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

Should you visit Paphos or Cagliari?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Cagliari, 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. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cagliari

Cagliari is a historic, under-rated, and laid back city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Paphos and Cagliari: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Cagliari?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Cagliari. Although Paphos and Cagliari are popular destinations, Cagliari has more sights and attractions for tourists. Cagliari is very popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Paphos attracts visitors for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Paphos is more touristy than Cagliari and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Cagliari is famous for its medieval quarter, beautiful hilltop setting, and impressive beaches. It is also well known for Castello.

How is Paphos different from Cagliari?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its museums and history. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Paphos are world-renowned. 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 Cagliari can be an interesting and educational experience. The Castello district is filled with ancient buildings including Bastione San Remy and the Duomo. Also make sure you check out the Archeology Museum.

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

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its restaurants. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

Dining out in Cagliari is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine mixes the island's sea and mountain settings. You'll find many local pastas, breads, seafood dishes, and cheeses. There's a wealth of diversity in the food and you should definitely step away from the more traditional Italian flavors and try something uniquely Sardinian.

Is Paphos or Cagliari Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Cagliari know how to have a good time. There's a thriving nightlife scene that is mostly centered around tourists. You'll find a number of the best bars in the Castello district and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and laid back, like the town itself.

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 Cagliari Better for Resorts?

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Cagliari Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is very good for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cagliari 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.

Cagliari is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Cagliari Better for Beaches?

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for the beache. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Cagliari. While you'll find some nice beaches in town, if you're willing to head to the surrounding areas just outside of town, you'll be rewarded with amazing beaches. The beaches are enjoyable any time of the year.

Is Paphos or Cagliari Better for its Old Town?

Cagliari 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 Cagliari to see the historical old town. The Castello district is the city's old town. It's filled with narrow alleys, historic castles, and a truly unique atmosphere.

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 the Shopping Better in Paphos or Cagliari?

Paphos is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Paphos is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Cagliari to go shopping. Head to the Marina district for some of the city's best shopping opportunities. There are a number of shopping malls to choose from. For souvenirs and other handicrafts, the port area has a few shops.

Is Paphos or Cagliari Better for Families?

Paphos and Cagliari 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, Cagliari is very family-friendly. There are a number of activities for kids to enjoy in the areas surrounding the city. If you're willing to get about an hour out of town, you can check out the Water Park of Pula. In town, there's a little train that young kids will enjoy. And, of course, there are the beaches!

Is Paphos or Cagliari Better for Couples?

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Couples visit Cagliari frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The waterfront setting and nice beaches make this a great place for couples. There's also the Castello district, which is fun to wander through, and many parks and outdoor walking areas.

Is Paphos or Cagliari Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cagliari. There's a hostel or two in the area that offer accommodation that backpackers will appreciate.

Is Paphos or Cagliari Better for Students?

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

Cagliari is popular with students. There are some study abroad opportunities in town, and with the nearby beaches and wonderful weather, many international students enjoy their time here.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cagliari is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Paphos can get you around easily. 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.

You'll find some public transit in Cagliari, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses that travel around town relatively efficiently.

Is Paphos or Cagliari a more walkable city?

Cagliari is a great destination for its walkability. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Cagliari is very walkable. While the city is very walkable, it is built on a large hill so come prepared for some steep climbs.

Paphos is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Cagliari or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Cagliari?

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

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

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 Cagliari. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Cagliari?

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.

Cagliari 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 Cagliari?

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 Cagliari. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Cagliari?

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 relaxed destination of Cagliari. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy, and The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paphos and Cagliari, we can see that Cagliari 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 Cagliari would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cagliari 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 Cagliari Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Cagliari?

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Paphos or Cagliari in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Cagliari. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Cagliari because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is around the same temperature as Cagliari. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Cagliari averages at about 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cagliari. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Cagliari. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 337 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Cagliari. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 4 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Cagliari in the Autumn?

Both Cagliari and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Paphos because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Cagliari this time of year.

In October, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Cagliari. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Cagliari fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Cagliari during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 192 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Cagliari. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Cagliari in the Winter?

Both Cagliari and Paphos during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Cagliari for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Paphos is a little warmer than Cagliari in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Cagliari fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Cagliari. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cagliari receives 131 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets more rain in January than Cagliari. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Cagliari in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Cagliari. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cagliari in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Paphos is a little warmer than Cagliari. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Cagliari averages at about 14°C (57°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cagliari this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Cagliari during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Cagliari receives 202 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Cagliari. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Cagliari receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cagliari and Paphos