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

Should you visit Paphos or Cannes?

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

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

Cannes

Cannes is a glitzy, opulent , and luxury resort city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Paphos and Cannes: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Cannes?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cannes than Paphos, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cannes is better known for its nightlife, music, historical sights, and shopping, while Paphos is more popular for its museums and beaches. Cannes is more touristy than Paphos and is known for its popularity with celebrities and its role as host for the international film festival. Also, Cannes is famous for Boulevard de la Croisette. Paphos is well known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches.

How is Paphos different from Cannes?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its sights and museums. However, Cannes 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.

Cannes does not have museums and landmarks.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at terrific restaurants in both Paphos and Cannes.

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 Cannes have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The city is known for its fresh seafood and produce, local markets, and innovative chefs. There are also a number of traditional dishes that you should try in town including bouillabaisse, daube, and farcis niçois.

Is Paphos or Cannes Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Cannes know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is all about the glamour and prestige that this city is known for. There are exclusive nightclubs and luxury cocktail bars where the goal is to see and be seen. Parties last late into the night and the glitz and glamour fill the streets.

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 Cannes Better for Music?

Cannes is renowned for live music. However, Paphos is not a live music destination.

Cannes is a world class music destination. The city is famous for its music festivals, but there are also many bands, DJs, and performers who visit year round.

Paphos is not a live music destination.

Is Paphos or Cannes Better for Resorts?

With a similar set of options, terrific resorts can be found in both Paphos and Cannes.

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.

Cannes is a world class resort vacation destination. The city is filled with luxury resorts and elegant hotels. Among the best are Hôtel Martinez, Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic, and Five Seas Hotel.

Is Paphos or Cannes Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find notable snorkeling or scuba diving in both Paphos and Cannes.

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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Cannes. You can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling trips from a few vendors in town. You might see sponges, sea slugs octopus, cuttlefish, lobsters and even stingrays.

Is Paphos or Cannes Better for Beaches?

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for the beach. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit for its beaches.

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 Cannes. You can choose from both public and private beaches in the area. You'll find more amenities and convenience at the private beaches which are closer to La Croisette (the main promenade in town). These beaches also come with a price tag attached. The public beaches have a more relaxed and natural vibe but are a little less convenient to get to.

Is Paphos or Cannes Better for its Old Town?

Cannes 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 Cannes to see the historical old town. Known as Le Suquet, the old town has many historic landmarks including the the Château de la Castre. There are also cobblestone streets and many great restaurants around town.

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 Cannes?

Cannes is renowned for shopping. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Cannes is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. With its many affluent visitors, the shopping scene in town is filled with luxury brands and posh boutiques. Perfume and porcelain are both popular things to buy in the area.

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.

Is Paphos or Cannes Better for Families?

Paphos is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit 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.

Cannes is a family-friendly town. Most people associate the city with the film festival and late night partying, but there are also kid-friendly restaurants, fun beach activities, and plenty of kid-friendly entertainment along La Croisette Boulevard. Make sure you check out the Grand Carousel and the many playgrounds around town.

Is Paphos or Cannes Better for Couples?

Paphos and Cannes are both terrific to visit as a couple.

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.

Cannes is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's grand hotels and luxury beach clubs make this a perfect romantic destination. There are world class restaurants, a vibrant nightlife scene, and many romantic spots around town that make for a memorable honeymoon or couple's getaway.

Is Paphos or Cannes Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Cannes is not a good resort city 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.

Cannes is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's more famous for it's celebrity jetsetters than young budget travelers, but there are still several hostels and budget accommodation options tucked away in town.

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

Paphos is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Cannes is not as famous, but is still a good resort city to visit 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.

Cannes has some public transit options. There are buses that travel around the city.

Is Paphos or Cannes a more walkable city?

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

Cannes is very walkable. Many areas are easily explored on foot including the historic areas and the coastline.

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 Cannes Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cannes or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Cannes?

It's fun to spend time in either Paphos or Cannes. 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 Cannes.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paphos than Cannes 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 Cannes?

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 food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Cannes. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paphos or Cannes?

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.

Cannes 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 Cannes?

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 Cannes. 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 Cannes?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the overlooked 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 nightlife and live music when visiting the lavish destination of Cannes. This resort 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 Bicycle Tours in France, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Cannes?

Cannes has a larger population, and is about 95% larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Cannes, 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 Cannes?

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 Cannes in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Cannes. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Cannes because of the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Cannes. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Cannes in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Cannes. The autumn months attract visitors to Paphos because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cannes this time of year.

Paphos is a little warmer than Cannes in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Cannes fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

It's quite rainy in Cannes. Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Cannes. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 108 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Cannes in the Winter?

Both Cannes and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cannes for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In the winter, Paphos is a little warmer than Cannes. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Cannes averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In January, Paphos usually receives less rain than Cannes. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Cannes in the Spring?

Both Cannes and Paphos during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cannes in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Cannes. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Cannes fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Cannes. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Cannes receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cannes and Paphos