Best Things To Do in Paphos

Paphos is a coastal Cypriot city known for its ancient history and unmissable scenery. With a balanced offer of cultural and entertainment activities by the sea, it is an ideal destination for those looking to combine historical exploration with relaxing moments on the beaches.

Some of the best things to do in Paphos include visiting the Tombs of the Kings, exploring the Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos, strolling along the city's harbor and beaches, and enjoying a wine tasting experience at one of the wineries in the vicinity of this destination.

The Archaeological Site of Nea Pafos houses the ruins of what was once a Hellenistic city created to replace ancient Paphos as the administrative center of the island. Over time, it became a thriving metropolis under Roman rule, until it fell into disgrace as the decline of the empire approached.

Its strategic location and development made it an important commercial port, which favored its flourishing for centuries. The city was also famous for its association with the cult of Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, so it was a magnet attracting pilgrims from all over the Mediterranean.

Today, Nea Paphos includes remains of buildings from various periods with numerous points of interest. One of the main attractions are the magnificent Roman mosaics, considered some of the best preserved in the Mediterranean. These mosaics adorned the villas of the wealthiest citizens and depict mythological scenes, such as the adventures of Greek gods and stories of heroes.

In addition to the mosaics, you can also explore other notable structures such as the Odeon theater and Asclepeion, a sanctuary dedicated to the god of medicine. This site is usually included in the itineraries of guided tours of the city, so you can also visit it when you book a Segway tour of Paphos.

The Tomb of the Kings in Paphos is one of the most interesting and enigmatic archaeological sites in Cyprus. Despite its name, no king was ever buried there, as these monumental tombs were actually intended for high officials and members of the elite of the city of Nea Paphos during the Hellenistic and Roman period. However, the size and grandeur of the tombs justify their name and, of course, also a visit.

The highlight of the Tomb of the Kings is the monumental architecture and subway burial chambers that evoke Egyptian influence and are carved into the rocks. Each funerary corner reflects the social status and power of those who were buried there. Likewise, the tombs are distributed over a vast area and some of them imitate the layout of houses with central courtyards, surrounded by columns and porticoes.

At this site you will have the opportunity to enter most of the excavated tombs, descend the staircases that descend to spacious chambers and contemplate the decorations of the niches that once contained mummified bodies or sarcophagi. Although much of the funerary objects were looted over time, the remains of architectural details can still be seen.

Visiting the Tomb of the Kings will give you an insight into a fascinating chapter of Cypriot history where Greek, Roman and Egyptian influences are combined in one place that ruled the Mediterranean more than 2,000 years ago.

One of the best activities you can do in Paphos to discover its local essence is to walk around the old town. This historic area, known as Ktima, combines the cultural heritage of antiquity with a vibrant, modern atmosphere, making it a must-see destination for visitors looking to learn about history and local life.

With its cobblestone streets, lively squares, colorful markets and restored buildings, the old town is a place where the traditional and the contemporary intertwine, offering a unique experience for travelers. That is why it is often included in the itinerary of walking and Segway tours of Paphos.

As you wander the streets of this picturesque neighborhood you'll find a number of points of interest that capture the historical essence of this destination even during the Cypriot winter. Among the highlights is the municipal market, a place where locals shop for fresh produce and local handicrafts. There you can find everything from fruits and vegetables to special gifts, perfect for taking a piece of Cyprus with you.

Another attraction of the old town is its architecture, which mixes Venetian, Ottoman and neoclassical influences. The elegant old houses with decorated balconies and colorful facades have been restored in recent years, which has revitalized the area. Also not to be missed is a visit to the recently renovated 28 de Octubre Square, where the city' s cultural events and open-air exhibitions are held.

Booking a tour of Adonis Baths from Paphos is a fascinating experience that intermingles mythology, nature and relaxation in a picturesque setting. According to legend, this is the place where the god Adonis and Aphrodite, the goddess of love, used to meet and enjoy their crush.

The crystalline waters of the waterfalls and natural pools have made this site an attractive destination both for its mythological history and its natural beauty. Surrounded by vegetation and isolated from the urban bustle, the Adonis Baths offer a perfect setting for a refreshing swim.

The main attraction is the waterfall, which flows into a natural pool surrounded by rock formations. The cool, clear water provides an escape from the hot summer days, and the setting makes it an ideal place to relax and reconnect with nature. The more adventurous can swim to the base of the waterfall or climb the rocks to enjoy different views of the landscape.

In addition to the natural beauty of the site, the Adonis Baths are adorned with statues and references to Greek mythology, which adds a cultural and historical tinge to the visit. Statues of Aphrodite and Adonis stand near the pools, creating an atmosphere that evokes the ancient legends of love and beauty.

In addition to its archaeological sites and great heritage, Paphos also has some of the best beaches in Cyprus, so you won't be able to say you've known this destination until you visit some of them. From wide stretches of golden sand to smaller, rocky coves, in Paphos you will find beaches for everyone, but all of them will stand out for their crystal-clear waters and the calm atmosphere that distinguishes them.

Coral Bay is undoubtedly one of the most popular and recommended beaches in Paphos. This wide golden sandy beach, surrounded by hills and greenery, offers a perfect experience for families and travelers looking to relax in comfort. Coral Bay has sun loungers, umbrellas, restaurants and a range of water sports such as jet skiing and paddleboarding, making it an ideal place for all kinds of activities.

For those who prefer a more natural and less crowded environment, Lara Beach is an excellent choice. Located on the remote Akamas Peninsula, this beach is popular for being a sea turtle nesting site. It is also rustic and secluded, with no commercial facilities, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking diving experiences on Aphrodite Island.

Another outstanding option is Vrysoudia Beach, located near the port of Paphos and the perfect choice for those looking to combine a beach experience with proximity to restaurants and stores. This beach features a mix of sand and pebbles, and its shallow waters are perfect for swimming and relaxing without straying too far from the city center.

Aphrodite Water Park is one of the most entertaining destinations for those looking for fun and entertainment under the sun in Cyprus, which stands out for its beauty like no other island in the Mediterranean. This interactive site, inspired by the goddess Aphrodite, offers a variety of attractions for all ages, making it a perfect activity for families, friends and visitors of all ages.

With its large number of slides, pools and water play areas, Aphrodite Park offers adrenaline-filled days, but always in a safe environment. Among the park's main attractions are its extreme slides, ideal for lovers of speed and excitement. From Kamikaze to Free Fall, there are options for everyone, including children.

However, the park not only focuses on adrenaline, but also has areas for relaxation and entertainment. The large wave pool is a place where you can enjoy the sensation of being in the sea, with artificial waves breaking on the shore. The park also has paddling pools with mini-slides and water games for children.

If you finally decide to buy tickets for the Aphrodite Water Park, you will not only find one of the most outstanding entertainment sites in Paphos, but also an ideal place to enjoy the warm Cypriot temperatures.

Paphos Castle, located near the city's harbor, is one of Cyprus' most iconic historical monuments. Built by the Byzantines in the 13th century, this building has gone through several reconstructions and has had various functions: fortress, prison and warehouse. But today it is an important tourist and heritage site.

Although modest in size, the well-preserved structure of Paphos Castle offers visitors the opportunity to explore the defensive and military life of the Middle Ages. During the visit you will discover the main entrance and have the opportunity to climb the main tower, from where you can take in panoramic views of the harbor and the Mediterranean Sea.

Inside the castle you can explore several chambers and passageways that were once used as cells and storerooms. During the Ottoman era, the castle was used as a prison and some of these spaces still retain a gloomy air that is worth discovering.

Having a wine experience at a winery in Paphos is one of the most popular activities visitors can enjoy in this region of Cyprus. With a winemaking tradition that has more than 5,000 years of history, the island of Aphrodite is one of the birthplaces of some of the oldest wines in the world. In addition, with its sunny climate and rich soils, Paphos is an ideal area for the production of high quality wines.

Participating in a tour of one of the local wineries not only offers the opportunity to taste unique wines, but also to learn about the winemaking process and the history behind wine production on the island. These experiences also include tastings of local grape varieties such as Xynisteri and Mavro.

The wineries generally offer tastings of their best wines, ranging from white wines to robust reds and the popular sweet wine Commandaria, one of the oldest appellations in the world. In addition, each winery has its own interpretation and style, so you can discover a wide range of flavors and aromas that reflect the terroir of the region.

If you want to see one of the most beautiful natural sites in Cyprus, you can't miss the Blue Lagoon, which is located on the Akamas peninsula and is known for its crystal clear waters. This site is a perfect place for swimming, snorkeling and even diving.

The visit is usually done by boat, as it is nestled in an isolated part of the Akamas peninsula, making it an exclusive site. If you choose to book an exclusion to the Blue Lagoon from Paphos you will most likely start the experience at the port of Latchi, where you can embark on half-day or full-day excursions. During the trip you will be able to enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline, so the trip itself will be part of the experience.

Once in the Blue Lagoon you can snorkel to explore an ecosystem full of marine life, ranging from colorful fish to underwater rock formations. For those who prefer to stay on the surface, you will have time to swim in the lagoon waters or relax on the ship's deck enjoying the sun, which is omnipresent during all seasons of the year.

If you want to get to know the surroundings of Paphos, you can't miss a visit to the Troodos Mountains and villages, one of the best activities to do from the city center. This experience, which combines nature, history and authentic Cypriot culture, will take you towards the Troodos mountain range, located in the heart of the island of Cyprus and featuring mountainous landscapes, picturesque villages and a rich religious heritage.

A visit to Troodos will allow you to discover villages such as Omodos, Kakopetria or Lania, which are famous for their cobblestone streets, traditional stone houses and small family-run tavernas offering delicious Cypriot food. In Omodos you can also explore the Monastery of the Holy Cross, one of the oldest on the island, while in Kakopetria you can enjoy a stroll along its picturesque river.

Nature in Troodos is equally striking. The mountain range is home to Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Cyprus, which offers panoramic views and is a popular spot in both summer and winter. In fact, during the summer, the mountains are the perfect retreat for hiking enthusiasts, while in winter Troodos becomes the center of resort sports on the island, with skiing and snowboarding slopes.

Also, booking an excursion to Troodos from Paphos will also allow you to see Byzantine churches and monasteries. These churches, such as Asinou or Panagia tou Araka, are known for their medieval frescoes that have been carefully preserved over the centuries.