In a nutshell
- Paphos is located in the southwest of the island and is one of the most popular places to stay in Cyprus. You can look forward to sandy beaches, coves, ancient sites, and a laid-back Mediterranean vibe.
- We’ll show you the 8 best things to do in Paphos so you already know which highlights you can’t afford to miss.
- Our personal favorites are the Tombs of the Kings, the Archaeological Park, and Coral Bay.
- We’ll also explain how to get around Paphos — by bus, taxi, or rental car — so you can pick the option that works best for you.
Paphos Attractions on the Map
We’ve marked the top 8 things to do in Paphos on a map so you can get your bearings before you go.
Tombs of the Kings Paphos
What do you need to know? The Tombs of the Kings lie about two kilometers north of the harbor. These massive rock-cut burial complexes date back to the 4th century and are among the most famous attractions in Cyprus. Admission is €4.50. Tickets are purchased on-site.
Is it worth it? Yes! Even though no actual kings were ever buried here — it was aristocrats and dignitaries — the tombs are incredibly impressive, a bit like catacombs in the open air. You really get a feel for how people back then dealt with death.
How to get there: Take bus 615 (Harbor ⇄ Coral Bay) to “Tombs of the Kings.” Lines 611 and 618 also stop nearby. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or rental car. On foot, it’s about 40 minutes from the harbor.
Our tip: Stay on the paths! Snakes can be lurking in the dry grass. They’re not venomous, but you still don’t want to run into one.
Nea Paphos Archaeological Park
What do you need to know? The Nea Paphos Archaeological Park is located right at the harbor in Paphos’s Kato district and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the grounds you’ll find the remains of temples, villas, an amphitheater, and — above all — the famous Roman mosaics in the House of Dionysus. Admission is €4.50. Tickets are available at the entrance.
Is it worth it? If you’re into antiquity, you absolutely have to come here! The mosaics are incredibly well preserved and truly fascinating — especially when you consider they’re nearly 2,000 years old. The grounds themselves are captivating too. You’re essentially strolling through the ruins of an ancient city.
How to get there: Take buses 610, 612, 615, or 631 to the “Kato Paphos Station” stop. From there it’s only a five-minute walk. If you’re already at the harbor, you can’t miss the park. Parking is available at the bus station.
Our tip: Come early. It won’t be as hot in the park yet. Afterward, you can treat yourself to an ice cream or coffee down at the harbor.
Coral Bay Paphos
What do you need to know? North of Paphos City lies Coral Bay, a sheltered cove with fine, light-colored sand and shallow water. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available to rent, and there are cafés and restaurants right on the beach.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! Coral Bay is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus. The water is clear and calm — great for families with kids too. Plus, the sandy beach is a welcome change from the many rocky stretches of coastline around Paphos.
How to get there: Bus 615 runs regularly from the harbor in Paphos directly to Coral Bay. Alternatively, take a taxi or your rental car.
Our tip: If you prefer a quieter spot, don’t stay in the main section — walk a bit further to the right or left along the bay. It’s much less crowded there.
Paphos Old Town
What do you need to know? Paphos Old Town is the heart of the city. Here you’ll find traditional markets, boutiques, artists’ studios, churches, and a mosque. The Ethnographic Museum and small food stalls also await you. The historic center is a colorful mix of tradition, shopping, and culture.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! The narrow alleyways and the small shops and markets give you an authentic Cypriot feel. Especially if you have a hotel in Paphos, you shouldn’t miss the old quarter.
How to get there: Take buses 602, 618, and 631, or from Kato Paphos take lines 610/612. Of course, taxi or car works too. The earlier you arrive, the easier it is to find parking at Kennedy Square.
Paphos Castle
What do you need to know? Right at the harbor of Kato Paphos stands Paphos Castle — a sand-colored, square-shaped fortress dating from the 10th to 13th centuries. Inside there’s a small exhibition about the history of the castle and the region. Admission is €2.50.
Is it worth it? Yes. Especially if you want a beautiful panorama over the harbor and the sea. It’s seriously stunning here at sunset! The exhibits and photos inside the castle are genuinely interesting too.
How to get there: The castle is reachable by all harbor buses (lines 610, 611, 612, 615)
Agia Kyriaki Chrysopolitissa & St. Paul's Pillar
What do you need to know? The Agia Kyriaki Chrysopolitissa church is located in the Kato Paphos district and is one of the most interesting churches in the city. Right next to the church stands St. Paul’s Pillar. According to tradition, this is where the Apostle Paul was flogged. The entire grounds are freely accessible.
Is it worth it? Yes. The church and the pillar are a fascinating piece of history and offer real insight into the early days of Christianity on the island. Churches and monasteries are generally great day trip destinations in Cyprus if you’re interested in culture, religion, and architecture.
How to get there: From the harbor it’s only about a 10-minute walk. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or rental car.
Kings Avenue Mall Paphos
What do you need to know? Kings Avenue Mall is centrally located between the harbor and the old town of Paphos. The shopping center has everything you could want: international shops, cafés, and even a movie theater.
Is it worth it? Kings Avenue is a great break from a day of sightseeing. Especially when it’s blazing hot outside or it actually rains, the cool air and shelter here are a real treat. Plus, it’s got exactly what you need: iced coffee and plenty of shopping.
How to get there: You can reach the mall directly by bus 618. If you’re driving a rental car, you’ll find parking in front of the mall.
Our tip: Inside the mall there’s a traditional restaurant called “Tavernaki” where you can try Cypriot specialties. Don’t miss it.
Paphos Zoo (Pafos Zoo)
What do you need to know? Paphos Zoo is located north of Paphos City toward Pegeia and is the largest private animal facility in Cyprus. The grounds are home to over 350 animal species. There are parrot and owl shows as well as a petting area. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site.
Is it worth it? For families with kids, the zoo is a fun option among the activities in Cyprus. You get up-close views of many animals and can enjoy shows. A nice change of pace from a beach day.
How to get there: There are no regular scheduled bus routes to the zoo. In summer, a zoo shuttle runs daily from the harbor; in winter, only a few days a week. Alternatively, you can get there by rental car or taxi.
Book Paphos Zoo tickets online
Getting Around Paphos
In Paphos and throughout your entire Cyprus trip, you have several options for getting from A to B — whether you prefer the flexibility of a rental car (great for a road trip around Cyprus), hopping on a bus, or taking a taxi. Here’s what you need to know:
Renting a Car in Paphos
A rental car is the most convenient way to explore Paphos and the surrounding area.
The easiest option is to book your rental car in advance on Discovercars and pick it up directly at Paphos Airport. If you land in Larnaca, you can also rent a car there and drive to Paphos.
Important: Cyprus drives on the left, and rental cars from the south are not insured in the north.
Taking the Bus in Paphos
We’ve ridden the buses in Cyprus ourselves a number of times and find them genuinely practical. The schedules aren’t always reliable, but you can generally reach many places on the island and throughout the Paphos region.
The buses are air-conditioned and there are day passes that let you ride as much as you want for €6.50. A single ticket costs €2. You pay cash directly to the bus driver.
Taking a Taxi in Paphos
If you don’t have a rental car but still want to reach a more remote off-the-beaten-path spot in Cyprus, you can order a taxi — even conveniently via WhatsApp chat the evening before.
Taxis in Cyprus are, however, anything but cheap. That’s because there are very few taxis on the island. Uber and Bolt don’t work here at all.
Handy for certain routes, but budget-friendly it is not.
Frequently Asked Questions About Paphos, Cyprus
What is the most beautiful part of Paphos?
That really depends on what you’re looking for.
For history and culture, Kato Paphos is unbeatable, with its Archaeological Park, Tombs of the Kings, castle, and harbor.
For beach days, Coral Bay is a perfect destination.
And if you’re in the mood for atmosphere, your best bet is the old town with its alleyways, cafés, and markets.
What are the hidden gems in Paphos?
Most tourists stick mainly to Kato Paphos. It’s absolutely beautiful there too, but if you’re looking for a lesser-known spot around Paphos, you should check out the village of Kouklia in the hinterland.
Does Paphos have sandy beaches?
Most beaches and bays in Paphos have coarse sand or gravel. The major, popular exception is Coral Bay, with its soft sand.
Is Paphos touristy?
Yes. Paphos is one of the most popular vacation regions in Cyprus. But it’s still totally relaxed and everything spreads out.
On top of that, Paphos is one of the most beautiful places in Cyprus.
What language is spoken in Paphos?
Officially, Greek is spoken in Paphos. However, many locals also speak very good English, especially in the tourist areas.
Is Paphos or Ayia Napa more beautiful?
That’s really a matter of personal taste. Ayia Napa is the go-to spot for partying, sandy beaches, and water activities. Paphos scores points with a more relaxed vibe, culture, and history.
Is Paphos safe?
Yes, Paphos is considered very safe, and we never felt otherwise at any point during our visit.
As with anywhere, you should of course keep an eye on your valuables — especially at the beach and on the bus.
Can you swim in Paphos?
Absolutely! Paphos has several beaches and coves, and many of the hotels in Paphos have more or less direct access to the sea.
The ideal time for swimming is between May and November.
