Which place is cheaper, Paris or Santorini?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.
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Should you visit Santorini or Paris?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
If you're trying to decide where to visit between Santorini or Paris, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.
Santorini
Santorini is a stunning, historic, and romantic island. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Many visitors also come to Santorini because of it's amazing beauty. Since it has a quaint atmosphere, you'll want to spend time soaking it all in. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Santorini travel costs.
Paris
Paris is a iconic, bustling, and energetic city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. Many visitors also come to Paris because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the live music, food, and shopping. See Paris travel costs.
Santorini and Paris: Pros and Cons
Santorini
Pros- Nice resorts
- Good scuba and snorkeling destination
- Popular beach
- Scenic old town
- Good for hiking
- Good for couples and romance
- Small town charm
- Impressive beauty
- Quaint atmosphere
- Less museums and historical sights
- Less popular for nightlife
- Less family-friendly
- Less popular with backpackers
- Public transit not as usable
Paris
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Numerous theater shows
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Popular at Christmas
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Good for students
- Good public transit
- Big city activities
- Impressive beauty
- Home to the Eiffel Tower
Is there more to do in Santorini or Paris?
Tourists will generally find more to do in Paris than Santorini. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Paris is very popular for its museums and attractions, theatre productions, food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Santorini attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Santorini is famous for its beautiful volcanic beaches, stunning natural beauty, and breathtaking sunsets over the whitewashed villages. Paris is famous for its world-renowned cuisine, iconic landmarks, trendsetting fashion, and dynamic markets. It is also well known for The Eiffel Tower.
The Eiffel Tower
How is Santorini different from Paris?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Paris and Santorini. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.
Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Santorini or Paris?
Santorini
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its sights and museums.
The museums and tourist attractions in Paris are world-renowned. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.
If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Santorini. One of the most impressive historical sights is Akrotiri Archaeological Site. The island has many archeological sites as well as the Archeological Museum in Fira.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Theater?
Santorini
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its theatre productions. However, Santorini is not a theatre destination.
Famous for its theaters and plays, you'll find world-renowned shows in Paris. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.
Santorini is not a theatre destination.
Is the Food Better in Santorini or Paris? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
Santorini
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its local cuisine and restaurants.
Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paris is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.
Dining out in Santorini is an experience not to be missed. Popular foods on this island include fava, Greek salad, and kofta.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Nightlife?
Santorini
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its evening party scene.
The nightlife in Paris is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.
There's a variety of activities in the evening in Santorini. It is one of the calmer, more romantic islands in Greece. For the best nightlife, you'll want to stay near Fira.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Music?
Santorini
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Santorini is not a live music destination.
With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in Paris. Some of the most famous music venues include Le Pop In, La Mécanique Ondulatoire, and Les Disquaires. You'll also find many small bars where you can enjoy live music in a quaint setting.
Santorini is not a live music destination.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Resorts?
Santorini
Paris
Santorini is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Paris is not a resort destination.
For the ultimate resort vacation, Santorini is a great choice. The resorts range from all-inclusive options to resorts with a more local feel. The island is one of the most romantic of the Greek Islands, and the resorts are no exception.
Paris is not a resort destination.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?
Santorini
Paris
Santorini is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Santorini has a few good snorkeling spots. Some of the best snorkeling places are found at Red Beach, White Beach, and the less accessible Kambia. One of the island's best diving spots is Caldera Beach.
Paris is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Beaches?
Santorini
Paris
Santorini is a popular place for its beaches. However, Paris is not a beach destination.
Santorini is a good option for a beach vacation. The island has many beaches, most of which are made of black pebbly sand that are a result of the island's volcanic history. Popular beaches include Perissa Beach, Kamari Beach, and Perivolos Beach.
Paris is not a beach destination.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for its Old Town?
Santorini
Paris
Santorini is a popular place for its historic old town. However, Paris does not have a historic old town.
Santorini is a good destination for visiting its old town. The historic towns of Fira and Oia are the two most popular with visitors, although they have become more built up and less historic over the past few decades. Historical areas are still found within these towns mixed in with restaurants, shops, and hotels set among the beautiful cliff-side views.
Paris does not have a historic old town.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Hiking?
Santorini
Paris
Santorini is a popular place for hiking. However, Paris is not a hiking destination.
Santorini is a good destination for hiking. The best hiking trails on the island pass by quaint villages and offers stunning ocean views. You can also hike along the edge of a volcano.
Paris is not a hiking destination.
Is the Shopping Better in Santorini or Paris?
Santorini
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its shopping areas.
Known for shopping, Paris draws large crowds to its stores. Some of the best areas for shopping are Boulevard Haussmann and the Grands Boulevards, the Marais, and Avenue Montaigne and the Champs-Elysées. The city is iconic for its fashion scene and world class shopping venues.
Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Santorini. Towns around the island are filled with clothing and jewelry boutiques as well as many unique Greek shopping experiences.
Is Santorini or Paris More Beautiful?
Santorini
Paris
Santorini and Paris are somewhat similar when it comes to the fantastic scenery.
Many visitors also come to Santorini because of it's amazing beauty. It has striking blue water and contrasting white buildings. It is the place many travelers dream of visiting for its picturesque setting.
You'll find world class beauty in Paris as well. It is famous for it's beautiful buildings, grand avenues, and impressive gardens. Many consider it among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Families?
Santorini
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.
Paris is an amazing family-friendly city to visit. Check out Jardin du Luxembourg, or one of the city's many playgrounds. Also grab a treat at one of the city's many patisseries. And of course, there's Disneyland Paris.
Santorini is a family-friendly place to visit. It is a calmer destination than many of the Greek Islands. While it's a great place to relax with kids, the beaches aren't as good as they are on some of the other islands. Most families hang out in Kamari and Perissa Beach.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Couples?
Santorini
Paris
Santorini and Paris are both fantastic to visit as a couple.
Santorini has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. It is a dream honeymoon destination that is famous for its picturesque setting and luxury resorts. For many couples, this is a top pick for a romantic trip to the Greek Isles.
Paris is a great island for couples, as it has plenty to offer. A city filled with romance, you really can't find a more ideal destination for a European honeymoon or a couple's getaway.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
Santorini
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.
With so many budget-friendly offerings, Paris is extremely popular for backpackers. It's a big city, so it's easy to get lost in the chaos, but there are many hostels and other backpacker hangouts around town.
Santorini is a good island to visit for backpackers. The island has its share of 5 star resorts, but if you head a few streets in you'll find some surprisingly affordable accommodation. Backpackers are welcomed on the island and beaches are free, so it's possible to get by on a relatively low budget.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Students?
Santorini
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for its student-friendly activities. However, Santorini is not popular with students.
Paris is a great destination for students. The city is one of the most popular destinations for international and study abroad students.
Santorini is not popular with students.
Is Santorini or Paris Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
Santorini
Paris
Paris is an unbeatable place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its public transit.
Visitors in Paris can get around quickly with the extensive public transit system. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.
Santorini has a few public transit options. There is a bus system, KTEL Santorini Buses, that runs 23 buses during the summer months but only a small fraction of that operate during the winter months.
Is Santorini or Paris a more walkable city?
Santorini
Paris
Paris is a great city for its high level of walkability. Also, Santorini is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its ease of walking around.
Paris is a very walkable city. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.
Santorini is a somewhat walkable island. Many towns on the island are walkable, including Fira, but the actual island is too large to explore on foot.
For even more information, also check out Is Santorini Worth Visiting? and Is Paris Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Paris or Santorini?
How long in Santorini or Paris?
Both Santorini and Paris have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Paris has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Paris than Santorini. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.
Families should spend more time in Paris than Santorini. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paris, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Paris than Santorini. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paris that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paris than Santorini 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 Paris.
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How many days in Santorini or Paris? Ideal Length of StaySantorini 3-7Paris 3-7
One day in Santorini or Paris?
Even though Santorini is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This 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.
People visit Paris because there is so much to do. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
A weekend in Santorini or Paris?
It's hard to know how much time to spend in Santorini. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.
People visit Paris because there is so much to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.
Five days in Santorini or Paris?
Santorini is a fun place to experience. Santorini is a small town with plenty to do. 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.
People visit Paris because there is so much to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.
A week in Santorini or Paris?
Santorini might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is often enough time to do most activities.
Paris is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paris, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Greece, The Best Budget Tours to Greece, The Best Historical Tours in France, and The Best 10-Day Tours in France.
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Santorini Prices
Greece PricesParis Prices
France Prices -
Average Daily Cost Per person, per daySantorini €250Paris €265
The average daily cost (per person) in Santorini is €250, while the average daily cost in Paris is €265. 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 Santorini and Paris in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personSantorini €118Paris €153
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomSantorini €236Paris €306
Compare Hotels in Santorini and Paris
Looking for a hotel in Santorini or Paris? 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.
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: Santorini Hotel Prices and Paris Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Santorini €35Paris €21
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Santorini
Also for Santorini, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Helicopter Transfer between Mykonos & Santorini: $6,138
- Luxury Small-Group Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Open bar & Transfer: $167
- Santorini Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Trip(BBQ,drinks, transfer): $155
- Santorini Luxury Catamaran Sunset Cruise with BBQ, Drink and Transfer: $155
- Premium Small-Group Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, Open Bar, Transfer: $143
- Santorini Catamaran Day Cruise: Lunch, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers: $131
- Santorini Private transfer up to 8 persons: $131
- Santorini Sunset Luxury Sailing Catamaran Cruise with BBQ, drinks, transfer: $131
- Private Arrival Transfer From Santorini Port To All Destinations: $119
- Santorini transfer from/to port or airport, up to 7 customers, : $114
- Santorini Airport Departure Transfer (Santorini Hotels to Santorini Airport): $111
- Private Transfers from/to Santorini Port (Athinios) to/from Oia: $108
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Paris
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Paris are as follows:
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Metro€6.40
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Train from Airport€9.00
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Metro tickets€6.80
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Train€20
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paris
Also for Paris, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Paris : Transfer to/from Reims or Champagne region: $646
- Transfer from Paris to Airport: CDG, Orly, Beauvais: $300
- Private Transfer from Paris to CDG Airport: $299
- Private Transfer from Paris City to Le Havre: $299
- Private direct transfer from Paris to Brussels: $293
- Private Direct Transfer From Paris to Reims: $287
- Transfer by luxury Mercedes from PARIS AIRPORT to => PARIS with Cab-Bel-Air: $281
- Louvre Museum Ticket with Audio Guide and Paris Hotel Transfers: $281
- Transfer Charles de Gaulle Airport CDG to Paris: $281
- Louvre Museum Audio Guide Tour with Hotel Private Transfers: $276
- Private one way transfer from Paris to Beauvais airport: $275
- Private transfer to Reims or Epernay : one way OR 8 hours tour : $269
Is it cheaper to fly into Santorini or Paris?
Prices for flights to both Paris and Santorini 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
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Food Meals for one daySantorini €96Paris €72
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Santorini
For Santorini, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Traditional Greek Night live Music & Dinner Show in Santorini: $60
- Santorini Cooking Class with Wine Tasting: $94
- The Aegean Cooking Class: $119
- Santorini Flavors, a Cooking Class in a Dreamy Setting: $131
- Cooking Class in Traditional cave house in Santorini!: $131
- Santorini Sunset Sailing Cruise: Dinner, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers: $143
- Santorini Food Tour: Fira Half-Day Small-Group Tour with Tastings: $149
- Luxury Santorini Sunset Cruise: Dinner, BBQ, Open Bar, Transfers: $155
- Authentic Santorini Cooking Class Experience: $179
- Santorini : Cooking Class & Easy Hike: $185
- Traditional Kouzina Santorini Cooking Experience: $185
- Santorini Private Wine Tasting with Dinner at Venetsanos Winery : $203
Typical Food Prices in Paris
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Paris:
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Ice Cream€8.00
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Breakfast€7.00
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Breakfast for 2€30
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Dinner on River Cruise€86
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Dinner€57
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Cheese€13
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paris
For Paris, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- #1 Montmartre Pastries & Chocolate Food Tour with 6+ Tastings: $60
- Authentic Indian Dinner in Paris : $66
- Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $68
- Paris Prestige Dinner Cruise from Eiffel Tower Area: $74
- Paris en Scene 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise: $78
- Paris Food Tour: $82
- Seine River Sightseeing Cruise and Dinner at Le Bistro Parisien: $84
- Paris Unlimited Brunch Cruise and Cooking Workshop: $94
- Private French Home Cooking Class in Paris with Local Chef Ioana: $99
- Champagne & Oysters Paris Food Tour: $102
- French Gourmet Cuisine: Dinner and Wine Pairing: $106
- Paris 3-Course Gourmet Dinner and Sightseeing Seine River Cruise : $110
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Santorini €35Paris €76
Tours and Activities in Santorini
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Santorini.
- Santorini 6 Hour Private Custom Tour : $167
- Santorini Private HIGHLIGHTS TOUR: $48
- Stress-Free Santorini Shore Excursion: Private Highlights Tour: $215
- Top Santorini Attractions Private Custom Tour: $188
- 2-hour Private Wooden E-Bike Tour in Emporio Castle, Santorini: $84
- 4 Hour Private Tour Experience in Santorini: $227
- 4 Hours Private Sightseeing Tour in Santorini: $143
- 4 hrs PRIVATE island tour and photos, Oia and Blue domes : $149
- 4h private tour of Santorini's sights: $239
- 5 Hour Mini-Group Santorini Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers: $87
- 5 Hour Santorini Shore Excursion for Cruise Passengers: $82
- 5 Hour Semi Private Catamaran Tour in Santorini with Lunch: $161
Typical Entertainment Prices in Paris
For Paris, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:
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Louvre Entry for Two€18
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Admission to Pantheon€5.00
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Catacombs (2)€23
Tours and Activities in Paris
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Paris.
- Area ,Opera, Jewellery,Fashion,Palais Royal walking tour : $74
- Audio-Guided Montparnasse Tower Tour with Priority Admission: $42
- Eiffel Tower with 2nd Floor Access & Trocadero Gardens Tour: $73
- Half Day Giverny Monet's Gardens Tour : $172
- Illumination Tour of Paris: $75
- Louvre Evening Escape: Avoid the Crowds - Exclusive Guided Tour : $167
- Musée d'Orsay Rebels Passion Colour. A Private Guided Tour: $143
- Notre-Dame Exterior & Sainte-Chapelle Medieval Paris Tour : $71
- Palace of Versailles Ticket and Guided Visit: $86
- Paris City Center Self-Guided Walking Tour : $12
- Paris Sightseeing Tour with Seine River Cruise from Disneyland®: $106
- Versailles Small Group Guided Tour with Local Guide: $84
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one daySantorini €25Paris €24
Sample the Local Flavors in Santorini
Also in Santorini, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- Half Day Simply Santorini Tour with Wine Tasting: $73
- Santorini Highlights Small-Group Tour with Wine Tasting option: $90
- Wine tasting and Carving lesson in Santorini: $90
- Visit to a Wine Museum and Wine Tasting in Santorini : $92
- Art and Wine Tour in a Historic Santorini Winery: $96
- Premium Wine Tasting with Caldera Views: $106
- Santorini Wine Tour with sunset in Oia: $131
- Santorini Private Tailor Made Island Tour with Wine Tasting: $155
- Santorini Private Wine Tasting Tour in two or three Wineries : $161
- Santorini 3-Winery Tour with 12 Wine Tastings and Oia Sunset: $179
- Half-Day Virtual Reality Tour and Wine Tasting: $179
- Small Group Local Wine Tasting Tour In Santorini : $179
Typical Alcohol Prices in Paris
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Paris are as follows:
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Wine€14
Sample the Local Flavors in Paris
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paris:
- Paris International Pub Crawl with Free Shots & Fun Games: $18
- Original Paris Pub Crawl : $24
- Paris Gin Craft Distillery Tour and Tasting: $36
- Paris Nation wine tasting: $47
- Wine tasting Paris Saint Germain des Pres: $56
- Cheese and Wine Tasting in the Latin Quarter with Chef Alex: $59
- Paris New Year's Eve Pub Crawl with Shots and Nightclub Entry: $84
- The only Paris Wine Tasting experience you need to do - 2 hours : $94
- Paris Wine Tasting Session with Expert Sommelier: $106
- Paris Amateur Art of Pairing Cheese and Wine Tasting : $114
- Left Bank Gastronomy & Wine tour with a Culinary School : $114
- Walk & Wine Tour in the Latin Quarter: $118
When comparing the travel costs between Santorini and Paris, we can see that Paris is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.
If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Santorini Expensive? and Is Paris Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Santorini or Paris?
Paris has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Santorini. When comparing the sizes of Santorini and Paris, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.