A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paphos vs. Kalampaka (Meteora) for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora), 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. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Kalampaka (Meteora)

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a historic, spiritual, and dramatic destination. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and museums.

Paphos and Kalampaka (Meteora): Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Kalampaka (Meteora) are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is famous for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. Kalampaka (Meteora) is famous for its striking beauty, spiritual setting, and other-worldly rock formations.

How is Paphos different from Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Both Paphos and Kalampaka (Meteora) have world-class 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) are world-renowned. The Meteora monasteries are an impressive spiritual site that are set against a dramatic rock formation. They date back centuries, and, of the original 24 monasteries, there are 6 that are currently open to the public. Several have museums and many people prefer to visit as a guided tour.

Is the Food Better in Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora)? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paphos is terrific for its restaurants. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kalampaka (Meteora) area. In town you'll find some authentic Greek restaurants. The dishes are local, and very different from the seafood based cuisine that is found along the coast. Instead, many dishes involve meatballs or stew and are slow cooked with rich flavors.

Is Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Nightlife?

Paphos is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe 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.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Kalampaka (Meteora). This is a spiritual destination where nightlife is not encouraged. There are some cafes in town that turn into bars at night and play relaxing music in a mellow setting. These can be found near the central square.

Is Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Resorts?

Paphos is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Beaches?

Paphos is terrific for the beache. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for its Old Town?

Paphos is a good destination for its old town. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Paphos is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Paphos is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Families?

Paphos is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Kalampaka (Meteora). There are six monasteries of Meteora that will fascinate older children. There are also several museums affiliated with the monasteries including a Folklore Museum as well as spectacular views over the oddly shaped rock mountains.

Is Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Couples?

Paphos is terrific for its romantic activities. Also, Kalampaka (Meteora) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a good town for couples to visit. The setting is beautiful and unique, and its an interesting and fascinating place to visit as a couple.

Is Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Unless you're willing to rent a car or scooter, or take an organized tour, this is a very difficult area to explore independently. Some visitors hire a taxi after they arrive to take them to the monasteries.

Is Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paphos is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Paphos has some very good public transit options. 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 Kalampaka (Meteora). While there is a bus service, many people prefer to explore the six monasteries with their own car or scooter. You could also hire a taxi to take you to and from. Alternatively, there are organized tours that will provide transportation as part of the package.

Is Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) a more walkable city?

Paphos is a good destination for its high level of walkability. However, Kalampaka (Meteora) is lacking in good options for its ease of walking around.

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.

Kalampaka (Meteora) is generally not very walkable. There are walking trails in the area but most people need access to a vehicle, whether its a rental car, scooter, taxi, or bus.

For even more information, also check out Is Paphos Worth Visiting? and Is Kalampaka (Meteora) Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kalampaka (Meteora) or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paphos and Kalampaka (Meteora). With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paphos than in Kalampaka (Meteora). Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 2-3 days is enough time in Kalampaka (Meteora).

Families should spend more time in Paphos than Kalampaka (Meteora). 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 Kalampaka (Meteora). 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 Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

In Paphos, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Many people visit Paphos for a weekend. 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. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Kalampaka (Meteora) 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

In Paphos, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Many people spend five days here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paphos, five days is sufficent for most.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Kalampaka (Meteora). Don't miss the museums, 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Many people enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting Paphos. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers something for everyone. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the spiritual destination of Kalampaka (Meteora). This destination 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Greece, and The Best Honeymoon Tours in Greece.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora)?

Paphos has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Kalampaka (Meteora). When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Kalampaka (Meteora), 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 Kalampaka (Meteora)?

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 Kalampaka (Meteora) in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Kalampaka (Meteora). Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is around the same temperature as Kalampaka (Meteora). Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Kalampaka (Meteora) averages at about 26°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kalampaka (Meteora). People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora). Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 330 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Kalampaka (Meteora). Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) in the Autumn?

Both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Paphos in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Kalampaka (Meteora) for the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Kalampaka (Meteora). Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Kalampaka (Meteora) fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora) during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Kalampaka (Meteora). Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) in the Winter?

Both Kalampaka (Meteora) and Paphos during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Kalampaka (Meteora) because of the museums and the cuisine.

Paphos is much warmer than Kalampaka (Meteora) in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Kalampaka (Meteora) fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora). Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 112 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets more rain in January than Kalampaka (Meteora). Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Kalampaka (Meteora) in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Kalampaka (Meteora). The spring months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the natural beauty are the main draw to Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of year.

In the spring, Paphos is a little warmer than Kalampaka (Meteora). Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Kalampaka (Meteora) averages at about 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kalampaka (Meteora) this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Kalampaka (Meteora) during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 209 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Kalampaka (Meteora). Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Kalampaka (Meteora) receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Kalampaka (Meteora) and Paphos