A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paphos vs. Arachova for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Nightlife

Should you visit Paphos or Arachova?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Arachova, 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 ancient, beautiful, and cultural town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Arachova

Arachova is a beautiful, outdoorsy, and bustling town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Paphos and Arachova: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Arachova?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Arachova are both popular with visitors, Paphos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paphos is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Arachova is known for its skiing, nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and small town charm. Paphos is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also home to Paphos Archaeological Park. Arachova is popular for its surrounding mountain beauty, festive Christmas atmosphere, and nearby winter skiing.

How is Paphos different from Arachova?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Paphos or Arachova Better for Skiing?

Arachova is a nice place to visit for winter skiing. However, Paphos is not a skiing destination.

Arachova is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. The Parnassos Ski Resort is located just 24 kilometers from town and offers skiing that is beautiful and fun. There are spectacular views and the area has gained popularity in recent years. There are lessons for kids and many other fun winter activities nearby.

Paphos is not a skiing destination.

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

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its museums and landmarks. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paphos that are not to be missed. 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.

Arachova offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some interesting sights in the surrounding area, as well as the unique Ai Giorgis Church near town.

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

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its restaurant scene. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

Arachova has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is filled with old tavernas that serve up traditional local cuisine. You'll find a lot of the local cheese, formaela, as well as a local noodle dish called hilopites. Pork ribs and delicate desserts are also popular.

Is Paphos or Arachova Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Arachova know how to have a good time. There are many charming bars around town that stay open late into the night. During the popular winter months, you'll find the streets filled with people that come for the unique winter atmosphere.

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 Arachova Better for Resorts?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Arachova is not a resort destination.

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.

Arachova is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Arachova Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Paphos has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

Arachova is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Arachova Better for Beaches?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Arachova is not a beach destination.

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.

Arachova is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Arachova Better for its Old Town?

Arachova 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 Arachova to see the historical old town. The charming old town is at its best during the Christmas season when there are decorations around the town square and the streets are filled with people.

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 Arachova Better for Hiking?

Arachova 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 Arachova. For the best outdoor activities, head to nearby Mount Parnassos, where there's skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and beautiful hikes through the mountainous terrain during the summer months.

Paphos is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Arachova?

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

Paphos is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Arachova. The charming town has many unique shops that sell carpets, woven goods, and local food items.

Is Paphos or Arachova Better for Families?

Paphos and Arachova are both superb 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, Arachova is very family-friendly. The charming town has long served as a winter escape for those living in Athens. There's plenty for kids to do including and ice skating rink, a horse ranch, and even nearby skiing.

Is Paphos or Arachova Better for Couples?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Arachova is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Paphos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Arachova is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a romantic setting with nice accommodation, delicious local taverns, and plenty of unique activities that couples can enjoy.

Is Paphos or Arachova Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is well known for backpackers. However, Arachova is not particularly known 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.

Arachova is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers don't think to visit this area on their trip to Greece. There are some guesthouses, but not a lot of hostels, so you might find a limited number of social activities.

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

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

Public transit in Paphos is fairly effecient and thorough. 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 Arachova offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are some public buses in the area.

Is Paphos or Arachova a more walkable city?

Paphos and Arachova both are good 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.

Arachova is a somewhat walkable place. The town has many walkable streets that are fun to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Arachova or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Arachova?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paphos and Arachova. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paphos than in Arachova. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 2-3 days is enough time in Arachova.

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

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 food and shopping when visiting the destination of Arachova. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paphos or Arachova?

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.

Arachova 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 Arachova?

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 Arachova. 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 Arachova?

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 skiing and nightlife when visiting the beautiful destination of Arachova. This town 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Greece, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in Greece.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Arachova?

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

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 Arachova in the Summer?

Both Arachova and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The summer months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Arachova this time of year.

Paphos is around the same temperature as Arachova in the summer. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Arachova fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

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

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

Should I visit Paphos or Arachova in the Autumn?

Both Arachova and Paphos during the autumn are popular places to visit. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Arachova for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere.

In the autumn, Paphos is around the same temperature as Arachova. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paphos in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Arachova averages at about 19°C (67°F).

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

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

Should I visit Paphos or Arachova in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Arachova. Many travelers come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Arachova in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Arachova. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 12°C (53°F), and Arachova fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

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

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

Should I visit Paphos or Arachova in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Arachova. Many visitors come to Paphos in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Additionally, most visitors come to Arachova for the small town charm during these months.

Paphos is around the same temperature as Arachova in the spring. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Arachova fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

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

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

Typical Weather for Arachova and Paphos