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

Should you visit Paphos or Faro?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Faro, 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. Paphos is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Paphos travel costs.

Faro

Faro is a popular, busy, and active resort town. It's also known for beaches, shopping, and nightlife. See Faro travel costs.

Paphos and Faro: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Faro?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Faro are both popular with visitors, Paphos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paphos is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Faro is known for its nightlife. Paphos is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also home to Paphos Archaeological Park. Faro is popular for its historical sights and rich culture.

How is Paphos different from Faro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Travelers visit Paphos from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

Faro does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Faro is not a good destination for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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).

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Faro. It has become a major tourist town, so you have to get a bit creative to find a more traditional restaurant. Look for fresh seafood like cod, monkfish, or shellfish if you want some local flavors.

Is Paphos or Faro Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Faro know how to have a good time. The city's bustling party scene thrives along Rua de São Pedro, Rua Conselheiro Bívar, and Rua do Prior.

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 Faro Better for Resorts?

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

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.

Faro is a world class resort vacation destination. Popular resorts include Vila Vita Parc Resort and Spa, Conrad Algarve, and Tivoli Carvoeiro.

Is Paphos or Faro Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find good snorkeling or scuba diving in both Paphos and Faro.

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 Faro. There are both snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in the area. It's possible to snorkel off of several beaches or arrange a scuba diving excursion with a local dive shop.

Is Paphos or Faro Better for Beaches?

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its beaches. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for the beach.

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Faro. The most popular beach in the area is Faro Beach. It can get crowded during the summer months but if you walk a bit you can often get away from the crowds. To reach the beach you'll need a car or you can take the bus as the beach is about 10 km away.

Is Paphos or Faro Better for its Old Town?

Paphos and Faro both have good historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Paphos to see the historical old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings. The area was revitalized in 2017 and there are many historical sites. It's also fun to go shopping at Kennedy Square and Makariou Avenue.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Faro. You'll find historic buildings and cobblestone streets in the old town. It's a nice place to explore, grab a bite to eat, and do a little shopping.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Faro?

Paphos is great for shopping. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Faro offers some nice shopping areas. The town isn't as big as some others, so it's shopping scene isn't as comprehensive, but you will find the major brands as well as souvenir shops to peruse when you need a break from the beach.

Is Paphos or Faro More Beautiful?

Paphos is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Faro is not a destination known for its beauty.

Paphos is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The area is known for its world-renowned archeological ruins, stunning beaches, and beautiful outdoor setting.

Faro is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Paphos or Faro Better for Families?

Paphos is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Faro is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Paphos is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Faro is not the most family-friendly destination. There are some nice nature reserves in the area so kids who love wildlife will enjoy a visit.

Is Paphos or Faro Better for Couples?

Paphos is a must-visit destination for romance. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town 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.

Faro makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With the beautiful natural areas and historic old town, this seaport makes a nice couples vacation.

Is Paphos or Faro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for backpackers.

Paphos is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Faro is a good town to visit for backpackers. The are some good hostels in the area, but it's a bit tricky to get around without a car.

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

Paphos is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Faro is not as popular, but is still a nice resort town for its public transit.

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.

Faro has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to the beach, the airport, and other outlying areas.

Is Paphos or Faro a more walkable city?

Paphos and Faro 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.

Faro is a somewhat walkable place. The city's old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Faro or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Faro?

In either Paphos or Faro, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Paphos has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paphos than Faro. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 2-5 days is enough time in Faro.

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

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Paphos. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Faro. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paphos or Faro?

Paphos is a fun place to experience. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Faro 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 Faro?

Visitors enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the ancient destination of Paphos. This town offers something for everyone. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Faro. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Paphos or Faro?

The beautiful town of Paphos offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the busy destination of Faro. This resort town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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 2-Week Tours in Portugal, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Portugal.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Faro?

Faro has a larger population, and is about 15% larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Faro, 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 Faro?

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 Faro in the Summer?

Both Faro and Paphos during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Faro this time of year.

Paphos is around the same temperature as Faro in the summer. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Faro fluctuates around 25°C (78°F).

In Faro, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the summer, Paphos often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Faro. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 374 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Faro. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Faro receives 1 mm (0 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Faro in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Faro. 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 Faro for the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Paphos is around the same temperature as Faro. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paphos in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Faro averages at about 20°C (68°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Faro this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Faro during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 222 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Faro. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Faro receives 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Faro in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Faro. Many travelers come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Additionally, many visitors come to Faro in the winter for the shopping scene and the cuisine.

In January, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Faro. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 12°C (53°F), and Faro fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Faro. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Faro receives 161 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in January than Faro. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Faro receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Faro in the Spring?

Both Faro and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Paphos in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Faro for the beaches during these months.

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

It's quite sunny in Faro. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Faro during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Faro receives 248 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Faro. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Faro receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Faro and Paphos