Located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, Paphos is one of the most underrated travel destinations in Europe, yet it has plenty of great things to do.
This, after all, is a place steeped in ancient history, with several incredible archaeological sites associated with the goddess Aphrodite (her mythical birthplace was Kouklia at Old Paphos). New Paphos is a modern city that incorporates both a harbor and the ancient ruins of tombs, fortresses, theaters, and villas at Paphos Archaeological Park. It also boasts a stunning coastline, with several divine beaches and coastal paths that lead you past quiet coves, cafés, and viewpoints that showcase brilliant sunsets.
However, what we find most appealing about Paphos is how well it works as both a base and a destination in its own right. You can spend your mornings here wandering UNESCO-listed ruins, afternoons at the beach, and evenings down by the harbor. Alternatively, you can use the city as a launching point for day trips into the Troodos Mountains, along the west coast. Or, head to quieter villages inland. If you enjoy renting a car and exploring a region at your own pace, Paphos makes that easy.
This guide will walk you through the most rewarding things to do in Paphos. It will also provide practical advice to help you create a Paphos itinerary to suit your interests. I’ve visited Cyprus several times in different seasons, and explored Paphos in everything from peak summer to the calmer shoulder months and even in November and December. Therefore, what follows is based on real experiences.
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Best Time to Visit Paphos
Paphos is one of those fantastic destinations you can visit year-round. So, for anyone who asks, “What is the best time to visit Paphos?” I always say it really depends on how you like to travel and what you want out of your trip.
The city has a long tourist season, helped in no small measure by its delightful Mediterranean climate. Sunshine is common for most of the year.
The summer months of July through to August represent the peak season. This is when the days are hottest, the skies are clear and blue, and the beaches tend to sparkle. It is also when everything is open, tours run more frequently, and the sea is at its warmest. That said, because it is so hot, you should be mindful when exploring archaeological sites or walking the coastal paths in the middle of the day. The high temperatures can expose you to the dangers of dehydration and sunstroke.
For this reason, I suggest visiting Paphos during the shoulder season months of April to June and September to October. At this time, the weather stays warm without feeling too oppressive. The sea is also still good for swimming, while the light is ideal for sightseeing, and you just seem to be able to move around more comfortably. Best of all, far fewer people visit Paphos at this time of year. This makes visiting places like Paphos Archaeological Park and the Tombs of the Kings a lot more relaxed.
What It’s Like to Visit Paphos, Cyprus in November
November may just be my favourite time of year to visit Paphos. It’s still warm enough to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy dinner at cafés with open terraces. At the same time, the influx of travellers drops, and the heat is no longer overwhelming. For me, Cyprus is at its most challenging in July and August.
In November, occasional rain brings a welcome change, and the island turns green. Hiking trails are open (though it’s worth noting that this is also hunting season), and accommodation prices tend to come down. The region feels as though it’s catching its breath between the busy summer months and the December rush, and that balance suits me perfectly.
What to Expect in Paphos, Cyprus in December
While much of Europe slows down and puts on coats from November to February, Paphos remains relatively warm. This can be a great time to visit if you’re craving a bit of vitamin D. I’ve been to Paphos in December for two years in a row, and it’s become a season I genuinely enjoy there.
Life in December is quite busy in Paphos and the surrounding rural areas, largely thanks to the festive season. Each year, one village is chosen as the official Christmas village, complete with decorations, a fair, and festive events. That said, it doesn’t mean the rest of the villages slip into a sleepy off-season mode. Drive around and you’ll find plenty going on throughout this time of year.
Paphos itself also celebrates Christmas in a lively way. The old town fills with festive decorations, including a large tree, a fair, and a stage hosting live music. In the evenings, the streets are busy with people shopping, lingering in cafés and restaurants, and soaking up the atmosphere. During the day, life slows again. You can enjoy lazy strolls in the sun and even go for a swim. It’s not as warm as September, but for many, it’s still very much an option.
The Best Things to Do in Paphos
One of the main reasons Paphos works so well as a base for a Cyprus travel itinerary is the sheer variety of experiences it offers within a relatively small area.
It won’t surprise you to discover that some of the best things to do in Paphos are to visit its ancient sites. Paphos Archaeological Park is an obvious starting point as it’s home to some of the most impressive Roman mosaics in the eastern Mediterranean. I love spending time wandering among the ruins, villas, and columns because it gives me a real sense of how important this city once was.
Not far away, the Tombs of the Kings are also worth checking out. Despite the name, these underground burial chambers were actually built for high-ranking officials rather than royalty. Carved directly into the rock, the site feels atmospheric and quiet, especially if you visit it early in the day before most of the crowds arrive.
Along the coast, Aphrodite’s Rock is one of the most iconic spots to visit in Cyprus. The viewpoint alone is extremely photogenic, particularly in the afternoon when the light brings out the colors of the cliffs and sea. If the water is calm, you can also enjoy a decent swim there.
Closer to town, Paphos Harbour and Castle are perfect locations for an easy evening stroll. The walkway comes alive around sunset, with boats, music, and bustling cafés lining the water. Ta Pinakia in Kenedy Square 6 does an exceptional octopus dish, while its kontosouvli is incredibly morish!
For those who want to enjoy the beach, Coral Bay is a great place to go. It’s easy to reach by car and offers golden sands and calm conditions for swimmers. Further north of it, the Edro III Shipwreck hike leads you past dramatic cliffs and open sea, which is well worth checking out.
Exploring Paphos Old Town (Ktima)
Paphos Old Town offers a very different feel from the harbour area and is well worth setting aside time for. This is where everyday life in the city unfolds, with local shops, cafés, markets, and residential streets sitting alongside cultural venues. Walk along Makariou Avenue, browse small boutiques, and stop for coffee in one of the local cafés where prices are lower and the pace feels distinctly Cypriot.
One of the main reasons to visit the old town is its growing cultural scene. The area is home to galleries, theatres, and the Paphos District Museum, which provides useful historical context before visiting the archaeological sites closer to the coast. The municipal market is another worthwhile stop, especially if you’re interested in local produce, handmade goods, or simple souvenirs that feel more authentic than what you’ll find by the harbour.
Old Town also comes alive in the evenings, particularly around Kennedy Square, which acts as a social hub. Restaurants and bars fill up with locals and visitors alike, and live music events are common. It’s a good place for a relaxed dinner or a drink after a day of sightseeing, and a reminder that Paphos is a lived-in city with its own rhythm.
Best Places to Stay and Hotels in Paphos
When choosing where to stay during your visit, you’ll be pleased to read that there are several very good holiday accommodation options available. Therefore, the best places to stay in Paphos will depend on what kind of holiday experience you want.
For example, do you want to be close to history, near the sea, or tucked a little farther away from the crowds? Where you stay can shape how you experience the city, especially if you enjoy having the flexibility of a rental car.
Kato Paphos, Cyprus: A Lively Area for First-Time Visitors
Kato Paphos is a popular choice of destination for many first-time visitors. This area is close to the harbor, the Archaeological Park, and the coastal walking path. So, it lets you easily enjoy the best of the island. You can also reach restaurants, cafés, and several beaches on foot, which makes it an easy base if you don’t fancy driving. It even has decent nightlife without being too overbearing.
If you decide to stay in Kato Paphos, one of the best ways to start the day is with a coffee from a nearby café, followed by a walk along the recently built promenade. Stretching for up to eight kilometres, it passes cafés, beaches, and archaeological sites along the coast. It’s easy to combine the walk with a quick dip in the sea and breakfast at one of the cafés before heading back.
Entertainment is plentiful in this area, with a wide choice of bars offering live music, as well as cafés and restaurants. For a relaxed lunch with a local feel, stop by Pingouino. For affordable and consistently good seafood, Ocean Basket Paphos is a reliable option. If you’re in the mood for drinks with a view and a bit of style, Antasia Beach Club is a great choice.
Hotels in this part of town are on another level. You’ll find plenty of seafront properties with suites facing open sea views. Many hotels in Kato Paphos also have spa facilities, which are especially welcome if you’re visiting in November or December. There’s something particularly satisfying about unwinding by an indoor pool after a steam room on a cooler evening.
For a high-quality spa experience, take a look at what Amavi offers. I stayed here for a weekend escape from my rental in Peya and thoroughly enjoyed the service, the food, and the sea views from the room. Elsewhere, take a look at what the M Boutique Hotel has to offer. It is close to the harbour, supermarket, shops, and bus stops that will take you into town.
Adjacent to Kato Paphos, the Tombs of the Kings area offers a slightly quieter feel, albeit still close to the action. It’s a good option for those who want more space and easier parking. You can also easily access major sites and the main road out of town. The Kefalos Beach Tourist Village is an excellent accommodation choice here.
Consider Coral Bay Near Paphos
Coral Bay is another great area you might want to consider. It is about a 20-minute drive from central Paphos and feels noticeably more relaxed than Kato Paphos and the Tombs of the Kings. Surrounded by nature, coastal views, and beautiful beaches, it suits travelers who come to Paphos for some relaxation in the sun.
Coral Bay has a lively strip of cafés, pubs, and restaurants, along with a large nearby supermarket and plenty of villas, many of which are available to rent. It’s a convenient area to stay if you want easy access to food, beaches, and day-to-day essentials.
Coral Bay Beach itself is wide and sandy, with clear blue water and good facilities, including changing rooms, public bathrooms, and a couple of beach cafés. There are two large, free public car parks close to the beach, and you can rent paddleboards and small boats, as well as sunbeds and parasols.
For an easy night out, Seriani Restaurant is well known for its fish meze and has a lovely terrace. Ocean Basket is another reliable option for generous platters of fresh seafood, while Phil’s Grill & Bar is a popular choice for evenings with live music.
The Thalassa Boutique Hotel & Spa is a brilliant place to stay here. It is right by the beach and offers fabulous open-air bars and restaurants to enjoy your evenings.
Paphos Travel Itinerary Do’s and Don’ts
Planning a Paphos itinerary is less about ticking off sights and more about getting the balance right. The city rewards a slower pace, with time for the sea, long lunches, and short drives into the surrounding countryside. A few thoughtful choices can make the difference between a trip that feels rushed and one that flows naturally.
Do’s
Do book accommodation in advance, especially in peak season.
Paphos has a good range of hotels and holiday apartments, but the best-located places fill up quickly, particularly from late spring through early autumn. Booking ahead gives you more choice and better value, especially if you’re aiming for a sea-view stay.
Do consider travelling in the shoulder months.
April to June and September to October offer warm weather without the intensity of midsummer heat. You’ll find fewer crowds, more comfortable sightseeing conditions, and a generally calmer atmosphere across the region.
Do look at hotels along the promenade.
Waking up to the sound of the sea and having coastal walks right on your doorstep is genuinely worth it in Paphos. Staying near the waterfront also makes evenings easy, with cafés and restaurants within walking distance.
Do rent a car to explore beyond the city.
While Paphos itself is walkable, having a car opens up nearby beaches, quieter coastal stretches, and mountain villages in the Troodos foothills. I recommend DiscoverCars, as they offer options for different budgets and feature real customer reviews, which makes choosing a rental more straightforward.
Do plan for slower beach days between sightseeing.
Paphos works best when you mix exploration with downtime. Build in quieter beach days between archaeological sites and day trips to keep the itinerary feeling relaxed rather than demanding.
Don’ts
Don’t travel without insurance.
Even for a destination as easygoing as Cyprus, travel insurance is essential. It’s worth checking what VisitorsCoverage has to offer, as they provide a range of packages and reliable support if plans change or issues arise.
Don’t overload your itinerary in July and August.
These are the hottest months of the year, and the midday sun can be intense. Avoid packing your days with long walks or multiple outdoor sites. Plan for early mornings, shaded afternoons, and time indoors to escape the heat.
Don’t assume all beaches are sandy.
Many beaches around Paphos are pebbly rather than sandy. If soft sand and easy swimming are important to you, plan specifically for places like Coral Bay instead of relying on random coastal stops.
Don’t rely entirely on public transport for day trips.
Buses work well within the city and along main routes, but they’re limiting if you want to reach quieter beaches, rural villages, or mountain areas. Without a car, you may miss some of the region’s most rewarding spots.
The Best Beaches In and Near Paphos
Beaches around Paphos range from wide sandy bays to pebbly coastal stretches. Choosing the right one depends on where you’re staying and how much time you want to spend by the sea.
Venus Beach in Paphos
Venus Beach lies just north of Kato Paphos, close to the Tombs of the Kings area, and is very easy to reach from town. The beach is a mix of sand and small pebbles and is generally well maintained, with clear water on calm days. A large, free public parking lot sits directly behind the beach. Sunbeds, parasols, showers, and a beach bar make it a comfortable choice for a relaxed half-day by the sea.
Alykes Beach in Paphos
Alykes Beach is a convenient option if you’re staying near the harbour or promenade. It’s a smaller beach with a sand-and-pebble mix and clean, shallow water near the shore. Parking is available along nearby streets, and cafés and tavernas are just a short walk away, making it easy to combine a swim with lunch or an evening stroll.
Lighthouse Beach in Paphos
Located close to Paphos Archaeological Park, Lighthouse Beach has a quieter, more local feel. It’s mostly pebbly with rocky sections, but the water is clear and refreshing. Facilities are limited, and parking is informal along the road, so it’s best suited for a quick swim or a sunset stop.
Coral Bay Beach
Coral Bay is the most popular sandy beach in the Paphos area and one of the best options for a full beach day. It’s wide, clean, and sheltered, with calm, clear water that’s ideal for swimming. Facilities include changing rooms, public toilets, sunbeds, parasols, and beach cafés. Two large, free public parking lots sit right next to the beach, making access straightforward even in high season.
Aphrodite’s Rock Beach
One of the most iconic coastal spots in Cyprus, this beach is pebbly rather than sandy, with deep, clear water. It’s clean and dramatic, particularly in the afternoon light. Swimming is best on calm days, as currents can be strong. There is a dedicated parking area across the road, along with a café and basic facilities. It works well as a scenic stop or short swim rather than an all-day stay.
Best Restaurants in Paphos
The food scene in Paphos is an exciting one. Traditional Cypriot cuisine itself deserves some attention. One of the best ways to experience local food is through meze, a sequence of small dishes served as a fish or meat selection.
You’ll also come across souvla, large cuts of meat cooked slowly over charcoal, and kleftiko, lamb baked until tender with herbs and potatoes. For something lighter, try kolokasi, the Cypriot name for taro root cooked in tomato sauce.
Meals are often finished with seasonal fruit or a small sweet. Look out for loukoumia and baklava, which you’ll find in bakeries across the island. These pair well with coffee. Coffee in Cyprus is taken seriously and enjoyed slowly. Cyprus coffee is brewed in a small pot and served unfiltered, so it’s best sipped gently and never stirred once poured.
Traditional Cypriot cuisine in Paphos mixes with influences from around the world, including French, Italian, and Syrian kitchens, so there’s no shortage of options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
In addition to the above-mentioned places, Ta Pinakia, Ocean Basket, Antasia Beach Club, and Pingouino, try to make time for The Lodge. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but it consistently earns good reviews. Kingfisher Taverna and Windmill Tavern are also long-time favourites.
Best Day Trips from Paphos: Easy Escapes Beyond the Coast
Paphos is a great base, but some of Cyprus’s most rewarding experiences sit just a short drive away, from mountain villages and wild coastal landscapes to historic cities that add depth to your stay.
Troodos Mountains Day Trip
A day trip into the Troodos Mountains feels like stepping into a different Cyprus. Stone villages such as Kakopetria, Platres, and Pedoulas are scattered along winding roads, each offering a slightly different rhythm, from riverside walks to quiet village squares and small family-run tavernas. You don’t need to rush. Pick one or two villages, add a monastery stop or a short forest walk, and let the day unfold slowly.
👉 Head out into the Troodos Mountains with this cultural tour, which mixes sightseeing and culinary adventure.
Akamas Peninsula Day Trip
The Akamas Peninsula is ideal for a nature-focused escape from Paphos. The landscape becomes wilder and more open, with coastal paths, rocky viewpoints, and swimming spots that feel refreshingly undeveloped. Whether you drive partway and walk from there or hike near Aphrodite’s Baths, this area rewards an unhurried approach.
👉 Also, consider this best-selling tour to Adonis Waterfalls and the Blue Lagoon.
Nicosia Day Trip
Nicosia offers a very different kind of day trip, one rooted in history and lived reality. The old town is compact and easy to explore on foot, with cafés, museums, and everyday street life unfolding along the Green Line. It’s best enjoyed by focusing on one neighbourhood and taking time to understand the layers rather than trying to see it all.
👉 Get more in one day with the guided tour that combines a trip to Lefkara and Nicosia.
Paphos Travel Guide
This guide contains plenty of practical information based on my multiple visits to this lovely area of Cyprus over the years and across different seasons. Hopefully, you’ll find answers to many common questions, including when to visit Paphos, where to stay, what to do, and where to eat.
If you need more in-depth guidance on this part of Cyprus or help with a broader Cyprus travel itinerary, I offer 1:1 consultations. During these, I answer all your questions, review itineraries, and advise on how to optimise your route, what to include, and what to skip.
Feel free to explore the Travelers Kit section of my website, and send me an email if you’d like help planning your upcoming trip to Paphos.
Written by Inessa Rezanova
I’m a travel writer, keen to see the world and share its stories. I’m Ukrainian, and I continue to explore my country even in times of full-scale invasion. Not just because I love it, but because I believe in showing the world the beauty, strength, and humanity that exists here, even now.
Images by Natalie Rezanova
I’m a photographer based in Kyiv, Ukraine. Photography is an endless source of inspiration for me, and I’m happy to share it on the Through a Travel Lens blog. Along with stories and travel guides, you can also explore my collection of travel posters — a series of my favorite photographs turned into wall art.
