Paphos (Πάφος) is one of the most popular tourist cities in Cyprus. The city is located in the southwestern part of the island, on the shores of the Mediterranean, about 50 kilometers (30 miles) west of Limassol.
You can see the location of the city on the map of Cyprus.
Many historical sites are located in the city. Paphos is on of the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage list. There are many beaches in and around the city, most of which are pebbly, but there are also sandy ones. There are also good golf courses near the city.
Map | Sights | Guided tours | Accommodation
The port can be considered as central place of the city. Near the port, there is a pedestrian zone, as well as many restaurants and cafes.
Sights
Paphos Archaeological Park. Archaeological excavations of ancient Greek and Roman cities are located on the park territory. Here you can see unique, antique mosaics.
Paphos Castle is located on the seafront, near the harbor and the Archeological Park. It originally was a Byzantine fort built to protect the harbor. Currently it is one of the attractions of the city. The festival of Aphrodite (opera) is held on the square, next to the castle in late August or early September.
The Rock of Aphrodite (Petra tou Romiou) is located about 25 kilometers east of the city. According to legend, the ancient Greek goddess Aphrodite emerged from the waves in this place.
Transportation
You can get to other cities of Cyprus by car or by bus. The A6 motorway connects Paphos with Limassol.
The city has many car rental offices, so renting a car is not a problem. However, it may be difficult to find a suitable car at the height of the tourist season. You can book your car in advance online.
Two bus stations are available in Paphos.
Kato Paphos station is located in the city center, near the harbor. Buses go to other cities of Cyprus (Limassol, Nicosia, Larnaca, Famagusta), as well as to the airport.
The Caravella Bus Station is located approximately 3.8 kilometers from the harbor, on Andrea Geroudi Street. Carvella Station is the point of departure and arrival of buses on local and intercity routes.
Paphos International Airport is the second largest airport on the island. It is
located 12 kilometers (8 miles) southeast of the center of Paphos (from the harbor).
You can get to any Cyprus city by bus or taxi from the airport. The journey time from the airport to Kato Paphos station is approximately 30 minutes. The airport also has car rental companies offices (in the arrivals area).
- Hotel booking.
- Order a taxi to the airport.
- Guided tours.
- Book a rental car.
Beaches
Paphos is not the best place for holidays if you like good beaches. Nevertheless, beaches are available in Paphos.
The municipal beach (Bania Municipal Baths) is located about 500 meters east of the harbor. This beach is bad for swimming. (Entrance to the sea by the stairs). To the east of this beach there are several small beaches: Alykes Beach, Vrisoudia B Beach, Vrisoudia A Beach, and several other small beaches.
Faros Beach (or lighthouse Beach) is located northwest of the harbor. There is a sand on the beach, and mostly stonesat on entrance to the sea.
Coral Bay is located about 10 kilometers north of Paphos. Here are two beaches in two bays: Coral Bay and Corallia Beach. Many believe that these are the best beaches near the city of Paphos.
Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark. Waterpark features high-speed water slides and lots of swimming areas. It is located about 4 kilometers southeast of the harbor. It is open every day from 10th April to 31st October. Take bus 611 from harbour to the Waterpark.
Hotels
In the city of Paphos and next to it there are many hotels. You can easily choose the one that suits you best.
Our recommendations.
The «Alexander The Great Beach» four-star hotel is located near the city center, near the beach. The distance to the harbor and bus station is about one kilometer. The hotel has a good restaurant, 2 pools.
Check the accommodation price and rooms availability.
The 5-star Aphrodite Hills resort has a good golf course. It is located near the Aphrodite Rock. Here you can learn to play golf or tennis or improve your skills while staying at this hotel. Learm more about golf resorts.
Use the map to choose a hotel with a good location in Paphos.