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

Should you visit Paphos or Girona?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Girona, 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 cultural, coastal, and overlooked town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Girona

Girona is a colorful, medieval, and ancient city. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. With a quaint atmosphere, it also offers a unique feeling. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums.

Paphos and Girona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Girona?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Girona are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Girona attracts visitors for its historical sights, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere. Paphos is more touristy than Girona and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. Girona is famous for its ancient ruins, colorful old town, grand cathedral, and impressive local cuisine.

How is Paphos different from Girona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Paphos are among the most recognizable in the world. 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.

Girona offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Wander the ancient city walls, explore the beautiful Girona Cathedral, and learn about the Church of Sant Feliu. There are also some interesting museums in town including the Museum of Jewish History, the Archaeology Museum, and the Film Museum. Also make sure you walk across the famed Eiffel Bridge.

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

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Paphos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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).

Girona has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The small city is filled with cafes and restaurants that spill out into the street. There are also markets such as El Lleó Marketplace where you can check out fresh, local items. Many restaurants also have Catalonian style tapas, seafood such as octopus, and garlic shrimp. For breakfast, there are many pastry shops where you can enjoy a European breakfast.

Is Paphos or Girona Better for Nightlife?

Paphos is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Girona is not a good city for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Girona. It's a surprisingly quiet town, especially compared to other nearby party cities, but there are some nightclubs, bars, and music venues that are worth checking out.

Is Paphos or Girona Better for Resorts?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Girona is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Paphos for its luxury resorts. 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.

Girona is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Girona Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Girona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Girona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Girona Better for Beaches?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Girona is not a beach destination.

Paphos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around 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.

Girona is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Girona Better for its Old Town?

Girona 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 Girona is one of the most recognized in the world. It's a beautiful medieval old town with many wandering streets that are lined with storefronts and classic European cafes.

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 Girona?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Girona 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.

Girona is well-known for its shopping. In and around the old town you'll find modern shops, local eateries, charming markets, and anything you might need to purchase. There's also no shortage of souvenir and trinket shops, but they have a bit of personality and character to them.

Is Paphos or Girona Better for Families?

Paphos is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. However, Girona is not a good city for its kid-friendly activities.

Paphos is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Girona is not always a place people visit with their families. While the old town is beautiful, with charming colorful buildings, the city itself doesn't have a wide number of activities for kids. There are ice cream shops where they can enjoy a sweet treat. There are also several museums and many restaurants have kid-friendly menus.

Is Paphos or Girona Better for Couples?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Paphos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Girona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The setting is both beautiful and romantic. Couples can enjoy wandering the streets, popping in the many shops, and soaking up the atmosphere. There are also many great restaurants that make for a wonderful night out. Head up the hills towards the cathedral for the best viewpoints, or wander along the river and enjoy the colorful atmosphere.

Is Paphos or Girona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paphos is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Girona. Prices aren't too crazy and it's not hard to find a place to stay for an affordable price, but you won't find the lively backpacker scene that is common in many nearby cities.

Is Paphos or Girona Better for Students?

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

Girona is popular with students. It's a smaller city with affordable accommodation and many great restaurants. It has a quintessential European atmosphere that makes it a fun place to spend some time as a student

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, Girona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Girona has some public transit options. The town is small enough that you can likely walk anywhere you want to go, but if you need transit, there are 10 local bus routes.

Is Paphos or Girona a more walkable city?

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

Getting around Girona on foot is easy. Everything is easily accessible on foot and its best not to bring a car into town.

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 Girona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Girona or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Girona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paphos or Girona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paphos than Girona 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 Girona.

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

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 shopping and museums when visiting the quaint destination of Girona. 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 Girona?

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.

Girona 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 Girona?

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 Girona. 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 Girona?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural 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 shopping and museums when visiting the colorful destination of Girona. 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 from Barcelona, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Madrid.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Girona?

Girona has a larger population, and is about 2 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Girona, 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 Girona?

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 Girona in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Girona. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Girona in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is a little warmer than Girona. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Girona averages at about 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Girona this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Girona during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 279 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Girona. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Girona receives 38 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Girona in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Girona. Many visitors come to Paphos in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Girona for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

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

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Girona. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 170 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Girona. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Girona receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Girona in the Winter?

Both Girona and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Girona because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Paphos is much warmer than Girona in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Girona fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Girona during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Girona receives 148 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives around the same amount of rain as Girona. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Girona receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Girona in the Spring?

Both Girona and Paphos during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the small town charm and the natural beauty are the main draw to Girona this time of year.

In the spring, Paphos is a little warmer than Girona. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Girona averages at about 13°C (55°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Girona. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Girona receives 177 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Girona. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Girona receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Girona and Paphos