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

Should you visit Paphos or Oxford?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Oxford, 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 ancient, beautiful, and cultural town. Paphos is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches, shopping, and museums. See Paphos travel costs.

Oxford

Oxford is a beautiful, historic, and scholarly college town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of Oxford is one of the main draws. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Oxford travel costs.

Paphos and Oxford: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Oxford?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Paphos. Although Paphos and Oxford are both popular with visitors, Paphos has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Paphos is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and shopping, while Oxford is known for its nightlife, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Paphos is more touristy than Oxford and is popular for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches. It is also home to Paphos Archaeological Park. Oxford is popular for being home to one of the world's most notable universities.

How is Paphos different from Oxford?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Travelers visit Paphos from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. 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.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Oxford. This town is filled with culture, history, and world class museums. Check out the Oxford University Museum of Natural History, The Museum of Modern Art, Ashmolean Museum, or the Museum of Oxford.

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

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

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Paphos is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. 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).

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Oxford. In addition to the typical British pubs and fish and chips shops, you'll find a wide diversity of ethnic food around town. Thai, sushi, Indian, and more are common dining options. Head to the Oxford Covered Market to try a traditional British breakfast or have some delicious ice cream.

Is Paphos or Oxford Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in Oxford know how to have a good time. As a college town, you'll find an active nightlife scene with trivia nights and plenty of parties. There are pubs around town where you can grab a drink or find out if there's a concert while you're in town.

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 Oxford Better for Resorts?

Paphos is very popular for its luxury resorts. However, Oxford is not a resort destination.

Paphos offers an unforgettable resort vacation. 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.

Oxford is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Oxford Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a nice place to visit for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Oxford is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

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.

Oxford is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Oxford Better for Beaches?

Paphos is very popular for its beaches. However, Oxford is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Paphos are among the best in 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.

Oxford is not a beach destination.

Is Paphos or Oxford Better for its Old Town?

Paphos is a nice place to visit for its historic old town. However, Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Paphos is a good destination for visiting its 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.

Oxford does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Oxford?

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

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting 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.

Oxford offers some nice shopping areas. Shops around town offer the perfect opportunity to pick up some Oxford gear or by a few items from the Harry Potter franchise.

Is Paphos or Oxford More Beautiful?

Oxford is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Oxford is one of the main draws. The history and architecture make this a beautiful destination.

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.

Is Paphos or Oxford Better for Families?

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

Paphos is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Oxford. Families will enjoy taking a paddle boat out on the water and exploring the beautiful setting. There are also a number of sights that were influential in the making of Harry Potter. In particular, you'll find the inspiration for the "Great Hall" if you take a tour of Christ Church College. The tour must be booked in advance and they often sell out. Older kids will also enjoy exploring the Oxford University Museum of Natural History.

Is Paphos or Oxford Better for Couples?

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

Paphos has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. 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.

Couples visit Oxford frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The beautiful campus and striking architecture make this a great destination for romance. Hire a boat and explore the water or wander through one of the impressive gardens.

Is Paphos or Oxford Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

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

Paphos is very popular with the backpacker crowd. 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.

Oxford is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels around town that offer affordable accommodation. As a college town, Oxford also has an active nightlife scene and a young crowd that keeps things affordable and fun.

Is Paphos or Oxford Better for Students?

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

Oxford is a great destination for students. At its heart, Oxford is a college town and students are at the heart of the city and its culture.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

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

Many visitors rely on the effecient and affordable public transportation 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.

You'll find some public transit in Oxford, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses available if your legs get tired.

Is Paphos or Oxford a more walkable city?

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

Oxford is very walkable. The best way to explore most of the town is on foot, so you can soak up the full collegiate atmosphere.

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 Oxford Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Oxford or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Oxford?

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

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

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.

Oxford might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Paphos or Oxford?

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.

Oxford 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 Oxford?

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 Oxford. 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 Oxford?

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.

Oxford is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This college town 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, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Oxford?

Oxford has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Oxford, 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 Oxford?

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 Oxford in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Oxford. The summer months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Oxford this time of year.

Paphos is much warmer than Oxford in the summer. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 27°C (80°F) in July, and Oxford fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Paphos this time of the year. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 195 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than Oxford. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Oxford in the Autumn?

Both Oxford and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Oxford for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Paphos is much warmer than Oxford. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Paphos in October average around 21°C (70°F), and Oxford averages at about 11°C (52°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 107 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives less rain than Oxford. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or Oxford in the Winter?

Both Oxford and Paphos during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Oxford in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Oxford can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Paphos is generally much warmer than Oxford. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 12°C (53°F), and Oxford fluctuates around 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Paphos often gets more sunshine than Oxford. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Oxford receives 52 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets more rain in January than Oxford. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or Oxford in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Oxford. Many visitors come to Paphos in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, most visitors come to Oxford for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Paphos is much warmer than Oxford in the spring. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 17°C (62°F) in April, and Oxford fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than Oxford during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while Oxford receives 147 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than Oxford. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Oxford receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Oxford and Paphos