- Top Attractions
- See & Do
- Eat & Drink
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Why Visit Paphos
Paphos boasts a rich heritage, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1980. Explore the intricate Roman Mosaics of Nea Paphos and the monumental Tombs of the Kings. Discover the Odeon or the unique Agia Solomoni Catacomb with its sacred tree. This reveals what is Paphos famous for beyond the coast.
Bordering the Mediterranean, Paphos offers the Akamas Peninsula's pristine trails and Lara Beach, a turtle nesting site. Paphos Castle marks the harbor, perfect for evening strolls and sunset views, a key element of any Paphos travel guide.
Paphos's cuisine offers Cypriot flavors, a highlight in any Paphos travel guide. Beyond typical meze, seek out 'kolokasi,' a local taro root dish, often stewed. Experience genuine Cypriot hospitality at a traditional taverna in the Old Town, where carob syrup is often used in desserts.
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Quick Travel Essentials
- Apr-Jun & Sep-Octmild, fewer crowds
- Jul-Aughot & busy
- Wintermild, occasional rain
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #LightClothing
- #Swimwear
- #PowerAdapterTypeG
- #Hat
- 3-5 days for highlights
- 6-7 with beaches & day trips
- Euro (€)
- Greek & Turkish
- English widely spoken in tourist areas
- #PaphosHarbor
- #TombsOfTheKings
- #KatoPaphosArchaeologicalPark
- #PaphosCastle
- #CoralBay
- #AkamasNationalPark
- Sunset at Paphos Harbor
- Try meze at a local taverna
- Explore the Akamas peninsula
- Visit the mosaics at the Archaeological Park
- Relax at Coral Bay
Recommended Hotels in Paphos by Experience
Things to do in Paphos
Discover
Enjoy the natural wonders of Paphos, from the stunning Paphos Archaeological Park to the vibrant harbor, and the picturesque old town. Each site highlights Cyprus's rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a top destination.
Experience
Among the top things to do in Paphos are exploring hiking trails, local markets with traditional crafts, and exciting Paphos cultural activities, such as music festivals and workshops, ensuring a memorable experience for all visitors.
Paphos Archaeological Park
Ancient ruins showcasing Roman villas and mosaics.
Tomb of the Kings
Historic burial site cut into solid rock.
Coral Bay
Beautiful beach ideal for sunbathing and swimming.
Paphos Castle
Historic fortress guarding the harbor area.
Agios Neophytos Monastery
Charming monastery with frescoes and gardens.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
To get to Paphos, fly into Paphos International Airport (PFO). The Paphos airport to city center journey takes 20-30 minutes by taxi (~€25-€30) or local bus route 612/613 (~€2). Paphos shuttle bus options are also available for pre-booking.
Getting Around
For getting around, public transport in Paphos primarily uses local buses connecting the harbor, Old Town, and Coral Bay. A single ticket costs €2; day passes are €6.50. Walking is ideal for the harbor area and archaeological sites.
Local Essentials
If driving in Paphos, remember to drive on the left. Many roundabouts can be confusing. Consider car rental in Paphos for exploring beyond the city, but book ahead. Bus ticket machines don't give change, so have exact cash ready.
Where to Stay in Paphos
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore traditional food in Paphos like moussaka, sheftalia, and halloumi. The local dining culture boasts late dinners and a vibrant café scene, perfect for socializing over a coffee or a glass of local wine.
Enjoy
Taste some of the best restaurants in Paphos such as the charming Windmill Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance. For drinks, visit the lively Muse Cafe, which also serves delightful meals. Don't miss sampling street food from vendors.
Windmill Restaurant
Mediterranean delights with a cozy vibe, reservation needed.
Ficardo's Restaurant
Family-run restaurant with high-quality Italian cuisine.
The Lodge Steak & Seafood Co
Grillhouse with seafood specials, live music on weekends.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Paphos cultural activities include religious feasts like St. Paul's Day in July and traditional celebrations like the Kataklysmos festival in early summer, honoring the Great Flood with music and dance.
Enjoy
Exploring Paphos reveals local traditions at Paphos Aphrodite Festival, showcasing opera in its historic setting. International Festival of Ancient Greek Drama events are a must-see for opera lovers, while Dionysia Wine Festival caters to foodies.
Kataklysmos Festival
Commemorates the Great Flood with music, dance, and boat races in June.
Paphos Aphrodite Festival
Open-air opera performance in August/September at Paphos Castle.
St. Paul's Day Celebration
Religious observance with processions and services in July.
Dionysia Wine Festival
Event celebrating local wines with tasting in nearby Stroumbi village.
International Festival of Ancient Greek Drama
Performances of classic Greek plays in July/August.
Paphos totally delivered for us
The sea here is something else. Coral Bay beach is gorgeous and the water stays warm well into the season. Food is great and cheap compared to back home. Really easy place to just switch off.
Old town Paphos is worth every minute
Kato Paphos is so walkable and packed with history. The mosaics at the Archaeological Park blew me away - didn't expect anything that well preserved. Locals are friendly and the food along the harbour is solid. Great all around trip.
Sun, sea and really good food
We came for the beach and stayed for the food. Halloumi here tastes completely different to what you get back home - grilled fresh and slightly squeaky. The coastline around Paphos is stunning and never felt overcrowded. Loved it.
Perfect winter sun escape
Temperatures in December were mild enough to sit outside and have a coffee without freezing. The Paphos Harbour area is lovely for an evening stroll. Prices are reasonable and the pace is slow in a good way. Exactly what I needed.
History lovers will be very happy here
Tomb of the Kings is genuinely impressive and weirdly peaceful. You can spend hours exploring it without feeling rushed. The whole area around Paphos has layers of history and it doesn't feel like a theme park version of it either. Really authentic.
Great spot for a relaxed beach holiday
We stayed close to Agia Napa beach within Paphos and the sea was crystal clear even in December. The town is small enough to get around easily on foot. Mezze portions are huge and the locals are genuinely welcoming. Would recommend without hesitation.