A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paphos vs. Florence for Attractions, Food, Old Town, and Couples

Should you visit Paphos or Florence?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Florence, 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. 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.

Florence

Florence is a artistic, iconic, and alluring city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Paphos and Florence: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Florence?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Florence. Although Paphos and Florence are popular destinations, Florence has more sights and attractions for tourists. Florence is very popular for its historical sights and impressive beauty, while Paphos attracts visitors for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches. Florence is more touristy than Paphos and is popular for its iconic beauty, world-renowned Renaissance art and architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. It is also well known for The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore). Paphos is famous for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches.

How is Paphos different from Florence?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Paphos and Florence have amazing 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 Florence are world-renowned. Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at amazing restaurants in both Paphos and Florence.

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 Florence have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Is Paphos or Florence Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Florence has a better nightlife scene.

Paphos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Florence has a few options to choose from. You'll find the most active nightlife in the Santa Croce neighborhood. The area attracts study abroad students as well as tourists who party late into the night.

Is Paphos or Florence Better for Resorts?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Florence Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a nice place to visit for its diving and snorkeling. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Florence Better for Beaches?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Florence 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.

Florence is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Florence Better for its Old Town?

Florence is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Florence is one of the most recognized in the world. The historic center of the city is where you'll find many of the most beautiful buildings, art works, and quaint streets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was at the heart of the Renaissance period.

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 Florence?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Florence and Paphos.

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.

Florence is well-known for its shopping. There are many shops in the tourist heart of the city. Most are geared specifically to tourists so you may have to search to find a more authentic shopping experience. Famous items available in the city include gold jewelry, ceramics, leather, and perfume.

Is Paphos or Florence Better for Families?

Paphos is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florence is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paphos is very family-friendly. 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.

Florence is a family-friendly place to visit. Most famous for its art and history, the city also has a number of activities that kids will enjoy. There's a carousel and a park that are perfect to let the little ones run around. There are a few kid-friendly museums, as well as a historic city center that will mesmerize the old and young alike.

Is Paphos or Florence Better for Couples?

Paphos and Florence are both amazing 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.

Florence is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Is Paphos or Florence Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Florence is renowned for backpackers. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Florence is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

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.

Is Paphos or Florence Better for Students?

Florence is renowned for students. However, Paphos is not popular with students.

Florence is a great destination for students. Many students visit this city as part of a short term study abroad program, or for the entire length of their studies. The city is beautiful, and whether your focus is art, history, or culture, this city will not disappoint.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

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

Public transit in Paphos can get you to some 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.

Florence has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system.

Is Paphos or Florence a more walkable city?

Florence is renowned for its walkability. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Florence on foot is easy. Most people explore the city on foot.

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 Florence Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Florence or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Florence?

Both Paphos and Florence have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Florence than in Paphos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 2-7 days is enough time in Florence.

Families should spend more time in Paphos than Florence. 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 Florence. 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 Florence than Paphos 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 Florence.

One day in Paphos or Florence?

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 Florence. 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 Florence?

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.

Florence 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 Florence?

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 Florence. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Florence?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historical destination of Florence. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, and The Best Budget Tours to Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Florence?

Florence has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Florence, 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 Florence?

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 Florence in the Summer?

Both Florence 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. Also, the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Florence this time of year.

In the summer, Paphos is around the same temperature as Florence. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Florence averages at about 25°C (77°F).

In Florence, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Florence. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 316 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Florence. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Florence receives 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Florence in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Florence. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Florence for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Florence. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Florence fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Florence during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Florence receives 177 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Florence. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Florence receives 96 mm (3.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Florence in the Winter?

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

Paphos is much warmer than Florence in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Florence fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Florence. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Florence receives 105 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Florence. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Florence receives 63 mm (2.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Florence in the Spring?

Both Florence 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 Florence for the natural beauty during these months.

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

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

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Florence. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Florence receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Florence and Paphos