A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paros vs. Cefalu for Food, Beaches, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Paros or Cefalu?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Paros and Cefalu. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Paros

Paros is a breathtaking, striking, and historical island. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a coastal, historic, and touristy fishing village. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the beaches, hiking, and food.

Paros and Cefalu: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paros or Cefalu?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paros than Cefalu, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paros is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping, while Cefalu is more popular for its historical sights and small town charm. Paros is well known for its world-class beaches, beautiful undersea world, and quaint coastal villages. Also, Paros is famous for The Byzantine Monastery of Ekatontapyliani. Cefalu is well known for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food.

How is Paros different from Cefalu?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Paros or Cefalu?

Paros is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Paros. There are many interesting archeological sights and museums around the island. Some interesting places to visit are the Venetian Castle in the old port of Naoussa, the Monastery of Panagia Ekatontapiliani near Parikia, and the beautiful church of Agios Ioannis (Saint John) Detis, which dates back to the 17th century. There's also the Archeological Museum of Paros, which is found in the capital of Parikia.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.

Is the Food Better in Paros or Cefalu? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

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

Eat your way through Paros, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. Cheese and wine are mainstays on the island and restaurants in general pride themselves on using locally-sourced, high quality ingredients. Many of the traditional recipes can be found in restaurants, but they're also still prepared in the homes of the residents as well. Seafood, vegetables, and grains are all common ingredients.

Dining out in Cefalu is an experience not to be missed. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

Is Paros or Cefalu Better for Nightlife?

Paros is a very popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

Paros has a large number of nightlife venues. It doesn't have the hard core party scene that you find on some Greek islands, but it does have plenty of dance clubs, bars, and music venues. There's a wide diversity of options on the island, from quiet local bars to beach clubs that host wild parties, and everything in between.

Cefalu is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Is Paros or Cefalu Better for Resorts?

There are excellent resorts to choose from in both Paros and Cefalu.

There are plenty of resorts in Paros to choose from. The island is relatively large and you'll find everything from local hotels and guesthouses to large resorts and backpacker hostels. Many resorts have pools and great views.

Cefalu is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Is Paros or Cefalu Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paros is a very popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cefalu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

There are many scuba diving and snorkeling spots near Paros. The island is filled with caves and interesting rock formations that make for excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities. There are a number of tours available that take you to the island's best dive and snorkeling spots. There are also private and group courses available for those who are learning to scuba dive.

Cefalu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paros or Cefalu Better for Beaches?

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

Paros offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The beaches are clean, diverse, and relatively easy to access. There are a range of options, from quiet hidden gems to beaches with clubs and bars nearby. Favorite beaches on the island include Kolymbithres Beach, Chrissi Akti Beach, and Santa Maria Beach.

Cefalu is considered a top beach destination. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Is Paros or Cefalu Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu is a very popular place for its old town. However, Paros does not have a historic old town.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Paros does not have a historic old town.

Is Paros or Cefalu Better for Hiking?

Hiking trails can be found around both Paros and Cefalu, and they are notable.

Paros offers some nice hiking trails. The island has about 35 kilometers of hiking trails that pass by small cottages, stone farm homes, and around the beautiful landscapes. You'll find tucked away windmills and watermills as well as breathtaking views and hidden coves.

Cefalu is a good destination for hiking. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Is the Shopping Better in Paros or Cefalu?

Paros is a very popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Paros is well-known for its shopping. You'll find some of the best shopping in Kastro, which is the old quarter of Parikia. There are shops selling clothing, jewelry, ceramics, and other unique souvenirs. Many shops stay open late into the night, so you'll have plenty of time to browse.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Paros or Cefalu Better for Families?

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

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paros is very family-friendly. Kids will appreciate the beautiful beaches, great swimming opportunities, abundance of water sport activities, and child-friendly food options. There's also a folklore museum and several great archeological museums.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cefalu. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.

Is Paros or Cefalu Better for Couples?

Paros and Cefalu both terrific destinations for a couple.

Paros is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. The island makes a perfect honeymoon destination with its stunning beaches and picturesque villages. There are also many great local hotels and wonderful dining opportunities. If you're looking for an idyllic setting, then this is it.

Cefalu makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

Is Paros or Cefalu Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Many backpackers visit Paros. You'll find some nice hostels and apartments on the island. There's also a decent nightlife scene and the island is more affordable than many Greek islands.

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

Is Paros or Cefalu Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Paros is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

The public transit in Paros can get you around easily. There's a reliable bus system on the island that has some routes making a loop around the outside of the island and routes traveling inland to the smaller villages.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Paros or Cefalu a more walkable city?

Cefalu is a very popular place for its high level of walkability. Also, Paros is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

Cefalu is a very walkable fishing village. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

Paros is a somewhat walkable island. There are many walking and hiking trails around the island, but it's a large island that requires some form of transportation to explore it in depth.

For even more information, also check out Is Paros Worth Visiting? and Is Cefalu Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cefalu or Paros?

How long in Paros or Cefalu?

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

Families should spend more time in Paros than Cefalu. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Paros, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Paros than Cefalu. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Paros that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Paros than Cefalu 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 Paros.

One day in Paros or Cefalu?

Many travelers enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping when visiting the destination of Paros. 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.

Even though Cefalu is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. This fishing village offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Paros or Cefalu?

Paros 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cefalu. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Paros or Cefalu?

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

Cefalu is a fun place to experience. Cefalu is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Paros or Cefalu?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the stunning destination of Paros. This island 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.

Cefalu is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. 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.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Greece, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Greece, The Best Adventure Tours to Italy, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy.

When comparing the travel costs between Paros and Cefalu, we can see that Paros 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 Paros Expensive? and Is Cefalu Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paros or Cefalu?

Cefalu has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Paros. When comparing the sizes of Paros and Cefalu, 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.