Paphos Travel Guide

Overview

Nestled on the southwestern coast of Cyprus, Paphos unveils a captivating blend of ancient mystique and modern allure. The city invites you to traverse through time as you wander amidst the ancient ruins of the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, where mosaic floors and weather-worn columns narrate tales of a glorious past. The Tombs of the Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a silent testimony to the city’s rich historical tapestry. Yet, Paphos isn’t just a haven for history aficionados. The bustling harbour welcomes you with its modern vibrancy, where quaint cafes and lively bars line the waterfront, offering a picturesque setting to enjoy a Cypriot coffee or a glass of local wine as you gaze upon the azure waters.

Paphos also beckons the nature lover with its rugged coastline and serene beaches. Coral Bay extends a warm invitation to bask under the Mediterranean sun with its golden sands and clear waters. Venture further, and the Akamas Peninsula awaits with its wild, untouched beauty, offering trails that lead you through lush landscapes to secluded bays. As evening descends, Paphos’ vibrant nightlife emerges. The harbour area transforms into a hub of entertainment, where the rhythm of live music blends with the gentle lapping of the waves, creating a lively yet relaxing ambience. Whether indulging in a romantic dinner at a beachfront restaurant or enjoying a spirited evening at a local tavern, Paphos offers an array of experiences that cater to every whim. With each historic ruin, each wave that kisses the shore, and each star that twinkles in the Cypriot sky, Paphos promises a voyage of discovery and delight.

Best Time to Visit Paphos

Embraced by the gentle warmth of the Mediterranean, Paphos unfolds a climate akin to a melodic symphony – with each season playing its distinctive note. The optimal time to travel to Paphos is between April and June, and from September to October, when the climate is pleasant, beaches less crowded, and accommodation rates more attractive, providing a tranquil and value-driven travel experience.

• Spring (March to May): As the chill of winter gradually ebbs away, Spring makes a grand entrance around March, extending a warm invitation to the explorers at heart. This season is synonymous with mild warmth, where the temperatures are just proper to meander through the ancient ruins or stroll along the pristine beaches. May is enjoyable, allowing you to beat the summer crowds whilst indulging in the serene ambience of Paphos’ exquisite shorelines​​.
• Summer (June to August)Summer is when Paphos truly comes alive, basking in the glory of the radiant sun. From June to August, the city offers a warm embrace, with temperatures soaring to a lively 32°C, especially in August​​. It is when the sun casts a golden hue on the city, making it a haven for sun-seekers and beach enthusiasts. The azure waters beckon for a refreshing dip under the clear blue skies that promise endless sunshine​​.
• Autumn (September to November): As the enthusiasm of summer mellows down, autumn steps in with a whisper of cool breezes. The period from September to October continues to hold the warmth, making it a delightful time to explore the city without the bustling summer crowds. It’s a time when the pace slows down a bit, yet the charm of Paphos remains undeterred.
• Winter (December to February): Winter in Paphos is a mild affair, with the climate remaining gentle compared to the harsh winters of mainland Europe. The tranquillity of the season offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the frenetic pace of everyday life.

Paphos, with its rich historical tapestry and natural allure, is a year-round destination that holds a unique charm in every season. Whether it’s the vibrant allure of summer or the peaceful serenity of winter, each season in Paphos unfolds a particular chapter of experiences waiting to be discovered.

Akamas Peninsula National Park

Where to stay
Hotels & Airbnbs in Paphos

Paphos’ Prime Neighbourhoods

Known for its bustling harbour lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops, Kato Paphos is the heart of the action. For those who wish to be near the beach and entertainment, staying at the Annabelle Hotel, with its luxurious rooms and waterfront view, is an excellent choice.

Coral Bay offers pristine beaches and a laid-back atmosphere for travellers looking for a more serene setting. Coral Beach Hotel & Resort blends comfort and beachside relaxation, perfect for a tranquil retreat.

If you want to experience local life, Paphos’ Old Town is a tapestry of culture, history, and modernity. Axiothea Hotel offers panoramic views of the town and coastline, placing you in the centre of local life.

Romantic Escapes for Couples

Elysium Hotel goes beyond mere lodging; its breathtaking sea views and world-class spa create a cocoon of romance and relaxation. Another romantic venue is the Almyra Hotel, which offers a scenic backdrop for romantic escapades, complete with adventure-packed sea sports activities.

Family Fun, Zero Stress

Alexander The Great Beach Hotel caters to families with its expansive pools, children’s activities, and diverse dining experiences. Similarly, Louis Phaethon Beach Hotel ensures that your family can relax and recharge without any worries.

The Solo Sojourn: Serenity Meets Social

Paphos Gardens Holiday Resort offers wellness activities and within 500 metres from the sandy beach, making it an ideal escape for solo travellers. Equally inviting is the Anemi Hotel & Suites, located close to sandy beaches, pubs, restaurants, shops, local historic sites and water sports activities.

Luxurious Getaways

Amavi MadeForTwo Hotel stands out with its top-notch services, private beach, and five outdoor pools. Another premium option designed for adults is The Ivi Mare Hotel – Designed for Adults, which leaves no detail overlooked, offering celebrity treatment with world-class service.

Unearth Mid-Range Jewels

Kefalos Beach Tourist Village delivers an array of amenities that don’t sacrifice comfort or quality, making it a solid mid-range option. The Palmiers Hotel, on the other hand, offers a well-rounded experience, delivering quality without the luxurious price tag.

Wallet-Friendly Wonders

Pyramos Hotel is a wallet-friendly choice that offers clean, spacious rooms in a prime location. Another economical option is Pagona Holiday Apartments which promises a comfortable stay without breaking the bank and is conveniently located.

Authentic Stays with a Local Twist

Sanders Olive Shared Pool Apartments provide the comfort of home and are strategically located near key attractions, making it an ideal choice for those wanting a more localised experience. King’s Holiday Apartments offer a similar homely ambience, perfectly blending local experience with modern amenities.

Ready to secure your dream accommodation in Paphos? Make your reservation hassle-free using our interactive map below, where you can explore each hotel’s location. Alternatively head over to Booking.com to finalize your plans. Enjoy your stay!

Things to Do
Tours & Activities in Paphos

Paphos, a charming harbour city on the southwestern coast of Cyprus, is a destination where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine. As the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, Paphos exudes a timeless allure. Visitors can marvel at ancient tombs and mosaics, explore scenic beaches and castles, and delve into the rich historical tapestry of the city. The Kato Paphos Archaeological Park invites explorers to wander through the remnants of a bygone era, while picturesque beaches like Alykes Beach offer a serene retreat. Moreover, Paphos’ vibrant street art, wine-tasting tours, and the enigmatic Paphos Mosaics provide a touch of modern culture amidst the ancient setting.

In Paphos, a wealth of adventures awaits both within and beyond the city. From exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites and Roman ruins to enjoying the Mediterranean beaches and Cypriot cuisine, the discoveries have no end. Additionally, an array of organized tours and excursions are available for those wishing to delve deeper into the local culture and natural wonders. The tours we’ve selected from Viator.com offer a curated experience, painting a comprehensive picture of Paphos’ diverse offerings, from its azure waters to its verdant landscapes and historical treasures.

Nautical Narratives and Sea-Swept Adventures

Paphos, cradled by the Aegean, holds a treasure trove of maritime adventures. Embark on the Blue Lagoon (Akamas) excursion from Paphos, where the crystal-clear waters beckon for a refreshing dive into the azure depths. The journey across the sea unfolds further with the “Nafsika II Half Day Cruise,” a voyage that dances along the rhythm of the waves, offering a serene escape amidst the endless horizon.

Epicurean Escapades and Cultural Tapestries

Imagine a culinary journey through Paphos’ gastronomic landscape with the Village Venture: Troodos Mountains Food & Wine Small Group Day Tour. Each sip and bite narrates tales of age-old traditions blended with contemporary culinary artistry. Extend your epicurean exploration with the Vino Venture: Explore With A Local – Troodos Mountains thru Wine! where the essence of local vineyards unfolds with every pour.

Chronicles of Time: Footprints and Milestones

Stride through the annals of history with the “100% Cyprus – Tour to Troodos mountains and villages (From Paphos),” a journey through quaint villages holding tales as ancient as the Troodos Mountains. Further, glide through Paphos’ historical core with the Paphos Segway Tour Morning Tour 11AM, an innovative venture that threads you through the city’s rich historical tapestry.

Joyous Bonds: Family Moments and Memory Making

Paphos extends a warm invitation to families with its playful realms. Splash into joy at the Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark with an entrance ticket to a world where laughter echoes through splashy slides and lazy rivers. As the night descends, set sail on the “Wave Dancer Fireworks Night Cruise,” a voyage under the starlit sky filled with twinkling fireworks, bonding over shared giggles and creating cherished memories.

Booking Your Adventure

Embark on your Paphos adventure with ease by booking your tours and activities through Viator.com. Your voyage into the myriad charms of Paphos is but a click away, ensuring a seamless exploration of this Mediterranean gem.

Best Beaches in Paphos

Paphos, the coastal gem of western Cyprus, is where myth intertwines with beauty, presenting beaches steeped in legend and rich with Mediterranean allure. This historic haven is home to sands that whisper tales of ancient gods and goddesses, inviting beachgoers to walk in the footsteps of Aphrodite herself.

The journey along Paphos’ shores might begin at Coral Bay, where the embrace of golden sands and the caress of gentle waves create a family-friendly retreat. Here, sun loungers dot the beach, and children’s laughter rises above the soothing sounds of the sea, crafting a picturesque setting for holiday memories.

Venture towards the pebbled expanse of Petra tou Romiou, also known as Aphrodite’s Rock, where legend has it the goddess of love and beauty emerged from the foam of the waters. This beach is more than a scenic spot; it’s a cultural cornerstone where one can bask in the majesty of myth and the sun’s warmth in equal measure.

For those seeking a blend of comfort and scenic beauty, the municipal sands of Alykes Beach offer accessibility and amenities aplenty, along with calm, clear waters that beckon swimmers and paddleboard enthusiasts to wade into the crystalline depths.

Secluded and serene, the hidden cove of Lara Beach awaits nature enthusiasts. This unspoiled sanctuary, part of the Akamas Peninsula, is a testament to conservation, serving as a breeding ground for the endangered loggerhead and green turtles. Its rugged beauty offers a peaceful escape, where the only footprints in the sand will likely be yours.

Lastly, the inviting waters of Geroskipou Beach offer a serene respite with its palm-lined promenade and laid-back atmosphere, ideal for those longing for relaxation with a hint of local charm.

In Paphos, every beach is a narrative woven from history, nature, and the endless dance of the waves. From the bustling activity around the Paphos Harbour to the tranquil stretches of the area’s more secluded shores, the beaches serve as a portal to tranquillity and adventure. Here, in the land where goddesses are said to have played, the beaches offer a divine escape, enchanting all who step upon their storied sands.

Coral Bay Beach

Shopping in Paphos

Nestled on the southwestern coast of Cyprus, Paphos unveils a shopping arena that intertwines modernity with tradition. From high-end malls to quaint local boutiques, the retail landscape of Paphos is as enchanting as its historical ruins and pristine beaches.

Signature Streets and Boutiques

The core of Paphos’ shopping realm pulsates along the vibrant lanes that host a myriad of boutiques and stores. The prime attraction here is the main shopping lane parallel to the beach promenade, where tourists find solace in retail therapy amidst the rhythmic lapping of waves​.

Traditional Treasures

The heart of tradition beats strongly in Paphos, with local crafts and tourist trinkets awaiting your discovery. The town’s retail outlets offer more than commodities; they present a narrative of Cyprus’s rich cultural tapestry. As you wander, every boutique tells a tale of the island’s heritage through exquisite handmade items and age-old crafts​​.

Modern Shopping Venues

Modern retail finds its epitome at the Kings Avenue Mall, the crown jewel of Paphos’s shopping scene. Housing over 120 stores under an architecturally splendid roof, this mall is a haven for those seeking a blend of high-street and designer brands. With a food court and a movie theatre, it’s a place where shopping marries entertainment, making it a modern-day agora of commerce and culture​​.

Quaint and Curious

Apart from the modern edifices, Paphos cradles smaller, whimsical shops that beckon the curious at heart. These charming boutiques offer a pallet of unique finds, from quirky souvenirs to handmade crafts, each item a remembrance of the sun-kissed Cypriot haven.

In essence, Paphos’s shopping scene is a delightful blend of the contemporary and the traditional, an ode to the town’s rich history and modern-day vibrancy. As you traverse its retail pathways, every purchase becomes a keepsake, a beautiful narrative of your Cypriot odyssey.

Where to eat
Restaurants in Paphos

Paphos, a city swathed in myth and blessed with perennial sunshine, offers a gastronomic journey as enchanting as its storied past. The city’s restaurants are a true reflection of its landscape—diverse, vibrant, and invariably delightful. From the quaint eateries nestled in the heart of the Old Town to the sophisticated dining establishments that line the picturesque harbour, Paphos serves up a feast for the senses. The city’s culinary scene is a mosaic of traditional Cypriot tavernas, contemporary gastronomic eateries, and a sprinkle of international cuisines, each waiting to be discovered in the maze of its historic streets and seafront promenades.

Local Delicacies

Embark on a rustic foray into the heart of Cypriot gastronomy in the charismatic Old Town at Seven St. Georges Tavern, where the meze is an ode to the island’s agricultural bounty. For a slice of local life, Laona Restaurant is a treasured nook where traditional recipes and familial warmth conjure a dining experience that’s genuine and heartwarming.

Seafood Specialties

Near the vigilant Paphos Castle and the gentle lapping harbour waves, Kings Restaurant is a beacon for seafood aficionados, serving dishes brimming with the Mediterranean’s bountiful sea harvest. Each plate offers not just a meal but a story of the sea’s generosity and the city’s maritime heritage.

Global Flavours

Veering from the local traditions, Phuket Chinese & Thai Restaurant weaves a tapestry of Eastern delights, transporting your senses to the bustling streets of Bangkok with each flavourful bite. For a European twist, Let Them Eat Cake tantalises with exquisite pastries and continental dishes, each a testament to Paphos’ cosmopolitan spirit.

Gourmet Experiences

The culinary mosaic of Paphos is complete with the innovative dishes at Koutourou Ouzeri, where Cypriot ingredients dance with contemporary zest. It’s a place for the curious and the adventurous, a culinary lab where every dish is familiar and thrillingly new.

In Paphos, each meal is a chapter in the city’s story, told through scents, tastes, and the shared joy of a table laden with more than just food but with history, culture, and the touch of the Cypriot sun. Whether you’re indulging in the comforts of Cypriot hospitality or embarking on a journey of culinary discovery, the city’s eateries are a feast not just for the palate but for the soul.

The Seven St. Georges Tavern

Nightlife
Bars & Clubs in Paphos

Paphos, a mosaic of history and modernity, offers a nightlife realm that beckons with its myriad charms. Here, where the Mediterranean Sea whispers tales of antiquity, the nights are alive with revelry and rhythm.

Bars: The Elixir of Dusk

In the historical embrace of the Old Town, bars like The Old Fishing Shack interweave the rich tapestry of Paphos life with the enjoyment of an evening drink. The Wooden Pub echoes with the merriment of Cypriot charm, while The Harbour offers concoctions that mirror the hues of the Paphos sunset.

Bar Street pulsates with the vibrant energy of Robin Hood Pub, where each night is a medieval gala. In contrast, Flintstones Bar brings a touch of prehistoric panache to the present.

For those who seek nocturnal bliss in a more serene setting, the Coral Bay Area, just a 20-minute drive away from Paphos, beckons. Here, at Trattoria La Vigna, the mellowness of the evening is perfect for a romantic interlude. Coral Bay Divers Bar offers a dive into the night with a side of adventure, while Sea You Beach Bar is the stage for sunset spectacles and nightcaps under the stars.

Clubs: The Beat of Paphos Nights

As the twilight deepens, clubs in Paphos come to the forefront of the nocturnal scene. Loft Club, with its sleek interiors and electrifying ambience, becomes a haven for the sophisticates of night. Meanwhile, Rainbow Club paints the evening with various musical colours, attracting a kaleidoscope of party-goers.

Vibes Club lives up to its name, resonating with the latest trends and rhythms, creating a sanctuary for music lovers. Lastly, Bank Nightclub vaults you into a world of opulent parties, where every night feels like an exclusive event.

The night in Paphos unfolds like a richly woven tale, with each venue, from the bars of the Old Town to the clubs on Bar Street and beyond, contributing a distinctive thread to the vibrant tapestry that captivates all who wander through its historic and lively streets.

Sea You Beach Bar