Step into a world of ancient legends, breathtaking ruins, and timeless landscapes with this 4-day itinerary across Paphos and Kourion. From underground tombs to cliffside amphitheatres, you’ll explore Cyprus’s most awe-inspiring historic landmarks—while enjoying beautiful beaches and traditional meze along the way.
🏺 Echoes of Ancient Cyprus: A 4-Day History & Archaeology Itinerary in Paphos & Kourion
Location: Paphos & Kourion
Focus: History, archaeology, mythology, and authentic local cuisine
Perfect for: Culture lovers, history buffs, couples, and curious travelers
📅 Day 1: Welcome to Paphos – Coastal Charm Meets Antiquity
Morning:
Whether you’re arriving by plane via Paphos International Airport or driving in from another part of the island, the coastal scenery will immediately set the tone for your journey.
Check into your hotel, then take some time to settle in and soak up the atmosphere.
Once refreshed, head out for a leisurely walk along the Paphos promenade.
Afternoon:
Make your way to the Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located right next to the harbour.
Spanning centuries of ancient history, this sprawling site is home to the remains of several Greco-Roman villas, once belonging to the elite of ancient Paphos. Don’t miss:
- House of Dionysus – featuring vivid mosaics depicting mythological scenes like the god Dionysus’s triumphs.
- House of Theseus – with its detailed portrayal of the hero battling the Minotaur.
- House of Orpheus – showcasing the mythical musician with his lyre.
- House of Aion – known for some of the most refined mosaics ever discovered on the island.
The park also includes the Agora (forum), ancient theatre, basilica ruins, and more. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat—it’s a large site with minimal shade, but well worth exploring in depth.
Tip: A visit here is even more magical in the late afternoon when the golden light casts a glow over the ancient stones.
Evening:
Wander through the Municipal Market, browse local craft shops, and stop to admire views of the coastline from the elevated streets. The area is particularly photogenic during golden hour.
For dinner, settle in at a traditional Cypriot taverna:
- Laona – Known for its rotating menu of home-style dishes made with love.
- 7 St. Georges Tavern – A local favorite that serves authentic meze (small plates) with a focus on seasonal and organic ingredients. No menu—just trust the chef.
Pair your meal with a glass of local wine, such as a crisp Xynisteri or robust Maratheftiko, and toast to the beginning of your Cypriot adventure.
Optional Nightcap: End your evening with a seaside drink at one of the harbor bars, or enjoy a quiet walk under the stars along the lighthouse path.
📅 Day 2: Tombs of the Kings & Petra tou Romiou
Morning:
Begin your day with a visit to the Tombs of the Kings, a remarkable necropolis carved into solid rock dating back to the 4th century BC. These underground burial chambers, once used by aristocrats and officials, offer an atmospheric glimpse into ancient funerary architecture and Roman-era Cyprus.
Afternoon:
Take a short scenic drive to Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock)—the mythical birthplace of the goddess of love. Swim in the surrounding turquoise waters or relax on the pebble beach. On the way back to Paphos you may stop by the village of Kouklia, home to the Sanctuary of Aphrodite—a major pilgrimage site in ancient times and one of the most important shrines to the goddess of love and beauty in the Mediterranean.
Tip: Kouklia village itself is charming and worth a short stroll. You can also stop for a coffee or light lunch at a traditional café like Gabriels Tavern before continuing your journey.
Evening:
Have dinner at Ouzeri at the Almyra Hotel offers a refined twist on traditional Cypriot cuisine. Situated just steps from the sea, the ambiance here is serene and stylish—perfect for enjoying grilled octopus, slow-roasted lamb, or local meze with a glass of wine as the horizon glows in golden tones.
Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for a more casual harborfront experience, head to Theo’s Restaurant—a long-standing Paphos favorite. With its welcoming service and fresh seafood caught daily, Theo’s is a great place to indulge at dishes like calamari, red mullet, or seafood platters.
Looking for something truly local? Drive inland to the tranquil village of Letymbou, just 25 minutes from Paphos. Book a table at Letymbou Tavern, a hidden gem beloved by locals for its authentic village cooking, including oven-baked kleftiko, souvla, and homemade desserts like galaktoboureko. The setting is rustic, the hospitality warm, and the food deeply rooted in tradition—offering a taste of Cyprus that’s both intimate and unforgettable.
📅 Day 3: Day Trip to Ancient Kourion
Morning:
Start your day early with a scenic drive east along the southern coast of Cyprus toward Ancient Kourion about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Paphos. Set on a clifftop overlooking the sea, this Greco-Roman city offers one of the most photogenic archaeological sites in Cyprus.
✨ Highlights to See:
- Greco-Roman Theatre – One of the best-preserved amphitheaters in Cyprus. Built in the 2nd century BCE and still used today for performances, it offers panoramic views over the sea. Stand center stage and feel the ancient acoustics come alive.
- House of Eustolios – Once a private Roman villa, now home to a set of elaborate mosaics and the remains of public baths. The inscriptions here provide fascinating insight into early Christian life.
- Early Christian Basilica – With its marble columns and floor plan still intact, it’s a powerful reminder of how Kourion transitioned through the ages.
- Agora & Roman Forum – The commercial heart of the ancient city, where trade, politics, and social life once thrived.
Bring comfortable shoes, water, and sun protection—the site is spread out, with minimal shade but countless corners to discover.
Insider Tip: If you’re visiting in spring or early summer, the surrounding hills are often blanketed with wildflowers—adding extra magic to the already stunning backdrop.
Lunch:
After exploring the site, head down the hill to Kourion Beach, where you’ll find rustic tavernas with unbeatable views. We recommend:
- Chris Blue Beach – A casual seaside taverna known for its grilled octopus, fresh fish, and breezy atmosphere. Perfect for a long, lazy lunch overlooking the waves.
- Kourion Beach Restaurant – Another solid option with meze, local wines, and family-friendly vibes.
Enjoy the slower pace, order a bottle of chilled white wine (Cyprus’s Xynisteri pairs wonderfully with seafood), and savor the flavors of the coast.
Afternoon Option:
If you have the energy for one more stop, consider a visit to:
Zambartas or Vouni Panayia Winery – Head slightly inland for a wine-tasting experience in the foothills. You’ll learn about Cypriot grape varieties and sample local blends in scenic, rural surroundings.
Kolossi Castle – A small but well-preserved 15th-century crusader stronghold just 20 minutes from Kourion. Climb the tower for panoramic countryside views.
Evening:
Head back to Paphos in the early evening. After a full day of exploration, you may want a quieter night. Consider dining at your hotel, or enjoy a low-key dinner in the harbor area, with lights dancing on the water and the castle in view.
If you’re up for it, take a final moonlit walk along the promenade or relax with a cocktail at a rooftop bar.
📅 Day 4: Leisure, Culture & Departure
Morning:
Begin your day with a visit to Ayia Kyriaki Chrysopolitissa Church, a site built over one of the earliest Christian basilicas on the island. The church is still active today, but the real wonder lies in its surroundings—ancient ruins, mosaic floors, and the famous St. Paul’s Pillar, where the apostle is said to have been flogged during his missionary journey through Cyprus.
From there, walk a short distance to the Byzantine Museum in the Old Town. This small but well-curated collection features icons, fresco fragments, and religious artifacts spanning from the 7th to the 18th century.
Tip: If you’re interested in sacred art, don’t miss the icon of Saint Marina—one of the oldest and most valuable on the island.
Afternoon:
After a final leisurely lunch, wander through the Paphos Municipal Market (Agora). This lively covered market offers everything from fresh produce and handmade lace to local olive oils, herbs, and carob-based products. It’s an ideal spot to pick up last-minute souvenirs or small gifts with genuine Cypriot character.
Nearby, you’ll find artisan boutiques selling pottery, woven goods, and traditional copperwork—many of them made by local families who have practiced their craft for generations.
If you have extra time, consider visiting the Hamam Baths in Ktima, a beautifully restored Ottoman bathhouse now functioning as a cultural space and spa.
Evening:
If your flight is the following morning, treat yourself to a relaxed final evening in Paphos. Consider a sunset dinner at Muse Café Kitchen Bar, perched high above the city with panoramic views, stylish interiors, and a Mediterranean-leaning menu.
Toast your time in Cyprus with a glass of Commandaria, the island’s historic sweet dessert wine—a fitting end to a trip filled with ancient echoes and rich cultural flavor.!
🏨 Recommended Hotels in Paphos (4+ stars on TripAdvisor):
| Hotel | Type | Why Stay Here |
|---|---|---|
| Elysium Hotel | Luxury | Elegant resort next to Tombs of the Kings, stunning spa & sea views |
| Amavi Hotel | Adults-only luxury | Ideal for couples, beachfront, modern design, top-rated service |
| Annabelle Hotel | 5-star classic | Centrally located, lush gardens, walking distance to harbor |
| Dionysos Central Hotel | Mid-range | Great value, steps from the beach & archaeological park |
🏨 Bonus Stay Option
If you’d like to spend a night closer to Kourion or along the coast between Paphos and Limassol:
- Columbia Beach Resort (Pissouri Bay) – 5-star luxury resort with a lagoon-style pool, beachfront location, fine dining, and spa. Perfect for a halfway stop between Paphos and Kourion. Rated 4.5+ on TripAdvisor.
✅ At-a-Glance Itinerary Summary
| Day | Destination | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Paphos | Archaeological Park, Old Town & meze |
| Day 2 | Paphos & Petra tou Romiou | Tombs of the Kings, Aphrodite’s Rock |
| Day 3 | Kourion | Amphitheatre, mosaics, Roman ruins |
| Day 4 | Paphos | Byzantine culture, relaxing departure |
✈️ Departure Tips:
- To the airport: Paphos International Airport is just 20–25 minutes from the town center.
- Airport facilities: Small but efficient, with cafés, shops, and a few local food options to carry a taste of Cyprus home with you.
- What to take home: Locally made wine, olive oil, traditional sweets like loukoumia (Cypriot delights), handmade lace, or ceramic ware.
✍️ Final Thoughts
Echoes of Ancient Cyprus is more than a history tour—it’s a journey through myth, empire, and timeless Mediterranean beauty. Between the sacred rock where Aphrodite was born and the amphitheatre ruins of Kourion, you’ll walk where legends lived and empires ruled.
Whether you’re an archaeology enthusiast or a curious traveller wanting to connect with the past, this 4-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of discovery, relaxation, and Cypriot hospitality.
Cyprus Wonders 