A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paphos vs. Almeria for Food, Resorts, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Paphos or Almeria?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Almeria, 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 cultural, coastal, and overlooked town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Almeria

Almeria is a breathtaking, pristine, and cultural region. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for beaches, hiking, and nightlife.

Paphos and Almeria: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Almeria?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Almeria, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is better known for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Almeria is more popular for its historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Paphos is well known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Almeria is well known for its stunning beaches that feel pristine despite their popularity.

How is Paphos different from Almeria?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Almeria does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at world-class restaurants in both Paphos and Almeria.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paphos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

Many restaurants in Almeria have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The food is focused on local, fresh ingredients with many traditional recipes that have been passed down for centuries. Popular dishes change with the seasons because they rely so heavily on local produce. Particularly during the winter months you'll find hearty stews like patatas en ajopollo and gurullos con conejo, which is prepared with rabbit. Sardines are also popular year round.

Is Paphos or Almeria Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Almeria 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 Almeria has a few options to choose from. The city's nightlife vibe is about enjoying a cold beer on a terrace with friends. The city has a laid back Mediterranean atmosphere and plenty of terraced bars along the main streets, particularly in old town. With mild temperatures year around, you'll find yourself spending time outside most evenings while you enjoy tapas and drinks with friends. Flamenco and bullfighting are also popular in the evenings.

Is Paphos or Almeria Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, world-class resorts can be found in both Paphos and Almeria.

Paphos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Almeria is a world class resort vacation destination. Stretched along the coastline you'll find many high end resorts with pools and nice atmospheres. There are all inclusive resorts as well as family-friendly and romantic options to choose from.

Is Paphos or Almeria Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Almeria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Almeria is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Almeria Better for Beaches?

Both Paphos and Almeria have world-class beaches worth visiting.

The beaches in Paphos are among the best in the world. 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.

Almeria is considered to be a world-class beach destination. Outside of town you'll find kilometers of stunning coastline and beaches. There are pristine natural beaches that still feel undiscovered with beautiful long stretches of sand. One of the biggest resort areas is Roquetas de Mar.

Is Paphos or Almeria Better for its Old Town?

Almeria is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

Many visitors go to Almeria to see the historical old town. The old town is at the cultural heart of the city. It has the most energy during the evenings, as well as many museums and sights worth visiting.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Paphos. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Is Paphos or Almeria Better for Hiking?

Almeria is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Paphos is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Almeria. The area has stunning hikes that run along the coastline or into the beautiful interior countryside. For some of the area's best hikes head into Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park.

Paphos is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Almeria?

Paphos is a great destination for its shopping areas. However, Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Almeria is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Paphos or Almeria Better for Families?

Paphos and Almeria are both great 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, Almeria is very family-friendly. The area has many beautiful beaches as well as waterparks, amusement parks, and fun activities like sailing and water sports. There's also a very impressive fort that the kids will enjoy exploring.

Is Paphos or Almeria Better for Couples?

Paphos is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Almeria is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Paphos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Almeria is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Nature lovers and beach enthusiasts will find this to be the perfect romantic getaway. There are many outdoor activities and places to immerse yourself in nature. A highlight of a trip is a visit to Crystal Cave.

Is Paphos or Almeria Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos and Almeria are great places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Paphos. 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.

Many backpackers visit Almeria. There's plenty of affordable accommodation to choose from as well as all kinds of activities that backpackers will enjoy. If you like nature and enjoy spending time outside, then this is your place.

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

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

Many visitors use the public transit system in Paphos. 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 Almeria offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are a number of bus lines that run through Almeria city and to Cabo de Gata.

Is Paphos or Almeria a more walkable city?

Paphos is a good destination for its ease of walking around. However, Almeria is a region with minimal options for its walkability.

Paphos is a somewhat walkable town. 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.

Almeria is generally not a very walkable town. While there are many beautiful walks in the area, if you want to truly explore, you'll likely want to have access to a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Almeria or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Almeria?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paphos and Almeria. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paphos than in Almeria. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 1-3 days is enough time in Almeria.

Families should spend more time in Paphos than Almeria. 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 Almeria. 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 Almeria 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 Almeria?

In Paphos, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Almeria. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Almeria?

In Paphos, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Almeria 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 Almeria?

Paphos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paphos has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Almeria. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Almeria?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Paphos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the natural destination of Almeria. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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 10-Day Tours from Madrid, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Barcelona.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Almeria?

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

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 Almeria in the Summer?

Both Almeria and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Almeria in the summer for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Almeria. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Almeria fluctuates around 26°C (78°F).

It's quite sunny in Almeria. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Almeria during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Almeria receives 343 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Almeria. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Almeria in the Autumn?

Both Almeria and Paphos during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Paphos in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Almeria for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Paphos is around the same temperature as Almeria in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Almeria fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

In Almeria, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Almeria. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Almeria receives 220 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Almeria. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Almeria in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Almeria. Most visitors come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Almeria because of the cuisine.

In the winter, Paphos is around the same temperature as Almeria. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Almeria averages at about 13°C (55°F).

Paphos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Almeria during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Almeria receives 186 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives more rain than Almeria. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Almeria in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Almeria. The spring months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Almeria this time of year.

In April, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Almeria. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Almeria fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Almeria. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Almeria. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Almeria receives 235 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Almeria. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Almeria receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Almeria and Paphos