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

Should you visit Paphos or Messina?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Messina, 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 beautiful, cultural, and coastal town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Messina

Messina is a historic, bustling, and local port city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Paphos and Messina: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Messina?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Messina are both popular with visitors, Paphos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paphos is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Messina is known for its nightlife and big city activities. Paphos is more touristy than Messina and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also home to Paphos Archaeological Park. Messina is popular for being the entry and departure point to Sicily for those traveling by ferry.

How is Paphos different from Messina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

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.

Messina offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of historic sights around town including the Cathedral and the Piazza del Duomo, the Bell Tower and Astronomical Clock, Santissima Annunziata dei Catalani, and the Regional Museum. There are also many ornate fountains around town.

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

Paphos is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Paphos have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

Messina has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The city's cuisine is a mix of the cultures that have influenced Sicily over the centuries. The city has a longstanding fishing industry and one of the most popular dishes are swordfish rolls. Also try the pidone (similar to calzones with different fillings), and the focaccia (a local bread).

Is Paphos or Messina Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Messina know how to have a good time. The nightlife scene is mostly centered around the old town and you'll find a mix of locals and tourists hanging out in pubs and bars. During the summer months there are often free outdoor concerts to enjoy.

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 Messina Better for Resorts?

Paphos is renowned for its resorts. However, Messina is not a resort destination.

Paphos is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Messina is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Messina Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a town with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Messina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Messina Better for Beaches?

Paphos is renowned for its beaches. However, Messina is not particularly known for the beache.

Paphos is considered to be a world-class beach 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 Messina. There are pebbly beaches in the area that are becoming more popular with tourists.

Is Paphos or Messina Better for its Old Town?

Paphos is a town with good options for its historic old town. However, Messina does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to Paphos to see the historical old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Messina does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Messina?

Paphos is well known for shopping. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Paphos is an extremely popular place for shoppers. 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.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Messina. The best shopping is around Piazza Cairoli with the main shopping streets being Viale Europa and Viale San Martino. There are many small boutiques that have cheaper prices than some of the more upscale Sicilian towns.

Is Paphos or Messina Better for Families?

Paphos and Messina are both high quality destinations for the whole family.

Paphos is 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Messina is very family-friendly. There are a number outdoor activities that kids will enjoy including Parco Avventura Dei Peloritani, which has ropes and obstacle courses. There's also the Karting Center, which is fun for the whole family, or a small aquarium in town. If you're looking for an excursion outside of town, head to Cascata Cataolo waterfall, which is very kid-friendly.

Is Paphos or Messina Better for Couples?

Paphos is renowned for romance. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Paphos is a great town for couples, as it 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.

Messina makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most visitors see the city as an arrival or departure point for Sicily, but those couples who linger will appreciate a number of historical sights and a nice atmosphere.

Is Paphos or Messina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is well known for backpackers. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Messina. If you're traveling by train or ferry, you'll likely arrive or depart from this city. There are a number of hostels and cheap guesthouses around town that offer affordable accommodation.

Is Paphos or Messina Better for Students?

Messina is a nice place to visit for students. However, Paphos is not popular with students.

Messina is popular with students. There are a few study abroad opportunities that bring international students to town. The city also have good transportation connections and a friendly atmosphere that is welcoming to students.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos is well known for its public transit. Also, Messina is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation in Paphos. 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.

While Messina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. If your legs are tired then there's an efficient bus system that you can use.

Is Paphos or Messina a more walkable city?

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

Messina is very walkable. Most of the city's attractions can be reached on foot and the port is a ten to fifteen minute walk from Piazza del Duomo.

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 Messina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Messina or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Messina?

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

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

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 Messina. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paphos or Messina?

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.

Messina 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 Messina?

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 Messina. 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 Messina?

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 local destination of Messina. This port 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 Food and Culinary Tours in Italy, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Messina?

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

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 Messina in the Summer?

Both Messina and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Messina for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

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

It's quite sunny in Messina. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Messina during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 332 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Messina. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Messina receives 19 mm (0.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Messina in the Autumn?

Both Messina and Paphos during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Paphos for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Messina in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Paphos is around the same temperature as Messina. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paphos in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Messina averages at about 21°C (69°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the autumn, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Messina. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 189 hours of full sun.

Messina gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Messina. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Messina receives 109 mm (4.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Messina in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Messina. Many visitors come to Paphos in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Messina for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In January, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Messina. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 12°C (53°F), and Messina fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Messina during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Messina receives 115 hours of full sun in the winter.

Messina receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Paphos usually receives less rain than Messina. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Messina receives 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Messina in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Messina. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Messina because of the beaches and the activities around the city.

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

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Messina. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Messina. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Messina receives 207 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Messina. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Messina receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Messina and Paphos