August is a great month to visit Paphos, and if you’re planning your own trip, this guide has everything you need to know!
With its long history, beautiful beaches, and lively cultural scene, Paphos offers you a chance to relax or have fun, depending on what you choose.
I have been living in Paphos for 6.5 years, and can guarantee you will have an amazing holiday no matter what time of the year you will visit.
Let’s take a look at some things you can do in August!
8 Things to Do in Paphos in August
1. Stroll through the Archaeological Park
The Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an absolute must if you’re visiting Paphos.
The park contains various ancient ruins and mosaics, which date back to the Roman era.
Some of the most notable ones are House of Dionysius, House of Theseus, as well as House of Orpheus, each having stunning mosaics illustrating different mythological scenes.
The park is open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM, and you can check the ticket prices here.
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2. Enjoy the Beaches
My top recommendation is Coral Bay for some of the best beaches in Paphos.
It is an ideal spot for sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in any water sports activity.
If you prefer easy access to restaurants and bars, then any of these beaches in Kato Paphos will be a great option.
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If you’re willing to travel a little further from Paphos, then Lara Beach is well worth the drive.
This pristine beach offers you a chance to enjoy some sun in an unspoiled natural environment, away from the crowds (although it’s getting increasingly popular).
This beach also has endangered loggerhead turtles as well as green turtles; therefore this period particularly during August (hatching) gives chance see these amazing creatures right within their usual habitat.
3. Attend Local Festivals
One of the greatest cultural events in Paphos is the Paphos Aphrodite Festival which takes place every August.
Here, international opera singers perform on stage at the Medieval Castle of Paphos, which offers an open-air setting and a spectacular spot to watch some music.
At the end of August, you can also catch the Dionysia festival in the nearby village called Stroumbi.
The event named after Dionysus- god of wine- features traditional Cypriot music and dance along with wine tasting sessions taking place.
4. Hiking Akamas Peninsula
Akamas Peninsula is a paradise for nature lovers, but I must warn you – in the hot summer months, you should only venture out there very early in the morning.
Take plenty of water and snacks with you, and aim to finish your hike mid-day when the temperatures starting to rise.
Conveniently, there are beautiful unspoiled beaches around Akamas Peninsula where you can stop for a refreshing dip after your hike.
Great trails include Aphrodite Trail and Adonis Trail, both offering stunning views.
A visit to the Blue Lagoon is obligatory if you are already planning a trip to Akamas Peninsula.
Clear waters in this bright blue bay are ideal for swimming or snorkeling, and you will see many tourists boats stopping here for swim.
If you would like to join them, you can also hire tour boats from Latchi harbour for an easy access to this area.
The Blue Lagoon is not easily accessible from land, so the boat is the best way to visit.
5. Enjoy the Delicious Cypriot Cuisine
Paphos has many outdoor dining options, particularly at traditional taverns famous for their meze – which includes many little dishes giving you a taste of all the best Cypriot food.
Fresh fish, grilled meat dishes, and local vegetables are the highlights of the cuisine, and you should never miss a chance to taste a real Cypriot fish meze, mixed meze, or meat meze.
Always end with a shot of ouzo!
In addition to food, Cyprus has a rich history of making wine and Paphos is surrounded by dozens of small family vineyards.
One of the local varietals you can try during a winery tour are Commandaria, an ancient sweet wine, and Xynisteri which is a dry white wine.
Most wineries are open during the day, so you can simply drive by and stop for wine tasting.
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6. Dive into Water Activities
The warm waters around Paphos make it perfect for diving fans, especially in the height of the season when the sea water is at its best.
Paphos area offers plenty to explore under water, including shipwrecks, underwater caves, and colorful marine life here.
7. Experience Nightlife in Paphos
Paphos comes to life at night, especially in August, when tourists stroll the city.
Kato Paphos’ Bar Street serves as nightlife’s nerve center with numerous bars, clubs, and pubs featuring music bands playing live or DJs hosting themed nights.
Many beach bars throw parties that last until late night hours on any given day. Head to the heart of the town and you are guaranteed not to miss any action – just watch out for the hen parties and stag dos!
8. Take a Day Trip to the Troodos Mountains
If you want to escape the coastal summer heat, take a ride to the Troodos Mountains for a day.
Troodos are the highest mountain range in Cyprus, and in summer they offer a welcome retreat from the summer heat and crowds.
Omodos and Platres are two traditional villages with beautiful lanes, ancient monasteries, and handicrafts produced locally. They also have a long history of wine making, and you can stop for wine tasting in the villages and buy the local wine.
Troodos mountains are amazing for hiking too, especially if you want to track down the local waterfalls.
Where to Stay in Paphos
Paphos offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget.
For those looking for luxury, the coastal resorts along the Aphrodite Hills and Coral Bay offer top-notch amenities, breathtaking sea views, and easy access to private beaches.
If you’re after a more authentic experience, consider staying in the heart of the city or in the charming village of Tala, where boutique hotels and traditional guesthouses provide a cozy and intimate setting, with spectacular views.
The Kato Paphos area is particularly popular among backpackers and families, thanks to its central location and access to public transport.
For a luxurious experience, book a stay at the Elysium Hotel, known for its beautiful architecture and exceptional amenities.
For a more affordable option, the Paphos Gardens Holiday Resort offers cozy accommodations and excellent value for money.
Practical Tips for Visiting Paphos
First, Cyprus uses Type G electrical sockets, the same as in the UK, so make sure to bring the appropriate plug adapters if your devices have different plugs.
The standard voltage is 240V, so check your electronics for compatibility.
Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Paphos and its surrounding areas at your own pace.
The roads are well-maintained, and driving is on the left side, which might be familiar to visitors from the UK and other Commonwealth countries.
Rental cars are readily available at the airport and in the city, but booking in advance can save you money and guarantee availability.
Public transportation in Paphos includes buses that are reliable and affordable, making it easy to get around if you prefer not to drive.
However, keep in mind that bus services might be less frequent in more remote areas, and overall the island is not well connected with buses as most people drive.
For those planning to explore the beautiful countryside or visit secluded beaches, a car rental is often the best option.
Also, remember that the local currency is the Euro, and while credit and debit cards are widely accepted, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or markets.
Lastly, the official languages are Greek and Turkish, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, so communication should not be a problem.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – Paphos in August is an absolute dream destination, with activities and experiences that cater to everyone.
Whether you’re passionate about exploring ancient ruins, excited to swim in the shimmering Mediterranean, or on the lookout for the best local cuisine, Paphos has it all and promises an unforgettable summer adventure.
Happy travels!
