Cyprus Wonders

Paphos, located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, is a city where ancient history, archaeological landmarks, and Mediterranean coastline converge. It’s divided into two main areas:

• Kato Paphos (Lower Paphos) – the tourist hub, harbor, and archaeological park
• Pano Paphos (Upper Paphos or Old Town) – traditional markets, local life, and quieter neighborhoods

With a population of just under 40,000, Paphos is compact and easy to explore, making it ideal for short stays and longer trips alike.

🏛️ Key Attractions

1. Paphos Archaeological Park

One of the most important archaeological sites in Cyprus, home to:

• Roman villas with well-preserved mosaics (House of Dionysus, Theseus, Aion)
• Odeon, Agora, and ruins from the Hellenistic and Roman periods
• UNESCO World Heritage status since 1980

2. Tombs of the Kings

• A large necropolis carved into rock, dating back to the 3rd century BC
• Despite the name, it was used for high-ranking officials, not actual royalty

3. Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock)

• The legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, located about 25 minutes from central Paphos
• Accessible by car or bus; popular for photography but not ideal for swimming due to strong currents

4. Agios Neophytos Monastery

• A 12th-century monastery built into a mountain cave by a Cypriot hermit
• Features frescoes and religious icons; located about 20 minutes north of Paphos

5. Akamas Peninsula

• A national park offering hiking, 4×4 tours, and secluded beaches
• Home to the Aphrodite and Adonis trails, Lara Beach (turtle nesting site), and Blue Lagoon

🏖️ Beaches

Paphos offers a variety of beaches, from family-friendly to remote:

• Coral Bay: Sandy, well-developed, ideal for swimming and water sports
• Lara Beach: Secluded, part of a protected turtle nesting area
• Faros Beach: Near the lighthouse, quieter with nearby walking trails
• Alykes Beach: Close to the harbor, organized with sunbeds and restaurants

🍴 Food & Drink

Paphos has a strong food scene focused on traditional Cypriot cuisine, seafood, and regional wine.

Typical dishes include:

• Souvla (grilled meat)
• Halloumi cheese
• Kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb)
• Meze platters with a variety of small plates

Recommended experiences:

• Dine at a taverna in Pano Paphos or a seafood restaurant in the harbor
• Visit Kathikas or Stroumpi villages for wine tasting at family-owned wineries

🏨 Accommodation

You’ll find a wide range of options:

• Resorts and hotels along the coast near Kato Paphos
• Boutique guesthouses and Airbnbs in the Old Town
• Luxury villas in Coral Bay and surrounding villages

Tip: If you’re planning day trips to the Akamas or Troodos, consider staying slightly outside the city for easier access and quieter surroundings.

🚗 Transportation

• Car rental is recommended if you want to explore beyond the city, especially rural villages or Akamas.
• Local buses are reliable for travel within Paphos and to/from the airport.
• Paphos International Airport (PFO) is about 15 – 20 minutes from the city centre.

🗓️ Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March–May): Mild weather, ideal for hiking and sightseeing
• Summer (June–August): Hot and dry; peak tourist season
• Autumn (September–October): Warm sea, fewer crowds
• Winter (November–February): Cooler, with fewer tourists — archaeological sites and local life are more accessible

🛍️ What Else to Explore Nearby

• Polis and Latchi: Quiet coastal villages near Akamas, great for seafood and boat trips
• Troodos Mountains: Day trip for cooler weather, wine villages, and Byzantine monasteries
• Kouklia: Site of the Sanctuary of Aphrodite, older than most ruins in Paphos

✅ Quick Tips

• Language: Greek (English widely spoken)
• Currency: Euro (€)
• Tap water: Safe to drink
• Dress code: Casual, but cover shoulders/knees when visiting monasteries or churches
• Entry: Cyprus is in the EU; check visa requirements if applicable

Final Thought

Paphos is more than just a beach resort — it’s a city layered with history, myth, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring Roman ruins, hiking through forested trails, or watching the sunset from a seaside taverna, Paphos offers a well-rounded experience for any traveller.