Paphos

Written by Julien Lambert
22/08/2025
Explore the stunning sea caves and blue waters along the rocky coast of Paphos, Cyprus.
Rob Mowe, Pexels

Paphos is a coastal city in southwest Cyprus, renowned for seamlessly blending ancient history with beautiful Mediterranean beaches. It offers visitors a mix of significant archaeological sites and natural coastal beauty, appealing to those seeking both cultural exploration and relaxed seaside holidays.

Kato Paphos, particularly around its harbor, serves as a social hub for tourists and backpackers, featuring numerous restaurants, cafes, and nightlife options. Paphos Old Town also provides a more authentic setting for socializing, with local shops and tavernas, though it is generally quieter.

Top 7 Things to do in Paphos

Paphos offers a diverse range of activities, from immersing oneself in ancient history and exploring natural coastal wonders to enjoying vibrant local markets and family-friendly entertainment.

1. Explore Kato Paphos Archaeological Park

Stepping into the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park feels like traversing through time. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an expansive area of Roman villas, showcasing incredibly preserved mosaic floors that depict scenes from Greek mythology. The park also includes an ancient Odeon theatre, the Agora, and a lighthouse, providing fascinating glimpses into the city's past. It is worth allocating a few hours to wander through the ruins and appreciate the intricate details.

Cost: Entrance costs €4.50 per person. Visitors aged 65 and over, as well as students, receive free admission upon showing valid ID. Multi-day passes for various archaeological sites are also available, starting from €8.50 for a one-day pass.

Transport: The park is within walking distance of many hotels in the Kato Paphos area. Alternatively, local buses can take you to the Kato Paphos Main Bus Station, from which it is approximately a 5-minute walk. A single bus fare is €1.50. Free parking is available for those arriving by car.

2. Visit the Tombs of the Kings

The Tombs of the Kings, another UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a unique experience of an ancient necropolis carved into solid rock. Dating back to the 4th century BC, these impressive underground tombs, despite their name, were for Paphian aristocrats and officials rather than kings. Exploring the various chambers and courtyards offers a sense of ancient burial practices and architectural skill.

Cost: The entrance fee is €2.50 per person. Similar to the Archaeological Park, individuals over 65 and students are granted free entry with appropriate identification.

Transport: The site is easily accessible via the 615 bus route, which runs between Paphos Harbour and Coral Bay. The bus stops directly outside the entrance, with a single ticket costing €1.50. Ample free parking is available for those driving.

3. Stroll along Paphos Harbour and explore the Medieval Castle

A leisurely stroll along Paphos Harbour is a relaxing way to experience the city's coastal charm. The promenade is lined with cafes and restaurants, perfect for enjoying the sea breeze. At the western end of the harbour stands the Medieval Paphos Castle. While not vast, the castle offers a tangible link to the island's past, and climbing to its observation deck provides panoramic views of the harbour and surrounding area.

Cost: Access to the harbour promenade is free. The entrance fee for Paphos Castle is €2.50 per person, with free entry for children under 12.

Transport: The harbour area is central to Kato Paphos and is easily reachable on foot from nearby accommodations. Public buses to the Kato Paphos Main Bus Station are available for €1.50, followed by a short walk. A taxi from central Paphos typically costs between €10-€12.

4. Witness Aphrodite's Rock (Petra tou Romiou)

Visiting Aphrodite's Rock, also known as Petra tou Romiou, is an experience steeped in mythology and natural beauty. This iconic sea stack, dramatically rising from the azure waters, is believed to be the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. The rugged coastline and the colossal rock formation create a truly impressive photo opportunity and a peaceful setting for contemplation. While the currents can be strong, the sheer visual impact is remarkable.

Cost: There is no entrance fee to visit Aphrodite's Rock; it is a natural landmark.

Transport: Bus routes 630 and 631 from Paphos Harbour travel directly to Petra tou Romiou. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, with a one-way fare of €1.50 (or €2.50 after 9 PM). A taxi from Paphos could cost around €30-€40.

5. Explore Akamas Peninsula National Park and the Blue Lagoon

For those seeking nature and adventure, a trip to Akamas Peninsula National Park and the stunning Blue Lagoon is a highlight. The Akamas Peninsula offers pristine landscapes, rugged hiking trails, and the chance to discover sea caves. The Blue Lagoon, with its crystal-clear turquoise waters, is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Numerous boat trips provide an excellent way to experience the lagoon's beauty, often including stops for swimming and sometimes a BBQ lunch.

Cost: Boat trips from Latchi (a short drive from Paphos) typically range from €33-€42 for adults and €18-€25 for children, with some including a BBQ lunch. Guided tours from Paphos, which often include bus transfers and boat trips or jeep safaris into Akamas, generally cost between €40-€60.

Transport: Many tours offer convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from Paphos. To reach Latchi independently for boat trips, take bus route 645 from Paphos to Polis (~1 hour, €2), then a local bus (e.g., 622) or taxi to Latchi port. Driving to the Baths of Aphrodite allows access to parts of the park, though a 4x4 is recommended for deeper exploration. A taxi from Paphos to the Akamas/Latchi area can cost €55-€70.

6. Wander through Paphos Old Town and its Market

The Paphos Old Town, particularly after its revitalization, is a charming area to explore. The Municipal Market, or 'Agora,' is a covered space where one can browse local crafts, souvenirs, clothing, and leather goods. Outside, you can find stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables. The surrounding streets are home to traditional tavernas, unique coffee shops, art galleries, and boutiques, offering a more authentic glimpse into local life away from the main tourist strip.

Cost: Entry to the Old Town and market is free; shopping costs vary depending on purchases.

Transport: Paphos Old Town is easily accessible by bus. Route 610 departs frequently from Paphos Harbour and stops directly at the Karavella bus station, which is adjacent to the market. A single bus fare is €1.50. Taxis are also readily available.

7. Enjoy a day at Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark

For families and those seeking a refreshing escape, Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark offers a day of aquatic fun. This large waterpark features a variety of slides, rides, and attractions catering to all age groups, from thrilling high-speed slides to wave pools and dedicated children's areas. It's an excellent way to cool off and enjoy an active day out, particularly during the warmer months.

Cost: A 2-day pass costs €53 for adults and €30 for children (aged 3-11). Children under 3 enter for free. While specific single-day prices are not explicitly detailed, buying a 2-day pass offers savings.

Transport: The waterpark is conveniently reached by bus route 611, which operates directly from Paphos Harbour every 10-20 minutes during the summer. A single bus fare is €1.50-€2.50. A taxi from central Paphos typically costs between €15-€20.

Check out our other pages on Paphos

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in Cyprus

Eastern & Central Cyprus
Western Cyprus