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

Should you visit Paphos or Kaunas?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Kaunas, 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 cultural, coastal, and overlooked town. With stunning beauty, Paphos attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. See Paphos travel costs.

Kaunas

Kaunas is a cultural, active, and young city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife and food. See Kaunas travel costs.

Paphos and Kaunas: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Kaunas?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Paphos than Kaunas, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Paphos is better known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Kaunas is more popular for its big city activities. Paphos is more touristy than Kaunas and is known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Also, Paphos is famous for Paphos Archaeological Park. Kaunas is well known for its traditional Lithuanian culture and authentic old town.

How is Paphos different from Kaunas?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is renowned for its sights and museums. However, Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Kaunas does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Paphos is renowned for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its restaurants.

Eat your way through Paphos, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from. 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).

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Kaunas. It is a great place to try traditional Lithuanian dishes as there are a number of good restaurants and an active restaurant scene. Popular local dishes include cepelinai potato dumplings and cold beetroot soup.

Is Paphos or Kaunas Better for Nightlife?

It's hard to distinguish whether Paphos or Kaunas 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 Kaunas has a few options to choose from. The nightlife scene continues to improve with a growing number of bars and clubs. During the warmer months you'll find many places opening outdoor areas. The old town is one of the more lively areas in town where it's nice to enjoy a drink on a terrace.

Is Paphos or Kaunas Better for Resorts?

Paphos is renowned for its resorts. However, Kaunas is not a resort destination.

Vacationers flock to Paphos for its luxury resorts. 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.

Kaunas is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Kaunas Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Kaunas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery 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.

Kaunas is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Kaunas Better for Beaches?

Paphos is renowned for the beach. However, Kaunas is not a beach destination.

Paphos offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. 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.

Kaunas is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Kaunas Better for its Old Town?

Paphos and Kaunas 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. 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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Kaunas. The old town has tree-lined streets with charming cafes and a number of museums. It's also where you'll find the Kaunas Castle.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Kaunas?

Paphos is notable for its shopping areas. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city 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.

Kaunas is a good destination for shopping. The old town is the place to pick up souvenirs, but there are also shopping malls and outlets in the city.

Is Paphos or Kaunas More Beautiful?

Paphos is notable for its scenery and beauty. However, Kaunas is not a destination known for its beauty.

With stunning beauty, Paphos attracts visitors from all around. The area is known for its world-renowned archeological ruins, stunning beaches, and beautiful outdoor setting.

Kaunas is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Paphos or Kaunas Better for Families?

Paphos is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Paphos is known to be 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.

Kaunas is a family-friendly town. The city has both outdoor and indoor areas that are fun for kids. Vienybės Square has fountains and splash areas that are fun for kids of all ages. Lampėdis Lake is a great place to swim or visit an adventure park. When the weather isn't great, you can head indoors to the the Kaunas Tadas Ivanauskas Zoological Museum or "CurioCity" in the Mega Mall.

Is Paphos or Kaunas Better for Couples?

Paphos is renowned for couples. However, Kaunas is a mediocre city for romance.

Paphos is fantastic couple's destination with fun and romantic activities. 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.

Kaunas is not the best destination for a couple to visit. The city has a number of historical sites as well as interesting restaurants that you can explore.

Is Paphos or Kaunas Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is notable for backpackers. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Paphos is a very popular town for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 budget travelers visit Kaunas. It's not a popular destination, but there are enough concerts and festivals throughout the year that it does see a few tourists.

Is Paphos or Kaunas Better for Students?

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

Kaunas is popular with students. The city has a vibrant and young student population. It also hosts festivals, concerts, and other events that make it a fun destination for international students.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos is notable for its public transit. Also, Kaunas is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Kaunas has some public transit options. There are both buses and trolleybuses around town.

Is Paphos or Kaunas a more walkable city?

Paphos and Kaunas both are notable when exploring on foot.

Paphos is somewhat walkable. 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.

Kaunas is a somewhat walkable place. When the weather is nice, the city is a nice place to take a walk.

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

Should I spend more time in Kaunas or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Kaunas?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Paphos or Kaunas to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Paphos than Kaunas 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 Kaunas.

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

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.

Many travelers enjoy the food and nightlife when visiting the destination of Kaunas. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Kaunas?

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.

Kaunas 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 Kaunas?

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 Kaunas. 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 Kaunas?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the coastal 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant destination of Kaunas. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Tours for Seniors to Lithuania, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Vilnius.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Kaunas?

Kaunas has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Kaunas, 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 Kaunas?

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 Kaunas in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Kaunas. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Kaunas in the summer for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Kaunas. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Kaunas fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kaunas this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Kaunas during summer. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies, while Kaunas receives 256 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Kaunas. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Kaunas receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Kaunas in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Kaunas. Many visitors come to Paphos in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, most visitors come to Kaunas for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months.

Paphos is much warmer than Kaunas in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Kaunas fluctuates around 8°C (46°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 Kaunas. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kaunas receives 99 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Kaunas. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Kaunas receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Kaunas in the Winter?

Both Kaunas and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Kaunas because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in Kaunas can be very cold. In the winter, Paphos is much warmer than Kaunas. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Kaunas averages at about -5°C (23°F).

Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Kaunas during winter. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies, while Kaunas receives 40 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Paphos usually receives more rain than Kaunas. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Kaunas receives 39 mm (1.5 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Kaunas in the Spring?

Both Kaunas and Paphos during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to Kaunas this time of year.

In April, Paphos is generally much warmer than Kaunas. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Kaunas fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the spring, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Kaunas. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kaunas receives 175 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Kaunas. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Kaunas receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Kaunas and Paphos