Paphos / Cyprus

Paphos, a beautiful coastal city with a mystical aura in southwest Cyprus known for its classical antiquity especially its two locations called Old Paphos, today known as Kouklia, and New Paphos, is steeped in Greek mythology. A haven to learn about Greek mythology and ancient Byzantine rule, Paphos will enchant you to stay longer in its embrace.

Curently the city of Paphos lies on the Mediterranean coast, about 50 km (30 mi) west of Limassol (the biggest port on the island), both of which are connected. Paphos International Airport is the country’s second-largest airport. Paphos Airport is commonly used by tourists on vacation in western Cyprus, providing access to popular resorts such as Coral Bay, Limassol (about 50 km (31 mi) south-east) and Paphos itself. Navigating around the city is fairly simple, with several options for transportation. A visit to Old Town Paphos is an ideal way to spend a breezy afternoon, strolling through narrow streets while admiring ancient architecture. Old Town is best known for its produce market and souvenir shops, but don’t forget to admire its unique street art as you explore! Kato Paphos, near the harbor, is bursting with hotels.

As the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, it is evocative of romance and tinged with legend. Although its palm-fringed seafront and buzzy scene have put Paphos on the map, a sense of timelessness remains in the city, from its crumbling ruins to its traditional mountain villages. Backstreets lead to medieval baths and catacombs while, inland, vineyard-carpeted hills cradle wineries and Byzantine monasteries. It’s an incredibly interesting place to visit. This Paphos travel guide covers everything from when to visit, to what to do while you’re there.

The city has a subtropical-Mediterranean climate, with the mildest temperatures on the island so Cyprus is a year-round destination: summer is hot but busy; spring and autumn are warm enough to swim but cool enough to sightsee, and winter is. In 1980, Paphos was included on the UNESCO World Heritage List for its ancient architecture, mosaics, and ancient religious importance.

On the surface, Paphos appears to be a traditional beach holiday retreat popular with Brits, and attractive for its year-round sunshine. Sure, it’s all of that, but it also has rich history to rival any of the Greek islands. You have some spectacular day trips to the villages and wineries inland and a coastline of caves, lagoons and viewpoints. Alongside its beachy vibes, gain some history experience and don’t fail to visit the House of Dionysus with its well-known mosaics, Agora & Odeon, the Tombs of the Kings and a few Byzantine churches such as Hrysopolitissa Basilica & St. Paul’s Pillar, Agia Paraskevi and Agios Mamas Church. Don’t miss the ancient Sanctuary of Aphrodite and the Paphos Fort Built in 1592 by the Ottomans.