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

Should you visit Paphos or Imperia?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Imperia, 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Imperia

Imperia is a authentic, charming, and undiscovered town. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Paphos and Imperia: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular with couples


Is there more to do in Paphos or Imperia?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Imperia, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is more touristy than Imperia and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Imperia is well known for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Paphos different from Imperia?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Paphos on the map. 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.

Imperia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.


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

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Paphos or Imperia Better for Nightlife?

Paphos
Imperia

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Imperia 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 Imperia has a few options to choose from. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

Is Paphos or Imperia Better for Resorts?

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a resort destination.


Is Paphos or Imperia Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Imperia Better for Beaches?

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Imperia Better for its Old Town?

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos is a popular place for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Paphos offers a nice historic old town area. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Imperia?

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos is notable for its shopping areas. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity in 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Imperia. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

Is Paphos or Imperia Better for Families?

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Paphos is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Imperia is a family-friendly town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Paphos or Imperia Better for Couples?

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos is a must-visit destination for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Paphos or Imperia Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos is notable for backpackers. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paphos is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Imperia is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

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

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos is notable for its public transit. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Paphos can get you to most 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.

Imperia has some public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

Is Paphos or Imperia a more walkable city?

Paphos
Imperia

Paphos and Imperia both are notable 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.

Imperia is a somewhat walkable place. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.


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

Should I spend more time in Imperia or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Imperia?

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

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


  • How many days in Paphos or Imperia? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paphos 3-5 
    Imperia 1-2

One day in Paphos or Imperia?

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 Imperia. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Imperia?

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.

Imperia 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 Imperia?

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 Imperia. 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 Imperia?

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 undiscovered destination of Imperia. This town 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 Walking Tours in Italy, and The Best Luxury Tours to Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Imperia or Paphos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Paphos is €97, while the average daily cost in Imperia is €108. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Paphos and Imperia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paphos 48
    Imperia 51
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paphos 96
    Imperia 102
Compare Hotels in Paphos and Imperia

Looking for a hotel in Paphos or Imperia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Paphos


Hotels in Imperia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Paphos Hotel Prices and Imperia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Imperia 36

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paphos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Paphos:

  • Shared shuttle transfer from Paphos Airport to Hotels: $15
  • From Nicosia Sightseeing Tour with Hotel Transfer: $28
  • Blue Lagoon trip with slide, music & transfer from Paphos: $32
  • Private Airport Transfer from Hotel to Paphos Airport in a 4-seater taxi: $42
  • Choirokitia & Famagusta Guided Tour with Transfers: $43
  • Private Airport Transfer from Paphos Airport in a 6-seater taxi: $52
  • Paphos Airport (PFO) to Paphos city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $62
  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport PFO to Polis City by Sedan: $70
  • Departure Transfer from Polis City to Paphos Airport PFO by Sedan: $70
  • Private Transfer Paphos Airport PFO to Limassol City by Sedan: $79
  • Private Transfer from Paphos to Larnaca Airport LCA in 4 seater Taxi: $133
  • Private Transfer Paphos Airport PFO to Paphos City by Luxury Car: $140

Is it cheaper to fly into Paphos or Imperia?

Prices for flights to both Imperia and Paphos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Paphos 38
    Imperia 35

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paphos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Paphos.

  • From Sunset Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner: $53
  • Wave Dancer Fireworks, Buffet Dinner & Show Cruise: $67

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Imperia 13

Tours and Activities in Paphos

Here are a few actual costs in Paphos for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Pafos Zoo Ticket: $19
  • Cruise to Blue Lagoon from Latchi Port: $20
  • Blue Lagoon Cruise with sightseeing departing from LATCHI HARBOUR. Postcode 8840: $22
  • Nafsika II Half Day Cruise: $24
  • From Limassol Experience: $25
  • Troodos and Kykkos Day Tour from Paphos: $26
  • From Guided tour of Limassol with Rock of Aphrodite: $28
  • Nicosia Full Day Shopping Tour from Paphos: $29
  • From Authentic Cyprus Guided Tour with Breakfast: $30
  • Authentic Cyprus Historic Day Tour from Paphos: $31
  • From Latchi Blue Lagoon Boat Tour with Fresh Fruits: $33
  • From Cyprus Highlights Tour w/ Blue Lagoon Boat Trip: $33

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paphos 9.98
    Imperia 7.50

Sample the Local Flavors in Paphos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paphos:

  • Regional Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings: $103
  • WINE TOUR from Paphos: $105


When comparing the travel costs between Paphos and Imperia, we can see that Imperia is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Paphos Expensive? and Is Imperia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Paphos or Imperia?

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

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 Imperia in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Imperia. Many visitors come to Paphos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Imperia for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Imperia. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 25°C (76°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Imperia this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 295 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Imperia. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Paphos 27°C (80°F) 
    Imperia 25°C (76°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Imperia in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Imperia. Most visitors come to Paphos for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Imperia because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Paphos is a little warmer than Imperia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Imperia fluctuates around 19°C (66°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 Imperia. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 183 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Imperia. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Paphos 21°C (70°F) 
    Imperia 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Imperia in the Winter?

Both Imperia and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. 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 Imperia this time of year.

In the winter, Paphos is a little warmer than Imperia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Imperia averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Imperia during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Imperia receives 127 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives less rain than Imperia. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Paphos 12°C (53°F) 
    Imperia 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Imperia in the Spring?

Both Imperia and Paphos during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Imperia for the natural beauty.

In April, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Imperia. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Imperia fluctuates around 15°C (58°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Imperia. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Imperia receives 198 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Imperia. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Imperia receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Paphos 17°C (62°F) 
    Imperia 15°C (58°F)

Typical Weather for Imperia and Paphos

Paphos Imperia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Mar 13°C (56°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 24°C (75°F) 1 mm (0 in) 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 1 mm (0 in) 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 76 mm (3 in) 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)


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