Santorini vs Mykonos: Which is better?

Santorini is known for its cliff-hugging caldera views and higgledy-piggledy sugar cube houses, while Mykonos is all white-washed cobblestone streets and hedonistic party spots. Together they make up two of Greece’s best-loved holiday destinations. But which one should you choose?

Whether you’re setting off on honeymoon, taking the kids or living it up with friends, here’s the low-down on which of these picturesque islands is best for your next trip.

Santorini

With its volcanic rock formations and black sand beaches, there’s something otherworldly about Santorini. Here you can gaze out at spellbinding views from the searing clifftops, climb winding staircases leading you past those iconic white-walled, blue-roofed houses and see the sky painted in a series of technicolour hues at sunset.

While you’re in the postcard-pretty town of Oia, keep your eyes peeled for bridal photoshoots – this is Greece’s most popular wedding and honeymoon spot. Formed by a volcanic eruption more than 3,500 years ago, it’s the largest island making up the famous Santorini caldera – and a windswept boat tour of the underwater volcano and bubbling hot springs is a must-do for any visitor. Step back in time and explore the island’s fascinating archaeological sites like the Akrotiri settlement – Bronze Age Minoan ruins covered in volcanic ash.

Mykonos

Mykonos’ classic golden sand beaches and historic old town, with its twisting cobblestoned streets, help make it an Instagram-worthy hotspot. Known for its party atmosphere, especially in the peak summer months, expect to find glamorous dance clubs on the beaches, world-famous DJs on the decks and magnums of Champagne popping at all hours.

For a more laid-back vibe you can head up to the famous Mykonos windmills – built by Venetians in the 16th century – discover the colourful streets of Little Venice or head to the Kastro neighbourhood for a moment of tranquillity at the beautiful Panagia Paraportiani church. Factor in a day trip to Delos, where you can explore ancient ruins and learn about one of Greece’s most important mythological, historical and archaeological sites.

Santorini vs Mykonos: What’s the difference?

Both islands are hugely popular, but they do tend to cater to different crowds. Mykonos draws the jet-set elite, who flock to the island for its heady mix of nightlife, pristine beaches and high-end boutiques. Santorini, on the other hand, has the most amazing views, with one-of-a-kind black sand beaches that are on many photographer’s bucket lists. Both are massive tourist destinations but, on the whole, Mykonos tends to feel a little less crowded than Santorini (though both are reliably rammed during the peak months of July and August).

For many, there’s more to do in Santorini, whether you’re visiting ancient ruins at Akrotiri or feasting at top restaurants in Ammoudi Bay. However, Mykonos is generally easier to get around, as the clifftop setting that makes Santorini so visually stunning also makes public transport and roads a little trickier to navigate. Depending on your travel plans, it’s also worth noting that Mykonos can be reached in two and a half hours from Athens (if you take the fastest ferry), while Santorini takes at least five hours.

Which should you visit first?

With just 60 miles and regular ferries between them, it’s easy to visit both Mykonos and Santorini in a single trip. But which to visit first? We recommend starting with Mykonos, especially if you plan on making the most of the nightlife there. Dance on the tables at the glossy beach clubs and get lost in Little Venice’s winding streets before heading over to Santorini for some much-needed R&R. There you can go for strolls along the caldera, stopping off at tavernas for shots of ouzo and creamy saganaki along the way.

Which is best for a honeymoon?

Santorini’s rugged caldera landscape, luxurious hotels and knockout sunsets have made it one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world. We recommend staying in the Oia/Imerovigli area to make the most of those views.

A honeymoon is the perfect excuse to splurge on one of Santorini’s famous cave hotels. These secluded rooms with swim-up pools and private terraces offering staggering views over the island are hard to beat. Swim out to the edge and watch the sky light up in kaleidoscopic shades of pink, red and gold as the sun descends into the Aegean Sea.

Which is best for families?

Don’t let Mykonos’ party reputation put you off – it’s also a great place for families. One of the island’s most popular family-friendly beaches is Ornos, where both the vibe and the waters remain warm and calm thanks to its sheltered bay setting. Rent some sunbeds and umbrellas from the neighbouring bars or head to one of the smaller public spaces and spread out your towel. Get up close with the marine life by snorkelling in the clear waters. Then, head to nearby tavernas like Apaggio Restaurant for grilled halloumi and fluffy loukoumades doughnuts.

If you’re looking for a more activity-filled holiday, Santorini may be a better bet. Curious kids will love exploring the black sand beaches and learning about the pre-historic ruins. While the beaches aren’t ideal for sunbathing, the crystal-clear waters and volcanic rock formations make it a great spot for swimming and snorkelling. Adventurous teens can explore the mysterious underwater caverns at Red Beach or dive into the secrets of the shipwreck of Nea Kameni.

Bear in mind that neither Santorini nor Mykonos are particularly stroller-friendly. Mykonos’ cobbled streets and Santorini’s steep steps will make travelling with a pram tricky. Stick to a baby carrier if you can, or wait until the kids are old enough to run around the islands on their own.

Which is best for couples?

Santorini is generally considered the more romantic of the two islands, with its sweeping views and secluded, edge-of-the-world feel. Cosy up with your partner on a boat tour around the caldera or share glasses of Assyrtiko wines at one of the island’s historic wineries.

Mykonos has plenty to offer couples too, especially if you’re looking for some vibrant nightlife to shake things up. Relax al fresco at one of the waterfront cafes in Little Venice or head out on a boat trip to the secluded beaches of Rineia Island, one of Mykonos’ hidden gems.

Which has better nightlife?

The answer to that is easy. Mykonos not only has better nightlife than Santorini, it has one of the best party scenes in the world. Plenty of visitors come to Mykonos just for the nightlife, with the good vibes spilling out of the bars and onto the beaches. Scorpios is one of the island’s best-loved party spots, with immersive live DJ sets at sunset and a barefoot, Burning Man vibe.

While some Mykonos beaches are relaxed during the day and only take off in the evening, Paradise Beach is the place to come for all-day partying. Enjoy juicy gyros, bottles of Champagne and cocktails from the Tropicana Beach Bar as you dance till sunrise to sets from some of the world’s top DJs. A little further inland, at the white-walled Scandinavian Bar, you can party all night at the upstairs disco or chill out and soak up the sea air on the laid-back patio outside.

Santorini vs Mykonos in the autumn (September, October, November)

Autumn is a great time to visit both islands. Once August wraps up the crowds start to thin out, making for a more relaxed holiday. In October the weather will usually still be warm enough to enjoy beach and water activities, with average sea temperatures around 21°C. We recommend skipping Mykonos after mid-October though, as this is when the winds start to pick up and some of its nightlife closes for the winter. In Santorini, the cooler weather is for moody hikes or days out exploring the ancient ruins (Akrotiri is sheltered, making it a go-to on rainy days).

Santorini vs Mykonos in the summer (June, July, August)

Summer is the busiest time for both islands, meaning larger crowds and higher prices. June is the ideal time to come if you want to avoid the hordes of tourists, as the numbers jump up significantly in July. If your summer holidays are all about relaxing on beach loungers and partying till dawn, Mykonos is the easy choice. For something a little more cultured and refined, go for Santorini.

Santorini vs Mykonos in the spring (March, April, May)

Spring is one of the best seasons for visiting the islands, especially in May, when the weather (and the water) is warm but the crowds haven’t arrived yet. Mykonos’ nightlife scene starts to pick up in May but bear in mind that some of the big beach parties don’t run until June. Spring is the time to go hiking on Santorini, with the spring blooms bringing the caldera landscape to life.

If you still can't decide... Santorini and Mykonos

Which is better?

The choice between Santorini vs Mykonos all comes down to what sort of trip you’re after. For breathtaking views, total relaxation and off-the-scale romance, Santorini comes out on top. Mykonos is the place to book if glamorous beaches, boutique shops and partying the night away is more your vibe.

Are there direct flights from Santorini to Mykonos?

There are no direct flights between Santorini and Mykonos. Instead, you can fly between the islands via Athens International Airport. It usually takes around three to four hours.

Is there a ferry?

Yes. The fastest ferry between Mykonos and Santorini takes around two-to-three hours. There are usually multiple fast and slow ferries per day running from March to late October.

How many nights in Mykonos and Santorini?

We recommend around seven nights for both islands, but longer in each destination is tempting if your priorities are relaxing and lounging by the pool – there's no such thing as too much Greek Island time.

This feature was created on 29th November 2024. The information within this feature is correct to the best of our knowledge at the time of print.