is a fun place to experience. In Mykonos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this quaint destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Genoa is a great place to explore. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Mykonos or Genoa?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the ritzy destination of Mykonos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Genoa. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Genoa. 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Genoa 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 Genoa is €188. 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 Genoa in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mykonos 74
    Genoa 87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mykonos 148
    Genoa 174
Compare Hotels in Mykonos and Genoa

Looking for a hotel in Mykonos or Genoa? 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 Genoa


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 Genoa Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mykonos 24
    Genoa 8.44
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:

  • From Helicopter Transfer to Athens or Greek Island: $2,955
  • Private Catamaran Cruise w/ Food, Drinks & Transfer: $880
  • Private Chauffeured Transfer in Mykonos: $239
  • ❖ Private Island Tour with Transfers and Greek Meal: $235
  • Mykonos Airport or Port from/to Point to Point Private Transfers: $233
  • Private Transfer: From Scorpios to your hotel with mini bus: $223
  • Transfer in Mykonos : $215
  • Private Transfer: From Scorpios to your Villa with mini bus: $211
  • Private Transfer: Mykonos Town to your Villa with mini bus: $211
  • Mykonos Private Short Distance Transfer Up To 12 Persons: $207
  • Private Transfer: Mykonos Windmills to your hotel-mini bus: $188
  • Private Transfer: Mykonos Windmills to Airport with mini bus: $188

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Genoa

Also for Genoa, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Genoa city to Genoa Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $62
  • Genoa Cruise Port to Genoa city - Arrival Private Transfer: $62
  • Genoa to Genoa Airport (GOA) - Departure Private Transfer: $66
  • Private Transfer from Genoa Hotels to Genoa Cruise Port: $71
  • Private Transfer from Genoa Cruise Port to Genoa hotels: $71
  • From Genova: Portofino Return Transfer by Open-Top Bus: $76
  • Genoa Private one way Transfer from/to Airport to/from hotel: $88
  • Private Transfer from/to Genoa to/from Portofino: $134
  • Genoa Airport (GOA) to Portofino - Arrival Private Transfer: $142
  • Savona Cruise Port to Genoa Hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $153
  • Genoa hotels to Savona Cruise Port - Departure Private Transfer: $165
  • Savona Port to Genoa Airport (GOA) - Departure Private Transfer: $165

Is it cheaper to fly into Mykonos or Genoa?

Prices for flights to both Genoa 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
    Genoa 90
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
  • Food Tour of Mykonos - Flavors and local tastes: $114
  • Group Cooking Class at the Home of a Local Family: $117
  • Food Tour in Mykonos - Famous Tastings : $118
  • Private Cooking Class at the Home of a Mykonian Family : $119
  • 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
  • Small Group Mykonian Cooking Class Experience: $143

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Genoa

For Genoa, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Genoa Street Food Tour with a Local: $48
  • Taste A Full Meal Walking Food Tour by Do Eat Better: $59
  • Traditional Food Tour with Drinks: $67
  • Guided Food Tour with Wine Tastings in Genoa: $69
  • Guided Food Tour with Wine Tastings in Genoa: $71
  • Genoa Old town Food Tour: $80
  • Genoese cooking lesson in the with lunch in the terrace: $82
  • Itinerant dinner in the old town: $82
  • Santa Margherita Ligure Food Tour Tastes of the Italian Riviera: $82
  • Santa Margherita: Food Tour, flavors of the Ligurian Riviera: $93
  • Santa Margherita Food Tour : flavours of the Ligurian Riviera: $96
  • Cesarine: Dining & Cooking Demo at Local's Home in Genoa: $102

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mykonos 23
    Genoa 20

Tours and Activities in Mykonos

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

  • All Inclusive Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with S/Y Olga M: $149
  • Μykonos Private 360 Photo and Video Tour Perfect for Social Media: $90
  • 2 Hours Private Mykonos Island Tour: $119
  • 2 Hours private tour of Mykonos Island : $114
  • 2 Hours walking tour in Mykonos Town: $141
  • 3 Hour Mykonos Tour: $179
  • 3 Hours Private Sunset Tour in Greece with Free Drinks & Snacks: $287
  • 3-Hours Private Mykonos Explorer Tour : $173
  • 4 Hour Mykonos Tour Explorer : $179
  • 5 Hour Mykonos Beach-Club-Crawl Experience: $103
  • 6 Hours Mykonos Private Island Tour With Full Authentic Lunch: $269
  • 6 Hours Tour to Delos and Rhenia Islands with Sailing Yacht: $149

Tours and Activities in Genoa

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Genoa.

  • Lighthouse Entrance Ticket: $11
  • Historic Guided Tour of Christopher Columbus' House: $12
  • Villa Durazzo Pallavicini Park Entry Ticket: $13
  • The City of Children and Young Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • 2-Hour Guided Walking Tour of the Historical Center: $16
  • Guided Tour of Rolli Palaces UNESCO Site, Genoa: $16
  • Historic Shops in Tour Through Tradition and Flavours: $16
  • Genoa–Sori: Italian Lesson & Guided Liguria Tour: $18
  • sunset cruise to admire the city with live music: $18
  • Villa del Principe Museum Ticket: $18
  • Impossible Museum Entry Ticket: $19
  • Half-Day Tour to San Fruttuoso: $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mykonos 20
    Genoa 10

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
  • Mykonos Town & Visit a local Brewery : Walking Tour with Tasting: $78
  • Winery Vineyard Experience with Food & Wine Tasting: $80
  • Tour and Wine Tasting in Mykonian Land : $81
  • Wine Tasting at a Mykonian Farm: $88
  • Wine Tasting Tour at a traditional farm in Mykonos: $90
  • Half-Day Wine Tasting and Snack at a Local House: $164
  • Mykonos Highlights Private Tour with Optional Wine Tasting: $186

Sample the Local Flavors in Genoa

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Genoa:

  • Easy Wine Tasting in Genoa City Center: $34
  • Wine Tasting near the Aquarium of Genoa: $48
  • Wine Tasting with Pesto, Focaccia Near Columbus House: $51
  • Wine Tasting Near The Cruise: the best Italian wine: $57
  • Wine Tasting in Genoa Near the Cruise: “the Best Italian Wine”: $59
  • Genoa Food, Wine Tasting & History Walking Tour: $63
  • Food and Wine Tasting Walking Tour: $69
  • Genoa Walnut Sauce Experience with Mortar and Wine Tasting: $93
  • CAMOGLI: PRIVATE Ligurian Wine Tasting Experience and walking on National Park: $161


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Mykonos and Genoa, we can see that Mykonos is more expensive. And not only is Genoa much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Genoa would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Genoa 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 Genoa.

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


Which is Bigger, Mykonos or Genoa?

Genoa has a larger population, and is about 2% larger than the population of Mykonos. When comparing the sizes of Mykonos and Genoa, 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.