Are you planning a short gatewaway to Paphos?
In that case, you’re at the right place!
I spent 6.5 years living on the beautiful island of Cyprus, and have been calling Paphos my home. I explore everything is has to offer, from the obvious sites, tourists traps to hidden gems only locals know about.
In this article, I created a 3 day itinerary to help you explore everything Paphos has to offer!
Let’s dive in!
Best Time to Visit Paphos
The best time to visit Paphos is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasant.
Even off season, Paphos is getting increasingly popular and busy, so don’t expect to find it completely empty.
Day 1: Exploring the Historical Heart of Paphos
Morning: Arrival and Accommodation
If you’re wondering where to stay in Paphos, there are great options no matter what your preferences are. Thanks to the layout of the city by the sea, almost all the hotels offer stunning sea views.
If you’re looking for budget options, you will find those closer to inland, in the old town of Paphos.
Elysium Hotel is be perfect if you want a luxurious stay since in unique surroundings, complete with spa services. I stayed there for my wedding and the hotel is spectacular.
If you want something a little more affordable, but by the sea, the Amphora Hotel & Suites, will tick both boxes.
For those on a tighter budget, Paphos Gardens Holiday Resort offers a comfortable place to stay.
Tips for Smooth Arrival:
Booking a hotel with airport transfers will enable you to start your trip in a much more enjoyable way.
Late Morning: Paphos Archaeological Park
Start your exploring with the most important UNESCO World Heritage – Paphos Archaeological Park.
This large complex contains impressive ruins and beautiful mosaics dating back to Roman times.
Highlights include the House of Dionysus, renowned for its intricate mosaics depicting Greek myths; the House of Theseus, a massive complex with well-preserved mosaics and ancient remains; and the Roman Amphitheater (Odeon).
The park is open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM, and you can check the ticket prices here.
Tips for Exploring:
Please wear comfortable footwear, since the park is very big. There is no cafe or option for refreshment apart from vending machines.
Lunch: Traditional Cypriot Cuisine
After a long morning, take a lunch break at a nearby restaurant.
You will find a decent selection in Paphos Harbour, and the views are a great plus.
Must-try dishes include Souvlaki, which are barbecued meat skewers served with salad and pita bread; Halloumi, a grilled or fried cheese from Cyprus typically served as an appetizer; and Moussaka, a baked dish with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and béchamel sauce.
Afternoon: Tombs of the Kings
Your next stop should be Tombs of the Kings, which is another UNESCO Heristage Site.
This ancient necropolis dates back to 4th century BC and features underground tombs carved into solid rock. I personally don’t find it anywhere as impressive as the Archaeological park, but it is much smaller and you can see everything much faster.
If you prefer to explore these sites with a guide, you can book this half-day city tour which includes entry to the Tombs of the Kings.
The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Don’t forget to bring water and a hat for sun protection.
Evening: Paphos Harbour and Medieval Castle
Finish your day at Paphos Harbour, where a medieval castle overlooks the area, offering fantastic sunset views and perfect for an evening walk.
For photography lovers, capture the beauty of the sunset from the castle’s ramparts, and take advantage of the well-lit harbor area in the evening for excellent night shots.
For dining, try Ouzeri Restaurant for fresh seafood or a variety of Mediterranean dishes in a casual setting. The restaurant belongs to Almyra Hotel and offers fresh delicious food with stunning views of the coastline.
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
Morning: Akamas Peninsula
Start your day with an adventure in the Akamas Peninsula, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
From Paphos, it would take about 45 minutes to drive there with your rental car. There are no public transport options available, but you can also book guided tours from Paphos, or boat tours from Paphos harbour.
Activities in Akamas Peninsula include hiking on trails (Aphrodite Trail is the best one), but you can also rent a quad bike to explore the peninsula’s rough terrain or enjoy nature trails to spot wildlife and find tranquility.
Looking for an unforgettable adventure in Paphos?
You can also discover the famous Blue Lagoon in Akamas National Park with this exclusive bus and boat trip.
Other points of interest include Avakas Gorge, a remarkable natural formation ideal for hiking, and Lara Beach, renowned for its turtle conservation efforts and a great spot to learn more about local wildlife.
If you want a unique place for lunch, check out Viklari The Last Castle – one of a kind dining experience in the heart of Akamas Peninsula.
Lunch: Picnic or Local Tavern
Either take a picnic at one of the scenic spots within the Akamas Peninsula or visit a nearby traditional village for lunch at a local tavern.
For a picnic, bring food such as olives, cheese, fresh bread, and fruits like oranges, apples, and bananas, and find a shady area with a good view to rest.
For traditional taverns, Yiannis Tavern in Kathikas serves authentic local dishes in cozy surroundings.
Day 3: Relaxation and Local Culture
Morning: Paphos Beaches
Spend your final morning relaxing on some of the finest beaches in Paphos.
Top beaches include Coral Bay, known for its golden sands and clear blue waters; Alykes Beach, which offers a wide range of water sports and facilities; and Vrysoudia Beach, a serene alternative for a quiet morning.
Activities to enjoy are swimming and sunbathing in the warm waters and under sunlit skies, as well as water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, and paddle boarding.
Lunch: Beachfront Dining
Alternatively, you can head to one of the beachside restaurants for lunch, where they serve light, fresh meals with an ocean view.
Recommended spots include Coral King, offering a variety of dishes along with breathtaking views, and Sea You Beach Bar, a perfect place for laid-back meals by the ocean.
Meal suggestions include a light seafood salad, ideal for a beach setting, and grilled octopus, an exotic specialty that should not be missed!
Afternoon: Visit to Local Villages
In the afternoon, visit the nearby local villages surrounding Paphos, such as Kathikas or Peyia, which showcase Cyprus’ traditional cultures and customs.
Activities include tours and wine tasting at places like Vasilikon Winery, where you can sample traditional Cypriot wines.
If you want to shop for hand-crafted traditional gifts, I recommend a village to Omodos, in the heart of Troodos mountains.
If you want to avoid the hassle of driving and navigating the local roads, you can book the excursion below which will take you to the most beautiful places (with a pick up from Paphos).
Evening: Cultural Experience
Wrap up your vacation by spending an evening enjoying traditional Cypriot music and dance.
Seasonal recommendations include the Paphos Aphrodite Festival in September, an annual cultural event featuring operatic performances.
Practical Tips for Visiting Paphos
- Electricity Sockets: Cyprus uses Type G sockets (like the UK), so bring an appropriate adapter if needed.
- Renting a Car: Renting a car is highly recommended to explore Paphos and its surroundings. Remember, Cyprus drives on the left side of the road.
- Currency: The local currency is the Euro (€).
- Language: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
- Health: Carry some basic medications, and remember that tap water is safe to drink in Cyprus.
How to Get to Paphos, Cyprus
- By Air: Paphos International Airport (PFO) is the main gateway, with numerous international flights. It’s about 20 minutes from the city center, I recommend getting a taxi, rental car or booking airport transfer.
- By Road: If you’re already in Cyprus, Paphos is well connected by road to other major cities, with regular bus services. I do recommend renting a car as it’s the easiest way to explore the island.
Final Thoughts
I hope this itinerary covered everything you wanted to see in Paphos, and much more!
If you have any questions about your trip, please leave a comment below and I will be happy to help!
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