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

Should you visit Paphos or Honfleur?

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

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

Honfleur

Honfleur is a historic, peaceful, and serene city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and museums.

Paphos and Honfleur: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Honfleur?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Honfleur are both popular with visitors, Paphos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paphos is more touristy than Honfleur and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also home to Paphos Archaeological Park. Honfleur is popular for its influence over Impressionist art, its stunning harbor, and its beautiful buildings.

How is Paphos different from Honfleur?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its museums and history. Also, Honfleur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its 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.

Honfleur offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Some of the most notable sights around the town include Saint Catherine's Church, Le Vieux Bassin, Notre-Dame de Grace, and the Normandy Bridge.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at terrific restaurants in both Paphos and Honfleur.

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 Honfleur have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Located on the coast of Normandy along the English Channel, seafood is a defining element for most dishes here. Foodies flock to this town for its Michelin starred restaurants as well as its local cafes and quaint eateries. For land-lovers, there's a popular local cider-braised pork that you must-try. And for dessert make sure you try the Tarte Tatin.

Is Paphos or Honfleur Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Honfleur 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 Honfleur has a few options to choose from. Restaurants come to life at night when music flows out onto the streets. The town is not known for its partying, but that doesn't mean that it's a sleepy place that shuts down when the sun sets.

Is Paphos or Honfleur Better for Resorts?

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

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Paphos is a perfect 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.

Honfleur is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Honfleur Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Honfleur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Honfleur is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Honfleur Better for Beaches?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its beaches. However, Honfleur is lacking in options for the beache.

With world-famous beaches, Paphos is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

You can check out the beach in Honfleur. The town sits by the estuary of the Seine and there are two beaches not far from town. Butin Beach is the closest to town and the most popular, but Vasouy Beach is more relaxed and natural.

Is Paphos or Honfleur Better for its Old Town?

Paphos is very good for its historic old town. However, Honfleur does not have a historic old town.

Paphos is a good destination for visiting its old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Honfleur does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Honfleur?

Paphos is an excellent place to visit for shopping. However, Honfleur is lacking in options 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.

If you're looking to go shopping, Honfleur has some nice offerings. It's a charming town with boutique shops, chocolate shops, and the standard tourist places that sell souvenirs and t-shirts.

Is Paphos or Honfleur Better for Families?

Paphos is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Honfleur 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 Honfleur. Located on the coast of Normandy, the town has boat rides, quirky museums, and Vieux Bassin, which is a beautiful and lively harbor. For kids who need to stretch their legs, there are many parks and outdoor spaces to enjoy.

Is Paphos or Honfleur Better for Couples?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for romance. Also, Honfleur is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Paphos has plenty to offer. 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 Honfleur frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. It has, arguably, one of the area's most beautiful harbors. There are also many great seafood restaurants, relaxing gardens, and spas that are perfect for couples.

Is Paphos or Honfleur Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Honfleur is lacking in options 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.

Honfleur is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. You'll likely have more luck looking for an apartment than a hostel, so if you're looking for a place to stay with a social setting, you may be out of luck.

Is Paphos or Honfleur 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. However, Honfleur is lacking in options for its public transit.

Visitors to Paphos can move around easily with public transportation. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Honfleur. HO Buses travel from the outskirts or town into the center and are used mainly by locals. If you plan to head into Normandy to see the countryside, you'll want to have a car.

Is Paphos or Honfleur a more walkable city?

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

Honfleur is very walkable. The city center is compact and easy to explore on foot. There are also many coastal walks leading out of 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 Honfleur Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Honfleur or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Honfleur?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paphos and Honfleur. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paphos than in Honfleur. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 1-3 days is enough time in Honfleur.

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

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 food and museums when visiting the destination of Honfleur. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Honfleur?

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.

Honfleur is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Don't miss the food, 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 Honfleur?

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 Honfleur. Don't miss the food, 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 Honfleur?

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.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Honfleur. This city 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 Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, and The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Honfleur?

Paphos has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Honfleur. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Honfleur, 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.