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

Should you visit Paphos or Granada?

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

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

Granada

Granada is a charming, cultural, and historic city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food.

Paphos and Granada: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Granada?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Granada are both popular with visitors, Paphos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paphos is more popular for its food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Granada is known for its nightlife, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty. Paphos is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also home to Paphos Archaeological Park. Granada is popular for its Islamic architecture, charming old town, and the stunningly impressive Alhambra.

How is Paphos different from Granada?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Paphos and Granada 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 Granada are world-renowned. Many visitors head to Granada specifically to visit the famed Alhambra. The palace and fortress complex will not disappoint. The gardens are beautifully maintained and the palace is filled with intricate details. It's easy to spend hours wandering around. In addition to The Alhambra, the Granada Cathedral is also impressive to visit. If you have kids or extra time to fill, head to Parque de las Ciencias, which is the city's Science Park.

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

Paphos is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Granada 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Granada. It's a very touristy city so restaurants can be hit or miss. There are some amazing local eateries, but you'll also find a number of places with lower quality, overpriced food. Classic local dishes include Churros, Plato Alpujarreño, and Habas con Jamón. Tapas are very popular and many restaurants provide free tapas with drink orders. There are also a number of Moroccan restaurants around town.

Is Paphos or Granada Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Granada know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene kicks off around 11 pm, when most people have finished up a late dinner. There's a laid-back atmosphere with pubs, live music, and dance clubs that stay open late into the night. There are several popular streets at night including Calle Elvira, Calle Reyes Católicos, and the Realejo District.

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 Granada Better for Resorts?

Paphos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Granada 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.

Granada is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Granada Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a popular place for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Granada 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.

Granada is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Granada Better for Beaches?

Paphos is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Granada is not a beach destination.

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.

Granada is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Granada Better for its Old Town?

Granada 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 Granada is one of the most recognized in the world. The Old Town spills out around the Granada Cathedral and is filled with charming pedestrian streets, lively plazas, and many great shops.

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 Paphos or Granada Better for Hiking?

Granada is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Paphos is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Granada. Ruta de Los Cahorros is a great hike about 25 minutes outside of Granada that begins in the town of Monochil. It crosses many bridges and weaves through dramatic canyons. There are places where you can wade in the water or check out a hidden waterfall. It's well worth the time and can be reached by taxi or public bus.

Paphos is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Granada?

Paphos is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Granada offers some nice shopping areas. The town is filled with souvenir shops and places to buy local items. It's fun to wander through the old town and pop into the many different shops.

Is Paphos or Granada Better for Families?

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

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Granada. While the highlight of the city is the Alhambra, kids will likely enjoy exploring the shops or seeing a Flamenco show a bit more. Just outside of town is a wonderful hike, Ruta de Los Cahorros. It begins near the town of Monachil which is easily accessible by taxi or public bus. The hike goes through canyons and across bridges and its a wonderful activity for the whole family.

Is Paphos or Granada Better for Couples?

Paphos is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Couples visit Granada frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It is a beautiful city that is filled with charm and history. Couples will enjoy exploring the Alhambra, taking in a Flamenco show, or sipping Sangria with tapas. The city is incredibly beautiful with stunning views and many great restaurants.

Is Paphos or Granada Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos and Granada are very good places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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.

Many backpackers visit Granada. It's a touristy city and it's a popular destination for backpackers as well. There are plenty of hostels around town and the city has social atmosphere with many opportunities to meet other travelers.

Is Paphos or Granada Better for Students?

Granada is a great destination for students. However, Paphos is not popular with students.

Granada is a great city to visit as a student. It's a popular study abroad destination. Accommodation for students is usually affordable and this is also a great city for integrating into the local culture. You may even end up with a Spanish roommate.

Paphos is not popular with students.

Is Paphos or Granada 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, Granada is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Granada, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a comprehensive bus system around town that many tourists take advantage of. Taxis are also very affordable, so for many visitors, that is an easy option.

Is Paphos or Granada a more walkable city?

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

Granada is very walkable. Most of the touristy areas are easy to explore on foot, but there are some steep hills so put on your walking shoes.

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 Granada Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Granada or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Granada?

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

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

One day in Paphos or Granada?

In Paphos, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Granada. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paphos or Granada?

In Paphos, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Granada 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 Granada?

Paphos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paphos has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Granada. Don't miss the museums, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Granada?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Paphos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic destination of Granada. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 Madrid, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Barcelona.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Granada?

Granada has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Granada, 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 Granada?

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 Granada in the Summer?

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

Paphos is around the same temperature as Granada in the summer. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Granada fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Granada. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Granada. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 348 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Granada. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Granada receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Granada in the Autumn?

Both Granada 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 Granada because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Paphos is a little warmer than Granada. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paphos in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Granada averages at about 19°C (67°F).

It's quite sunny in Granada. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Granada during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 213 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Granada. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Granada receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Granada in the Winter?

Both Granada 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, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Granada this time of year.

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

In the winter, Paphos often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Granada. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Granada receives 171 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in January than Granada. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Granada receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Granada in the Spring?

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

Paphos is around the same temperature as Granada in the spring. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Granada fluctuates around 16°C (60°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Granada this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Granada during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Granada receives 220 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Granada. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Granada receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Granada and Paphos