Are you staying in Paphos and wonder what can you explore nearby?
In that case, you’re at the right place!
I spent 6.5 years living in Paphos, and explored everything it has to offer – from hidden gems, to remote locations and even the biggest tourist traps.
It’s safe to say I know my way around Paphos.
In this article, I wanted to show you some of my favourite places to explore near Paphos and offer lots of ideas so you can have the best holiday in Cyprus.
Let’s check them out!
PS: This article may contain some affiliate links. If you book your trip or experience through them, I make a small fee at no extra cost to you. This helps me to run this website and write more content!
Best Places To Visit Near Paphos, Cyprus
1. Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou)
Aphrodite’s Rock, also known as Petra tou Romiou, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cyprus.
According to Greek mythology, this is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, who emerged from the sea foam.
Located about 25 kilometers east of Paphos, just off the highway in the direction to Limassol.
This stunning coastal spot is a bucket list destination you should visit.
What to Do
- Swim in the Sea: Legend has it that swimming around the rock will bring you eternal beauty.
- Enjoy the Sunset: The area offers spectacular sunset views, making it a romantic spot for couples.
- Bring Your Picnic: There is only a small kiosk across the road from the beach, so it’s best if you bring your own picnic!
2. Akamas National Park
The Akamas Peninsula is a protected area of outstanding natural beauty, located to the northwest of Paphos, which is less than an hour’s drive away.
It is home to some of the most spectacular unspoiled beaches, a breeding ground for turtles, and the famous Blue Lagoon of Cyprus!
What to Do
- Hiking: The Aphrodite Trail in Akamas is a popular hiking route, offering stunning views and a chance to see the rare flora and fauna of the region.
- Lara Bay: Visit Lara Bay, a secluded beach that is a nesting site for endangered loggerhead and green turtles, and one of the best beaches on the island.
- Boat Tours: Take a boat tour around the coastline to explore sea caves and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon.
3. Adonis Baths Waterfalls
The Adonis Baths is another local spot that is becoming increasingly popular, about 12 kilometers outside of Paphos, between the Kissonerga and Coral Bay.
This natural beauty spot is built on the grounds of a former mill and has a natural swimming pond with two small waterfalls.
The water is especially refreshing in the summer heat. Please keep in mind that the road that leads there is a little rough, best for SUVs or quad bikes.
If you rent a small car, you might struggle navigating the road and the multiple big holes and rocks on it.
What to Do
- Swim in the Natural Pools: Take a dip in the cool, refreshing waters of the pools, surrounded by lush greenery.
- Visit the Museum: The site also has a small museum that displays ancient artifacts and offers insight into the local mythology.
- Relax and Picnic: The area is perfect for a relaxing day out, with picnic spots available.
4. Paphos Forest
Paphos Forest is a large, mountainous area covered with dense pine forests and dotted with traditional villages.
Located to the northeast of Paphos, this area is ideal for those looking to escape the coastal heat and enjoy some fresh mountain air.
What to Do
- Trekking and Hiking: The forest offers numerous trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, such as the route to the Stavros tis Psokas nature reserve.
- Wildlife Spotting: The forest is home to the Mouflon, a wild sheep species endemic to Cyprus, and various bird species.
- Visit Cedar Valley: Cedar Valley is a particularly scenic area within the forest, known for its cedar trees and tranquil atmosphere.
5. Sanctuary of Aphrodite
This archaeological site is one of the oldest places of worship in Cyprus, dating back to the 12th century BC.
It’s a big area perfect for exploring in milder weather, and you will also find a small museum inside the main building. Perfect place to visit for any history enthusiasts.
What to Do
- Explore the Site: You will need about one hour to see the whole complex, check out more photos in this blog post.
- Explore the Local Museum: The museum showcases artifacts from the ancient city of Palaepaphos.
6. Avakas Gorge
Avakas Gorge is a natural wonder located on the Akamas Peninsula, about 20 kilometers from Paphos.
This dramatic gorge, carved by a river over millions of years, is a popular spot for hiking and exploring.
In the winter, the gorge fills up with water, so passing through is a little more challenging. Also please be careful when exploring, there is a danger of falling rocks and snakes are also native to the area.
What to Do
- Hiking: The 3-kilometer trail through the gorge is moderately challenging and takes you through narrow passages, towering rock walls, and lush vegetation.
- Photography: The unique rock formations and diverse plant life make it a paradise for photographers.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for the rare Centaurea akamantis, an endemic plant species found only in this area.
7. Day Trip to Polis and Latchi
The towns of Polis and Latchi, located about 35 kilometers north of Paphos, are perfect for those seeking more relaxed and authentic places to visit near Paphos.
Polis is a small town with a laid-back vibe, while Latchi is a picturesque fishing village with a charming harbor.
I love having a lunch in Latchi harbour, the restaurants are fabulous, and you can also book a variety of different boat trips directly from there.
Latchi is also a great base for exploring the Akamas National Park.
What to Do
- Relax on the Beach: Polis and Latchi boast beautiful beaches that are less crowded than those in Paphos, perfect for a day of sunbathing and swimming.
- Explore the Akamas Peninsula: From Latchi, you can take boat trips to explore the coastline of the Akamas Peninsula.
- Drive towards Kato Pyrgos: This scenic drive is one of the prettiest on the island, offering unspoiled sea views and plenty of places to stop for a picnic or a drink (see photo below).
8. The Mountain Village of Omodos
Although a bit further from Paphos, the village of Omodos, located about 60 kilometers to the northeast, is well worth the trip.
Located in the heart of the Troodos Mountains, Omodos is one of the most picturesque villages in Cyprus, famous for its wine production and traditional architecture.
It also has a beautiful monastery well worth visiting, and in the summer it provides a relief from the summer heat and the crowds by the coastline.
What to Do
- Wine Tasting: Book a day trip in Omodos (no need to drive!). Omodos is surrounded by vineyards, and many local wineries offer tours and tastings.
- Visit the Holy Cross Monastery: This historic monastery is located in the center of the village and is a significant religious site in Cyprus.
- Stroll through the Village: The cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and charming shops make for a delightful walk through the village.
9. Day Trip to Limassol
If you’re staying in Paphos, you shouldn’t miss a chance to play a day trip to Limassol!
Limassol is a big cosmopolitan city with a beautiful beach promenade, historic city center and even a castle!
While there are not many attractions for tourists, the city is great for one day exploration and offers something very different compared to Paphos.
Here are a few places you can check out:
- check out Limassol Marina
- stroll through the old town
- visit the castle in the heart of the old town
- check out the beach promenade
10. Dine at Oniro by the Sea
Oniro is one of my favourite restaurants in Paphos – technically it’s not in Paphos but in Peyia, in area next to the sea caves.
Thanks to its remote location by the sea, it enjoys stunning views and you can watch the most spectacular sunsets here too.
Oniro is very popular with locals and also tourists, and for a long time they did not even offer table reservations, but now they do and you can book one on the website.
Check their opening hours on their website here.
11. Toast to Sunset at Sea You Bar
Talking of favourite places, Sea You Bar is also at the top of the list.
Located just behind Kissonerga village, a short drive away from Paphos, this beach bar has been through quite the evolution, and it looks very different from my last photos.
They serve cocktails, simple food, and most importantly – you can enjoy your drink while watching a spectacular sunset.
It’s THE place to be if you’re visiting Paphos.
12. Day Trip to Agios Georgios
If you fancy escaping the crowds and enjoy stunning scenery, then the small village of Agios Georgios is the place to be.
It’s a tiny place with an old harbour, quite popular spot for swimming and also local boat trips. There is a small taverna on top of the hill, and you can also walk down the hill to explore the small caves near.
It has a small archaeological site and a church, and the location makes a perfect picnic spot to watch the sunset.
The drive to Agios Georgios from Paphos will take you about 30 – 40 minutes, driving in the direction of Peyia and Coral Bay and then continuing until the very end.
13. Wine Tasting & Meze in Kolios Winery
I can’t finish this list without a nod to Kolios Winery.
In my 6.5 years of tasting wines in Cyprus, Kolios wines are by far the best, and also very affordable.
If you want to enjoy the wines at their best, you should book a meze lunch combined with wine tasting and winery tour in the village of Agios Fotios.
The tour is guided by the owner of the winery, and the food prepared on premises by his wife from locally sourced ingredients. The food is absolutely delicious and amazing value for money, don’t miss a chance to do this!
Best of all? You get to enjoy all of this with stunning views of the surrounding countryside!
You need to book your spot in advance as its quite popular, and the winery tour and lunch is only done once a day. Contact them through their website or by phone to book your tour (they speak English and the tours are done in English).
Contact: +357 26 724 090, email – [email protected]
Official website: check here
Practical Tips for Visiting Paphos
When visiting Paphos, there are a few practical things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Electricity sockets in Cyprus use the British standard, with a three-pin plug (Type G), so if you’re coming from a country with a different plug type, be sure to bring an adapter.
Renting a car is highly recommended, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas beyond Paphos.
Driving is on the left side of the road, similar to the UK, and the roads are generally in good condition.
For car rentals, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, and it’s advisable to book in advance during peak tourist seasons.
The local currency is the Euro (€), and credit cards are widely accepted, though it’s always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or markets.
The official languages are Greek and Turkish, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, so you shouldn’t have any trouble communicating.
Lastly, the tap water in Paphos is safe to drink, but bottled water is also readily available if you prefer.
Final Thoughts
I’ve spent years exploring Paphos and its surroundings, and I still find new things to love about this place.
There’s just so much variety—from ancient ruins to stunning hikes—that every visit feels fresh.
I really hope you get to experience some of these incredible places during your stay.
You won’t regret it!
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