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

Should you visit Paphos or Alicante?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Alicante, 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 overlooked, ancient, and beautiful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Alicante

Alicante is a colorful, authentic, and vibrant city. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Paphos and Alicante: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Alicante?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Alicante are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is more touristy than Alicante and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. Alicante is famous for its sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic restaurants.

How is Paphos different from Alicante?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is terrific for its museums and landmarks. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Paphos are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Alicante can be an interesting and educational experience. This port city has a number of cultural and historical sights that are worth checking out. Castillo de Santa Bárbara, Museo Arqueológico Provincial de Alicante, and Basilica de Santa María are among the most well known.

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

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

Paphos has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

Alicante has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. It's by the sea, so you'll find plenty of seafood. Rice is the main staple for many dishes in town. This is also a vegetable growing region, so many recipes incorporate fresh vegetables. Popular dishes include arroz a banda, arroz con costra, and olleta alicantina.

Is Paphos or Alicante Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Alicante has a better nightlife scene.

Paphos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Alicante has a few options to choose from. For the city's best nightlife, head to El Barrio Antiguo, which is the old district. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of bars and clubs, many of them having live music.

Is Paphos or Alicante Better for Resorts?

Paphos is terrific for its resorts. However, Alicante is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Paphos is a perfect 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.

Alicante is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Alicante Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Alicante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Paphos. 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.

Alicante is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Alicante Better for Beaches?

Paphos is terrific for the beache. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Paphos is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Alicante has a beach worth visiting. If you step away from the touristy areas, you'll find some nice sandy beaches with blue water. Playa la Fustera is northeast of the city and popular with families and couples. If you have a car you can drive to the town of Moraira, which is near several nice beaches as well.

Is Paphos or Alicante Better for its Old Town?

Paphos and Alicante both have nice historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Paphos to see the historical old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Alicante. The old district is filled with charming streets and some interesting museums. There are also a number of good restaurants in the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Alicante?

Paphos is well known for its shopping opportunities. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

Paphos is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Alicante has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The city is known for its leather goods, but you'll also find international brands and shopping streets with fashion and different European names.

Is Paphos or Alicante Better for Families?

Paphos and Alicante are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Paphos is 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Alicante is very family-friendly. This seaside city has many kid-friendly resorts, long sandy beaches, and adrenaline-filled theme parks. There's the Terra Mitica Park as well as a waterpark - Aqua Natura. Tabarca Island is also well worth a visit.

Is Paphos or Alicante Better for Couples?

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

For those traveling as a couple, Paphos has plenty to offer. 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.

Alicante is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Nice resorts, long sandy beaches, and nearby vineyard tours make this a wonderful place for a couple's getaway. There are good restaurants and nice places where couples can take a stroll, hand in hand.

Is Paphos or Alicante Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is well known for backpackers. Also, Alicante is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paphos is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Alicante. There are hostels around town, as well as many budget-friendly hotels, so this is an affordable oceanfront destination for the budget-minded.

Is Paphos or Alicante Better for Students?

Alicante is a nice place to visit for students. However, Paphos is not popular with students.

Alicante is popular with students. It's by the water and it's an affordable city, making it a good option for students. The beaches and active nightlife will keep you entertained when you take a break from your studies.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

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

Paphos has some very good public transit options. 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 Alicante offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a comprehensive bus system through the city and region.

Is Paphos or Alicante a more walkable city?

Paphos and Alicante both are nice 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.

Alicante is a somewhat walkable place. There are many parts of the city that can be explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Alicante or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Alicante?

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

Families should spend more time in Paphos than Alicante. 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 Alicante. 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 Alicante 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.

One day in Paphos or Alicante?

The beautiful town of Paphos offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Alicante. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paphos or Alicante?

Paphos is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Alicante 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 Alicante?

Paphos is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paphos, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alicante. 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 Alicante?

Paphos is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Alicante. This city 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 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paphos and Alicante, we can see that Alicante is more expensive. And not only is Paphos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Paphos would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Paphos 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 Alicante would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Alicante than you might in Paphos.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Alicante?

Alicante has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Alicante, 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 Alicante?

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 Alicante in the Summer?

Both Alicante and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Alicante because of the beaches and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is around the same temperature as Alicante. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Alicante averages at about 25°C (77°F).

It's quite sunny in Alicante. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Alicante during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Alicante receives 341 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Alicante. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Alicante in the Autumn?

Both Alicante and Paphos during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Paphos because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the shopping scene are the main draw to Alicante this time of year.

In October, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Alicante. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Alicante fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Alicante, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Alicante. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alicante receives 225 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Alicante. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Alicante in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Alicante. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Alicante for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Paphos is around the same temperature as Alicante in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Alicante fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Paphos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Alicante during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Alicante receives 178 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives more rain than Alicante. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Alicante in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Alicante. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Alicante in the spring for the beaches.

In the spring, Paphos is around the same temperature as Alicante. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Alicante averages at about 16°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alicante. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Alicante. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Alicante receives 243 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Alicante. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Alicante receives 34 mm (1.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Alicante and Paphos