Paphos, Cyprus

Paphos

If music be the food of love then read on, as Paphos is the resort for you. Paphos is divided into two quarters, each one as interesting and as exciting as the other - Ktima for those who like to shop and embrace local culture and ancient history; and the port of Kato Pafos where you can eat, drink, make new friends and watch the boats come in and out until sunset. A beautiful resort with beaches to match, that is suited to anyone and everyone. Transfer time from Paphos airport is approximately 20 minutes.

Beaches

The Paphos area is famed for its white sandy beaches and with more than 50 km of coastline offering 27 beaches, it is ideal for a spot of sunbathing, snorkelling or simple paddling. The beaches in the main town and surrounding resort areas can be busy during the peak seasons, though quieter beaches can be found within a short drive or at some of the hotels private beaches.

The Kato Paphos town beach is a small stretch of sand backed by the essential palm tree lined promenade. Situated close to the harbour this area is packed with shops, cafes and restaurants.

To the north of Paphos is the beach at Coral Bay, a popular choice particularly with families due to its shallow waters and fine sands.

Things to Do

Owing to its great history and large number of historical sites, including remains of villas, palaces, theatres, fortresses and tombs it's unsurprising that UNESCO decided to make Paphos a world heritage site.

The Tomb of the Kings contains underground tombs dating back to the 4th century BC, sculpted out of solid rock. These tombs are believed to be the burial sites of high officials rather than kings.

The Paphos Archaeological Park is found close to the harbour and houses several attractions on site, such as the Paphos lighthouse; Odeon, the house of Aion; the house of Dionysos and the villa of Theseus with their splendid mosaics.

Paphos Fort is located on the edge of the harbour, dating back to the Roman era, it's a popular tourist spot and beautifully illuminated at night

Aphrodite's Rock is found between Limassol and Paphos, believed to be sacred. Legend says that this is the point where Aphrodite emerged from the sea in 1200 BC.

Out and About

Paphos has a good public bus network though most of the attractions are within walking distance of one another making exploring the city by foot possible.

Numerous cafes and restaurants offering cuisines from over the world can be found in Kato Paphos, in particular around the pedestrianised harbour area and along the promenade. For the younger crowd looking for night-time entertainment Bar Street (Agiou Antoniou, found close to the harbour) is packed with bars, some British-style pubs and several nightclubs.

Nearby Attractions

The Paphos region has plenty of great ideas and places for a daytrip, ideal for anyone seeking a break from the beach.

The Aphrodite Waterpark is found at the far eastern end of the Kato Paphos coastal road and is open from May to October. There are a number of rides and attractions including a lazy river, wave pool and a children's fun pool.

The Paphos Zoo was originally a bird park and now with its increasing number and species of animals has turned into a very well maintained small zoo.

The Akamas Peninsula by Jeep Safari; this scenic corner of the island is a nature preserve, home to the deep Avakas Gorge; Lara Bay a nesting ground for the protected loggerhead and green back turtles, and the Baths of Aphrodite (believed to be the bathing place of the Goddess of love and beauty.

Set just 10km outside of Paphos close to the Tala Village, is the beautiful and well kept Ayios Neophytos Monastery, a great spot away from the hustle and bustle of the resort.