A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Paphos vs. Rio de Janeiro for Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Beaches

Should you visit Paphos or Rio de Janeiro?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or Rio de Janeiro, 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 beautiful, cultural, and coastal 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.

Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro is a high energy, colorful, and multicultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. The famous beauty of Rio de Janeiro is one of the main draws. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Rio de Janeiro travel costs.

Paphos and Rio de Janeiro: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or Rio de Janeiro?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Rio de Janeiro than Paphos, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Rio de Janeiro is better known for its nightlife, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Paphos is more popular for its resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and historical sights. Rio de Janeiro is more touristy than Paphos and is known for its samba dancing, sandy beaches, and Carnival. Also, Rio de Janeiro is famous for Christ the Redeemer. Paphos is well known for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches.

How is Paphos different from Rio de Janeiro?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro?

Both Paphos and Rio de Janeiro have first-rate landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Paphos that are not to be missed. 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.

The museums and tourist attractions in Rio de Janeiro are world-renowned. Looking out over the city is the world famous landmark of Christ the Redeemer. It sits on top of Corcovado Mountain and it is a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Other sights around town include the church and monastery of São Bento, the stunning church of São Francisco da Penitência, the imperial palaces of São Cristóvão, and the baroque church of Nossa Senhora do Carmo.

Is the Food Better in Paphos or Rio de Janeiro? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at first-rate restaurants in both Paphos and Rio de Janeiro.

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).

Many restaurants in Rio de Janeiro have been singled out for their culinary prowess. The cuisine around town mixes African and European cooking styles to give it a unique taste. The city is a mix of cultures and flavors and you'll find restaurants that integrate traditional Brazilian dishes with international influences. You'll find a wonderful street food scene, but also fine dining, and everything in between. Some of the most popular dishes include feijoada (beef and bean stew), churrasco (Brazilian barbecue), and pão de queijo (baked dough and cheese).

Is Paphos or Rio de Janeiro Better for Nightlife?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for nightlife. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

Rio de Janeiro is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. It has a world famous nightlife scene, and the most popular party neighborhood is Lapa. While the biggest crowds are on the weekends, weeknights stay busy as well. Every weekend in Lapa there's a huge street party, but there are also bars and dance clubs nearby. A more local neighborhood is Botafogo, which is a great area to grab a beer and enjoy a relaxed night out. If you want a beachside bar, check out the touristy neighborhoods of Ipanema and Copacabana.

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 Rio de Janeiro Better for Resorts?

Paphos is a world-class destination for its resorts. However, Rio de Janeiro is not a resort destination.

Paphos is a world class resort vacation destination. 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.

Rio de Janeiro is not a resort destination.

Is Paphos or Rio de Janeiro Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Paphos is a town with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Rio de Janeiro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life 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.

Rio de Janeiro is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Paphos or Rio de Janeiro Better for Beaches?

Both Paphos and Rio de Janeiro have first-rate beaches worth visiting.

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.

Rio de Janeiro is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The beaches have long been written about and made iconic by songs and literary works. Copacabana and Ipanema are world renowned, and the sandy stretches and vibrant waterfront promenades will not disappoint. There are plenty of recreational activities as well as a striking blue water backdrop. You'll find beach parties, waterside bars, and pickup games of football or volleyball. In addition to these iconic beaches, there are several lesser known places to visit like Joatinga and Barra da Tijuca.

Is Paphos or Rio de Janeiro Better for its Old Town?

Paphos is a town with good options for its historic old town charm. However, Rio de Janeiro does not have a historic old town.

Paphos offers a nice historic old town area. 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.

Rio de Janeiro does not have a historic old town.

Is Paphos or Rio de Janeiro Better for Hiking?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for its hiking experiences. However, Paphos is not a hiking destination.

Known for its hiking, Rio de Janeiro draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Although it is a bustling megacity, it also offers access to world class hikes. The city is filled with mountains and dramatic peaks, so many hikes take you to spectacular views of the city. There are also jungle hikes and even opportunities to see local wildlife. There's a combination of iconic trails and lesser known strolls that will let you truly absorb what this city has to offer. Some of the best hikes include Pedra Bonita, Dois Irmaos, and Pedra da Gávea.

Paphos is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for shopping. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping opportunities.

Rio de Janeiro is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The shopping is as diverse as the city itself. Whatever your budget, there are options for you. There are wonderful street markets for those on a budget and grand shopping malls if you're looking for something a bit higher end. Some of the best places for shopping include Rio Sul, Barra Shopping, and SAARA Market.

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.

Is Paphos or Rio de Janeiro More Beautiful?

Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro is one of the main draws. The city's mountainous landscapes and striking beaches make it, arguably, one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are many mountaintop views of the city as well as city hikes and iconic neighborhoods.

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 Rio de Janeiro Better for Families?

Paphos and Rio de Janeiro are both high quality 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, Rio de Janeiro is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the beaches. It's easy to spend days by the water soaking up the sun. Another must-do is a trip up Sugarloaf Mountain. The cable cars are fun and there are jungle walks and spectacular views. If you need to escape the rain or heat, spend the day at the Museum of Tomorrow.

Is Paphos or Rio de Janeiro Better for Couples?

Paphos is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Rio de Janeiro is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Paphos is a great town for couples, as it 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.

Rio de Janeiro is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. There are many parks and gardens around town that are perfect for a stroll. Nature lovers will enjoy the many hikes in the area, many which go through the jungle, visit waterfalls, or offer spectacular views. And, of course, Sugarloaf Mountain is a must-see destination, as are the many beaches in the area.

Is Paphos or Rio de Janeiro Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Rio de Janeiro is renowned for backpackers. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Rio de Janeiro is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers flock to the city for its wild nightlife scene and beautiful beaches. There's a huge backpacker culture here and many hostels around town that offer a social setting and plenty of activities for guests.

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.

Is Paphos or Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro.

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 Rio de Janeiro can get you around easily. The city has a subway system, MetroRio, that is relatively reliable and convenient. There are also city buses, trams, and commuter trains.

Is Paphos or Rio de Janeiro a more walkable city?

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

Rio de Janeiro is very walkable. Most of the areas where tourists spend their time are relatively walkable. Centro is compact and many tourists choose to explore areas on foot. As always, remember to take the appropriate safety precautions and always be aware of your surroundings.

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 Rio de Janeiro Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Rio de Janeiro or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or Rio de Janeiro?

Paphos and Rio de Janeiro both offer a nice selection of activities for visitors. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Rio de Janeiro than Paphos 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 4-6 days is enough time in Rio de Janeiro.

Families should spend more time in Paphos than Rio de Janeiro. 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 Rio de Janeiro. 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 Rio de Janeiro than Paphos 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 Rio de Janeiro.

One day in Paphos or Rio de Janeiro?

In Paphos, you'll find nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

Rio de Janeiro is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Paphos or Rio de Janeiro?

Paphos is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Rio de Janeiro 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.

Five days in Paphos or Rio de Janeiro?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Paphos. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rio de Janeiro. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Rio de Janeiro?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the town of Paphos. It's also a great beach destination, too. Your budget might influence how long you stay. 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.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the multicultural big city of Rio de Janeiro. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in 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 G Adventures Tours to Brazil, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rio de Janeiro.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Paphos and Rio de Janeiro, we can see that Paphos is more expensive. And not only is Rio de Janeiro much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Paphos is in Europe and Rio de Janeiro is in South America, 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 Rio de Janeiro would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Rio de Janeiro 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 Paphos would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Paphos than you might in Rio de Janeiro.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Paphos Expensive? and Is Rio de Janeiro Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Paphos or Rio de Janeiro?

Rio de Janeiro has a larger population, and is about 170 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and Rio de Janeiro, 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 Rio de Janeiro?

Even though both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, they experience these seasons at different times of the year. Rio de Janeiro 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 Rio de Janeiro in the Summer?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Paphos this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Rio de Janeiro for the beaches, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as Rio de Janeiroin January. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 27°C (80°F), and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 26°C (79°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Rio de Janeiro. In July, Paphos usually receives less rain than Rio de Janeiroin January. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Paphos or Rio de Janeiro in the Autumn?

Both Rio de Janeiro and Paphos during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Paphos for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Rio de Janeiro in the autumn for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Paphos is cooler than Rio de Janeiro in the autumn. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 25°C (77°F)in April.

Rio de Janeiro gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Paphos usually gets less rain in October than Rio de Janeiroin April. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 137 mm (5.4 in) of rain this time of the year. May to November is the dry season in Rio de Janeiro. December to April is the rainy season in Rio de Janeiro.

Should I visit Paphos or Rio de Janeiro in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and Rio de Janeiro. Many visitors come to Paphos in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Rio de Janeiro for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

In the winter, Paphos is much colder than Rio de Janeiro. Typically, the winter temperatures in Paphos in January average around 12°C (53°F), and Rio de Janeiro averages at about 21°C (70°F)in July.

In January, Paphos usually receives more rain than Rio de Janeiroin July. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Paphos or Rio de Janeiro in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Paphos as well as Rio de Janeiro. Most visitors come to Paphos for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Rio de Janeiro because of the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty.

In April, Paphos is generally cooler than Rio de Janeiroin October. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 17°C (62°F), and Rio de Janeiro fluctuates around 23°C (73°F).

Paphos usually gets less rain in April than Rio de Janeiroin October. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Rio de Janeiro receives 88 mm (3.5 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, May to November in Rio de Janeiro is the dry season. December to April in Rio de Janeiro is the rainy season.

Typical Weather for Rio de Janeiro and Paphos