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

Should you visit Paphos or Siena?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Siena, 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. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Siena

Siena is a charming, medieval, and history city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Paphos and Siena: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Siena?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Siena 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, and shopping, while Siena is known for its historical sights and impressive beauty. Paphos is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also home to Paphos Archaeological Park. Siena is popular for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace.

How is Paphos different from Siena?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its museums and history.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Siena can be an interesting and educational experience. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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

Paphos is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Paphos has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

Siena has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

Is Paphos or Siena Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Siena 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 Siena has a few options to choose from. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

Is Paphos or Siena Better for Resorts?

Paphos is very popular for its resorts. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Siena Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Siena Better for Beaches?

Paphos is very popular for its beaches. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Siena Better for its Old Town?

Siena is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

The old town of Siena is one of the most recognized in the world. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

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 Siena?

Paphos is notable for shopping. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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 Siena. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

Is Paphos or Siena Better for Families?

Paphos is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Paphos or Siena Better for Couples?

Paphos and Siena are both terrific to visit as a couple.

Paphos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Siena is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

Is Paphos or Siena Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is notable for backpackers. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Siena. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

Is Paphos or Siena Better for Students?

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

Siena is a great city to visit as a student. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos is notable for its public transit. Also, Siena is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Paphos is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

Siena has some public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

Is Paphos or Siena a more walkable city?

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

Siena is very walkable. The compact town center is best explored 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 Siena Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Siena or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Siena?

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

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

In Paphos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this coastal 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Siena. 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 Siena?

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.

Siena 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 Siena?

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 Siena. 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 Siena?

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 medieval destination of Siena. This 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 Italy, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Siena?

Siena has a larger population, and is about 46% larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Siena, 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 Siena?

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 Siena in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Siena. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Siena because of the family-friendly experiences.

Paphos is a little warmer than Siena in the summer. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Siena fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Siena this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Siena during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 316 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Siena. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Siena receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Siena in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Siena. The autumn months attract visitors to Paphos because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Siena this time of year.

In the autumn, Paphos is a little warmer than Siena. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paphos in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Siena averages at about 16°C (61°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 Siena. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 177 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Siena. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Siena receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Siena in the Winter?

Both Siena and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Siena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Paphos is generally much warmer than Siena. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 12°C (53°F), and Siena fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Siena during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Siena receives 105 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives around the same amount of rain as Siena. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Siena receives 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Siena in the Spring?

Both Siena and Paphos during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Siena in the spring for the natural beauty.

Paphos is a little warmer than Siena in the spring. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Siena fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Siena. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Siena receives 192 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Siena. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Siena receives 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Siena and Paphos