Paphos is where Cyprus’s history and its holiday life meet. The whole town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with Roman mosaics and ancient tombs just steps from a lively harbour, sandy beaches and excellent tavernas. It is also close to some of the island’s most beautiful, unspoilt coastline. Here are the best things to do in Paphos, where to stay and where to shop.
Top things to do in Paphos
Paphos Archaeological Park
The highlight of any visit. The park’s Roman villas have some of the finest mosaic floors in the Mediterranean, depicting scenes from Greek mythology in remarkable detail. Paths wind between Roman and Byzantine ruins, an odeon and the remains of the medieval Saranta Kolones (“Forty Columns”) castle.
The Tombs of the Kings
Despite the name, no kings were buried here – this impressive necropolis carved into the rock was the resting place of Paphos’s aristocrats in the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The underground chambers and colonnaded courtyards are atmospheric and well worth an hour.
Paphos Harbour and Castle
The small medieval fort at the end of the harbour is a symbol of the town. The waterfront promenade is lined with cafés and fish restaurants, and it is the departure point for boat trips along the coast.
Coral Bay
A beautiful crescent of soft sand and clear, calm water just north of town, ideal for swimming and families.
Aphrodite’s Rock
According to legend, the goddess of love was born from the waves at Petra tou Romiou, a dramatic sea stack along the coast road towards Limassol. It is one of the most photographed spots in Cyprus, especially at sunset.
Akamas Peninsula and the Blue Lagoon
To the north, the wild Akamas Peninsula is a protected area of rugged hills and hidden coves. The Blue Lagoon, reached by boat or 4×4, has some of the clearest water on the island. For more ideas, see our guides to top activities in Paphos and the Blue Lagoon.
Recommended hotels in Paphos
- Elysium Hotel: a luxury beachfront resort with sea views, within walking distance of the Tombs of the Kings.
- Almyra Hotel: a stylish, design-led hotel near the harbour that suits both families and couples.
- Annabelle Hotel: a classic luxury hotel with lush tropical gardens and several swimming pools, close to the harbour.
- Alexander The Great Beach Hotel: wonderful sea views and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for couples looking for some pampering.
Shopping in Paphos
- Kings Avenue Mall: a modern shopping centre with international brands, a cinema and a food court.
- The Old Town market: the place for local souvenirs, lace, jewellery and leather goods.
- The harbour area: a tourist strip with plenty of shops, restaurants and cafés.
Tips for visiting Paphos
- Choose your season: summer is hot and dry, perfect for the beach. Spring, autumn and the mild winter are ideal for sightseeing.
- Hire a car: it is the best way to explore Akamas, the Troodos foothills and the coast. Cyprus drives on the left.
- Start early: visit the archaeological sites in the morning, before the midday heat.
- Look out for events: the Paphos Aphrodite Festival brings open-air opera to the harbour castle in late summer.
Still choosing a base on the island? Compare Larnaca vs Paphos, and read our overview of Nicosia and the main cities of Cyprus.
