A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paphos vs. Aegina for Attractions, Food, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Paphos or Aegina?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Aegina, 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.

Paphos

Paphos is a coastal, overlooked, and ancient town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Aegina

Aegina is a fun, active, and relaxing island. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Paphos and Aegina: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less attractive beach
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Paphos or Aegina?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Aegina, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is better known for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Aegina is more popular for its nightlife and small town charm. Paphos is well known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Aegina is well known for its local pistachio nuts, its nice seaside setting, and its easy access from Athens.

How is Paphos different from Aegina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paphos or Aegina?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its museums and landmarks. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Paphos on the map. The area is well known for its impressive archeological ruins, many of which are found at Paphos Archaeological Site. Other impressive sights include the Tombs of the Kings, the Chrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul's Pillar, Agia Paraskevi, and Paphos Fort.

Many visitors head to Aegina specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. There are several temples on the island such as the Temple of Athena Aphaia and the Temple of Apollo. There's also and Archeological Museum that is nice to visit.


Is the Food Better in Paphos or Aegina? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its restaurant scene. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Paphos is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. Food is a huge part of the culture and family life in the area. The cuisine is influenced by the surrounding areas and you'll see similarities to Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Popular dishes include koupepia (vine leaves stuffed with a filling called gemista), souvlaki (a meat and salad filled pita), and makaronia tou fournou (a pasta dish made with halloumi and béchamel sauce).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Aegina. There's a vibrant restaurant scene that includes traditional eateries serving seafood and refreshing ice cream shops where you can cool off with a scoop of your favorite flavor.

Is Paphos or Aegina Better for Nightlife?

Paphos
Aegina

Aegina is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in Aegina know how to have a good time. There's a great nightlife scene on the island. Most of the dance clubs are found in Agia Marina and you'll find more relaxing lounges around Aegina Town and other villages on the island.

If you're looking for night time activities Paphos has a few options to choose from. Most people think of history, culture, beaches, and wine, but the city also has its share of clubs and bars. It's not the party-hard beach destination that you'll find at some Mediterranean tourist areas, but there are still plenty of bars and clubs with atmosphere and style. Head to Agiou Antoniou Street for the most action.

Is Paphos or Aegina Better for Resorts?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its resorts. However, Aegina is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Paphos is a great choice. The area is filled with all types of resorts. There are many all-inclusive resorts that cater to families, honeymooners, or luxury vacationers. If you want to experience more of the local culture, there are also smaller boutique hotels or local apartments available.

Aegina is not a resort destination.


Is Paphos or Aegina Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Aegina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Paphos has a few good snorkeling spots. There are many snorkeling and dive spots that aren't far away. You'll also find a number of scuba or snorkeling excursions that you can join. The water conditions for snorkeling and diving are best during the summer months.

Aegina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Aegina Better for Beaches?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for the beach. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Paphos. Many people head to the area specifically for the beaches. This region has the longest coastline of any region in Cyprus, but keep in mind that some of the best beaches are found outside of the main tourist areas. However, they most are usually accessible by city bus with many remote stretches found along the Akamas Peninsula. Within town the beaches are often rocky and pebbly.

Many people head to Aegina to enjoy the beach. While most of the beaches are small and crowded, they do offer a number of tourist facilities such as nearby bars and restaurants, as well as hotels. The most popular beaches on the island are Souvala and Agia Marina.

Is Paphos or Aegina Better for its Old Town?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Aegina does not have a historic old town.

Paphos offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Aegina does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Aegina?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos is a great destination for its shopping areas. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in Paphos. There are outdoor markets, major shopping streets, and international fashion brands. You can pick up local souvenirs or beach gear that you may have forgotten.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Aegina. You'll find the standard souvenir shops around town where you can buy trinkets or other items you may have forgotten.

Is Paphos or Aegina Better for Families?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Paphos is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities that kids will enjoy. Head to the beach or take a walk along the coastline. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the zoo, bird park, or aquarium and young thrill seekers will enjoy a day at the Aqua-park of Aphrodite. And, of course, there's also the ruins that kids can have fun exploring.

Aegina offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the ferry ride from Athens as well as the pirate stories they'll hear throughout their trip. There are places that the whole family can swim and great restaurants with kid-friendly food.

Is Paphos or Aegina Better for Couples?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for couples. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Paphos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Honeymooners who enjoy history, nature, beaches, and culture will find it all in the area. There are stunning beaches where you can relax in the sun, world renowned archeological ruins where you can immerse yourself in a historical world, and beautiful views around every corner. There are also excellent restaurants and wine tasting opportunities that will make for a memorable trip.

Aegina is a nice destination for couples. Couples will appreciate the beauty and great restaurants that this beautiful island offers. It's a charming day trip from Athens that is filled with impressive historical sights and a nice atmosphere.


Is Paphos or Aegina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos is a great destination for backpackers. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paphos is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. The area is generally accessible with a few good hostels and budget accommodation options sprinkled about. There are great beaches and restaurants as well as plenty of beautiful places to enjoy a walk.

Aegina is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Like most visitors, backpackers can hop on a ferry in Athens and visit the island as a day trip. It makes a nice excursion with many affordable restaurants and fun activities.

Is Paphos or Aegina Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Aegina is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Paphos offers a very effecient public transportation network. It's possible to get around by city bus to most places. Buses connect many touristy areas such as Kato Paphos, Tombs of the Kings, Chloraka, Kissonerga, Coral Bay and Paphos Center.

While Aegina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. You'll find the central bus station in Aegina Town and there you can catch buses that travel around the island.

Is Paphos or Aegina a more walkable city?

Paphos
Aegina

Paphos and Aegina both are notable when exploring on foot.

Paphos is somewhat walkable. The main tourist area is Kato Paphos which is small, compact and easy to walk around, but if you want to head to areas further away then you likely won't be able to travel on foot. It's important to understand where your hotel is located if you're planning to explore on foot.

Aegina is a somewhat walkable place. The town is walkable, but to explore elsewhere on the island, it's easiest to have your own vehicle.


For even more information, also check out Is Paphos Worth Visiting? and Is Aegina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Aegina or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Aegina?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paphos or Aegina to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paphos than Aegina because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Aegina.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paphos than Aegina 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 Paphos.


  • How many days in Paphos or Aegina? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paphos 3-5 
    Aegina 1-2

One day in Paphos or Aegina?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Paphos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Aegina. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Aegina?

Paphos 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.

Aegina is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Paphos or Aegina?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Aegina. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Paphos or Aegina?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal destination of Paphos. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the relaxing destination of Aegina. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece, and The Best Luxury Tours to Greece.


Which place is cheaper, Aegina or Paphos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Paphos is €97, while the average daily cost in Aegina is €92. 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 Paphos and Aegina in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paphos 48
    Aegina 43
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paphos 96
    Aegina 86
Compare Hotels in Paphos and Aegina

Looking for a hotel in Paphos or Aegina? 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 Paphos


Hotels in Aegina


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: Paphos Hotel Prices and Aegina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Aegina 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paphos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Paphos:

  • Blue Lagoon trip with slide, music & transfer from Paphos: $32
  • From Nicosia Sightseeing Tour with Hotel Transfer: $30
  • Paphos Airport (PFO) to Paphos city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $61
  • Paphos to Paphos Int Airport (PFO) - Departure Private Transfer: $31
  • Choirokitia & Famagusta Guided Tour with Transfers: $43
  • Private Airport Transfer from Hotel to Paphos Airport in a 4-seater taxi: $42
  • Private Transfer Paphos Airport PFO to Paphos City by Luxury Car: $138
  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport (PFO) to Limassol Port: $25
  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport to Larnaca in Minivan(Taxi): $191

Is it cheaper to fly into Paphos or Aegina?

Prices for flights to both Aegina and Paphos 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
    Paphos 38
    Aegina 34

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paphos

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

  • From Sunset Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner: $52
  • Sunset Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner: $54
  • Wave Dancer Fireworks, Buffet Dinner & Show Cruise: $66

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Aegina 13

Tours and Activities in Paphos

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

  • Cruise to Blue Lagoon from Latchi Port: $20
  • Paphos/Akamas: Blue Lagoon Bus & Boat Tour with water slide: $21
  • Blue Lagoon Cruise with sightseeing departing from LATCHI HARBOUR. Postcode 8840: $22
  • Nafsika II Half Day Cruise Swimming to blue lagoon water slide : $24
  • From Limassol Experience: $25
  • Latchi to Blue Lagoon Glass Bottom+slide Boat Tour: $25
  • Full day trip to Blue Lagoon Latchi Akamas with Boat cruise: $27
  • Chrysoroyiatissa ,Kykkos ,Omodos Day Tour from Paphos: $27
  • From Guided tour of Limassol with Rock of Aphrodite: $29
  • Paphos/Akamas: Blue Lagoon Bus & Boat Tour with Water Slide: $30
  • Blue Lagoon (Akamas) Cruise: $31
  • From Authentic Cyprus Guided Tour with Breakfast: $32

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paphos 9.98
    Aegina 8.57

Sample the Local Flavors in Paphos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paphos:

  • Wine tasting and winery tour at Fikardos Winery: $28
  • Troodos Mountains Jeep Tour with Wine Tasting: $64
  • Regional Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings: $80
  • WINE TOUR from Paphos: $104


When comparing the travel costs between Paphos and Aegina, we can see that Paphos 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 Paphos Expensive? and Is Aegina Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Paphos or Aegina?

Paphos has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Aegina. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Aegina, 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.


When is the best time to visit Paphos or Aegina?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Paphos or Aegina in the Summer?

Both Aegina and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Paphos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Aegina for the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Aegina. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Aegina fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

It's quite sunny in Aegina. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Aegina during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Aegina receives 357 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Aegina. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Aegina receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Paphos 27°C (80°F) 
    Aegina 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Aegina in the Autumn?

Both Aegina and Paphos during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Paphos for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Aegina because of the shopping scene and the small town atmosphere.

Paphos is around the same temperature as Aegina in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Aegina fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

In Aegina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Aegina. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aegina receives 206 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Aegina. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Aegina receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Paphos 21°C (70°F) 
    Aegina 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Aegina in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Aegina. The winter months attract visitors to Paphos because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Aegina this time of year.

In the winter, Paphos is a little warmer than Aegina. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Aegina averages at about 10°C (51°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Aegina during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Aegina receives 143 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives more rain than Aegina. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Aegina receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Paphos 12°C (53°F) 
    Aegina 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Aegina in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Aegina. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Aegina for the beaches and the small town charm.

In April, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Aegina. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Aegina fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Aegina. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Aegina. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Aegina receives 226 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Aegina. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Aegina receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Paphos 17°C (62°F) 
    Aegina 16°C (60°F)

Typical Weather for Aegina and Paphos

Paphos Aegina
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (51°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 13°C (56°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 25 mm (1 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 20°C (68°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Jun 24°C (75°F) 1 mm (0 in) 24°C (76°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 27°C (81°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 27°C (81°F) 8 mm (0.3 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 1 mm (0 in) 24°C (76°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 19°C (67°F) 48 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 16°C (60°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 76 mm (3 in) 12°C (54°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)


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