Paphos travel guide

Medieval port castle in the harbour in Paphos, Cyprus
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Introduction to Paphos

Paphos, known for its incredible Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos, Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings, and Paphos Castle, is a travel destination everyone should visit once in their lifetime. This town in Cyprus, has plenty of experiences to offer curious travelers. Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of more than 36 thousand people, Paphos is truly one of the main highlights of Cyprus.

Easily accessible from the Paphos International airport, Paphos is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Cyprus. Travelers looking to experience the best of Cyprus often choose to stay in Paphos.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the city of Paphos below!

History of Paphos

Paphos, a city steeped in history and mythology, is located on the southwestern coast of Cyprus.

Dating back to the Neolithic period, Paphos was established by the Mycenaean Greeks in the 12th Century BC as their capital city. It was during this period that the city gained fame for its cult of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, who, according to legend, was born from the sea near Paphos.

Over centuries, Paphos was ruled by several powers including the Ptolemies, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Each left their mark on the city, contributing to its diverse architectural and cultural heritage.

In the Roman era, Paphos was the capital of Cyprus and an important business center. The well-preserved Roman villas, with their intricate mosaics, are a testament to the city's prosperity during this period.

Today, Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting visitors worldwide with its rich history, stunning archaeology, and captivating mythology.

Top services in Paphos

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Paphos, Cyprus. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 386 airlines that fly to Cyprus. Browse the 104 top-rated tours available to you in Paphos. Compare the rates and services of the 7 types of places to stay in Paphos and the 13 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Paphos.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Paphos, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Paphos on your vacation in Cyprus.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Paphos from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Paphos!

Best time to visit Paphos

The best time to explore Paphos, Cyprus is during the shoulder season, specifically from April to June or between September and October. During these periods, the weather is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, ideal for sightseeing and beach activities. The summer months of July and August can be extremely hot, while the winter months are fairly mild but come with occasional rainfall. Crowd levels are more manageable during shoulder seasons, providing a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. Moreover, these periods coincide with various cultural events like the Paphos Aphrodite Festival in September, which features grand opera performances. If you plan to visit Paphos for its renowned wineries, late August through September is an exciting time when grape harvest and wine production are in full swing. Therefore, depending on your interests, you can choose the best time to explore Paphos based on weather conditions, crowd levels, and event schedules.

Local tip for visiting Paphos

An insider tip that is often overlooked by tourists in Paphos is visiting the traditional local markets. Locals advise that for an authentic Cypriot experience, you should venture to the old town area where you'll find the Municipal Market, also known as the 'Agora'. This bustling market is a treasure trove of local produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Cypriot delicacies. It's a fantastic place to mingle with the locals, sample local food, and buy unique souvenirs. The market is open from early morning until late afternoon, but it's best to go early when the produce is fresh and the atmosphere is lively. This insider tip will not only provide a unique cultural experience, but also allow you to support local vendors and artisans.

Learn more about Cyprus

There are many reasons to visit the city of Paphos, but a trip to Cyprus needs no explanation.

Exploring Cyprus, which spans 9,242 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Cyprus offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos, Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings, and the Paphos Castle, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Cyprus.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Cyprus.

What to see in Paphos

Photo of Beautiful beach near Paphos.

Paphos has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Paphos.

Top attractions in Paphos

Home to plenty of top attractions, Paphos is more than just a wonderful city in Cyprus. Paphos is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Cyprus.

One fascinating sight in Paphos is the unforgettable Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Paphos. This remarkable attraction is located at QC45+C8G, Paphos, Cyprus and is open for visitors Monday - Sunday, between 08:30-19:30.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Cyprus, check out our list of top attractions in Paphos below. Discover the best places to visit in Paphos, including the fascinating Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos, Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings, Paphos Castle, Paphos Mosaics, and Agia Kyriaki Chrysopolitissa.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Paphos.

Things to do in Paphos

Photo of Paphos lighthouse on the Mediterranean coast.

Enrich your travel experience in Paphos by joining tours and activities. Paphos offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Paphos below.

Most popular experiences in Paphos

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Paphos.

Paphos offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Private Day Trips, Guided Day Trips, and Bus Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Cyprus.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Paphos by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Paphos

Travelers in Paphos can choose from 17 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Cultural Tours is the answer.

The most popular tour in Paphos is the fantastic Vino Venture: Explore With A Local - Troodos Mountains thru Wine!. By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Paphos one of the best travel destinations in Cyprus.

Paphos also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Hand crafted gifts and much more is the cheapest tour in the city. This experience costs around 6 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Paphos. Around 1 traveler have given this activity an average rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Paphos and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Paphos below.

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Discover the best things to do in Paphos. Choose from 104 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Paphos. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Paphos

Paphos, a city rich in history, also boasts a vibrant culinary scene that beautifully encapsulates the essence of Cypriot cuisine. The city's dining districts range from the quaint street food stalls in the old town to high-end restaurants along the bustling harbour. One of the best places to eat in Paphos is the traditional tavernas, renowned for their Meze - a selection of small dishes served with local wine. Seek out the Moussaka, a baked dish made of eggplant or potato, minced meat, and bechamel sauce, and the Souvlaki, skewered and grilled cubes of meat. For seafood lovers, the local taverns by the seaside serve the freshest catch, paired with the tang of the ubiquitous lemon wedges. The city's bakeries offer an array of traditional pastries, with Halloumi pies and Loukoumades being must-try items. When exploring Paphos, be sure to also sample Commandaria, an ancient sweet dessert wine indigenous to Cyprus. Dining in Paphos is not just about eating; it's an immersive cultural experience.

Best Shopping in Paphos

Paphos, a city brimming with history, is also the best place to go shopping in Cyprus. The city is a hub of eclectic shopping experiences, ranging from high-end fashion stores to traditional markets. Kings Avenue Mall, located in the heart of Paphos, is a modern indoor shopping center offering international brands and local retailers.

For a more unique shopping experience, visit the Old Town Market. Here, you can find local craftsmanship and traditional Cypriot products such as lace, leather goods, and pottery. Don't miss out on the opportunity to buy Commandaria, an iconic Cypriot sweet dessert wine, or Halloumi, a popular local cheese.

Fashion enthusiasts will appreciate Makarios Avenue, known for its boutiques showcasing the distinct fashion trends of Paphos. Shopping in Paphos is not only about buying, but also experiencing the vibrant local culture. As most shops open around 9 AM and close at 7 PM, it's advisable to plan your shopping trip accordingly. However, many souvenir shops and convenience stores stay open later to cater to tourists' needs.

Best Free Things to do in Paphos

Experience the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes of Paphos, Cyprus without spending a dime. Among the best free things to do in Paphos is exploring the Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can see the ruins of ancient Roman villas, theaters, and fortresses, all set amidst a backdrop of the shimmering Mediterranean Sea. The park is also home to the Tombs of the Kings, a fascinating necropolis carved out of solid rock. For a leisurely stroll, navigate through the charming streets of the Old Town filled with vibrant murals and traditional Cypriot architecture. Don't forget to visit the St. Paul's Pillar and the Agia Kyriaki Church, both significant religious sites offering insight into the region's spiritual history. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the breathtaking coastal views from the Paphos Lighthouse or take a hike along the scenic trails in the Akamas Peninsula. With such diverse offerings, Paphos ensures a rich and fulfilling experience without emptying your pockets.

Vacation packages in Paphos

Photo of seascape and luxurious location in Paphos.

The best and easiest way to visit Paphos is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Cyprus.

Booking a vacation package to Paphos means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Paphos to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Paphos is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find 84 unique vacation packages to Paphos, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the city of Paphos.

Popular types of vacations in Paphos

The most popular way to experience Paphos is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Cyprus. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Paphos on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Cyprus, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Cyprus, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Paphos, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Paphos below.

Top vacation packages in Paphos

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Cyprus. In fact, you can choose from as many as 84 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Paphos, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Cyprus.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Paphos.

For an epic vacation, discover Paphos and other top destinations in Cyprus on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day Cyprus Beach Holiday in Paphos. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Paphos, but also in other top places to visit in Cyprus. If Lockdown Paphos Escape Games, Paphos Mosaics, Villa of Theseus, Venus Beach, and Agia Kyriaki Chrysopolitissa are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Paphos, book the popular Cheap 3-Day Cyprus Road Trip Vacation in Pafos and spend as little as 416 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Paphos, including the fantastic Venus Beach, Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings, House of Dionysus, Paphos Mosaics, and Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos.

Get more Paphos vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Cyprus that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Paphos

Discover and compare 84 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Paphos.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Paphos get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Cyprus. Your customized holiday package to Paphos is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Paphos

To get to the city of Paphos the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Cyprus can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Paphos by booking flights with any of the 50 airlines that offer direct flights to Paphos International airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Paphos International airport are United Airlines, Ryanair, Delta Air Lines, Azul, and Turkish Airlines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Paphos.

To reach the city of Paphos, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Paphos International airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Paphos, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to Paphos International airport and Paphos below.

Find cheap flights to Paphos

Photo of landmarks of Cyprus island - antique Kourion temple over the sea.

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Paphos, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Cyprus. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Paphos, Cyprus, in May.

The cheapest one-way flight to Paphos costs around 16 EUR and is offered by the airline Ryanair. The flight leaves on May 5 at 2 and departs from Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv, Israel.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Paphos cost approximately 55 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on May 5 and the return flight is scheduled on May 29. The flight time is around 5 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Larnaca International.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Cyprus and the city of Paphos from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Paphos

Travelers visiting Paphos in Cyprus can fly to Paphos International airport directly from 2102 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Paphos International airport and the city of Paphos in Cyprus depart from Albany International airport in Albany, the United States, Greenville–Spartanburg International airport in Greenville, the United States, and Jackson–Evers International airport in Jackson, the United States.

Travelers can fly to Cyprus by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Albany; from 5 weekly flight(s) from Greenville; and from 2 weekly flight(s) from Jackson.

The airline that operates most flights to Cyprus is Cambodia Angkor Air. Cambodia Angkor Air offers 1 scheduled flight routes to Cyprus.

Discover the most popular flights to Paphos below. Click to view flights to Paphos, Cyprus from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Paphos

Photo of beautiful sea view near Paphos.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Paphos is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Paphos usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Paphos offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Paphos and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Paphos planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Paphos, you'll find 7 different types of places to stay catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Cyprus can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Paphos. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Paphos.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Paphos in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Paphos

A trip to the fascinating Paphos, Cyprus, means opportunities to relax at any of the 7 different types of places to stay in the city. Overall, travelers can choose from the following: 543 vacation rental apartments, 185 hotels, 56 cottages, 3 hostels, 2 guesthouses, 1 resort and 1 bed & breakfast. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Paphos provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all these choices available in the city, Crystallo Apartments is one of the top picks of travelers in Paphos.

The vacation rental apartment is located at 2 Ikarou Street, Kato Paphos and boasts many great utilities, including Air conditioning, Airport shuttle, and Free Wi-Fi.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Paphos. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Paphos, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose 777 Beach Guesthouse. For approximately 27 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Unknown at this popular guesthouse.

Below is a list of all 7 different types of places to stay in Paphos. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Paphos

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Paphos for the unique experience they provide. So if you're the kind of traveler who prefers staying at hotels, you'll be glad to know that the city is home to around 791 hotels.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Paphos provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Paphos are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Paphos.

Elysium Hotel offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Paphos. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Capital Coast Resort & Spa, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Paphos, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Crystallo Apartments, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Paphos. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

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Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Paphos on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the city of Paphos that match the information provided.

Car rental in Paphos

Photo of Cyprus island landmarks - castle in Paphos town.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Paphos. Paphos has 13 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Paphos start from 20.24 EUR per day or 141.68 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Nissan Micra K-13.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Paphos, starting from 16.29 EUR per day or 114 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Hyundai I10 5 Doors.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Paphos, Cyprus, below.

Popular types of car rental in Paphos

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the city of Paphos to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Paphos can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Cyprus at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Paphos is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Paphos is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the city of Paphos.

Check out all options available in Paphos and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Cyprus below.

Search for car rental in Paphos

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Paphos. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Paphos, Cyprus, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Transportation in Paphos

Navigating through Paphos, Cyprus, is a breeze with a variety of transport options at your disposal. The city's efficient public transit system, operated by OSYPA Ltd, is a reliable and affordable way to get around. It consists of buses that connect all major tourist attractions, hotels, and shopping centers, with frequent services even to remote areas.

For more convenience, taxis are readily available and provide a quick method to reach any point in the city. Registered taxis operate on a meter, making it easy to monitor your fare. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, there are several car rental companies offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs and budgets.

For a unique local experience, consider renting a bicycle or indulging in a leisurely walk along the picturesque coastal paths. Paphos is a compact city, making it perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. Whichever mode of transport you choose, Paphos is a delight to explore.

Popular destinations to visit after Paphos

Photo of view of the town of Paphos in Cyprus.

The city of Paphos is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Cyprus. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Cyprus has it all.

Cyprus is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Cyprus that are as magical as the city of Paphos. The most popular travel destinations in Cyprus are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Cyprus

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Cyprus. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Paphos

Photo of Adonis Baths, the famous showplace for tourists near Paphos.

A taste of Cyprus through a visit to Paphos can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Paphos to another remarkable destination in Cyprus.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the city of Paphos to other spectacular locations in Cyprus, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Search domestic flights from Paphos

Traveling to another city or region in Cyprus? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Paphos to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Cyprus on the selected dates.

Popular domestic flights from Paphos

Travelers in Cyprus can catch flights to domestic airports in Larnaca. Domestic flights in Cyprus are operated by 7 airlines: Transavia, Ryanair, British Airways, Lufthansa, and easyJet. There are around 5 scheduled flight routes operating to Paphos on a weekly basis.

From Paphos, travelers can book scheduled flights to 1 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Paphos depart to many top-rated destinations in Cyprus and are offered by Transavia, Ryanair, and British Airways.

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