A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paphos vs. Piazza Armerina for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Old Town

Should you visit Paphos or Piazza Armerina?

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

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

Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina is a authentic, historic, and charming town. It's also known for food and museums.

Paphos and Piazza Armerina: 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
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Paphos or Piazza Armerina?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Piazza Armerina are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is very popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Piazza Armerina attracts visitors for its historical sights. Paphos is more touristy than Piazza Armerina and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. Piazza Armerina is famous for it's local atmosphere and its premiere historic sight - the Villa Romana del Casale.

How is Paphos different from Piazza Armerina?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its sights and museums. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

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.

Piazza Armerina offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. Most people head to town specifically to visit Villa Romana del Casale, which is a few kilometers away. It's a beautiful Roman villa that can be explored in a few hours. Also in town is an Aragonese Castle and an 18th century Duomo.


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

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town 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).

Piazza Armerina is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most visitors pass through town, stopping to visit Villa Romana del Casale. There are some pizzerias and other casual restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.

Is Paphos or Piazza Armerina Better for Nightlife?

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Paphos is a good destination for nightlife and partying. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Piazza Armerina doesn't offer many options. While many tourists pass through town with the intent of visiting the Villa Romana del Casale, most don't linger long enough appreciate the town at night.

Is Paphos or Piazza Armerina Better for Resorts?

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its resorts. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a resort destination.


Is Paphos or Piazza Armerina Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Paphos is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Piazza Armerina Better for Beaches?

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Paphos is an unbeatable place for the beache. However, Piazza Armerina 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.

Piazza Armerina is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Piazza Armerina Better for its Old Town?

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina to see the historical old town. The old town has a bit of authenticity that is missing from some of the more popular Sicilian cities. While it may feel a little worn to some people, those who like to get away from the souvenir shops will appreciate a visit.

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 Piazza Armerina?

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Paphos is notable for its shopping opportunities. However, Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Piazza Armerina is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Paphos or Piazza Armerina Better for Families?

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Paphos is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town 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.

Piazza Armerina is not always a place people visit with their families. Most people head to the town to explore the Villa Romana del Casale. The beauty and history may not thrill all kids, but if your kids enjoy a bit of history they will likely appreciate a visit. The town also has an Aragonese Castle that you can visit.

Is Paphos or Piazza Armerina Better for Couples?

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its romantic activities. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Piazza Armerina is a good town for couples to visit. For history enthusiasts, this is a popular place to visit. Like most visitors, couples will appreciate a visit to the town's main attraction Villa Romana del Casale.


Is Paphos or Piazza Armerina Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Paphos is notable for backpackers. However, Piazza Armerina is a mediocre town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paphos is a great town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Piazza Armerina is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's a popular tourist destination, there are a limited number of hostels in town.

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

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

Paphos is notable for its public transit. Also, Piazza Armerina is not as famous, but is still a good town 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.

Piazza Armerina has some public transit options. You can reach the town by bus and once there it's possible to explore on foot.

Is Paphos or Piazza Armerina a more walkable city?

Paphos
Piazza Armerina

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

Piazza Armerina is very walkable. You can explore most of the old and new towns 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 Piazza Armerina Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Piazza Armerina or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Piazza Armerina?

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

Families should spend more time in Paphos than Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina. 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 Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paphos 3-5 
    Piazza Armerina 1-2

One day in Paphos or Piazza Armerina?

The overlooked destination of Paphos offers food and scuba diving and snorkeling. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Piazza Armerina. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Piazza Armerina?

The town of Paphos offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina?

Paphos is a great place to explore. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers something for everyone. It is common to spend five days here. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Piazza Armerina. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. 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 Piazza Armerina?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Paphos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the historic destination of Piazza Armerina. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in 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 Bicycle Tours in Italy, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina is €93. 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 Piazza Armerina in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paphos 48
    Piazza Armerina 56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paphos 96
    Piazza Armerina 112
Compare Hotels in Paphos and Piazza Armerina

Looking for a hotel in Paphos or Piazza Armerina? 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 Piazza Armerina


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 Piazza Armerina Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Piazza Armerina 4.29

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paphos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Paphos:

  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport (PFO) to Limassol Port: $25
  • From Nicosia Sightseeing Tour with Hotel Transfer: $30
  • Paphos to Paphos Int Airport (PFO) - Departure Private Transfer: $31
  • 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
  • Paphos Airport (PFO) to Paphos city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $61
  • Private Transfer Paphos Airport PFO to Paphos City by Luxury Car: $138
  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport to Larnaca in Minivan(Taxi): $191

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Piazza Armerina

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Piazza Armerina:

  • From Catania: Return Transfer to Piazza Armerina & Agrigento: $106

Is it cheaper to fly into Paphos or Piazza Armerina?

Prices for flights to both Piazza Armerina 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
    Piazza Armerina 33

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: $52
  • Sunset Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner: $54
  • Wave Dancer Fireworks, Buffet Dinner & Show Cruise: $66

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Piazza Armerina 4.29

Tours and Activities in Paphos

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

  • Cruise to Blue Lagoon from Latchi Port: $20
  • Paphos/Akamas: Blue Lagoon Bus & Boat Tour with water slide: $21
  • Blue Lagoon Cruise with sightseeing departing from LATCHI HARBOUR. Postcode 8840: $22
  • Nafsika II Half Day Cruise Swimming to blue lagoon water slide : $24
  • From Limassol Experience: $25
  • Latchi to Blue Lagoon Glass Bottom+slide Boat Tour: $25
  • Full day trip to Blue Lagoon Latchi Akamas with Boat cruise: $27
  • Chrysoroyiatissa ,Kykkos ,Omodos Day Tour from Paphos: $27
  • From Guided tour of Limassol with Rock of Aphrodite: $29
  • Paphos/Akamas: Blue Lagoon Bus & Boat Tour with Water Slide: $30
  • Blue Lagoon (Akamas) Cruise: $31
  • From Authentic Cyprus Guided Tour with Breakfast: $32

Tours and Activities in Piazza Armerina

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Piazza Armerina are as follows:

  • Villa Romana del Casale Guided Tour: $42
  • From Catania: Agrigento-Piazza Armerina Audio-guided Tour: $128
  • Private Tour of Villa Romana del Casale & Valley of Temples: $225
  • Roman Villa del Casale Mosaics Tour: $241

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paphos 9.98
    Piazza Armerina 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Paphos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paphos:

  • Wine tasting and winery tour at Fikardos Winery: $28
  • Troodos Mountains Jeep Tour with Wine Tasting: $64
  • Regional Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings: $80
  • WINE TOUR from Paphos: $104


When comparing the travel costs between Paphos and Piazza Armerina, we can see that Paphos 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 Piazza Armerina Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Paphos or Piazza Armerina?

Paphos has a larger population, and is about 71% larger than the population of Piazza Armerina. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Piazza Armerina, 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 Piazza Armerina?

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 Piazza Armerina in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Piazza Armerina. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Piazza Armerina in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is around the same temperature as Piazza Armerina. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Piazza Armerina averages at about 26°C (79°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Piazza Armerina this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Piazza Armerina during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 325 hours of full sun in the summer.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Paphos 27°C (80°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 26°C (79°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Piazza Armerina in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Piazza Armerina. Many visitors come to Paphos in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Piazza Armerina. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 19°C (67°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 Piazza Armerina. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 189 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Piazza Armerina. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Paphos 21°C (70°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 19°C (67°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Piazza Armerina in the Winter?

Both Piazza Armerina 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 Piazza Armerina because of the museums and the cuisine.

Paphos is a little warmer than Piazza Armerina in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Piazza Armerina fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Piazza Armerina during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Piazza Armerina receives 153 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives more rain than Piazza Armerina. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Paphos 12°C (53°F) 
    Piazza Armerina 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Piazza Armerina in the Spring?

Both Piazza Armerina 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.

In the spring, Paphos is a little warmer than Piazza Armerina. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Piazza Armerina averages at about 15°C (58°F).

In Piazza Armerina, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Piazza Armerina. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Piazza Armerina receives 204 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Piazza Armerina. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Piazza Armerina receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Piazza Armerina and Paphos

Paphos Piazza Armerina
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 13°C (56°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 24°C (75°F) 1 mm (0 in) 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 1 mm (0 in) 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 76 mm (3 in) 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)


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