Are you planning a winter trip to Cyprus and wondering if everything in Paphos is open as usual? Are the hotels and restaurants still operating?
In that case, this article has all the answers you need.
To put it short, yes, Paphos is open even during the winter season, and there are only some limitations when it comes to the availability of hotels and some of the tours and activities.
In this article, I’ll get into all the details you might be curious about when it comes to visiting Paphos in the winter season, including the optimal times to go, winter activities, and much more!
Let’s dive in!
Does Paphos Close for Winter?
Unlike many Mediterranean destinations that largely shut down during the winter, Paphos remains largely open and operating as normal.
The winter season in Paphos, which runs from November to March, is much quieter compared to the main summer season, which translates to lower prices and a more peaceful experience.
The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F), and even though it does have occasional rainy periods, they are not very long. Normally a weather front will pass pretty fast, and it will clear up for the rest of the day.
What’s Closed in Paphos in Winter?
There are a few practical considerations if you’re booking a trip in the winter months, especially from January to March.
Most hotels and restaurants operate normal schedules all year round, but smaller ones will close from November until March. That means you will have limited choices when it comes to accommodation in the winter, compared to the summer months – but they do cost a lot less!
Some tourist hotspots, like the Coral Bay high street, which is full of restaurants and bars, will remain almost entirely closed for the winter, with only a handful of restaurants open.
Even the main bar street in Paphos, which is the central hub for nightlife, will see quite a few of the places closed for the winter.
Tourist attractions, such as archaeological sites and museums, are also open, but will operate winter opening hours so you should always check in advance.
Last, any activities at sea should be limited to the months of November and start of December, after that the weather gets a lot worse and more unpredictable, so it may ruin any boat trips you have planned.
A lot of the local tours, like the boat trips to Blue Lagoon, are also not available in winter.
The Best Time to Visit Paphos in Winter
Winter in Paphos is mild compared to many European destinations.
While the temperatures are cooler, ranging from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F), it is still pleasant enough to enjoy outdoor activities.
If you want guaranteed decent weather, you should try to plan your trip for November or start of December, when its still nice and warm, with less rain.
The worst periods weather-wise are January and February, where the weather changes pretty quickly, temperatures drop, and its much more rainy.
For budget travelers, these two months are when you get the best deals on accommodation and flights, but you will have less options for booking them as even flights to the island are quite limited.
Things To Do in Paphos During Winter
So what activities can you plan in winter?
Check my suggestions below or read this detailed guide on things to do in Paphos in Winter!
1. Explore Historical Sites
Winter is an ideal time to explore the rich history of Paphos without the crowds.
The Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to stunning mosaics, ancient ruins, and the remains of Roman villas.
The cooler weather makes it easier to wander through the site and enjoy the scenery.
Opening Hours: The park is open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
Tickets: You can get them at the ticket office, and they cost €4,50.
2. Visit the Tombs of the Kings
Tombs of the Kings, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is a necropolis dating back to the 4th century BC.
These impressive underground tombs are carved out of solid rock and are a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
The site is less crowded during winter, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Opening hours: 16th April to 15th September (summer period), daily: 08:30 – 19:30 and for winter period from 16th September to 15th April, daily: 08:30 – 17:00
Tickets: You can get them from the ticket booth and they cost €2,50.
3. Take a Long Walk Along the Coast
Paphos has a beautiful coastline, and winter is the perfect time for a nice walk without the summer heat.
The coastal path from Kato Paphos in the direction of Coral Bay offers stunning sea views and a chance to explore hidden coves and beaches (photo below).
Another nice walk is from the coastline of Kissonerga towards Coral Bay (photo below), and you can stop at my favorite beach bar – Sea You Beach Bar.
Last, you can also walk along the coastline from Kato Paphos towards Almyra Hotel and stop for lunch at their Ouzeri Restaurant by the sea – they also have live music at weekends.
4. Enjoy Cypriot Cuisine and Wines
Winter is the perfect time to indulge in Cypriot cuisine and their specialty – meze!
Meze is a collection of small dishes, and you can choose between fish meze, mixed meze, or meat meze, giving you a chance to sample a variety of local dishes at very affordable prices.
Winter is also a great time to visit the local wineries; here are some of my favorite ones. If you don’t want to drive to them, you can also book a wine-tasting tour with a guide – see below.
5. Visit Festivals and Events
Paphos hosts several events during the winter months, including the Christmas festivities in December.
The city is beautifully decorated, and you can enjoy holiday markets, concerts, and traditional Cypriot celebrations.
Additionally, the Epiphany celebration in January is a significant cultural event, marked by religious ceremonies and festive gatherings.
You can check all of the upcoming events in Paphos here.
Best Places to Stay in Paphos During Winter
Luxury Hotels
- Annabelle Hotel: Located in Kato Paphos, this luxury hotel offers beautiful sea views, elegant rooms, and excellent facilities, including indoor and outdoor pools, making it a perfect choice for a winter stay.
- Elysium Hotel: A five-star hotel that combines luxury with history, the Elysium is situated near the Tombs of the Kings. It offers a full-service spa, gourmet dining, and beautiful gardens.
Boutique Hotels
- Almyra Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel with a contemporary design, the Almyra offers stunning sea views and a serene atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing winter retreat.
- Axiothea Hotel: Located in the heart of Paphos, this family-run hotel offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to explore the city’s cultural sites.
Budget Hotels
- Pyramos Hotel: A budget-friendly option located in Kato Paphos, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the main attractions. It’s ideal for travelers on a budget who still want a central location.
Practical Tips
Cyprus uses Type G electrical sockets, the same as in the UK, so if you’re coming from elsewhere, you’ll need a suitable adapter.
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, which may require some adjustment for those from right-hand drive countries.
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the area, as it gives you the freedom to visit both popular sites and hidden gems at your own pace.
It’s also good to note that road signs are in both Greek and English, making navigation easier. You might also notice that cities may have two names – like Limassol and Lemessos (one is in English and one in Greek), so don’t be confused if you see that.
Finally, while Paphos is generally a safe destination, it’s always wise to follow basic travel safety guidelines, such as keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article answers all your questions about visiting Paphos in winter!
If there is something specific you want to know, please leave a comment below the article, and I will be happy to help out!
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