Top 10 things to see and do in Paphos

Here are our top ten recommendations for things to see and do around Paphos. They can all be done without hiring a car.

Take an excursion up the Troodos Mountains

There is no better way to admire the beauty of the 'green heart' of Cyprus than by taking an organised excursion up the Troodos Mountains with its picturesque villages, valleys and evergreen forests.

Soak up the atmosphere at the mysterious Tombs of the Kings

This vast area contains impressive underground tombs carved out of solid rock in which the leading citizens of Paphos (rather than Kings) were buried.  It is great fun to explore with good views over the sea.

Explore the Archaeological Site

The Archaeological Site is located near the harbour and is home to the remains of the ancient city of Nea Paphos. It contains several ancient historic sites including the famous Paphos Mosaics, Odeon and Byzantine Fortress.

Take a stroll around the Harbour area

The harbour is filled with colourful fishing boats and tour boats and has a pleasant pedestrianised area lined with restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops. Climb up to the top of Paphos Castle for unrivalled views across the harbour and beyond.

Enjoy a day out at the Aphrodite Waterpark

The Aphrodite Waterpark is a great day out for all the family. It is situated at the far eastern end of the Kato Paphos coastal road and offers a wide and varied selection of rides, attractions and facilities. It is open every day from May to October.

Take a bus ride to Coral Bay Beach

There are several beaches in the Paphos area that have been awarded blue-flag status for their exceptional high standard and bathing water quality, but probably the best beach is at Coral Bay, with its golden sands and beautiful sheltered bay. The sea here is calm and clear, making it ideal for children.

Buy a souvenir at Paphos Market

The covered market is situated in the Old Town and has great atmosphere and bustle and is the place to buy souvenirs, leather goods, curtains, tablecloths, ceramics, copperware, silverware, and the famous traditional hand-made Lefkaritika lace as well as fresh fruit and vegetables, meat and fish.

Try a traditional Cypriot Meze

Meze is short for Mezedhes and consists of up to 30 small dishes of local food and is a very tasty and enjoyable way of sampling different foods. This is an experience to be enjoyed with friends and family over a couple of hours so make sure you have allowed plenty of time to just sit back and savour the different flavours.

Contemplate at the Agia Solomoni Catacomb

These gloomy underground chambers were a refuge for persecuted Christians in ancient times. The entrance is easily identified from the road by a large pistachio tree, which is festooned with pieces of cloth tied onto it by the faithful in the hope that it will cure various ailments.

Take the children to Pafos Zoo

Spend a day at Pafos Zoo (formerly known as the Pafos Bird and Animal Park) surrounded by the magical sounds and colours of nature. Enrich your senses in this beautiful environment of lakes, ponds and gardens.