Popular Tourist Places to Visit and Things to Do in Paphos

August 26, 2020 Mustafa Natalwala 6633 Views

Paphos, also known as Pafos, is the capital of Pafos district and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cyprus. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Paphos has a deep connection to Greece and Greek Mythology. According to the fables, the shores of Paphos are considered to be the birth place of Greek Goddess of beauty and love, Aphrodite. The famous Aphrodite’s Rock is the most popular attraction among places to visit in Paphos. The legend tells that the essence of Uranus, the God of Sky, landed in the ocean near the coast of the city and Aphrodite, the personification of beauty, was born.

The name of the city is derived from another Greek legend of Pygmalion of Cyprus. The legend says that he created an ivory statue of the Goddess Aphrodite. Pleased by Pygmalion’s love and devotion to the beautiful statue, Aphrodite brought the statue to life and named her Galatea, which means milk white. Galatea and Pygmalion has a son named Paphos. That’s where the name of the city originates. The rock from which Pygmalion created the statue is the aforementioned Paphos tourist attraction Aphrodite’s Rock. The island in the ancient time was the center of Cult of Aphrodite dedicated to beauty, love, and passion. Some sources also say that Cyprus was the island of the fabled Amazon warriors. Cyprus as well as Paphos have been mentioned in several mythology and history texts. All of them regard this place as an altar of beauty. Many people visit Paphos in search of beauty and they are never disappointed.

As beautiful the Mediterranean looks on the surface it is even more beautiful beneath the surface. Exploring the beauty at the depths of the ocean is among the top things to do in Paphos. You enjoy snorkeling, surfing, swimming, and spotting turtles among free things to do in Paphos near the coast. Other best things to do in Paphos include scuba diving, cave diving, turtle cruise, and kite surfing. There are many other water sports to enjoy among sea side activities in Paphos.

The azure blue Mediterranean ocean meets golden shores of Cyprus. It is a breath taking sight to behold during Paphos sightseeing. You get to enjoy several incredibly beautiful places to visit in Paphos. There are as many Paphos tourist attractions pertaining to nature as there are to history as well as mythology. Paphos beaches are some of the most beautiful ones in all of Mediterranean. You can explore the coastal Paphos tourist attractions on foot or you can also rent a bike or bicycle. On foot you can count this tour among free things to do in Paphos. There are several things to see in Paphos travel along the Mediterranean. You will be able to cover historical places to go in Paphos such as Paphos Castle, Paphos Harbour, Nea Paphos, Mosaics, and the old town. The fables Aphrodite’s Rock can also be encountered during Paphos sightseeing along the coast. In ancient times, people used to pray for love and artistic inspiration at this Paphos attraction. You can also include it on your list of activities in Paphos. Aphrodite’s Rock is situated at one of the best beaches in Paphos called Perta tou Romiou. You can also include several other Paphos beaches in your coastal journey like the Coral Bay, Alykes Beach, Vrisoudia Beach, and so on.

The island of Cyprus is also well known for its wine and brandy. Cyrpus wine has almost a mythical status. You will be able to explore several wineries to taste the most unique flavors of the island. While not exactly among free things to do in Paphos, you will be able to save some money on food expenses as most of the wineries have buffet to accompany wine tasting.

Paphos travel is very much similar to tasting wine. You should take it slow and indulge the variety of flavors with each sip. It is the alter of beauty and the land of goddess of beauty. Why rush?

This Blog Post contains affiliate links. If you purchase anything from that link then I may earn small part of commission and for that you do not need to pay any extra amount.

Table of Contents

Top Tourist Places to Visit in Paphos

1. Paphos Harbour Castle

This fort was built under the Ottoman Empire in 1592 and it was in turn built upon Byzantine Fort. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Paphos. The castle sits on the beach facing the sea. The site is almost mystical. You will need about an hour for this castle.

2. Paphos Archaeological Park (Kato Pafos Archaeological Park)

This greek archaeological site is one of the most historically significant things to see in Paphos. This archaeological site still preserves many aspects of the original structures. There are three major Paphos tourist attractions to see at this site, namely House of Dionysus, House of Aion and House of Thesus. You will need 2 to 3 hours to explore this archaeological site.

3. Tombs of Kings

These tombs go back all the way to 4th century B.C. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site houses tombs of high ranking officials from Greek and Roman Empire. It is again one of the most important historical Paphos attractions to explore. You will need an hour to explore it.

4. Chrysopolitissa Basilica (Agia Kyriaki Chrysopolitissa)

This church was built under the Byzantine Empire in 4th century A.D. In its time, it was the largest basilica on the island. The basilica is most known for the pillar of St. Paul. It is here that St. Paul was bound and punished for preaching christianity. You will need about 2 hours here.

5. Agia Paraskevi Church

This is yet another monumental church from the Byzantine period. This church is most famous for its iconic murals which depict the life of Jesus Christ spread between 5 domes. It is one of the most popular sites to explore during Paphos sightseeing. You will need about 2 hours for this church.

6. Paphos Archaeological Museum

This museum is a collection of all the great civilizations that lived and flourished on the island. You can explore artifacts from Neolithic period all the way to Ottoman rule at this museum. You will need about an hour to explore it.

7. Alykes Beach

The ocean and sea-side marvels are one of the top reasons for Paphos travel. This particular beach is one of the most happening ones among Paphos beaches. It has several activities surrounding it and you will get to enjoy incredible view of the mediterranean. You would want to keep 3 to 4 hours to enjoy the beach.

8. Agios Neophytos Monastery

The monsters was founded in the 12th century by Saint Neophytos, also known as Neophytos the Recluse. One of the most distinguishing features of this monastery is that some of its parts are carved into from natural caves. You will need an hour or two to explore it.

9. Adonis Baths Waterfalls

This waterfall is one of the best places to visit in Paphos, especially because it is where gods used to bathe. It is believed that Adonis and Aphrodite from the greek mythology used to have bath here embraced in romance. This place is included among best things to do in Paphos for couples. You will need an hour for this beautiful site.

10. Akamas Peninsula

This Peninsula is yet another one of Paphos tourist attractions to be associated with the mythology of Aphrodite and Adonis. You can walk the path of these Greek legends with Aphrodite Trail and Adonis Trail among free things to do in Paphos. You will need a couple of hours at this museum.

11. Folk Art Museum

This museum is dedicated to local produce and handicraft. All of the interesting handicraft things to see in Paphos can be found here. You will need about an hour to explore this museum.

12. Coral Bay

This bay has one of the best beaches in Paphos. The pristine white sand beach against beautiful blue ocean is one of the most engaging visuals for Paphos sightseeing. You would want to keep 2 to 3 hours to enjoy the serenity of Coral Bay.

13. Fikardos Winery

If you are looking for a place to taste and enjoy some local wine, or get to understand how this wine is made, then is the place to be. It is one of the most interesting activities in Paphos you can enjoy. Take about an hour to enjoy some fine wine.

14. Agioi Anargyroi Church

This is the biggest church in the city and among the most beautiful things to see in Paphos. Its unique architecture has it stand out from all other buildings in the city. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore this church.

If you are looking for more places to visit in Paphos then check out the section below.

Things to do in Paphos

Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Paphos

Tombs of the Kings
Nea Paphos
Paphos Castle
Agia Kyriaki Chrysopolitissa Ruins
Agios Neophytos Monastery
House of Dionysus
Forty Columns Fort
Paphos Mosaics
Villa of Theseus
Chrysroyiatissa Monastery
Church of Panagia Theoskepasti
Byzantine Church of Agia Paraskevi
Agia Solomoni Catacomb
Archeological Museum of Paphos
Paphos Town Hall
Paphos Lighthouse
House of Aion
Agioi Anargyroi Church
Holy Bishopric of Paphos
Fabrica Hill Archeological Ruins
House of Orpheus
Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa
Ethnographic Museum
Ottoman Baths
Folk Art Museum
Roman Odeon
Agios Kendeas Monastery
Caique Agios Georgios Museum
Byzantine Museum
Kato Paphos Archeological Park
St. Nicholas Church
Shipwreck of MV Demetrios II
Hellenistic Roman Theatre
Achilles Mosaic
Paphos Cave
Panagia Chryseleousa Church
En Plo Gallery & Museum
Frankish Baths
Agiou Lambrianou Catacombs
Fabrika Hill Cave Complex
Early Christian Basilica Archeological Site
Sterna Winery & Museum

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Paphos

Mediterranean Sea
Timi Forest
Mavrokolympos Dam
Fabrika Hill
Episkopi Rock
Adonis Baths Waterfall
Baths of Aphrodite Pond
Akamas Cape
Paphos Forest

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Paphos

Ayii Anargyri Natural Healing Spa Resort & Hot Springs
Aphrodite Water Park
Paphos Zoo
Paphos Harbour
Fikardos Winery
Paphos Luna Amusement Park
Island Cove Adventure Mini Golf
Municipal Baths
Agios Neofytos Cat Park
Lockdown Paphos
Organization European Capital of Culture
Ithaki Amusement Park
Paphos Karting Center
Cyprus College of Art
Kivotos Arts and Crafts Gallery
Makarounas Boutique Winery
Adonis Botanical Garden
Paphos Bird Park
Vouni Panayia Winery
Tsangarides Winery
Vasilikon Winery
Kolios Winery
Zambartas Winery
Tsiakkas Winery
Lambouri Winery
Ktima Christoudia Winery
Limassol Winery & Brandy

Shopping in Paphos

Paphos Market
Duck Pond Market
Savvas Pottery
Agoras Shop
King’s Avenue Mall
Kivotos Gallery
Cyprus Handicraft Center
Aphrodite Jewellery
Paphos Open Air Market
The Place
Poseidonos Avenue
Apostolou Street
Paphos Farmer’s Market

Beaches & Island in Paphos

Perta tou Romiou / Aphrodite’s Rock
Coral Bay
Alykes Beach
Vrisoudia Beach
Municipal Beach
SODAP Beach
Lighthouse Beach
Rikkos Beach
Pachyammos Beach
Potima Marina
St. George’s Beach
Yeroskipou Beach
CTO Plage Beach
Paphos Waterfront
Pharos Beach
Kato Paphos Docks
Nisarka Island
Lara Beach

Offbeat Places & Adventure Activities to Do in Paphos

Quad Buggy & Jeep Safari
Paphos Segway tour
Kouklia Village Adventure Segway Tour
Kite Surfing
Surfing
Scuba Diving
Snorkeling
Smigies Nature Trail
Aphrodite Nature Trail
Cave Scuba Diving
Atlantis Turtle Watching Cruise
Zaphyros Adventure Sports
Coastal Bike Tour
Fishing

Sightseeing in Paphos

The Place Public Art
Paphos Municipal Park
Chiaki Kamikawa Contemporary Art
Patchwork Tree

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Paphos

Coral King
Demokritos
Porto Bello
Melania Restaurant
St. George’s Tavern
Sykaminia Cafe
Gabor Restaurant
Little Pigs Traditional Grill
Sienna Restaurant
Fettas Tavern
Viklari Peyia
Ricardo Restaurant
Windmill Restaurant
Andria Restaurant
Laona Restaurant
Grazie Ristorante Italiano
Moonlight Taverna
Mother’s Restaurant

Where to Stay in Paphos?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range and Budget Hotels in Paphos. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Paphos.

Luxurious Hotels

Mid-Range Hotels

Budget Hotels

Custom Tours Package in Paphos

How to Reach Paphos?

By Air

The fastest route for Paphos travel is by the city’s International Airport. You can get direct flights to visit Paphos from many cities in Europe. You can also get flights for Paphos travel from Russia and Israel. Airlines which serve Paphos International Airport include British Airways, EasyJet, Ryanair Flights, Swiss Flights, Thomas Cook Airlines, Brussels Airlines and more.

Once you reach the airport you have the option of bus & cab service to reach the places to visit in Paphos city. It takes about 2 hours to reach the city by bus and around an hour and a half by cab to visit Paphos. The buses run hourly from the airport to Kato Paphos and are way cheaper to get around for Paphos sightseeing as compared to cabs.

By Road

You have to be on Cyprus Island to visit Paphos by road. There are several routes you can use for Paphos travel. The primary route to explore places to visit in Paphos from north is Express route B7. If you are coming from the southern side of the city then Express route A6 would be more suitable. You will come across several Paphos tourist attractions along the way on either routes. The coastal route A6 offers more beautiful views for Paphos sightseeing during the trip as compared to B7. You will be able to catch buses for Paphos travel from most cities and towns on the Cyprus island.

By Water

Being a beautiful coastal city as well as one of the most important ports on the island, there are plenty of options to visit Paphos via Mediterranean Sea. You can get ferries from France, United Kingdom, Finland, Estonia, Holland, Spain, Ireland and Greece for Paphos travel. As you approach the city you can distinctly see many iconic Paphos tourist attractions from near the coast. It will be a great opportunity for Paphos sightseeing as you will be able to encompass the panoramic view of the city.

Image Reference

Paphos Harbour Castle – Steve Parker / Flickr
Paphos Archaeological Site (Kato Pafos Archaeological Park) – Dimitris Vetsikas / PixaBay
Tombs of Kings – Dimitris Vetsikas / PixaBay
Chrysopolitissa Basilica (Agia Kyriaki Chrysopolitissa) – Albrecht Fietz / PixaBay
Agia Paraskevi Church – Nikodem Nijaki / Wikimedia Commons
Paphos Archeological Museum – James Raynard / Flickr
Alykes Beach –
Agios Neophytos Monastery – Nikodem Nijaki / Wikimedia Commons
Adonis Baths Waterfalls – Dimitris Vetsikas / PixaBay
Akamas Peninsula – Panegyrics of Granovetter / Flickr
Folk Art Museum –
Coral Bay – Sergei Gussev / Flickr
Fikardos Winery –
Agioi Anargyroi Church – Mark Gregory / Flickr