
Prices in Paphos have changed quite a lot over the last few years.
Whether you’re planning a vacation or considering a longer stay, it’s good to know what things cost. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect.
Currency in Cyprus
Cyprus adopted the Euro (€) as its official currency in 2008, replacing the Cypriot Pound, four years after joining the European Union.
Banknotes are available in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euros, while coins come in 1 cent, 2 cents, 5 cents, 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, as well as 1 euro and 2 euros.
If you’re coming from a country with a different currency, you’ll need to convert your money.
The easiest way is to simply use a credit card, though there might be a small fee.
Other popular choices for currency exchange are banks and ATMs, but instead of Euronet, opt for an ATM located outside a bank to minimize charges.
It’s also important to remember that the amount of Euros you receive depends on the exchange rate, which fluctuates daily.
Here’s a currency converter with current exchange rates:
Is Paphos Expensive?
Compared to other European cities, Paphos is pretty cheap to visit.
In general, you can find hotels for 50 euros a night, with the average hotel costing around 100-200 euros.
Additionally, attractions like historical sites or museums charge as little as 2 euros, and some spots, including public beaches, are free!
As for transportation, a single bus ticket for adults is 2 euros (or 6.50 for a daily ticket), whilst a short taxi ride runs between 10-12 euros.
A taxi from Paphos Airport, by the way, starts at 30-35 euros.
For those who enjoy shopping, there are inexpensive markets and brands such as Kiabi that sell men’s t-shirts and women’s shirts for 4-8 euros.
Plus, many fast-food joints are budget-friendly, offering meals for less than 10 euros.
For leisure activities, you’re looking at spending 8 euros for a movie and 40-70 euros for a massage.
If needed, you can also buy a local SIM card and data package for 7 euros.
How Much Money Do You Need in Paphos?
Generally, you need to have 50-100 euros per person per day in Paphos. However, this amount may vary depending on your situation and personal preferences.
For example:
If you’re staying at an all-inclusive hotel and have already booked a car and tickets to the water park and Blue Lagoon, you might not need as much cash.
Even though most businesses in Cyprus accept credit cards, be sure to carry small change for tips, buses or taxis, and visiting local markets.
Budget Calculator
Here’s a handy calculator to help you estimate how much money you’ll need in Paphos.
The calculations are based on estimated prices and don’t include flight and hotel costs or any other expenses that need to be paid in advance.
Also, keep in mind that bus and taxi fares may shift slightly.
Remember, this tool should give you a rough idea, so don’t rely on it entirely for planning your budget.
If possible, bring at least one credit card. We personally prefer prepaid cards.
Calculate Your Travel Budget
To quickly convert euros to other currencies, use the currency converter on this page.
Cost of Living in Paphos
House Prices
House prices in Paphos have increased by about 25-50% in recent years!
A 2-bedroom apartment in Universal that used to rent for 800 euros per month in 2022 can now cost 1,200 euros.
Similarly, a 1-bedroom apartment in the same area that was listed for 100,000 euros then, would now be sold for 150,000 euros.
Of course, there may be exceptions, and if you don’t mind living a bit farther or not having a pool or title deeds, you’ll likely find cheaper prices.
On top of that, if you’re living in a complex, you might be shelling out anywhere from 50-200 euros a month for communal fees.
There’s also a 100-200 euro annual refuse fee that covers garbage collection, street lighting, sewage, and other essential services.
Food Prices
Eating out in Paphos doesn’t have to break the bank.
Although there are plenty of restaurants, from traditional tavernas to international chains, some places are more affordable than others.
You can typically get a Greek pita with gyros, tahini, and french fries for only 5.50 euros, and taverns usually have a meze deal for 20 euros or so.
When it comes to groceries, kiosks are the priciest, whereas Lidl offers the best supermarket prices.
Local markets are great, too, especially for fresh produce.
Here are the prices for basic groceries in Paphos:
| Item | Price (€) |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 L) | 1.50 |
| Bread (900 g) | 1.85 |
| Eggs (12-pack) | 3.30 |
| Sliced Cheese (1 kg) | 11.00 |
| Chicken Thighs (1 kg) | 9.50 |
| Mince Beef (800 g) | 5.89 |
| Apples (1 kg) | 3.25 |
| Bananas (1 kg) | 2.30 |
| Oranges (1 kg) | 1.30 |
| Tomatoes (1 kg) | 2.90 |
| Lettuce (150 g) | 0.66 |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | 1.00 |
| Rice (1 kg) | 2.00 |
| Pasta (500 g) | 0.80 |
| Sugar (1 kg) | 1.20 |
Electricity Prices
Electricity prices in Cyprus are some of the highest in the EU.
This is mainly because the island relies on imported fuel for power generation, leading to higher costs.
We really feel this in the summer when we have the AC running constantly.
In fact, last year, we received a 450 euro bill for July and August alone, after subsidy!
But don’t worry, other months are actually closer to 90-160 euros or less if you’re not home all the time.
Water Prices
Despite a water shortage problem, prices in Cyprus aren’t excessively high, coming in at 20-30 euros a month for a household of three people.
Bottled water is also reasonably priced, normally under 2 euros for a pack of six 1.5-liter bottles.
Internet & Mobile
A solid 200 Mbps fiber internet connection in Paphos should cost 15-25 euros per month.
Yet, for mobile plans, we love using a 45-day prepaid plan (6 euros for 3 GB and 300 minutes) or a 30-day eSIM (9 euros for 3 GB).
Fuel Prices
Owning (or renting) a car in Paphos not only provides more flexibility, but potentially lower costs compared to buses and taxis.
The current fuel price (for unleaded 95) is 1.49 euros per liter, making it the second cheapest in the eurozone after Malta.
The lowest recorded price was in 2020, when it was just under 1 euro per liter.
Lately, people even started renting scooters as a cost-effective and eco-friendly option.
Other
Health Care. If you live and work in Cyprus, you have to register for social insurance and the General Healthcare System (GeSY).
The contributions are calculated as a percentage of your income, approximately up to 20% for self-employed individuals.
In addition, you can purchase private health insurance for extra coverage. We pay 130 euros a month to cover two adults and one child.
Education. Public schools in Paphos are virtually free, with minimal fees for school trips and other activities.
Private schools and kindergartens, on the other hand, can set you back 300-600 euros per child each month. In case you’ve got more than one kid to enroll, that bill adds up fast.
Average Monthly Expenses
- Rent – €600-1200
- Eating out – €130-260
- Groceries – €500-600
- Electricity – €120
- Water – €20
- Internet – €15
- Mobile – €15
- Fuel – €75-150
- Health insurance – €130
- Education – €0-600
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Does a Meal Cost in Paphos?
A meal at a nice restaurant costs 12-15 euros, more or less.
If money is tight, there’s local food for less, or you can treat yourself to something fancier.
How Much Is a Pint of Beer in Paphos?
A pint of beer, particularly the local brand Keo, costs 3-4 euros at bars and restaurants.
How Much Is a Bottle of Wine in Paphos?
A bottle of local wine in a supermarket costs 5-10 euros. In restaurants, however, prices tend to be higher, ranging from 20 to 30 euros or more.
How Much Is a Coffee in Paphos?
A basic espresso costs 1.50-2.50 euros, but if you’re in the mood for a cappuccino or iced latte, it might be 2.50-5 euros.
How Much Are Cigarettes in Paphos?
A pack of cigarettes costs 4-5 euros, but the prices are probably better at the airport.