Paphos, Things to Do and See Between the Sea and Beaches

Paphos is a port city located on the western coast of Cyprus and one of its most popular tourist destinations.

Like the rest of the island, Paphos combines a rich history, beautiful golden beaches along the sandy coast, turquoise sea bays, rocky promontories, archaeological sites, castles, and exquisite hospitality.

Paphos has a deep connection with Greek mythology as it is considered the birthplace of the Greek goddess of beauty and love, Aphrodite.

Even today, the famous Rock of Aphrodite remains the most popular attraction among the places to visit along the coast near the city.

Thanks to its small size, Paphos is easy to explore and offers numerous tourist services and attractions to discover such as a picturesque harbor topped by the medieval Castle, a series of charming beaches, a pedestrian-friendly historic center, the idyllic Blue Lagoon, and the extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Archaeological Park, where the ruins of four Roman villas, an agora, ancient mosaics, and ancient Paphos, now Koukalia, just a few kilometers from the city, have been uncovered.

The surrounding area of Paphos is also a treasure trove to discover among ancient tombs, cave-carved monasteries, the Troodos Mountains, and traditional villages nestled in beautiful countryside that connects mountainous areas to coastal ones, blending culture, contemporary life, a millennia-old history, events, and gastronomy.

Nature and outdoor activity lovers can explore the Akamas Peninsula, a protected area with wilderness, rocky coasts, hidden bays, numerous nature trails where they can spot rare green turtles and various migratory birds, or admire the view from Coral Bay at the Maa-Paleokastro site and visit the Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery with its beautiful icons and the winery producing excellent wine.

The city of Paphos offers fun and relaxation even for those looking for a comfortable seaside vacation, engaging in water sports, admiring the traditional architecture of the houses, or visiting the water park.

Bathed in a Mediterranean climate with countless sunny days year-round and mild temperatures even in winter, Paphos can be visited in any season and is easily reachable from the rest of Europe thanks to its international airport.

Throughout the year, there are many festivals and events to participate in. Among the most characteristic celebrations are: Anthestiria, a flower celebration welcoming the spring, the Carnival of Paphos, Kataklysmos (Day of Epiphany), and the celebrations of Greek Orthodox Easter.

During the summer months, Paphos has a packed calendar of events and festivals such as Pafia, an annual cultural event featuring theater performances and concerts, along with many other small traditional festivals held in the inland villages.

For sports enthusiasts, there is the Paphos Marathon, an annual athletic event with thousands of participants from Cyprus and abroad.

The lively historic center of Paphos is the heart of the city life thanks to a colorful market, artisan shops, the Archaeological Museum, and the Gallery of Art with free entrance.

Walking along the Kato Paphos promenade, one finds themselves in the city's tourist and resort center, with the shallow harbor waters on one side and restaurants, bars, and public spaces on the other.

Following the promenade path, one walks from Paphos Municipality Beach (Ta Mpania) to the fishing port, passing close to the archaeological park and the lighthouse overlooking a long stretch of golden sand.

In this area, especially on the weekends, locals gather to stroll by the sea, attend many evening events, and admire the sunset over the water.

With around 27 public beaches, 12 of which are awarded the Blue Flag, spending time by the sea is one of the best things to do in Paphos.

Among the most sought-after beaches in Paphos: Latsi Beach, Municipal Beach, Petra tou Romiou, and Geroskipou Municipal Beach offer stunning views, sparkling crystal-clear waters, and space to relax by the sea in a pleasant and clean environment.

Lara Beach is rated as one of the best bays on the island; it is accessible only by boat or off-road vehicles, making it less crowded. Shaped like a horseshoe by the waves, this remote site is also a nesting place for green turtles during the summer.

Coral Bay is a vibrant tourist destination just about 15 minutes from central Paphos and boasts a beautiful golden beach nestled in a bay surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Don't miss the nearby sea caves, where turquoise waters encircle wonderful rock formations.

The Blue Lagoon is probably the most popular place in the Akamas Peninsula, with thousands of visitors each year. Getting there is quite an adventure, but its Caribbean-like blue waters are so clear that they allow views of the seabed.

The winemaking tradition dates back to ancient times in Paphos and Cyprus, and wine is an essential part of the Cypriot diet. For this reason, in the Paphos region, there are wine roads along which some of the best wineries on the island are open to the public for exquisite tastings.