Paphos, Cyprus, has stunning beaches, fascinating historical attractions, enriching cultural experiences and delicious Cypriot food. The harbour city is located in the Mediterranean and is the perfect place to take a winter summer holiday. The weather is pleasant, crowds are thinner, and tourist attractions and historical landmarks are still open.
Explore UNESCO sites such as Kato Paphos Archaeological Park and the Tombs of the Kings, take a jeep adventure to see Shipwreck Edro3, or relax on the beautiful Mediterranean beaches of Coral Bay and SODAP. If you want to get away for the day, head to the Troodos Mountains for Byzantine churches and monasteries, or go to Ayia Napa to explore sea caves and see the Love Bridge. Paphos offers plenty of things to see and do.
Here are 20 of the best cultural activities and historical attractions in Paphos, Cyprus, to enjoy year-round.
Paphos Fort is one of the top attractions to see
Paphos Attractions & Landmarks
1. Kato Paphos Archaeological Park
One of Paphos’s top attractions is Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historical site is a must for any history lover and enthusiast. While the site covers a large area, the main entrance is located on the harbour near Paphos Castle. The Paphos Archaeological Park includes ancient ruins such as Roman villas, well-preserved mosaics, and the Odeon amphitheatre.
It was part of an important Ancient Roman and Greek settlement in Cyprus and is one of the best things to do in Paphos. It is open daily, with times differing between winter and summer, and costs less than 5 euros per person. The best way to explore Paphos Archaeological Park is to take a guided tour that includes entrance fees and teaches you about Cypriot history.
1.1 Highlight Attractions of Paphos Archaeological Park
Roman Odeon is a small amphitheatre dating back to the 2nd Century. It is still used today for summer performances. The Paphos lighthouse is in the background, making for a great backdrop for photos.
Agora (Marketplace) is a historic marketplace containing the remains of various structures, such as columns, shops and public buildings.
The Roman Villa Mosaics in Paphos Archaeological Park are among the best-preserved mosaics in Cyprus. The most popular villa is the House of Dionysus, which features mosaics of famous battles, gods, and goddesses that will take your breath away.
House of Dionysus mosaics are one of the most popular things to see inside Paphos
2. Paphos Castle
Next, head to Paphos Fort, also known as Paphos Castle, located at the end of the harbour, a 5-minute walk from the Archaeological Site entrance. A prominent landmark in Paphos, it was originally a Byzantine fortress built to protect the harbour. Over time, the fort has served as a prison, a salt warehouse during British occupation, and a refuge. It reminded me a little of the Kasbah Fortress in Tunisia.
Today, it is one of Paphos’ top historical attractions to visit and a prominent landmark. During the summer months, it is used as a backdrop for performances by locals for festive gatherings. Go inside the fort and climb onto the ramparts to have panoramic views across the Mediterranean and harbour. It is open every day except public holidays and costs less than 3 euros per person.
3. Explore the Tombs of the Kings
The Tombs of the Kings are the top thing to do in Paphos and one of my favourite archaeological sites. They are underground tombs (now empty) dating back to as early as the fourth century BC. They’re cut into the native sandstone along the Mediterranean coastline. The Tombs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and despite their name, they didn’t contain a king. They were the burial grounds for high-ranking officials and members of society.
The impressive burial spaces are set within caves and tombs with a distinct Egyptian influence. Don’t miss out on tomb number three, with its Doric columns surrounding its atrium. It is a great spot for Instagram photos, inside and out. You will need at least a couple of hours at this historical site, and you can get there on the 615 bus from the Harbour. Book a half-day guided tour to both the Tombs of the Kings and Kato Paphos Archaeological Park and learn about these fascinating historical sites.
If UNESCO sites excite you, Tunisia’s unmissable historical landmarks will be right up your street.
Wandering around Tomb Number Three activities in Paphos
4. Hike the Aphrodite Nature Trail
For those who want to combine adventure with cultural activities, I suggest hiking the Aphrodite Nature Trail. It runs along the Akamams Peninsula coast, about an hour’s drive from Paphos centre. The Akamas Peninsula is a popular area for hiking, with Aphrodite’s Nature Trail being the main route. The trail stretches 7.5 kilometres and should take around 3 hours.
The nature trail follows in the footsteps of the goddess Aphrodite and takes you past the Baths of Aphrodite. While the trail is well marked and organised, some sections are uneven, with loose stones. I wore Merrell walking shoes, which were great for the trail. This activity is perfect for hikers and nature lovers. You can also book the Aphrodite’s Nature Trail as a private guided hike that includes pick-up, if you are more comfortable doing it that way.
After the hike, have lunch at the Baths of Aphrodite restaurant at the entrance to the Akamas trails. It was one of my favourite restaurants in Paphos for the views.
5. Do a Jeep Safari
Enjoy an adventure on a Jeep Safari, seeing some of the top attractions around Paphos, like the EDRO III Shipwreck and the Blue Lagoon. The tour is in a 4×4 Land Rover with an 8-person capacity (not including the driver/guide), and it picks you up from the hotel. Our Jeep Safari was an all-day trip that combined adventure and culture. I highly recommend it.
It took us to the Akamas Peninsula to see the Shipwreck Edro3, Sea Caves, Agios Georgios Harbour and the Kathikas Moundiko Nature Trail. After that, we went wine tasting at Vasilikon Winery before heading to Minithis Hills Golf Club for lunch. A Jeep Safari is a popular way to see attractions and sites outside the city. Book the Jeep Safari & wine tasting here.
EDRO III Shipwreck from the Jeep Safari
6. Walk along Paphos Harbour
One popular thing to do in the resort town is walk along Paphos Harbour, usually in the morning for coffee or in the afternoon for a cocktail. When you can, sit and take in the atmosphere and people-watching. Paphos Harbour has a good selection of restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops that overlook the boats that line the harbour, and at the tip is Paphos Castle.
Ta Mpania restaurant along the waterfront is a good spot for drinks and food. I went here on my last day and had a delicious, reasonably priced lunch. Another place worth mentioning is the Moorings Cafe Restaurant on the waterfront. Most cruise and sailing activities leave from the Paphos harbour.
⇒ Take a look at the guided tours you can book while in Paphos, Cyprus, with Viator.
7. Experience an authentic Cypriot dinner
For a more authentic experience, I suggest trying a traditional Cypriot meze meal at a local tavern. Meze meals consist of an assortment of small dishes of salads, meats, seafood, dips, olives, and halloumi (fried cheese) before dessert. It is by far one of my favourite Cypriot meals. Another way to enjoy Cypriot food in Paphos is to take a food tour that takes you to vendors to try local produce.
One of the best restaurants for authentic meze in Paphos is Konia Tavern (Mr Michalis), located on the main square of Konia village. They offer an amazing meze meal, great local wine, and live music with traditional dancing you can join in. Another place worth mentioning for tasty traditional food is Antigo Mezedopoleio in the heart of Paphos.
8. Halloumi and Anari Cheese Making
If you love cheese and want to immerse yourself in the local culture, visit Eleni Dairy Products. This family-owned business makes halloumi, anari, and other varieties of cheese, yoghurt, and Trahanas (a porridge of flour with yoghurt or sour milk). Learn to make Halloumi and Anari cheese hands-on, or watch a professional demonstration.
Afterwards, try the local cheeses with freshly grown products and fresh bread. Eleni Dairy Products is located in the village of Koili just a short drive from Paphos. It is a great way to support local Cypriot businesses and enjoy a fun cultural experience. Another option is a half-day wine and halloumi tasting at Axylou Farm with a local guide.
Eleni Dairy Products halloumi-making demo
9. Halloumoti (Cheese Pie) Cheese Workshop
Head to Εργαστήρι Παραδοσιακών Γεύσεων, or the workshop of traditional tastes in English. This traditional bakery sells homemade products and offers cooking classes on making bread and Halloumoti (cheese pie). Watch a local make traditional homemade Halloumoti pie, then enjoy it with a homemade lunch. The Halloumoti pie tasted incredible and was super filling.
⇒ Take a look at the guided tours you can book while in Paphos, Cyprus, with Viator.
10. Episkop Environmental Centre
If you love nature and the outdoors, then head to the Episkopi Environmental Information Centre. It is located in the Ezousa Valley, one of Cyprus’s most beautiful valleys, and just a short drive from Paphos. It has a screening room, an exhibit area with interactive displays, and a lovely botanical garden with a variety of species, including frogs.
A viewing point overlooks the stunning Ezousa Valley, which is great for birdwatching. There is a great introductory film about the Ezousa project worth watching before you explore. The centre is open every day except Mondays, and the last tour for each day begins at 1:15 pm.
11. Visit St Neophytos Monastery
Take a trip up to St Neophytos Monastery, one of the most well-known in Cyprus. Founded in the 12th century by a recluse monk and writer, Neophytos. Saint Neophytos Monastery lies in the community of Tala, 1 km north of the village and 9 km west of Paphos. The Monastery is known for caves carved into the mountain by the monks, which they used as a place of reclusion (Enkleistra).
Inside the caves, you will find some of the finest examples of Byzantine art covering the walls, as well as a small church. I was impressed by how colourful and beautiful the artwork was. Inside the pretty little Greek Orthodox Church is the body of the Saint in a tiny silver relief casket. Afterwards, head into the shop for a traditional Cypriot coffee and buy locally produced products. Book a half-day culture tour of Paphos that includes a trip to the Saint Neophytos Monastery.
Painting inside the St Neophytos Monastery caves
12. Explore Paphos Old Town
Wander through the charming streets of Paphos Old Town, then stop for a Cypriot coffee or wine. Check out the local arts and crafts shops, see the Paphos Street art murals, walk through Kennedy Square and buy products at the local market. Coffee shops worth trying include Old Town Baristro or La Colazione Bakehouse.
Finish at Axiothea Hill viewing point for panoramic views over the city and coast, with a drink. ‘The Place’ Cultural Centre is also located in the Paphos Old Town, which you can see at the same time. The 610 connects Kato Paphos Harbour to Paphos Old Town and attractions in the city centre.
⇒ Take a look at the guided tours you can book while in Paphos, Cyprus, with Viator.
13. Buy local souvenirs at The Place
One of my favourite things to do in a new city is to buy local products to support local businesses. The Place in Paphos Old Town is a great shop for buying Cypriot souvenirs. It is a cultural centre where you can meet Cypriot craftspeople at work, buy local products and participate in craft workshops. You can buy various artisan gifts, jewellery, paintings and other traditional products. You can also taste and buy homemade produce, drinks, and wine.
The Place is great if you want to give back to the community and support local businesses.
14. Take a visit to Aphrodite’s Rock
Visit Aphrodite’s Rock, also known as the Rock of the Roman (Petra tou Romiou). It is the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. According to mythology, Aphrodite emerged from the sea foam near this rock. Tradition also states that swimming around Aphrodite’s Rock three times will bless you with fertility, true love, beauty and good luck. However, it is best not to try, as the ocean is rough and deep, and there are no lifeguards.
Aphrodite’s Rock is part of a geological formation of rocks that stand out along the coastline. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Paphos and Larnaca because of its location. One of the best times to visit Aphrodite’s Rock is in the afternoon to watch the sunset. You can get there by public bus or on a jeep safari.
An artist working at ‘The Place’ Paphos Old Town
Attractions and sites outside of Paphos
15. Explore the last divided captial Nicosia
Nicosia (Lefkosia) is the only remaining divided capital in Europe, split between the Greek‑Cypriot south and the Turkish‑administered north. You notice two distinct worlds, with different architecture, languages, and atmospheres. Cross the border on foot at Ledra Street, walk along the Venetian Walls and Old Town, visit the Cyprus Museum, and go up the Ledra Observatory.
Do a self-guided free walking tour or book a guided tour that includes transport from your hotel in Paphos to Nicosia.
16. Take a day trip to Fyti (Pyti)
If you’re looking for attractions outside Paphos, spend half a day in the farming village of Fyti. You’ll feel like you have stepped back in time. Wander around and learn about the age-old tradition of weaving. Fyti is a 45-minute drive from Paphos and sits near Paphos Forest.
Learn the art of traditional textile weaving handed down through generations, visit the small folk art museum, and buy some colourful patterned products. Then wander the narrow cobbled streets and see the village fountains.
17. Visit Ayia Napa’s historical sites
Ayia Napa is best known for its beaches and lively atmosphere. Beyond that, the coastal resort offers cultural and historical attractions, including the Thalassa Museum, the historic Ayia Napa Monastery and the impressive sea caves along the coast. Other attractions also feature the Sculpture Park and the famous Love Bridge.
Book a guided full-day trip from Paphos to Ayia Napa that visits the Blue Lagoon, sea caves, and the Bridge of Love.
18. Troodos Mountains
If you are looking for cultural things to do, I suggest doing a day trip to the stunning Troodos Mountains. Where you will discover traditional mountain villages like Omodos, Byzantine churches and monasteries, including the famous Kykkos Monastery. Have traditional Cypriot coffee in the village square at Lofou, taste local wine, wander around the picturesque mountain villages and see Milomeris Waterfall
Take a full guided tour of the Troodos Mountains, including visits to local wineries and olive oil producers and tastings of their products.
Aphrodite’s Rock is one of the popular attractions in Paphos
Best Beaches in Paphos, Cyprus
19. Coral Bay – Paphos’ Most Popular Beach
Coral Bay is one of the popular beaches near Paphos thanks to its wide curve of golden sand, calm waters, and full facilities. It’s a Blue Flag beach like those in Larnaca, known for safe swimming and clean shores. This makes it ideal for visitors who want to combine cultural sightseeing with a relaxing coastal break. We spent the day here, sunbathing, eating and swimming.
20. SODAP Beach – Central & Convenient
Right in Kato Paphos, SODAP Beach sits in front of the main beachfront resorts and near the harbour and archaeological sites. Soft sand, protected swimming areas, and nearby cafés and restaurants make it a popular spot after visiting historical sites such as Paphos Castle and the harbour. Its walkability and facilities make it a favourite for a quick dip between cultural stops.
Where to stay to see the Paphos attractions.
Constantinou Bros Athena Royal Beach Hotel
I stayed at the adults-only, 4-star Constantinou Bros Athena Royal Beach Hotel with Jet2. Located on the beachfront of Pachyammos Beach in Paphos, Cyprus, close to the harbour and attractions, the hotel is a beach resort featuring swimming pools, spa facilities, a fitness centre, and several restaurants and bars.
The rooms were spacious and modern, designed for luxury and comfort. Mine had a large balcony with stunning views of the resort and the ocean, which I enjoyed returning to watch the sunset. Constantinou Bros Athena Royal Beach Hotel is the perfect place to stay if you are looking for a Winter Sun Holiday.
Here is a selection of accommodations in Paphos, available on Booking.com.
View from the room at Royal Beach Hotel, Paphos, Cyprus
Getting to Paphos, Cyprus
Flights to Paphos Airport from the UK
Paphos Airport is only a 15- to 30-minute drive from the city centre and the hotel beach resorts. Jet2 offers flights to Paphos from several UK airports a few times a week, year-round. I took a direct flight from Stansted Airport to Paphos Airport, a 4-and-a-half-hour flight.
Car hire Paphos Airport
If you plan to hire a car in Cyprus, numerous car rental companies operate at the airport. Check DiscoverCars.com for the best car hire from Paphos Airport. They will compare prices, vehicles, companies, and availability. Renting a car is the most efficient and easiest way to get around Paphos landmarks, sites, and attractions.
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Have you been to Paphos, Cyprus, before? Please feel free to share your experience in the comments below. Book other tourist attractions and activities in Paphos with Viator.
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Disclaimer: Although I was on a press trip with Jet2holidays to Cyprus, all views are based on my own experience.
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