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

Should you visit Paphos or Porto?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Porto, 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 overlooked, ancient, and beautiful town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums.

Porto

Porto is a cosmopolitan, dynamic, and historic port city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Paphos and Porto: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Porto?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Porto. Although Paphos and Porto are both popular with visitors, Porto has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Porto is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Paphos is known for its museums, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. Paphos is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Porto is popular for its authentic old town and the local port wine. It is also home to Cais da Ribeira.

How is Paphos different from Porto?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is very popular for its historical sights. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its sights and museums.

Travelers visit Paphos from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Porto can be an interesting and educational experience. With such a long history, there are many landmarks and sights in the city. Popular attractions include the Clérigos Tower, Palácio da Bolsa, and Igreja de São Francisco.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at terrific restaurants in both Paphos and Porto.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paphos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

Many restaurants in Porto have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The area's cuisine combines the ocean setting with the agriculture of the surrounding area, so you'll enjoy both seafood dishes as well as fresh meats and vegetables. The area is also famous for its Port wines and red wines. There are plenty of cellar tours as well was waterfront seafood restaurants to choose from.

Is Paphos or Porto Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Porto know how to have a good time. This city comes to life in the evening, particularly on weekends when locals and tourists alike flock to the many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

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 Porto Better for Resorts?

Paphos is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Porto is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Paphos is a perfect 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.

Porto is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Porto Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving 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.

Porto is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Porto Better for Beaches?

Paphos is very popular for its beaches. However, Porto is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Paphos is a very popular vacation 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.

Porto is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Porto Better for its Old Town?

Porto 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 Porto to see the historical old town. Known as Porto Ribeira, the city's historic district is the most visited part of the town. It begins on the banks of the River Douro and climbs into the hills behind it.

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 Porto?

Paphos is a great town for shopping. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Paphos. 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.

Porto offers some nice shopping areas. The city has both your standard shopping mall stores as well as local vendors and boutique shops.

Is Paphos or Porto Better for Families?

Paphos and Porto are both excellent 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, Porto is very family-friendly. The city has several cool museums including the interactive museum - The World of Discoveries. There are also parks, playgrounds, zoos, and aquariums that you can explore. For families that enjoy being outside, this is a great city. Kids will enjoy spotting street art, riding the funicular, and taking a cellar tour. If the kids need a break from the city, head to the beach for the day.

Is Paphos or Porto Better for Couples?

Paphos is very popular for romance. Also, Porto is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Paphos 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.

Porto is a very popular place to visit for couples. You can visit the palaces, enjoy shopping, or dine in a nice Portuguese restaurant. Take a cellar tour and sample port then catch a ride on the funicular. This city has plenty for couples to do on a romantic getaway.

Is Paphos or Porto Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Porto is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. By combining world-class activities with affordability, this city has become a popular stop off for backpackers in the 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 Porto Better for Students?

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

Porto is a great port city to visit as a student. The city has a number of good research programs and study abroad opportunities that attract international students from around the world.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Paphos and Porto.

Visitors to Paphos can move around easily with public transportation. 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.

The public transit in Porto can get you around easily. There is a metro system as well as a bus system. While the metro system does have six lines, most stations aren't close to the tourist attractions, so it likely won't be that helpful to visitors.

Is Paphos or Porto a more walkable city?

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

Porto is very walkable. The city center is very compact with most of the sights within a short walk of each other. The area is also very hilly, so getting from place to place can require a bit of effort.

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 Porto Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Porto or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Porto?

In either Paphos or Porto, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Paphos has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paphos than Porto. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 2-5 days is enough time in Porto.

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

One day in Paphos or Porto?

In Paphos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this ancient destination offers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Porto is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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 Porto?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

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

Paphos is a fun place to experience. In Paphos, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Porto. Don't miss the food, 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 Porto?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful destination of Paphos. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the cultural big city of Porto. This port city 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Portugal, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Portugal.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Porto?

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

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 Porto in the Summer?

Both Porto and Paphos during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Porto because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

Paphos is a little warmer than Porto in the summer. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Porto fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Porto, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Porto. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 308 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Porto. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Porto receives 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Porto in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Porto. The autumn months attract visitors to Paphos because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Porto this time of year.

In the autumn, Paphos is a little warmer than Porto. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paphos in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Porto averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Porto during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 184 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Porto receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Porto. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Porto receives 131 mm (5.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Porto in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Porto. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Porto for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Porto. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 12°C (53°F), and Porto fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Porto. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Porto receives 124 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Porto. Paphos usually gets less rain in January than Porto. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Porto receives 171 mm (6.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Porto in the Spring?

Both Porto and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Porto in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

Paphos is a little warmer than Porto in the spring. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Porto fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Porto. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Porto during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Porto receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Porto. In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Porto. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Porto receives 112 mm (4.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Porto and Paphos