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

Should you visit Paphos or Volos?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Volos, 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 overlooked, ancient, and beautiful town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Volos

Volos is a authentic, vibrant, and youthful city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, nightlife, and food.

Paphos and Volos: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Paphos or Volos?

Both Volos and Paphos have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Paphos is very popular for its museums, food, resorts, beaches, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Volos attracts visitors for its nightlife and big city activities. Paphos is more touristy than Volos and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Volos is famous for its vibrant seaside setting and its access to nearby natural beauty.

How is Paphos different from Volos?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos
Volos

Paphos is a world-class destination for its museums and history. However, Volos is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

The museums and tourist attractions in Paphos are world-renowned. 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.

Volos offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in town including the Archaeological Museum of Volos.


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

Paphos
Volos

Paphos is a world-class destination for its restaurants. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Paphos has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. 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).

Dining out in Volos is an experience not to be missed. Greece cuisine is very regional specific, and this area has its own dishes that are very different from elsewhere in the country. Deep fried kolitsianoi (sea anemone), boubari (local sausage), and spetzofai (sausage, tomato, and peppers) are just some of the unique dishes in the area.

Is Paphos or Volos Better for Nightlife?

Paphos
Volos

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

The people in Volos know how to have a good time. The universities around town keep the nightlife scene active and fun. There are a number of bars and clubs that are fun throughout the year.

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 Volos Better for Resorts?

Paphos
Volos

Paphos is a world-class destination for its luxury resorts. However, Volos is not a resort destination.

If you're looking for a fantastic resort destination, Paphos is a perfect 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.

Volos is not a resort destination.


Is Paphos or Volos Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos
Volos

You'll find nice snorkeling or scuba diving in both Paphos and Volos.

Paphos has a few areas where visitors often go scuba diving or snorkeling. 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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Volos. There are some snorkeling and dive shops in town that offer day trips.

Is Paphos or Volos Better for Beaches?

Paphos
Volos

Paphos is a world-class destination for the beache. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

With world-famous beaches, Paphos is a very popular vacation 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.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Volos. If you're willing to travel out of town, this region has some of the best beaches in Greece. The summers are cooler than other parts of the country and the winters are milder, so this is both a beautiful and a comfortable place to explore.

Is Paphos or Volos Better for its Old Town?

Paphos
Volos

Paphos is very good for its old town. However, Volos does not have a historic old town.

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.

Volos does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Volos?

Paphos
Volos

Paphos is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping areas.

Paphos is well-known for its shopping. 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.

Many visitors go to Volos to go shopping. There are shopping malls and shopping centers around town that have a variety of retail options including clothing, jewelry, and home goods.

Is Paphos or Volos Better for Families?

Paphos
Volos

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

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Volos. If your kids are adventurous, they'll enjoy horseback riding or exploring the area's beaches. There's also the Archaeological Museum of Volos and Agios Konstantinos Park.

Is Paphos or Volos Better for Couples?

Paphos
Volos

Paphos is a world-class destination for its romantic activities. Also, Volos is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

For those traveling as a couple, Paphos 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.

Volos is a good town for couples to visit. There are gardens and outdoor activities that couples can enjoy. There are also museums and beaches.


Is Paphos or Volos Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos
Volos

Paphos is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Volos is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Volos is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's not a popular backpacker destination and you won't find that many hostels in the area.

Is Paphos or Volos Better for Students?

Paphos
Volos

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

Volos is popular with students. You'll find several universities in town. The port city also offers access to different parts of the country.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos
Volos

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

Public transit in Paphos can get you to some places easily. 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 Volos, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a bus system that travels around town.


Is Paphos or Volos a more walkable city?

Paphos
Volos

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

Volos is very walkable. The city is flat and there's a historic district that you can explore on foot.

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 Volos Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Volos or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Volos?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paphos or Volos to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paphos than Volos because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 1-2 days is enough time in Volos.

Families should spend more time in Paphos than Volos. 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 Volos. 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 Volos 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.


  • How many days in Paphos or Volos? Ideal Length of Stay
    Paphos 3-5 
    Volos 1-2

One day in Paphos or Volos?

In Paphos, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this ancient 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 nightlife when visiting the destination of Volos. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Volos?

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.

Volos 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 Volos?

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 Volos. Most people come for the beaches. 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 Volos?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the beautiful 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 scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the vibrant destination of Volos. This city 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Cyprus, The Best Tours for Seniors to Cyprus, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Athens, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Athens.


Which place is cheaper, Volos or Paphos?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Paphos is €97, while the average daily cost in Volos is €95. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Paphos and Volos in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Paphos 48
    Volos 43
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Paphos 96
    Volos 86
Compare Hotels in Paphos and Volos

Looking for a hotel in Paphos or Volos? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Paphos


Hotels in Volos


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Paphos Hotel Prices and Volos Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Volos 37

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Paphos

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Paphos:

  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport to Larnaca in Minivan(Taxi): $191
  • Private Transfer from Paphos Airport (PFO) to Limassol Port: $25
  • Private Transfer Paphos Airport PFO to Paphos City by Luxury Car: $138
  • Private Airport Transfer from Hotel to Paphos Airport in a 4-seater taxi: $42
  • Choirokitia & Famagusta Guided Tour with Transfers: $43
  • Paphos to Paphos Int Airport (PFO) - Departure Private Transfer: $31
  • Paphos Airport (PFO) to Paphos city - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $61
  • From Nicosia Sightseeing Tour with Hotel Transfer: $30
  • Blue Lagoon trip with slide, music & transfer from Paphos: $32

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Volos

Also for Volos, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • From Volos to Athens Airport / Athens / Piraeus Private Transfer: $280
  • Volos to Athens Easy & Economy Transfer: $524
  • Volos to Athens, Athens Airport and Piraeus Port Private Transfer: $257

Is it cheaper to fly into Paphos or Volos?

Prices for flights to both Volos and Paphos change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Paphos 38
    Volos 30

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Paphos

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Paphos.

  • From Sunset Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner: $52
  • Sunset Drink at Aphrodite's Rock & Folk Dinner: $54
  • Wave Dancer Fireworks, Buffet Dinner & Show Cruise: $66

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Volos

For Volos, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Session "Pelion Flavours": $71
  • Cook like a local Greek Cooking lesson in Mt Pelion Greece: $109

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Paphos 12
    Volos 17

Tours and Activities in Paphos

Here are a few actual costs in Paphos for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Guided Tour of Limassol with Kourion and Kolossi Castle : $49
  • 100% Cyprus - Tour to Troodos mountains and villages (From Paphos) : $52
  • 3 Hours Sunset Cruise in Atlantida Bay: $54
  • 6 hour Buggy Tour Akamas incl lunch and Adonis Falls: $209
  • 6-Hour Quad or Buggy Tour incl Lunch and Entrance to Adonis Falls: $87
  • Adonis Falls Lazy Sunday Quad and Buggy Adventure : $76
  • Akamas Jeep Safari Tour from Paphos: $62
  • Akamas Panorama: Private Mini Bus Tour With Local Guide: $588
  • Akamas Peninsula Full Day 4x4 Winter Tour: $71
  • Ancient Kourion, Kolossi Castle, Omodos & Winery Tour - Paphos: $94
  • Authentic Cyprus Historic Day Tour from Paphos: $33
  • Blue Lagoon (Akamas) Cruise: $31

Tours and Activities in Volos

For Volos, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Kayaking Adventure around Pelion Coastline : $33
  • East Pelion - Sea Kayak Tour "Short Paddle": $38
  • Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour "The Secret Cave": $49
  • HIKING PELION - Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $197
  • BIKING PELION Private Guided Full or Half Day Tour: $211
  • From Hidden Sights of Meteora Private Tour: $214
  • Volos Pelion Full Day Tour : $240
  • Pagasetic Gulf Full-Day Sailboat Experience: $735

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Paphos 9.98
    Volos 7.86

Sample the Local Flavors in Paphos

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Paphos:

  • Wine tasting and winery tour at Fikardos Winery: $28
  • Troodos Mountains Jeep Tour with Wine Tasting: $64
  • Regional Wineries Tour with Wine Tastings: $80
  • WINE TOUR from Paphos: $104


When comparing the travel costs between Paphos and Volos, 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. 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 Volos Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Paphos or Volos?

Volos has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Volos, 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 Volos?

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 Volos in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Volos. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Volos because of the beaches, snorkeling, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is around the same temperature as Volos. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Volos averages at about 26°C (78°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Volos. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Volos. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volos receives 330 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Volos. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Volos receives 20 mm (0.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Paphos 27°C (80°F) 
    Volos 26°C (78°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Volos in the Autumn?

Both Volos and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Paphos because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene are the main draw to Volos this time of year.

In October, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Volos. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Volos fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Volos during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Volos receives 165 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Volos. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Volos receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Paphos 21°C (70°F) 
    Volos 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Volos in the Winter?

Both Volos and Paphos during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Volos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Paphos is much warmer than Volos in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Volos fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Volos. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Volos receives 112 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets more rain in January than Volos. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Volos receives 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Paphos 12°C (53°F) 
    Volos 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit Paphos or Volos in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Volos. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Volos in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Paphos is a little warmer than Volos. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Volos averages at about 14°C (56°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Volos this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Volos during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Volos receives 209 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Volos. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Volos receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Paphos 17°C (62°F) 
    Volos 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Volos and Paphos

Paphos Volos
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 7°C (45°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 13°C (56°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Apr 17°C (62°F) 11 mm (0.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
May 20°C (69°F) 7 mm (0.3 in) 19°C (66°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 24°C (75°F) 1 mm (0 in) 23°C (74°F) 24 mm (0.9 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 26°C (78°F) 20 mm (0.8 in)
Aug 27°C (80°F) 0 mm (0 in) 25°C (77°F) 16 mm (0.6 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 1 mm (0 in) 22°C (71°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 13°C (56°F) 76 mm (3 in) 7°C (44°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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