A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paphos vs. Malaga for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Couples

Should you visit Paphos or Malaga?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Malaga, 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.

Malaga

Malaga is a historic, beautiful, and friendly port city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and food.

Paphos and Malaga: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Malaga?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Malaga are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, beaches, and shopping, while Malaga attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, and historical sights. Paphos is famous for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. Malaga is famous for its perfect blend of sandy beaches, beautiful culture, fascinating history, and a lively nightlife scene.

How is Paphos different from Malaga?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its sights and museums. However, Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Malaga does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port 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).

Malaga has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Head to any of the local food markets and seafood shops to try local cuisine. Also make sure you try tapas and a filling Andalusian breakfast.

Is Paphos or Malaga Better for Nightlife?

Malaga is renowned for nightlife. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Malaga is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city has some of the most active nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of opportunities to party in Malaga and you'll find the most vibrant nightlife in the Centro Historico.

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 Malaga Better for Music?

Malaga is a great destination for live music. However, Paphos is not a live music destination.

Malaga has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. The city has venues that offer pop, rock, blues, soulful, and more. Some of the most popular include ZZ club, Clarence Jazz Club, and Velvet Club.

Paphos is not a live music destination.

Is Paphos or Malaga Better for Resorts?

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

Malaga is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Malaga Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find nice snorkeling or scuba diving in both Paphos and Malaga.

Paphos has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Malaga. Water temperatures are mild enough for diving or snorkeling near Malaga. For the best diving, head to Cala del Canuelo Beach. Closer by, Penon del Cuervo Beach offers diving and snorkeling as well.

Is Paphos or Malaga Better for Beaches?

Paphos is a must-visit destination for the beache. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for the beach.

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.

Malaga is a good option for a beach vacation. There are some nice beaches around Malaga, but for the best options you'll have to travel further outside of the city.

Is Paphos or Malaga Better for its Old Town?

Malaga is a great destination for its historic old town. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

Many visitors go to Malaga to see the historical old town. The city's old town is compact and small, making it a fun place to walk. There are historic buildings, museums, churches, and squares, as well as many restaurants and 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 the Shopping Better in Paphos or Malaga?

Paphos is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit for its shopping areas.

Paphos is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. 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.

Malaga has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of shopping areas in the city with both local boutiques and name brands.

Is Paphos or Malaga Better for Families?

Paphos is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port city to visit 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.

Malaga is a family-friendly town. The city has castles that you can explore as well as a waterpark.

Is Paphos or Malaga Better for Couples?

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its romantic activities. Also, Malaga is not as famous, but is still a good port 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.

Malaga is a good town for couples to visit. It has a beautiful coastline and a rich history that makes it unique.

Is Paphos or Malaga Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Malaga is renowned for backpackers. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Malaga is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. From an endless supply of hostels to plenty of opportunities to meet other backpackers, this is a very backpacker friendly area.

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.

Is Paphos or Malaga Better for Students?

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

Malaga is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has many opportunities to learn Spanish. It's also an affordable city with a young population and a lively atmosphere that appeals to international students.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

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

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.

Malaga has some public transit options. There is an efficient bus system as well as a light metro system.

Is Paphos or Malaga a more walkable city?

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

Malaga is very walkable. It has a very compact and walkable historic center with most of the tourist attractions easily accessible on foot.

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 Malaga Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Malaga or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Malaga?

Both Paphos and Malaga have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Malaga than in Paphos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 3-7 days is enough time in Malaga.

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

One day in Paphos or Malaga?

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 food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Malaga. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paphos or Malaga?

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.

Malaga is a great place to explore. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Paphos or Malaga?

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 Malaga. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Paphos or Malaga?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the overlooked 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.

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the welcoming destination of Malaga. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best Budget Tours to Spain, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Spain.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Malaga?

Malaga has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Malaga, 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 Malaga?

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 Malaga in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Malaga. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Malaga in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is around the same temperature as Malaga. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Malaga averages at about 25°C (77°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Malaga this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Malaga during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 348 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Malaga. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Malaga in the Autumn?

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

In October, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Malaga. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Malaga fluctuates around 19°C (67°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Malaga. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Malaga. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 213 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Malaga. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Malaga in the Winter?

Both Malaga 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 Malaga because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

Paphos is around the same temperature as Malaga in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Malaga fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Paphos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Malaga during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Malaga receives 171 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives less rain than Malaga. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Malaga in the Spring?

Both Malaga 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 beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Malaga this time of year.

In the spring, Paphos is around the same temperature as Malaga. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Malaga averages at about 16°C (60°F).

In Malaga, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Malaga. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Malaga receives 220 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Malaga. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Malaga receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Malaga and Paphos