The mythical birthplace of Aphrodite blends remnants of ancient history with the sun-soaked, Mediterranean beach lifestyle of Cyprus.
From the harbour to the castle and vineyard-dotted mountains, Paphos delivers picture-perfect scenes at every turn. Considered to be the cultural capital of Cyprus, the city overflows with historical sites and magical stories of myth. It’s also a buzzing town for holidays enjoying fantastic resorts and charming restaurants.
Visit Paphos year round, with mild temperatures in winter and a sizzling summer season for beach hopping. In September, the Paphos Aphrodite Festival enlivens the medieval Castle Square with classical music. Celebrate spring, flowers and rebirth in May with the festivities and parades of the Anthestiria Festival.
Things to do in Paphos
Start your exploration of Paphos with a swim near Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra Tou Romiou) along the Aphrodite Cultural Route that crosses Cyprus. In the heart of Kato Paphos near lively Paphos Harbour, cool down at the Municipal Baths Beach. You’ll find taverns serving fresh fish just steps from your sunbed along the picturesque coastal promenade.
A short drive from the centre of Paphos is Coral Bay, a family-friendly favourite where hotels line golden sand and water sports thrill adventure seekers. Cruise at sunset on a catamaran and take a boat tour to the dazzling Blue Lagoon in Akamas National Park. The park also features hiking trails and the natural grotto of the Baths of Aphrodite, along with Lara Beach to spot protected breeding turtles.
When it’s time to shop and dine, you’re spoilt for choice across the old and new towns of Paphos. Browse for souvenirs at Paphos Old Town Market and find an array of shops on Poseidonos Avenue.
History and culture in Paphos
Take a photo with Paphos Castle overlooking the harbour. Originally a Byzantine fort, what you see today is a 16th century restoration. Step back in time at the Archaeological Park of Paphos with monuments from the 4th century BC to the Middle Ages. Admire the mosaic floors of Roman villas and see the underground Tombs of the Kings carved out of rock. Discover more ancient treasures at the Archaeological Museum of Paphos.
Built in the 13th century, the ruined Roman Catholic Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church is an important pilgrimage site and features preserved mosaics. Learn about folk art and history at the Ethnographic Museum. Housed in an 1894 building and surrounded by lovely gardens, it showcases rural costumes and traditional carved furniture.
Dining and nightlife in Paphos
From fresh and flavourful tomatoes to fried halloumi and stuffed vine leaves, Cypriot cuisine is the star of the show on many menus in Paphos. You can’t make a wrong turn along Apostolou Pavlou Street, which connects the city centre with the coast via a tempting array of restaurants and shops.
Stroll around charming Paphos Old Town and choose a restaurant or bar near Kennedy Square. At Paphos Harbour, dine alfresco with waterfront views and wander down the promenade to pick a seat at a lively bar. Known as “Bar Street”, Agiou Antoniou Street is where you’ll find ready-made parties at neon-lit clubs and pubs.
Getting around Paphos
Fly into Paphos Airport and rent a car or take a taxi or bus for a trip of about 30 minutes into the city centre. With the coastal promenade and compact old town, Paphos is a walker’s paradise. An efficient bus system links all major towns on a daily basis to explore further afield. Paphos is a popular destination for cycling holidays, so rent a bike to explore quaint villages and forests nearby.
