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

Should you visit Paphos or Melbourne?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Melbourne, 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. The beauty of Paphos is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Paphos travel costs.

Melbourne

Melbourne is a cultural, progressive, and livable city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for museums, nightlife, and food. See Melbourne travel costs.

Paphos and Melbourne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Melbourne?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Melbourne. Although Paphos and Melbourne are popular destinations, Melbourne has more sights and attractions for tourists. Melbourne is very popular for its nightlife and big city activities, while Paphos attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Paphos is more touristy than Melbourne and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. Melbourne is famous for its art and cultural scene, its sports history, and its friendly and welcoming population. It is also well known for the Royal Botanic Gardens.

How is Paphos different from Melbourne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is very popular for its museums and history. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Many visitors head to Melbourne specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Many of the city's sights center around the art and cultural scene. There's the the National Gallery of Victoria and the Performing Arts Centre Melbourne. There's also Federation Square. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate a visit to the National Sports Museum and for great views, check out Melbourne Skydeck at Eureka Tower.

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

Paphos is very popular for its restaurants. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

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).

Dining out in Melbourne is an experience not to be missed. There's an eclectic mix of international restaurants that offer everything from Szechuan dishes to Spanish tapas. You'll find bistros and bars that have a fun and relaxed vibe and locals and tourists alike enjoy dining out.

Is Paphos or Melbourne Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Melbourne know how to have a good time. There are bars and clubs that have a laid back and relaxed atmosphere as well as more party focused nightclubs that stay open late into the night. Whether you're interested in dancing and listening to live music, or chatting with friends at a local brewery, there really is something for everyone.

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 Melbourne Better for Resorts?

Paphos is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Melbourne Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a popular place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Melbourne Better for Beaches?

Paphos is very popular for the beach. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for the beach.

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.

Melbourne is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are laid back beaches near town that attract locals and tourists alike. You can enjoy coastal trails and great natural beauty. St Kilda Beach and Elwood Beach are among the most popular beaches near the city. Brighton Beach is known for its colorful bathing boxes and Williamstown Beach is very family-friendly.

Is Paphos or Melbourne Better for its Old Town?

Paphos is a popular place for its old town. However, Melbourne 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. 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.

Melbourne does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Melbourne?

Shopping is a popular activity in both Melbourne 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.

Melbourne is well-known for its shopping. The city has tons of retail options that range from trendy fashion boutiques to outdoor markets. There are local venders that highlight the city's art and cultural scene, but there are also suburban malls with all of the major brands.

Is Paphos or Melbourne More Beautiful?

Paphos is a very popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Melbourne is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Paphos is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The area is known for its world-renowned archeological ruins, stunning beaches, and beautiful outdoor setting.

Melbourne is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Paphos or Melbourne Better for Families?

Paphos and Melbourne 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, Melbourne is very family-friendly. The city has kids museums like the Museum of Play and Art or the Polly Woodside Tall Ship and Museum. There's also the Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium and the Scienceworks Museums. If you like quirky, check out the ArtVo 3D Immersive Art Gallery. There's also Legoland, which has a lot for younger children.

Is Paphos or Melbourne Better for Couples?

Paphos is very popular for its romantic activities. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Melbourne is a good town for couples to visit. It's a very livable city with romantic viewpoints like SkyHigh Mount Dandenong. There are also nice gardens to explore such as the Carlton Gardens and the Rippon Lea House and Gardens. Or you could go for a ride on the Melbourne Star or dine at one of the many great restaurants.

Is Paphos or Melbourne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Melbourne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good 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.

Melbourne is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers breeze through the city, but there is a great music and art scene as well as a number of good restaurants. You'll also find a couple of good hostels in town.

Is Paphos or Melbourne Better for Students?

Melbourne is renowned for students. However, Paphos is not popular with students.

Melbourne is a great destination for students. Many students think this is among the best student cities in Australia. There's a great creative culture with a good music and art scene. The population is diverse and the restaurants a great.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Paphos and Melbourne.

Visitors to Paphos can move around easily with public transportation. 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.

The public transit in Melbourne can get you around easily. The public transit system is among the best in Australia. There are public buses, trains, and trams (also called trolleys or streetcars).

Is Paphos or Melbourne a more walkable city?

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

Melbourne is very walkable. The city center is very walkable with a compact and grid-like layout.

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 Melbourne Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Melbourne or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Melbourne?

In either Paphos or Melbourne, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Paphos has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Paphos than Melbourne. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Paphos, and 2-5 days is enough time in Melbourne.

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

You'll find nightlife and food around the town of Paphos. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Melbourne is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. 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.

A weekend in Paphos or Melbourne?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the overlooked destination of Paphos. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Melbourne 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 Melbourne?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the coastal town of Paphos. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer.

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

A week in Paphos or Melbourne?

Paphos is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the friendly big city of Melbourne. 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 Scuba Diving Tours in Australia, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Australia.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paphos and Melbourne, we can see that Melbourne is more expensive. And not only is Paphos much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Paphos is in Europe and Melbourne is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. 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 Melbourne would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Melbourne 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 Melbourne Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Melbourne?

Melbourne has a larger population, and is about 100 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Melbourne, 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 Melbourne?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Melbourne is in the southern hemisphere and summer is in January and winter is in July, but Paphos has summer in [NORTHERNSUMMERMONTH] and winter in [NORTHERNWINTERMONTH].

Should I visit Paphos or Melbourne in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Melbourne. Many visitors come to Paphos in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Melbourne for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Paphos is a little warmer than Melbourne. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and Melbourne averages at about 20°C (68°F)in January.

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Melbourne. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Melbournein January. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 271 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Melbournein January. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Melbourne in the Autumn?

Both Melbourne and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Paphos for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Melbourne because of the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene.

In October, Paphos is generally a little warmer than Melbournein April. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and Melbourne fluctuates around 15°C (60°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Melbourne during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 170 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Melbournein April. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Melbourne in the Winter?

Both Melbourne and Paphos during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Paphos because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Melbourne this time of year.

Paphos is a little warmer than Melbourne in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and Melbourne fluctuates around 9°C (49°F)in July.

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Melbournein July. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Melbourne receives 139 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets more rain in January than Melbournein July. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 43 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Melbourne in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Melbourne. The beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Melbourne for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Paphos is a little warmer than Melbourne. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and Melbourne averages at about 14°C (57°F)in October.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Melbourne this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Melbourne during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Melbourne receives 216 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Melbournein October. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Melbourne receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Melbourne and Paphos