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

Should you visit Paphos or Tartu?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Tartu, 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 beautiful, cultural, and coastal town. With stunning beauty, Paphos attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food. See Paphos travel costs.

Tartu

Tartu is a student-oriented, cultural, and historical university town. Tartu is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife. See Tartu travel costs.

Paphos and Tartu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Tartu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Tartu, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is better known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Tartu is more popular for its nightlife and historical sights. Paphos is more touristy than Tartu and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Tartu is well known for its vibrant student population and long running university.

How is Paphos different from Tartu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its historical sights. However, Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

With plenty of landmarks, attractions, and museums, Paphos has many famous sights for visitors. 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.

Tartu does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Tartu is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Many restaurants in Paphos have been singled out for their culinary prowess. 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).

Tartu offers some easy restaurants to choose from. The restaurant scene is surprisingly limited because of the large student population. Most students prefer saving their money for a night out drinking over a quiet meal at a restaurant. There are some cafes around town as well as pastry shops and a few good ethnic restaurants to choose between.

Is Paphos or Tartu Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Tartu know how to have a good time. With its huge student population, there is plenty of activity year round. The nightlife scene includes many bars, dance clubs, and pubs that are popular with students and visitors alike. You'll find large parties and music festivals throughout the year that bring crowds to the city.

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 Tartu Better for Resorts?

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Tartu is not a resort destination.

Paphos is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Tartu is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Tartu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tartu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Tartu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Tartu Better for Beaches?

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for the beach. However, Tartu is not a beach destination.

Paphos is considered to be a world-class beach 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.

Tartu is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Tartu Better for its Old Town?

Tartu 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 Tartu to see the historical old town. The old town is where you'll find one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. There is also Town Hall Square and St. John’s Quarter with many historic buildings and beautiful architecture.

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. The area was revitalized in 2017 and there are many historical sites. It's also fun to go shopping at Kennedy Square and Makariou Avenue.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Tartu?

Paphos is a great town for its shopping areas. However, Tartu is not known for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in 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.

Tartu is a good destination for shopping. While most people don't visit to go shopping, there is an active art scene in town so you can find some creative pieces that are worth checking out.

Is Paphos or Tartu More Beautiful?

Paphos is a great town for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its scenery and beauty.

With stunning beauty, Paphos attracts visitors from all around. The area is known for its world-renowned archeological ruins, stunning beaches, and beautiful outdoor setting.

Tartu is a gorgeous place to visit. It's a beautiful city with a long history and a number of unique historical buildings.

Is Paphos or Tartu Better for Families?

Paphos is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Paphos. 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.

Tartu is a family-friendly place to visit. Many of the kid-friendly activities are outdoors, so summer visits are better if you're traveling with children. There are adventure parks, animal parks, and educational museums that you can choose from.

Is Paphos or Tartu Better for Couples?

Paphos is an amazing town to visit for couples. However, Tartu is not known for romance.

Paphos is a great town for couples, as it 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.

Tartu is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a young population, so you'll find many activities center around a more youthful vibe. There are some great museums that couples will enjoy, as well as a lively nightlife scene. Outside of old town, couples will enjoy wandering through the Karlova and Supilinn districts.

Is Paphos or Tartu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos and Tartu are high quality places 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.

Many backpackers visit Tartu. With it's young population and budget friendly entertainment options, there are many things that backpackers will enjoy. It's not nearly as popular with backpackers as some other cities, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have a lot to offer.

Is Paphos or Tartu Better for Students?

Tartu is renowned for students. However, Paphos is not popular with students.

Tartu is a great destination for students. It is a university town and home to one of the oldest universities in Northern Europe. The student population is large here, with many activities, museums, and nightlife options to choose from. There always seems to be something going on in this vibrant city.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos is a great town for times when you don't have a car. Also, Tartu is not as popular, but is still a nice university town for its public transit.

Many visitors use the public transit system in Paphos. 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.

Tartu has a few public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system around the town.

Is Paphos or Tartu a more walkable city?

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

Tartu is very walkable. The city is compact with most of its sights and restaurants close together along a couple of streets.

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 Tartu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tartu or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Tartu?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paphos and Tartu. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paphos than in Tartu. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 1-3 days is enough time in Tartu.

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

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 nightlife when visiting the destination of Tartu. 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 Tartu?

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.

Tartu 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 Tartu?

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 Tartu. 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 Tartu?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the coastal 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 nightlife when visiting the student-oriented destination of Tartu. This university 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 Romantic Tours for Couples in Estonia, and The Best Budget Tours to Estonia.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Tartu?

Tartu has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Tartu, 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 Tartu?

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 Tartu in the Summer?

Both Tartu and Paphos during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Tartu for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Paphos is generally much warmer than Tartu. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Tartu fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Tartu, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Tartu. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tartu receives 265 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Tartu. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Tartu in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Tartu. Many travelers come to Paphos for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Tartu in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

Paphos is much warmer than Tartu in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Tartu fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Tartu during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Tartu receives 86 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Tartu. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Tartu in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Tartu. Many visitors come to Paphos in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Tartu for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

Tartu can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Paphos is much warmer than Tartu. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Tartu averages at about -7°C (19°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Tartu. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tartu receives 36 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets more rain in January than Tartu. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Tartu in the Spring?

Both Tartu and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Tartu because of the natural beauty.

The weather in Tartu can be very cold. In April, Paphos is generally much warmer than Tartu. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Tartu fluctuates around 5°C (41°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Tartu during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Tartu receives 180 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Tartu. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Tartu receives 33 mm (1.3 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tartu and Paphos