Whether you’re in search of history, culture and gastronomy, or sun, sand and tavernas, the coastal city of Paphos makes a perfect base. Located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, it is also ideally situated for exploring the surrounding countryside. So what are the best things to see and do when you visit Paphos?
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Why Visit Paphos?
This is an ancient city steeped in history and mythology. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the centre of the cult of the goddess Aphrodite. But it is also a modern city: in 2017 Paphos was named European Capital of Culture, an accolade that led to a substantial renovation of the old town and the creation of new public spaces.
This is a place to explore, eat and shop. You can take a boat trip or drive into the mountains. Or you can just soak up the sun and relax beside the sea. With mild winters, hot summers and easy access via direct flights from the UK, Paphos is the perfect year‑round destination.
Lower Paphos
The town is situated on two levels, prosaically named Lower and Upper Paphos. Lower Paphos – also known as Kato Paphos – is the heart of the tourist area, stretching along the seafront from the harbour towards the shops and hotels.
It’s here that you’ll find the lively promenade, the historic castle, and the city’s famous archaeological sites.
Paphos Harbour And Castle
The waterfront is dominated by the long curve of Paphos Harbour. This is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, or for a drink or a meal at one of the area’s numerous cafés and restaurants. You could also enjoy a boat trip around the harbour area.
At one end of the harbour is the medieval Paphos Castle. This was originally a Byzantine fortress, designed to protect the port, and it was rebuilt at different times by various occupying powers. The fort remained in use for military purposes until the arrival of the British in 1878, and today it is a tourist attraction and events space. Climb to the top for sweeping views across the coast.
Lower Paphos Archaeological Sites
Just behind the harbour is Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, whose ancient ruins include four Roman villas with some impressive mosaic floors. A little further away are the Tombs of the Kings, a collection of monumental rock-cut tombs.
Both locations are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Read more – Archaeological Sites Of Paphos: UNESCO World Heritage.
Upper Paphos
Upper Paphos – or Pano Paphos – is the historic centre of the city. This is where you’ll find the old town, a district that has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years.
Paphos Old Town
Much of the old town has been redesigned, so you are more likely to see updated public spaces rather than ancient streets. Start at the Town Hall Square with its neoclassical buildings, then walk up to Kennedy Square, the main plaza of Paphos. From here you can wander the surrounding streets, where many of the once‑derelict buildings have been restored, now housing cafés, boutiques and galleries.
Beside Paphos Market you will find the Overlook, giving views over the Lower Town and the harbour. If you are here in the evening you may catch one of the spectacular sunsets for which the area is renowned.
Markets And Shops
The Upper Town is the place to be if you want to browse or shop for local crafts and foods. Close to the market area is Ibrahim’s Khan, a former caravanserai that once provided accommodation to travelling merchants. Today it has been fully refurbished and is home to small craft shops and studios. The Municipal Art Gallery is located here, and outdoor performances occasionally take place in the courtyard.
Not to be missed is The Place. This is a centre dedicated to Cypriot crafts, where you can watch artisans at work and purchase a wide range of local products including wine, honey, lace and pottery.
Eating And Drinking In Paphos
Paphos is known for its dining scene, with everything from traditional tavernas to international restaurants. You’ll find excellent Cypriot cuisine, and seafood is a highlight, especially around the harbour.
Bars and cafés with a laid‑back atmosphere line the seafront. Whether you want a cocktail, a glass of local wine or just a coffee, there is plenty of choice.
Round About Paphos
The region around Paphos is rich in opportunities for exploration. You can discover the coastline with its beaches and rocky coves, or head inland to the mountains and the villages of the Paphos region.
Beaches, Boat Trips, And A Greek Goddess
The coastline around Paphos includes sandy stretches, rocky coves and long promenades. A short drive along the coast is Coral Bay, popular for its soft sands and clear water. You can also enjoy the coast from the water, with a selection of short or full day boat trips.
A short drive east of Paphos brings you to Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou), a dramatic landscape of sea, cliffs and rocks. According to Greek mythology, this is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. And local legend claims that anyone who swims around the rock three times will be granted the gift of eternal beauty. (However, the strong currents and jagged rocks make this inadvisable…)
Inland Excursions
If you hire a car, you can head inland to the unspoilt countryside and traditional mountain villages of the Paphos region. There are numerous hiking trails, and further afield are the Troodos Mountains, with their pine forests, waterfall trails and UNESCO-listed churches with historic wall paintings.
Many tour companies offer day trips to the mountains, taking in monasteries, wineries and scenic viewpoints. Spring is the best time for hiking, when wildflowers are in bloom and the trails are at their most colourful.
Practical Information For Your Visit To Paphos
- Paphos International Airport is just outside the city, with frequent direct flights from the UK and elsewhere in Europe.
- I flew with Jet2.com who have regular flights from 12 regional airports in the UK. Jet2holidays also arrange package deals to Paphos.
- The airport is around 15 km from Paphos and transfers take around 20 minutes. Buses and taxis are available.
- Paphos is 70 km from Limassol, 133 km from Larnaca, and 150 km from Nicosia.
- The main hotel area is along the seafront to the southeast of Paphos. I stayed at the luxurious and friendly Asimina Suites Hotel, and you can read more about my visit.
- Most hotels are an easy walk from the town centre along the waterfront promenade. There are also regular buses. Taxis and hire cars are widely available.
- You can visit Paphos at any time of year. Spring and autumn offer ideal temperatures for sightseeing and walking. Summer is hot and perfect for beaches; winter is mild and quiet.
This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in the article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Paphos.
