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

Should you visit Paphos or Novalja?

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

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

Novalja

Novalja is a wild, energetic, and backpacker-filled town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife and beaches.

Paphos and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Novalja?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Novalja are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Novalja attracts visitors for its nightlife. Paphos is famous for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. Novalja is famous for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd.

How is Paphos different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is very popular for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Novalja. It's a beach and party destination, not somewhere you go for museums or historical sights.

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

Paphos is very popular for its restaurant scene. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

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).

Novalja may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a lot of places to grab a quick bite to eat or a cheap meal around town. There are pizzerias, fast food, and some nicer bistros to choose from.

Is Paphos or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

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

Novalja is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. This is a party island, and you'll find most of the action around Zrce Beach, which is about a 20 minute drive from town. The party scene appeals to the young, backpacker crowd and there's live music, DJs, and parties that last well into the morning. Zrce Beach has a huge number of bars and clubs including three clubs that are listed on the Top 100 DJ's Magazine Best Clubs List.

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 Novalja Better for Resorts?

Paphos is very popular for its resorts. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its luxury resorts.

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.

You might not think of Novalja as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Most of the accommodation is in the form of apartments or hostels. There are also some hotels on the island, but because the number is limited they can be quite expensive.

Is Paphos or Novalja Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Novalja 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.

Novalja is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Paphos is very popular for the beache. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for the beach.

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.

Novalja is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find a mix of beaches near town including hidden gems that feel remote and undiscovered as well as wild party beaches like the famed Zrce Beach. Many beaches are pebbly or have coarse sand with turquoise blue waters.

Is Paphos or Novalja Better for its Old Town?

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

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

Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Novalja?

Paphos is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options 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.

Shopping in Novalja can be found for those interested. This isn't the place to go shopping for clothing or local items. You will find some beach and souvenir shops around town though.

Is Paphos or Novalja Better for Families?

Paphos is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options 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.

For families, Novalja is not always the best place to visit. While there are family-friendly places to visit like some beaches and waterparks, at its heart this is a party destination that is known for its wild parties and crazy crowds.

Is Paphos or Novalja Better for Couples?

Paphos is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Novalja is a good town for couples to visit. Stunning beaches, blue waters, and surreal landscapes make this a one-of-a-kind place to visit. But romance isn't on most people's minds, as this is first and foremost a party destination.

Is Paphos or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Novalja is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Famous for its wild parties that attract backpackers and young travelers, this island destination has become a hotspot for backpackers and party-goers. There are hostels around town that offer a cheap place to crash.

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 Novalja Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paphos is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Novalja is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Novalja offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local buses around the island or you can rent a personal vehicle like a motorbike or scooter.

Is Paphos or Novalja a more walkable city?

Paphos and Novalja both are nice 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.

Novalja is a somewhat walkable place. In town, you can reach most places on foot, but if you want to explore further you'll need to find another way to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Novalja?

It's fun to spend time in either Paphos or Novalja. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Paphos due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 2-4 days is enough time in Novalja.

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

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 nightlife when visiting the destination of Novalja. 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.

A weekend in Paphos or Novalja?

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.

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

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 Novalja. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Novalja?

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 nightlife when visiting the backpacker-filled destination of Novalja. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paphos and Novalja, we can see that Paphos is more expensive. And not only is Novalja much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Novalja would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Novalja 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 Paphos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paphos than you might in Novalja.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Novalja?

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