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

Should you visit Paphos or Tromso?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Tromso, 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.

Tromso

Tromso is a spectacular, remote, and one-of-a-kind town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of Tromso is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking. See Tromso travel costs.

Paphos and Tromso: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Tromso?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Tromso, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is better known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Tromso is more popular for its hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Paphos is well known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Tromso is well known for its stunning nature, beautiful Arctic landscape, and breathtaking fjords.

How is Paphos different from Tromso?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its historical sights. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso does not have museums and landmarks. You can learn about everything having to do with the Arctic at the museum, Polaria. There's also the the Polar Museum, the Arctic Cathedral, and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum.

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

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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).

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Tromso makes for a great culinary experience. Fish is the staple around town and you'll find local seasonal fish dishes. There are also modern restaurants that serve international cuisines or trendy options.

Is Paphos or Tromso Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Tromso 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 Tromso has a few options to choose from. There's a good nightlife scene with many bars and clubs that are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Is Paphos or Tromso Better for Resorts?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for its luxury resorts. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Tromso Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Tromso Better for Beaches?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for the beach. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Tromso Better for its Old Town?

Paphos is a town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Paphos has an old town worth visiting. 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.

Tromso does not have a historic old town.

Is Paphos or Tromso Better for Hiking?

Tromso 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 Tromso. The surrounding countryside is filled with fjords, mountains, and pristine wilderness. There are hikes that cater to every level, and a trip to Tromso is not complete without heading into the rural areas.

Paphos is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Tromso?

Paphos is a great town for its shopping areas. However, Tromso 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.

Tromso is a good destination for shopping. There are shops sprinkled along the main street, as well as a shopping center or two around town.

Is Paphos or Tromso More Beautiful?

Tromso is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Tromso is one of the main draws. It's surrounding Arctic landscape includes fjords and snow-topped mountains.

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.

Is Paphos or Tromso Better for Families?

Paphos and Tromso are both high quality 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, Tromso is very family-friendly. Whether you visit during the summer or winter season, there are a number of indoor or outdoor activities around town. Many visitors come during the winter months to see the Northern Lights. There's also the Ice Hotel, Husky Sledding, and fjords cruises. Indoors, you'll find the Science Center, the Arctic University Museum, and the Troll Museum.

Is Paphos or Tromso Better for Couples?

Paphos is an unbeatable place for couples. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town 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.

Tromso is a very popular place to visit for couples. For many couples, seeing the Northern Lights is an iconic romantic experience. The area also has an amazing outdoor setting with fjords and hiking. Indoors, there are art museums and more.

Is Paphos or Tromso Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is a great town for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Plenty of backpackers visit Tromso. There are hostels as well as camping in the area that make this otherwise expensive area somewhat more affordable.

Is Paphos or Tromso Better for Students?

Tromso is a nice place to visit for students. However, Paphos is not popular with students.

Tromso is popular with students. Although it's a very small city, there are a large number of students and some big city amenities. There are plenty of entertainment options both in town and in the surrounding countryside.

Paphos is not popular with students.

Is Paphos or Tromso 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, Tromso is not as popular, but is still a nice 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.

Tromso has a few public transit options. There's an efficient and reliable bus system in town.

Is Paphos or Tromso a more walkable city?

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

Tromso is very walkable. The city is generally walkable but if you want to get into the countryside you'll need to travel by car or bus.

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 Tromso Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tromso or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Tromso?

Both Paphos and Tromso have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Tromso than in Paphos. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 4-7 days is enough time in Tromso.

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

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Paphos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Tromso might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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 Tromso?

Paphos is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Tromso is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Paphos or Tromso?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tromso. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Tromso?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the ancient destination of Paphos. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Tromso is a small town with plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Norway, and The Best Adventure Tours to Norway.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paphos and Tromso, we can see that Paphos is more expensive. And not only is Tromso much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Tromso would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Tromso 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 Paphos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paphos than you might in Tromso.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Tromso?

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

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 Tromso in the Summer?

Both Tromso 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 Tromso for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Paphos is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In Tromso, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 205 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Tromso. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Tromso in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Tromso. Many travelers come to Paphos for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Tromso in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Tromso can get quite cold in the autumn. Paphos is much warmer than Tromso in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Tromso fluctuates around 3°C (37°F).

In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 49 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Tromso receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Tromso. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 125 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Tromso in the Winter?

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

Tromso can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Paphos is much warmer than Tromso. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Tromso averages at about -4°C (25°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Tromso. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tromso receives 3 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in January than Tromso. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Tromso in the Spring?

Both Tromso 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 Tromso because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

The weather in Tromso can be very cold. In April, Paphos is generally much warmer than Tromso. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Tromso fluctuates around 1°C (33°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Tromso during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Tromso receives 160 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Tromso. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Tromso receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Tromso and Paphos