THINGS TO DO IN PAPHOS
Although Paphos is small, it provides a comprehensive experience for its visitors. Many who come to Paphos find themselves enchanted by the place, often treating it like a second home and returning year after year.
So, what makes Paphos a must-visit destination? It’s not solely due to the plethora of sights and activities available. More importantly, Paphos embodies a distinctive lifestyle shaped by thousands of years of history and culture. The locals are warm and welcoming, and the varied landscapes and natural beauty enhance the area’s appeal. This blend of friendly, courteous residents and a wide range of attractions is what draws thousands of visitors back to Paphos time and again.
Although Paphos is small, it provides a complete experience for its visitors. Many who come to Paphos fall in love with the place, often returning year after year, treating it as a second home.
So, what makes Paphos a must-visit destination? It’s not only the abundance of sights and activities but also the distinctive lifestyle shaped by centuries of history and culture. The warm welcome from the local people, combined with its varied landscapes and natural beauty, enhances its appeal. This blend of friendly and easy-going locals, along with a wide range of attractions, is the reason why countless visitors return to Paphos time and time again.
1. Visit Kato Paphos Harbor and Castle
The stretch of seafront from Paphos Municipal Beach (Ta Mpania) to the small harbor of Kato Paphos, known as the Promenade, serves as the primary landmark and central hub of Paphos. This area has traditionally been a favorite spot for locals to stroll by the sea and socialize. Particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings, it becomes a lively gathering place where everyone enjoys the atmosphere. Visitors to Paphos embrace this local tradition, adding to the vibrant festivities that unfold on the Promenade each night.
While at the Promenade, you can relish ice cream or enjoy charcoal-grilled corn, a local delicacy, as you listen to musicians and watch artists create portraits. Additionally, you can browse and purchase unique handmade jewelry and other items from the evening flea market stalls. It’s a delightful experience that promises fun for the entire family.
2. Visit Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, the House of Dionysus and Paphos Mosaics
Located behind the Kato Paphos harbor is the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its stunning mosaics and the magnificent ancient Odeon, a small theater still in use today, this archaeological park is a must-visit destination to incorporate into your itinerary.
3. Visit Paphos Old Town
The historic area of Paphos is primarily inhabited by locals and offers numerous hidden treasures to explore. The central square in Paphos is a delightful nighttime destination, boasting numerous bars and restaurants. Explore the nearby market to uncover more charming spots. During the day, consider visiting the Archaeological Museum and the Art Gallery. At the old market, you’ll find a variety of shops featuring arts and crafts, as well as craftsmen showcasing their skills. Discover more about Paphos Old Town.
4. Visit Chrysopolitissa Basilica Church and Saint Paul’s pillar
Paphos holds the distinction of being the first location on Earth to embrace Christianity. It was here that Saint Paul and Saint Barnabas the Apostles preached their message after departing from Israel.
You can explore the ruins of the nearly 1800-year-old Chrysopolitissa Basilica and Saint Paul’s pillar. Walk in the footsteps of the Saint at the very spot where he preached and faced punishment from a Roman governor of Cyprus, who later converted to Christianity. Paul received 39 lashes and was bound to a marble pillar known today as Saint Paul’s pillar, which remains at the site.
Also at this historically significant location, you can find an ancient church dedicated to Agia Kyriaki, which is utilized by both the Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Church for services and weddings.
5. Swim at Coral Bay beach and other sandy beaches around Paphos
You’re encircled by the Mediterranean Sea, so make the most of it! Paphos has excellent sandy beaches for you to enjoy. Many of these beaches have been awarded the Blue Flag, indicating that they feature clean waters, ample facilities such as changing rooms and showers, accessibility for individuals with disabilities, and lifeguards for your protection. Besides swimming and sunbathing, you can also partake in various water sports at these beaches.
6. Discover and enjoy Cyprus Cuisine.
Cyprus cuisine blends traditional Greek flavors with spicy influences from neighboring Middle Eastern culinary traditions. You can experience this rich cuisine at traditional tavernas in the villages surrounding Paphos and in the Old Town.
Be sure to try the Cyprus Meze, a grand meal that features between 15 to over 30 different small portions of authentic Cypriot dishes. This variety allows you to sample nearly all the key offerings of Cyprus cuisine.
As you enjoy dish after dish served approximately every 10 minutes, the challenge is to savor each one before the meal concludes. And don’t forget to leave some room for desserts and a cup of Cyprus coffee afterward.
With a history spanning more than eleven thousand years, Paphos boasts remarkable ancient sites worth exploring. Among the numerous historical and religious landmarks, several are particularly noteworthy.
7. Visit Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s birthplace).
Paphos is closely connected to Aphrodite, the ancient Goddess of Love and Beauty. According to the ancient myth she was born in Paphos, at the beautiful beach of Petra tou Romiou, and was worshiped at the temple devoted to her in the nearby Kouklia village. Kouklia was the ancient Palaipaphos, and the Aphrodite’s Temple was famous all over the ancient world. Petra tou Romiou is a very beautiful area, and Kouklia village with the ancient temple of the goddess is a very interesting village to visit. It is very easy to combine a visit to both of them and devoting 4-5 hours of your holidays to this, is time well spent.
8. Visit the Akamas Peninsula National Park and Avakas Gorge.
The Akamas Peninsula is the largest national park in Cyprus, characterized by its pristine landscape free from any buildings. This untouched area features stunning natural scenery, distinct flora and fauna that can’t be found elsewhere, and exquisite sandy beaches that serve as nesting grounds for endangered turtle species. The primary highlights of the Akamas National Park include the turtles’ nesting beach and the spectacular Avakas Gorge.
9. Explore the Tombs of the Kings.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site that, contrary to its name, served as the burial place for noble individuals rather than kings. This remarkable ancient monument features beautifully sculpted tombs hewn from large rock formations. It is both striking and conveniently reachable by bus or on foot, situated in Kato Paphos.
10. Explore the Agios Neophytos Monastery along with other historic monasteries such as Panagia Chrysorrogiatissa and the nearby Agia Moni Monastery.
Each of these nearly 1000-year-old sites offers more than just a religious experience; they are truly enjoyable visits.
In addition, many other ancient churches and monasteries are worth exploring. Each one is stunning and steeped in rich history. Stepping into any of these monasteries feels like entering a peaceful oasis surrounded by lush greenery.
