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

Should you visit Paphos or San Diego?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Paphos or San Diego, 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. 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.

San Diego

San Diego is a energetic, relaxed, and outdoorsy coastal city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. San Diego is a gorgeous place to visit. This is a quaint and attractive place to visit, too. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See San Diego travel costs.

Paphos and San Diego: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Paphos or San Diego?

Travelers will usually find more to do in San Diego. Although Paphos and San Diego are popular destinations, San Diego has more sights and attractions for tourists. San Diego is very popular for its nightlife, music, hiking, big city activities, and quaint atmosphere, while Paphos attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty. San Diego is more touristy than Paphos and is popular for its relaxed coastal atmosphere, its many kid-friendly sights, and its beautiful beaches with critter-filled tidal pools. It is also well known for The San Diego Zoo. Paphos is famous for its historical sights, rich culture, and beautiful churches.

How is Paphos different from San Diego?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Paphos is renowned for its historical sights. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its sights and museums.

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.

San Diego offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. While the city is famous for it's beaches, zoos, and aquariums, don't overlook the museums and other landmarks. Popular options include the Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, the Old Town State Historic Park, and Point Loma and Cabrillo Monument.

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

Paphos is renowned for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its local cuisine and 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).

Dining out in San Diego is an experience not to be missed. The city has great seafood and a diversity of cuisines. There are many casual dining options that serve informal foods like burgers or salads, but there are also award-winning fine dining restaurants with elegant atmospheres. Popular local dishes include fish tacos and California burritos.

Is Paphos or San Diego Better for Nightlife?

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

The people in San Diego know how to have a good time. The heart of the city's nightlife scene is in the Gaslamp District, which is filled with bars, clubs, and music venues. There's a young student population that keeps the nightlife scene casual and fun.

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 San Diego Better for Music?

San Diego is a great destination for live music. However, Paphos is not a live music destination.

San Diego has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. Popular venues include the House of Blues, The Belly Up, and The Shout House.

Paphos is not a live music destination.

Is Paphos or San Diego Better for Resorts?

Paphos is renowned for its luxury resorts. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its resorts.

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.

San Diego has a few great resort options. Most people prefer to stay in hotels or VRBOs, but several popular resorts include Fairmont Grand Del Mar, Paradise Point, and the famous Hotel del Coronado.

Is Paphos or San Diego Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

You'll find nice snorkeling or scuba diving in both Paphos and San Diego.

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.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in San Diego. Popular snorkeling and diving spots include La Jolla Cove, Mission Bay, and Turtle Town. The water's a bit chili, but it's still worth going for a dive or popping on a mask and snorkeling around for a bit.

Is Paphos or San Diego Better for Beaches?

Both Paphos and San Diego have world-class 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.

San Diego is considered to be a world-class beach destination. The city has great beaches with tidal pools and interesting sea life at low tide. Adults and kids alike will enjoy hitting the beach when the tides are out and looking for local critters in the tidal pools. Popular beaches in the area include La Jolla Cove Beach, Coronado Beach, and Pacific Beach.

Is Paphos or San Diego Better for its Old Town?

Paphos is a good destination for its old town. However, San Diego 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.

San Diego does not have a historic old town.

Is Paphos or San Diego Better for Hiking?

San Diego is a great destination for its hiking experiences. However, Paphos is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around San Diego. The city is filled with parks and has tons of natural beauty. There is plenty of urban hiking in town, or you can visit more natural areas just out of town. Head to Torrey Pines State Park or Los Penasquitos Canyon Trail for some nice hikes.

Paphos is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Paphos or San Diego?

Paphos is great for its shopping opportunities. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its shopping areas.

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.

Many visitors go to San Diego to go shopping. Head to Fashion Valley or Westfield UTC for some fun shopping. There are suburban shopping malls in the area as well as souvenir shops in the more touristy areas.

Is Paphos or San Diego More Beautiful?

Paphos is great for its scenery and beauty. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city for its scenery and 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.

San Diego offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Many people enjoy city's beautiful coastline and surrounding natural beauty.

Is Paphos or San Diego Better for Families?

San Diego is renowned for its family-friendly activities. Also, Paphos is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

San Diego is an amazing family-friendly coastal city to visit. The city is filled with kid-friendly activities that everyone can enjoy. There's the world-class zoo, several amusement parks, the beaches, aquariums, and more. The year-round warm weather makes it easy to spend plenty of time outdoors in parks, playgrounds, and beaches where kids can stretch their legs and run around.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Paphos is very family-friendly. 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.

Is Paphos or San Diego Better for Couples?

Paphos and San Diego are both world-class to visit as a couple.

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.

San Diego is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. For adventurous couples, there are many outdoor activities that you can enjoy together. The beaches offer a great playground for adults who enjoy the water and warm weather. There are also restaurants and a great nightlife in San Diego.

Is Paphos or San Diego Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Paphos is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, San Diego is not as popular, but is still a nice coastal city 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.

Plenty of budget travelers visit San Diego. Backpackers will enjoy the young vibe of the city. There are a few great hostels near the beach or in town.

Is Paphos or San Diego Better for Students?

San Diego is renowned for students. However, Paphos is not popular with students.

San Diego is a great destination for students. With its young population and many universities, international students will feel right at home in San Diego. There are also many great outdoor activities for the adventurous.

Paphos is not popular with students.

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

Paphos is great for times when you don't have a car. However, San Diego is not a good destination for its public transit.

The public transit in Paphos can get you around easily. 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.

Public transit is generally limited in San Diego. The city has a trolley (light rail system) as well as a bus system. Most people depend on cars to get around, and you'll likely enjoy your trip a bit more if you have your own vehicle.

Is Paphos or San Diego a more walkable city?

Paphos and San Diego both are nice 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.

San Diego is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown area is walkable, but if you want to travel further, you'll need to find a different form of transportation.

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

Should I spend more time in San Diego or Paphos?

How long in Paphos or San Diego?

In either Paphos or San Diego, 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 San Diego. However, 3-5 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Paphos than San Diego. 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 San Diego 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 San Diego?

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.

Many travelers enjoy the live music and food when visiting the destination of San Diego. 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 San Diego?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the cultural 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.

San Diego is a great place to explore. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego. Don't miss the beaches, as that's what most people do. 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 San Diego?

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 outdoorsy destination of San Diego. This coastal 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 United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

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

Which is Bigger, Paphos or San Diego?

San Diego has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Paphos. When comparing the sizes of Paphos and San Diego, 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 San Diego?

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 San Diego in the Summer?

Both San Diego and Paphos during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Paphos for the beaches, snorkeling, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to San Diego in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Paphos is a little warmer than San Diego. Typically, the summer temperatures in Paphos in July average around 27°C (80°F), and San Diego averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In San Diego, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Paphos. In the summer, Paphos often gets more sunshine than San Diego. Paphos gets 388 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 306 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets less rain in July than San Diego. Paphos gets 0 mm (0 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0 inches (1 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or San Diego in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Paphos and San Diego. Many visitors come to Paphos in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to San Diego for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Paphos is generally around the same temperature as San Diego. Daily temperatures in Paphos average around 21°C (70°F), and San Diego fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in San Diego this time of the year. In Paphos, it's very sunny this time of the year. Paphos usually receives more sunshine than San Diego during autumn. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 244 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Paphos usually receives more rain than San Diego. Paphos gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.4 inches (9 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Paphos or San Diego in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Paphos as well as San Diego. Most visitors come to Paphos for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to San Diego because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Paphos is cooler than San Diego in the winter. The daily temperature in Paphos averages around 12°C (53°F) in January, and San Diego fluctuates around 57°F (14°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in San Diego. In the winter, Paphos often gets less sunshine than San Diego. Paphos gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while San Diego receives 239 hours of full sun.

Paphos usually gets more rain in January than San Diego. Paphos gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 1.8 inches (46 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Paphos or San Diego in the Spring?

Both San Diego and Paphos are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Paphos because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty are the main draw to San Diego this time of year.

In the spring, Paphos is around the same temperature as San Diego. Typically, the spring temperatures in Paphos in April average around 17°C (62°F), and San Diego averages at about 62°F (17°C).

It's quite sunny in San Diego. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Paphos. Paphos usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as San Diego during spring. Paphos gets 270 hours of sunny skies, while San Diego receives 277 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Paphos usually receives less rain than San Diego. Paphos gets 11 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while San Diego receives 0.8 inches (20 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for San Diego and Paphos