A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paphos vs. Saint-Etienne for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Families

Should you visit Paphos or Saint-Etienne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Saint-Etienne, 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. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a industrial, undiscovered, and authentic city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Paphos and Saint-Etienne: 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
  • Scenic old town
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Paphos or Saint-Etienne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Saint-Etienne 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, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Saint-Etienne attracts visitors for its hiking. Paphos is more touristy than Saint-Etienne and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. Saint-Etienne is famous for its industrial and manufacturing past.

How is Paphos different from Saint-Etienne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its historical sights. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its sights and museums.

The museums and tourist attractions in Paphos are world-renowned. 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 for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Saint-Etienne. There are several great museums in town including the Musée d'Art et d'Industrie, Musée de la Mine, Musée des Verts, and the planetarium.


Is the Food Better in Paphos or Saint-Etienne? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its local cuisine and 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).

Saint-Etienne may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Try the many local cheeses which are a defining part of the cuisine in the area. You'll find some local restaurants around town where you can sample local flavors.

Is Paphos or Saint-Etienne Better for Nightlife?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Saint-Etienne has a better nightlife scene.

Paphos has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. 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.

If you're looking for night time activities Saint-Etienne has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is centered around sipping wine or visiting one of the clubs in town.

Is Paphos or Saint-Etienne Better for Resorts?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne is not a resort destination.


Is Paphos or Saint-Etienne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Saint-Etienne Better for Beaches?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for the beache. However, Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Saint-Etienne Better for its Old Town?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos is a good destination for its old town. However, Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.

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.

Saint-Etienne does not have a historic old town.


Is Paphos or Saint-Etienne Better for Hiking?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Saint-Etienne is a nice place to visit for its hiking experiences. However, Paphos is not a hiking destination.

Saint-Etienne has hiking trails worth exploring. You'll find several great hikes just outside of town. It's a great way to experience the surrounding countryside.

Paphos is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Saint-Etienne?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos is great for its shopping opportunities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for its shopping areas.

Paphos is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Saint-Etienne has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. Shopping malls and several boutique shopping areas make up the city's shopping scene.

Is Paphos or Saint-Etienne Better for Families?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paphos is very family-friendly. 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.

Saint-Etienne is a family-friendly place to visit. There are several kid-friendly museums as well as plenty of natural settings just outside of town. Your kids can run around and stretch their legs nearby at Crest of the Partridge or on a rainy day, the planetarium is a fun place to visit.


Is Paphos or Saint-Etienne Better for Couples?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its romantic activities. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination 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.

Saint-Etienne is not always the best place to visit for a couple. There are museums, parks, gardens, and beautiful architecture that make this a wonderful place for couples.

Is Paphos or Saint-Etienne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Saint-Etienne is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Saint-Etienne is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not high on the backpacker trail, but there are hostels and plenty of activities to enjoy.

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

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos is great for times when you don't have a car. Also, Saint-Etienne is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its public transit.

Public transit in Paphos can get you to some places easily. 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.

Saint-Etienne has a few public transit options. There are tram and bus options available in town.


Is Paphos or Saint-Etienne a more walkable city?

Paphos
Saint-Etienne

Paphos and Saint-Etienne 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.

Saint-Etienne is a somewhat walkable place. There are several walkable areas in the city.

For even more information, also check out Is Paphos Worth Visiting? and Is Saint-Etienne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saint-Etienne or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Saint-Etienne?

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

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

One day in Paphos or Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the overlooked destination of Paphos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Saint-Etienne. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Saint-Etienne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne?

Many travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the beautiful destination of Paphos. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Saint-Etienne. 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 Saint-Etienne?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the beautiful town of Paphos. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the authentic destination of Saint-Etienne. This 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 One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris.


Which place is cheaper, Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne is €108. 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 Saint-Etienne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paphos 48
    Saint-Etienne 46
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paphos 96
    Saint-Etienne 92
Compare Hotels in Paphos and Saint-Etienne

Looking for a hotel in Paphos or Saint-Etienne? 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 Saint-Etienne


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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Saint-Etienne 44

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paphos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Paphos:

  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport to Larnaca in Minivan(Taxi): $191
  • Private Transfer Paphos Airport PFO to Paphos City by Luxury Car: $138
  • Paphos Airport (PFO) to Paphos city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $61
  • Choirokitia & Famagusta Guided Tour with Transfers: $43
  • Private Airport Transfer from Hotel to Paphos Airport in a 4-seater taxi: $42
  • Blue Lagoon trip with slide, music & transfer from Paphos: $32
  • Paphos to Paphos Int Airport (PFO) - Departure Private Transfer: $31
  • From Nicosia Sightseeing Tour with Hotel Transfer: $30
  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport (PFO) to Limassol Port: $25

Is it cheaper to fly into Paphos or Saint-Etienne?

Prices for flights to both Saint-Etienne 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
    Saint-Etienne 34

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
    Saint-Etienne 25

Tours and Activities in Paphos

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

  • Guided Tour of Limassol with Kourion and Kolossi Castle : $49
  • 100% Cyprus - Tour to Troodos mountains and villages (From Paphos) : $52
  • 3 Hours Sunset Cruise in Atlantida Bay: $54
  • 6 hour Buggy Tour Akamas incl lunch and Adonis Falls: $209
  • 6-Hour Quad or Buggy Tour incl Lunch and Entrance to Adonis Falls: $87
  • Adonis Falls Lazy Sunday Quad and Buggy Adventure : $76
  • Akamas Jeep Safari Tour from Paphos: $62
  • Akamas Panorama: Private Mini Bus Tour With Local Guide: $588
  • Akamas Peninsula Full Day 4x4 Winter Tour: $71
  • Ancient Kourion, Kolossi Castle, Omodos & Winery Tour - Paphos: $94
  • Authentic Cyprus Historic Day Tour from Paphos: $33
  • Blue Lagoon (Akamas) Cruise: $31

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paphos 9.98
    Saint-Etienne 10

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 Saint-Etienne, we can see that Saint-Etienne 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 Saint-Etienne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Paphos or Saint-Etienne?

Saint-Etienne has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Saint-Etienne, 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 Saint-Etienne?

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 Saint-Etienne in the Summer?

Both Saint-Etienne and Paphos during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Saint-Etienne in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 22°C (71°F).

In Saint-Etienne, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 285 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Saint-Etienne. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Paphos 27°C (80°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 22°C (71°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Saint-Etienne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Saint-Etienne. Many visitors come to Paphos in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Saint-Etienne for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Paphos is generally much warmer than Saint-Etienne. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 127 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Paphos 21°C (70°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 14°C (56°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Saint-Etienne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Saint-Etienne. Most visitors come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Saint-Etienne because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Saint-Etienne can be very cold. Paphos is much warmer than Saint-Etienne in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Saint-Etienne fluctuates around 4°C (39°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Saint-Etienne. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Saint-Etienne receives 62 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets more rain in January than Saint-Etienne. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Paphos 12°C (53°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 4°C (39°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Saint-Etienne in the Spring?

Both Saint-Etienne and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Saint-Etienne this time of year.

In the spring, Paphos is a little warmer than Saint-Etienne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Saint-Etienne averages at about 11°C (53°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Saint-Etienne during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Saint-Etienne receives 174 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Saint-Etienne. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Saint-Etienne receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Paphos 17°C (62°F) 
    Saint-Etienne 11°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Saint-Etienne and Paphos

Paphos Saint-Etienne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 13°C (56°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Jun 24°C (75°F) 1 mm (0 in) 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 1 mm (0 in) 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 76 mm (3 in) 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in)