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

Should you visit Paphos or Cape Sounion?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Cape Sounion, 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 coastal, overlooked, and ancient town. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Cape Sounion

Cape Sounion is a spectacular, iconic, and impressive destination. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food, beaches, and museums.

Paphos and Cape Sounion: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Cape Sounion?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Cape Sounion, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is more touristy than Cape Sounion and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Cape Sounion is well known for its link to Greek mythology and its stunningly beautiful sunsets.

How is Paphos different from Cape Sounion?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Paphos and Cape Sounion have fantastic landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

The museums and tourist attractions in Cape Sounion are world-renowned. The Temple of Poseidon is the main attraction here, but also nearby you'll find the Temple of Athena. The views, history, and connection to mythology fascinates most visitors who consider this to be a spectacular sight.

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

Paphos is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

For foodies, Paphos is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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).

Cape Sounion offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are cafes as well as fine dining restaurants which are mostly located in hotels. Seafood is the cuisine of choice with many delicious Greek dishes available.

Is Paphos or Cape Sounion Better for Nightlife?

Paphos is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Cape Sounion is lacking in options for nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Paphos. 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.

Cape Sounion is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some bars and lounges that are connected to hotels. If you're spending the night, these are nice places to enjoy a drink in a beautiful setting.

Is Paphos or Cape Sounion Better for Resorts?

Paphos is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Paphos is a great 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.

Cape Sounion is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Cape Sounion Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Cape Sounion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Paphos has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Cape Sounion is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Cape Sounion Better for Beaches?

Paphos is very popular for the beach. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its beaches.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Paphos. 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.

Many people head to Cape Sounion to enjoy the beach. If you allow enough time, there are a couple of beaches where you can swim while enjoying views of the temple.

Is Paphos or Cape Sounion Better for its Old Town?

Paphos is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Paphos has an old town worth visiting. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Cape Sounion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Cape Sounion?

Paphos is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas 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.

Cape Sounion is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Paphos or Cape Sounion Better for Families?

Paphos is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Paphos. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cape Sounion. Kids who like mythology will appreciated a trip to the famed Temple of Poseidon. It dates back to the 5th century and is dedicated to the God of the Sea. Also nearby is the Temple of Athena.

Is Paphos or Cape Sounion Better for Couples?

Paphos is very popular for couples. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Paphos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Cape Sounion is a nice destination for couples. Couples should definitely stay for the stunning sunset which provides dramatic oranges, pinks, and reds at the sun dips below the horizon.

Is Paphos or Cape Sounion Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Cape Sounion is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. The Temple of Poseidon is an iconic site about an hour and a half outside of Athens. It appeals to all types of travelers, including backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Paphos is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, Cape Sounion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

The public transit in Paphos can get you to most places 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 Cape Sounion, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel from Athens to Cape Sounion and take between 2 and 3 hours.

Is Paphos or Cape Sounion a more walkable city?

Paphos and Cape Sounion both are notable 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.

Cape Sounion is a somewhat walkable place. You can walk around the archeological site and the bus stops close enough that it is accessible.

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

Should I spend more time in Cape Sounion or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Cape Sounion?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paphos or Cape Sounion to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paphos than Cape Sounion because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cape Sounion.

Families should spend more time in Paphos than Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion. 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 Cape Sounion 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 Cape Sounion?

In Paphos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this cultural town offers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Cape Sounion. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Cape Sounion?

Paphos is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Cape Sounion is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Cape Sounion?

In Paphos, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this cultural destination offers. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cape Sounion. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. 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 Cape Sounion?

Paphos is a popular place to visit. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the spectacular destination of Cape Sounion. This destination 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 Coach Bus Tours in Greece, and The Best Adventure Tours to Greece.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Cape Sounion?

Paphos has a larger population, and is about 40 times larger than the population of Cape Sounion. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Cape Sounion, 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 Cape Sounion?

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 Cape Sounion in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Cape Sounion. Many visitors come to Paphos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Cape Sounion. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Cape Sounion fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cape Sounion. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Cape Sounion. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Sounion receives 357 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Cape Sounion. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Cape Sounion receives 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Cape Sounion in the Autumn?

Both Cape Sounion and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paphos for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cape Sounion because of the natural beauty of the area.

Paphos is around the same temperature as Cape Sounion in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Cape Sounion fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Cape Sounion. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Cape Sounion during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Sounion receives 206 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Cape Sounion. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Cape Sounion receives 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Cape Sounion in the Winter?

Both Cape Sounion and Paphos during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Paphos because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Cape Sounion this time of year.

In the winter, Paphos is a little warmer than Cape Sounion. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Cape Sounion averages at about 10°C (51°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Cape Sounion. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cape Sounion receives 143 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Paphos or Cape Sounion in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Cape Sounion. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cape Sounion for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Cape Sounion. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Cape Sounion fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cape Sounion this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Cape Sounion during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Cape Sounion receives 226 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Cape Sounion. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Cape Sounion receives 25 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Cape Sounion and Paphos