If you are a couple looking to blend history, culture, and romance all into one, then Paphos is your perfect choice of destination.
Paphos in Cyprus is endowed with superb landscapes that include ancient ruins and beautiful beaches; thus providing numerous activities to build memories to last a lifetime!
I have been living in Cyprus for 6.5 years, and in this article, I have hand-picked some of the best experiences and activities for couples, giving you plenty of options to plan the perfect couple’s holiday!
Let’s jump in!
Discovering the Rich History of Paphos
1. Paphos Archaeological Park
To start your journey together you can visit the Paphos Archaeological Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of the most preserved ancient ruins in the Mediterranean.
Walk through the remains of Roman villas where there are old theatres and mosaics with pictures representing Greek myths.
Of particular notice are some amazing mosaic floors found inside places like House of Dionysus or House of Theseus.
Photo Tour:
2. Tombs of Kings
The next place that must be visited would be Tombs of Kings, a necropolis dating back to 4th century BC, which despite no actual kings ever having been buried here gives an insight into how important these people were.
While walking through those ancient chambers couples can get an impression about magnificence of ancient Paphos and spend a few minutes thinking over it in silence.
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Enjoying the Beautiful Nature
3. Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou)
According to legend Petra tou Romiou at Aphrodite’s rock is where Aphrodite, who was famous for her beauty and love, came from sea foam.
Couples looking for romance as well as natural beauty should make sure they stop by this iconic rock formation.
A walk on the beach taking all your time or even swimming in waters believed to give eternal beauty and love when touched might not be a bad idea.
How to Get There:
4. Visit Akamas Peninsula
Akamas peninsula has everything nature loving couples need for an unspoiled paradise; with beautiful scenery, secluded beaches and picturesque walking paths.
Avakas Gorge is a gorgeous limestone ravine while the Blue Lagoon can be reached by boat for swimming in its turquoise water.
Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station is another must visit place, where you can get to know about and look at efforts that are taken towards saving loggerhead turtles, which are on the verge of extinction.
Indulge in Gastronomic Delights
5. Traditional Cypriot Cuisine
For food lovers, Paphos has everything from traditional Cypriot meals that will leave you yearning for more.
Have a romantic dinner at one of the seaside taverns where fresh fish, moussaka, souvlaki, and halloumi cheese among others can be savored.
Do not forget to complement your meal with a glass of local wine or zivania which is a traditional Cyprus alcoholic beverage.
Cypriot Cuisine:
6. Wine Tasting Tours
Paphos being surrounded by numerous wineries (some including Vouni Panayia Winery and Tsangarides Winery) offers you an opportunity to take part in wine tasting tours, since Cyprus is one of the oldest wine producing regions globally.
Visit any of them so as to have a taste of some Cypriot wines among them Commandaria which is very popular around here.
Enjoy the view of vineyards, listening to how this island’s history concerning winemaking has been changing over centuries.
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Relax and Unwind
7. Luxury Spa Experiences
Spoil yourselves at one of Paphos’ luxury spas for an entire day.
Most hotels have packages specifically designed for couples such as couple massages, facials and other rejuvenating treatments.
Two most popular spa resorts include Elysium hotel and Annabelle Hotel with exquisite spa treatments perfect for tranquility and romance .
8. Paphos Blue Lagoon or Sunset Cruise
Watch the sunset over the Mediterranean Sea on board a romantic sunset cruise.
In Paphos, many tour companies offer evening cruises where you can enjoy dinner, drinks and live shows.
Another great option is a day cruise to the beautiful blue lagoon, all with drinks included!
Sail along the coast, watch as the sun sets below the horizon and then raise your glass in toast of love as the sky changes color.
Adventure & Thrill
9. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
For daring couples, Paphos offers great opportunities for scuba diving and snorkeling.
The clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea are rich with marine life and have fascinating underwater landscapes.
Explore one of world’s best ten wreck diving sites – Zenobia – or discover sea caves packed with fish swimming around coral reefs.
10. Jeep Safaris
Go on jeep safaris to explore secret places and rugged landscapes in Paphos.
These guided tours will take you off-the-beaten-track through picturesque vineyards, scenic mountains and traditional villages.
Discover the authentic beauty of the Cypriot countryside while enjoying an adrenaline-pumping ride.
Cultural Experiences and Art
11. Visit a Local Festival
Experience local music by attending one of Paphos’ lively festivals.
Aphrodite festival is held in September every year at Medieval Paphos Castle, where it has opera performance in open air courtyard.
Kataklysmos festival which takes place in June is another special event that celebrates Cyprus’ water connection with activities such as music based on this theme.
12. Art Galleries & Museums
You can also visit art galleries and museums to learn about Pafos artistry and culture from the past until now.
The Ethnographic Museum in Pafos opens a window into Cypriot life by means of its collection composed of antiquities, folk art pieces pertaining to different eras, etc., while at Municipal Gallery modern Cyprus artists are given space for exhibiting their works.
Scenic Walks/Picnics
13. Paphos Promenade
Take a slow walk on Paphos promenade, a bright path that stretches along the coastline from the harbor to the lighthouse.
There are many cafes, restaurants and shops along the promenade where you can stop for coffee or lunch.
The wind from the sea and beautiful views provide excellent conditions for walking hand-in-hand.
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14. Paphos Forest
For so much isolated and peaceful time together, just go up to Paphos Forest – one of the largest wildlife areas in Troodos Mountains.
Have your picnic packed and find a quiet spot to sit in under this serene environment.
Numerous species inhabit these forests including Cypriot mouflon which is endemic thus making this romantic journey more interesting.
Day Trip Experiences
15. Troodos Mountains Day Trip
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Troodos Mountains and discover the hidden charms of Cyprus. This full-day guided tour offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and culinary delights.
Highlights of the Tour:
- Scenic Villages: Explore traditional villages with narrow streets and stone architecture.
- Local Wineries: Visit family-owned wineries and enjoy tasting a variety of Cypriot wines, including the world-famous Commandaria.
- Cultural Landmarks: Discover monasteries, local churches, and craft shops.
- Nature’s Wonders: Witness breathtaking views, pristine rivers, and picturesque waterfalls.
- Culinary Experience: Indulge in a traditional meze lunch and savor local delicacies.
Why Join This Tour?
- Expert Guidance: Learn from knowledgeable local guides about the rich history and traditions of Cyprus.
- Convenience: Enjoy round-trip transportation from Paphos and relax in comfortable travel conditions.
- Immersive Experience: Engage with local culture, meet friendly villagers, and participate in wine tastings.
This tour is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse themselves in the serene and beautiful landscapes of the Troodos Mountains.
16. Larnaca and Nicosia Day Trip
Join this full-day guided tour exploring key sites in Cyprus.
This tour is run by a local travel company and It includes hotel pickup and visits to Lefkara village, known for its lace and silver-making, a scenic salt lake in Larnaca, Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, Finikoudes Promenade, and the Church of Saint Lazarus.
The tour concludes in the old part of Nicosia, the world’s only divided capital, before returning to Paphos.
17. Jeep Safari & Wine Tasting in Troodos
Experience the best of Cyprus with the Paphos Troodos Mountains and Aphrodite’s Rock 4×4 Tour.
This exciting adventure starts with a convenient hotel pickup and takes you through the stunning Troodos Mountains, where you’ll visit traditional villages, explore picturesque waterfalls, and enjoy local delicacies like mezze, loukoumi, and wine.
Highlights include a swim at Aphrodite’s Rock and breathtaking views from Tzelefos Bridge. With knowledgeable guides and a comfortable Land Rover, this tour promises an unforgettable day filled with nature, culture, and fun.
Final Thoughts
If you want to go to a place that not only combines culture, romance and adventure but also has the word ‘Holidays’ written on it, then Paphos is where you should be.
When it comes to Paphos, there is everything from historical places, great beaches, delicious food and interesting activities for your couple trip!
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