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

Should you visit Paphos or Taupo?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Taupo, 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 coastal, overlooked, and ancient town. The beauty of Paphos is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Paphos travel costs.

Taupo

Taupo is a striking, stunning, and otherworldly town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. Taupo is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for shopping, skiing, and nightlife. See Taupo travel costs.

Paphos and Taupo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Taupo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Taupo are popular destinations, Paphos has more sights and attractions for tourists. Paphos is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Taupo attracts visitors for its skiing, hiking, and small town charm. Paphos is famous for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also well known for Paphos Archaeological Park. Taupo is famous for its thermal hot springs, dramatic landscapes, and world class hikes.

How is Paphos different from Taupo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Taupo and Paphos. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Paphos or Taupo Better for Skiing?

Taupo is renowned for winter skiing. However, Paphos is not a skiing destination.

The snow ski experience you'll have in Taupo is among the best in the world. Nearby Mount Ruapehu offers access to the longest running ski season in both Australia and New Zealand. From June until October you can enjoy the largest commercial ski areas around. There are options for everyone from young beginners to experts. The two main ski resorts in the area are Whakapapa Ski Area and Tūroa Ski Area.

Paphos is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paphos or Taupo?

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Taupo is a town with minimal options for its historical sights.

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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Taupo. Stunning natural beauty and adventure-filled activities are what Taupo is all about, but you won't find much in the form of museums.

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

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its restaurant scene. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

For foodies, Paphos is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. 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).

Taupo has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The town is filled with local restaurants that make use of local ingredients such as fresh caught trout, local produce, and wild game. The town also has many farmers markets and a strong cafe culture.

Is Paphos or Taupo Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Taupo 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 Taupo has a few options to choose from. It's a small resort town that is active during the day and night. There are low key activities in the evening like soaking in the thermal hot pools or grabbing a drink at a bar.

Is Paphos or Taupo Better for Resorts?

Paphos is a must-visit destination for its resorts. However, Taupo is not a resort destination.

For the ultimate resort vacation, Paphos is a great 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.

Taupo is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Taupo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Taupo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Paphos has a few good snorkeling spots. 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.

Taupo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Taupo Better for Beaches?

Paphos is a must-visit destination for the beach. However, Taupo is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Paphos. 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.

Taupo is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Taupo Better for its Old Town?

Paphos is a popular place for its old town. However, Taupo does not have a historic old town.

Many people head to Paphos to see the old town. 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.

Taupo does not have a historic old town.

Is Paphos or Taupo Better for Hiking?

Taupo is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Paphos is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Taupo. The area is filled with beautiful hikes that take you through the natural beauty. During the fall season you can enjoy the fall foliage and during the summer months the wildlife and waterfront setting is at a peak.

Paphos is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Taupo?

Paphos is a great destination for its shopping opportunities. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

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.

Taupo has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The lakefront town has a nice, pedestrian-friendly stretch with boutique shops, fashion outlets, and souvenir vendors.

Is Paphos or Taupo More Beautiful?

Paphos is a great destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Paphos is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The area is known for its world-renowned archeological ruins, stunning beaches, and beautiful outdoor setting.

Taupo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Set against the lake, there is stunning natural beauty in the area and many breathtaking views.

Is Paphos or Taupo Better for Families?

Taupo is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Taupo is an amazing family-friendly town to visit. Set on the edge of Lake Taupo, there are many family-friendly activities in the area like swimming, boating, and hiking. There are also thermal hot springs and in the winter months skiing. Families who enjoy outdoor adventures will find no shortage of options year round.

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.

Is Paphos or Taupo Better for Couples?

Paphos and Taupo are both fantastic 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.

Taupo is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Honeymooners and couples who enjoy romantic scenery, beautiful sunsets, and outdoor adventure will fall in love with this area. You can soak in thermal hot springs and picnic next to beautiful waterfalls. There are also breathtaking hikes and great water activities.

Is Paphos or Taupo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Taupo is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There's plenty of backpacker and hostel accommodation in the area. There are also free outdoor activities and adrenaline-filled adventures that backpackers will enjoy.

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 Taupo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paphos is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Taupo is still popular, but not quite as popular 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.

While Taupo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are local bus service, the Taupo Connector, that travels around the town center. If you want to get outside of town, you'll need to have a car.

Is Paphos or Taupo a more walkable city?

Paphos and Taupo 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.

Taupo is a somewhat walkable place. The town is fairly compact, but if you want to efficiently get around and experience everything that the area has to offer, you'll want to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Paphos Worth Visiting? and Is Taupo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Taupo or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Taupo?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Paphos and Taupo. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Paphos than in Taupo. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 2-3 days is enough time in Taupo.

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

In Paphos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this cultural 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 shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Taupo. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paphos or Taupo?

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.

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

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 Taupo. Don't miss the skiing, as that's what most people do. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Taupo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the overlooked 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 food and shopping when visiting the striking destination of Taupo. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking 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 G Adventures Tours to New Zealand, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Auckland.

When comparing the travel costs between Paphos and Taupo, 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. Even though Paphos is in Europe and Taupo is in Pacific, both of these destinations have relatively similar prices of travel. Generally, the levels of luxury and expenses are the same for these cities even though they are geographically far apart.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Paphos Expensive? and Is Taupo Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Taupo?

Paphos has a larger population, and is about 60% larger than the population of Taupo. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Taupo, 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.