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

Should you visit Paphos or Valletta?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Valletta, 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, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Valletta

Valletta is a cultural, waterfront, and historic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Paphos and Valletta: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Valletta?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Valletta, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is better known for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Valletta is more popular for its historical sights. Paphos is more touristy than Valletta and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Valletta is well known for its ancient fortifications, Baroque palaces, and beautiful gardens.

How is Paphos different from Valletta?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Both Paphos and Valletta have first-rate landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

The museums and tourist attractions in Valletta are world-renowned. With its rich culture and compact old town, there are countless museums, sights, and monuments that are worth visiting. Some options include Saint John's Co-Cathedral, the Grandmaster's Palace and Armory, the National Museum of Archaeology, Manoel Theater, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

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

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Paphos and Valletta.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paphos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

Many restaurants in Valletta have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The town's culinary scene has a long history with many traditional flavors. You really must experience a meal in one of the traditional stone cellar restaurants, which often serve local meze. Head to Republic Street for a stretch of longstanding restaurants in town. Local dishes include stuffat tal-fenek (rabbit stew), bragioli (rolled meat covered in sauce), and lampuki pie (fish pie).

Is Paphos or Valletta Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Valletta 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 Valletta has a few options to choose from. It wasn't long ago that the town went quiet in the evenings, but recent years have brought a surge in bars and clubs around town. You'll find the liveliest nightlife in areas around Strait Street and the Valletta Waterfront. If you're looking for a true clubbing scene, you'll want to head north out of town to Paceville.

Is Paphos or Valletta Better for Resorts?

Paphos is terrific for its luxury resorts. However, Valletta 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.

Valletta is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Valletta Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Valletta is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Valletta Better for Beaches?

Paphos is terrific for the beach. However, Valletta is lacking in good options for its beaches.

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.

Valletta is a good spot to see the beach. There aren't any beaches in town, but if you head north to St. George’s Bay you'll find some nice beaches with a variety of resorts to choose from.

Is Paphos or Valletta Better for its Old Town?

Valletta 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 Valletta is one of the most recognized in the world. The old town is laid out with a uniform grid and the streets are lined with hundreds of historic buildings. At the heart of old town is Republic Street, which divides the area in half and is where you'll find a large concentration of restaurants.

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 Valletta?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Valletta and Paphos.

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.

Valletta is well-known for its shopping. For the best shopping head to Republic Street and Merchants Street where you'll find craft shops, boutiques, and other local souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy picking up blown glass, a locally made miniature, or cactus liquor. Lace is also a common local item that you'll find around town.

Is Paphos or Valletta Better for Families?

Paphos is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Valletta. This charming town has nearby beaches as well as a few museums that kids will enjoy, including a toy museum. There are also several multi-media shows that educate visitors on the area's history. Make sure you check out Malta 5D and the Malta Experience.

Is Paphos or Valletta Better for Couples?

Paphos and Valletta are both first-rate 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.

Valletta is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The town offers beautiful walks, luxury spa experiences, and evening sunset cruises that are seeped in romance. During the evening you can enjoy a cocktail hour and then dine in one of the town's many unique restaurants.

Is Paphos or Valletta Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos and Valletta 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 Valletta. The island has grown in popularity with backpackers, particularly those coming from Europe, as there are affordable flights and easy accessibility. You'll also find some nice hostels around town where you can stay on a budget.

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

Paphos is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. Also, Valletta is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

You'll find some public transit in Valletta, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. If you're not up for walking up and down the hills, there are some buses around town.

Is Paphos or Valletta a more walkable city?

Valletta is renowned for its walkability. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

Getting around Valletta on foot is easy. The town is compact and easy to walk around with many sights within a short distance of each other. There's also very little street traffic.

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 Valletta Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Valletta or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Valletta?

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

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

The beautiful town of Paphos offers museums and nightlife. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

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

Paphos is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Valletta 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 Valletta?

Paphos is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Paphos, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Valletta. 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 Valletta?

Paphos is a great place to explore. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the charming destination of Valletta. This 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 Historical Tours in Malta, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Malta.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Valletta?

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

Paphos has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Valletta experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Valletta in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Valletta. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. The warm climate attracts visitors to Valletta throughout the year.

In July, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Valletta. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Valletta. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the summer, Paphos often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Valletta. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 365 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Valletta. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Valletta in the Autumn?

Both Valletta and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Paphos for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Plenty of visitors come to Valletta because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Paphos is around the same temperature as Valletta in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Valletta fluctuates around 21°C (70°F).

It's quite sunny in Valletta. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Valletta during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 221 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Valletta. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Valletta in the Winter?

Both Valletta and Paphos during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Paphos in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Valletta year-round.

In the winter, Paphos is around the same temperature as Valletta. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Valletta averages at about 13°C (55°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Valletta. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Valletta receives 159 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in January than Valletta. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Valletta in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Valletta. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Valletta attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

In April, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Valletta. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Valletta fluctuates around 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Valletta this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Valletta during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Valletta receives 247 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Valletta. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Valletta receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Valletta and Paphos