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

Should you visit Paphos or Villach?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Villach, 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. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping.

Villach

Villach is a outdoorsy, historic, and nature-filled town. Don't miss this spot, as it's a charming small town with plenty of activities. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, hiking, and museums.

Paphos and Villach: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Villach?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Villach, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is better known for its museums, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Villach is more popular for its hiking and small town charm. Paphos is more touristy than Villach and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Villach is well known for its many alpine hikes, nearby lakes, and its quaint main square.

How is Paphos different from Villach?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is terrific for its sights and museums. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

You'll find many recognizable landmarks that put Paphos on the map. 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.

Villach is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several historical buildings in town such as the Parish Church of St. Jakob, the Holy Cross Church, and the Parish Church of St. Martin. Also worth a visit is the Museum of the City of Villach.

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

Paphos is terrific for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its restaurants.

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).

Villach offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find the standard options of pizza and burgers around town. While the food scene isn't particularly special, the quality is decent and reliable.

Is Paphos or Villach Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Villach 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 Villach has a few options to choose from. The weekends are when you'll find the best nightlife. There are some local bars and clubs that come to life and attract a young crowd on a weekend night.

Is Paphos or Villach Better for Resorts?

Paphos is terrific for its resorts. However, Villach 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.

Villach is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Villach Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Villach 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.

Villach is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Villach Better for Beaches?

Paphos is terrific for the beach. However, Villach 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.

Villach is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Villach Better for its Old Town?

Paphos and Villach both have notable historical old towns that attract visitors.

Many visitors go to Paphos to see the historical old town. The old town is a pleasant area to walk around with a number of interesting buildings.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Villach. You'll find churches and gardens throughout the charming old town. At the heart of the town is the main square.

Is Paphos or Villach Better for Hiking?

Villach 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 Villach. The surrounding countryside is filled with both short and long hikes. You can take a short stroll or spend hours (or days) exploring the alpine scenery. Breathtaking views and peaceful retreats make this a wonderful area for hiking.

Paphos is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Villach?

Paphos is notable for its shopping areas. However, Villach is a mediocre town for shopping.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Villach is a good destination for shopping. There are your standard shopping centers where you can pick up clothes or anything you may have forgotten for your trip.

Is Paphos or Villach Better for Families?

Paphos and Villach are both very good 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, Villach is very family-friendly. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family will enjoy. There's kid-friendly hiking, adventure parks, nature parks, and some swimming areas.

Is Paphos or Villach Better for Couples?

Paphos is terrific for couples. Also, Villach is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

Paphos makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Villach makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures, beautiful hikes, and stunning scenery will appreciate a visit to this area.

Is Paphos or Villach Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos and Villach are very good 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 Villach. There are a number of hostels in the area that cater to backpackers who enjoy the outdoor setting and beautiful hikes that are nearby.

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

Paphos is notable for its public transit. However, Villach is a mediocre town for times when you don't have a car.

Paphos offers a very effecient public transportation network. 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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Villach. There are buses and trains in the area, but to experience the nearby nature you'll want to have a car.

Is Paphos or Villach a more walkable city?

Paphos is a popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Villach is a mediocre town for its walkability.

Paphos is a somewhat walkable town. 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.

Villach is generally not a very walkable town. Parts of the town are walkable but the surrounding natural areas are most easily accessed with a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Villach or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Villach?

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

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

In Paphos, you'll find shopping and museums. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the destination of Villach. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Villach?

In Paphos, you'll find museums and nightlife. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people come for the beaches. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Villach 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 Villach?

Paphos is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Paphos has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

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

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. Many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting Paphos. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and museums when visiting the historic destination of Villach. 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 2-Week Tours in Austria, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Austria.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Villach?

Villach has a larger population, and is about 64% larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Villach, 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 Villach?

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 Villach in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Villach. Many visitors come to Paphos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Villach for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Villach. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Villach fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Villach this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Villach during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Villach receives 288 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Villach. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Villach receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Villach in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Villach. Most visitors come to Paphos for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Villach because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

Paphos is a little warmer than Villach in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Villach fluctuates around 16°C (60°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 Villach. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Villach receives 167 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Paphos or Villach in the Winter?

Both Villach and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Paphos because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Villach this time of year.

In the winter, Paphos is much warmer than Villach. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Villach averages at about 5°C (41°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Villach during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Villach receives 96 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives less rain than Villach. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Villach receives 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Villach in the Spring?

Both Villach and Paphos during the spring are popular places to visit. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Villach for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

In April, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Villach. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Villach fluctuates around 13°C (56°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Villach. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Villach receives 177 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Villach. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Villach receives 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Villach and Paphos