12 Unforgettable Things to Do in Paphos: The Ultimate Guide

Paphos is a coastal city on Cyprus that combines ancient history with a modern feel. It suits visitors looking for sun, culture and adventure, from archaeological sites to pristine beaches. This guide covers the most worthwhile things to do, from ancient ruins and beaches to local food and outdoor adventure.

What are the best ancient ruins and archaeological sites in Paphos?

Paphos has a rich store of ancient history, with many archaeological sites that reveal the city's past. Visiting these ruins is one of the most rewarding activities in the area.

Visit the Paphos Archaeological Park

The Kato Paphos Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The large park holds ruins from prehistoric times through to the Middle Ages, so it is a must-see for history lovers.

A key highlight is its collection of intricate floor mosaics, regarded as some of the finest in the eastern Mediterranean. They are well preserved, show bright colours and portray scenes from Greek mythology.

While walking through the park you will pass other notable sites, including the Asklepieion, a temple to the god of medicine, and the Odeon, an ancient theatre. The park also contains the remains of the Agora, Saranta Kolones Castle and the Limeniotissa ruins of an Early Christian Basilica.

Discover the Tombs of the Kings

The Tombs of the Kings lie roughly two kilometres north of Paphos harbour. This impressive necropolis dates back to the 4th century BC. Despite its name, the UNESCO World Heritage Site was not used to bury royalty. It was the resting place of high-ranking officials and aristocrats.

The tombs are cut from solid rock and include architectural features inspired by ancient Egyptian beliefs. Some are designed to resemble houses, complete with atriums. The site is exceptionally well preserved, so visitors can explore underground chambers and see the Doric columns that decorate some of the tombs. The tombs span the Hellenistic and Roman periods, and the coastal setting offers views over the Mediterranean Sea.

Explore Kato Paphos Castle

Located at the western end of Paphos harbour, the Medieval Castle of Paphos is an iconic landmark. It was first built as a Byzantine fort to guard the harbour and has been reshaped several times over the centuries.

Much of the structure you see today is the result of Ottoman restoration work in the 16th century. The castle's Western Frankish tower, along with its Venetian additions, reflects the many civilisations that have shaped Paphos.

The castle has served as a fortress, a prison and, during the British colonial period, a salt storage facility. Today visitors can wander the central courtyard, climb the battlements for panoramic harbour views and explore the small rooms and chambers.

Which beaches and coastal spots should you visit in Paphos?

Paphos has a striking coastline with a range of beaches and coastal areas.

Unwind at Coral Bay

Coral Bay lies about six kilometres north of Paphos Town and is one of the most popular beach spots in the area. This horseshoe-shaped cove is protected by steep limestone cliffs, which keep the water calm and suitable for safe swimming. With golden sand and clear, shallow water, it is an ideal choice for families with children.

Water sports include water skiing, diving and parascending, and you can hire a paddle boat for a gentler outing. The beach has sunbeds and umbrellas for hire, lifeguards on duty, free parking, and shower and toilet facilities. Afterwards you can explore the restaurants and bars along Coral Bay Avenue.

Visit Aphrodite's Rock

Aphrodite's Rock, also called Petra tou Romiou, is a well-known sea stack said to be where Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, was born. According to the legend, she rose from the sea foam close to this rock and came ashore at this exact spot. The site has come to symbolise love and fertility. Many people swim around the rock three times, in the belief that this brings new love, good fortune or even pregnancy.

The pebbly beach around the rock offers lovely views over the Mediterranean, particularly at sunset. Swimming near the rock itself is not advised because of strong currents.

Enjoy water activities at the Blue Lagoon

The Blue Lagoon is a natural pool of teal water known for calm, clear conditions that suit swimming and snorkelling. You can reach it by boat from Latchi harbour, and many tour operators run day trips and sunset cruises that stop there. Some boat tours supply snorkelling gear, and you can relax on the boat with refreshments afterwards.

How can you experience local culture and food in Paphos?

Wander through Paphos Old Town

Every Thursday the Paphos Regional Board of Tourism runs a free walking tour of the Old Town. As you wander the narrow streets you will come across several museums, including the Ethnographic and Archaeological Museums.

The Old Town also has a lively market, where stallholders, many of them villagers who arrive early to sell home-grown products, display an array of items. It is a good place to pick up local specialities such as bananas, oranges and dried wild oregano.

Sample traditional Cypriot dishes

Cypriot food reflects the many empires that have ruled the island, mixing Mediterranean, Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern flavours.

• Halloumi: a Cypriot speciality made from goat's and sheep's milk, grilled or fried and often served as part of a meze platter.
• Meze: a selection of small dishes that typically includes village salad with feta, olives, tahini, hummus and various grilled meats.
• Souvla: large chunks of pork, lamb or chicken, slow-cooked on long skewers over a charcoal barbecue, usually served with pita bread, fresh salads and tzatziki.
• Souvlaki: a popular street food of skewered, grilled meat wrapped in pita with vegetables and sauce.

Visit local wineries and taste Commandaria

Cyprus has a long winemaking history that stretches back thousands of years, and several wine routes are mapped out for visitors in the Paphos region. A must-try is Commandaria, considered one of the oldest wines still produced in the world. This sweet dessert wine has a history reaching back to Homeric times and is made only in 14 villages in the Troodos Mountains, with notes of dried fruit and caramel.

Many wineries offer tours and tastings. Notable ones include Fikardos Winery, Vouni Panayia Winery and Tsangarides Winery.

What outdoor adventures can you have in Paphos?

Hike in the Akamas Peninsula National Park

The Akamas Peninsula National Park is an unspoiled area with rich biodiversity, including many species of birds, insects, reptiles and plants. One of the most popular routes is the Aphrodite and Adonis Trail Loop, a 4.8-mile route with an elevation gain of 1,318 feet. The well-marked path offers wide views across the peninsula and out to sea.

For a shorter walk, try the Smigies Nature Trail, which is well maintained and suits hikers of various abilities. Wear sturdy shoes, carry plenty of water and protect yourself from the sun, since Cyprus can get very hot.

Take a boat tour along the coast

One of the best ways to see the coastline is by boat. A popular choice is a cruise to the Blue Lagoon, with many tours leaving from Latchi harbour. You can swim and snorkel in the warm Mediterranean waters, and you may even spot sea turtles if you are lucky.

Many tours also stop at other spots such as the Baths of Aphrodite and the Sea Caves, and often include refreshments and sometimes a light meal.

Visit Paphos Zoo

Paphos Zoo is set in lush surroundings across more than 100,000 square metres and is the largest zoo in Cyprus. It has an extensive collection of exotic birds, one of the largest in Europe.

Visitors can take part in interactive experiences, such as feeding lemurs or posing for photos with various birds during the daily bird shows. The zoo also cares for rescued animals, including an elephant that has a spacious paddock. Facilities include a children's playground, a souvenir shop and a restaurant. It is open every day of the year, though closing times vary with the season.