Paphos & West

Paphos (Greek: Pafos) on the west coast of Cyprus has been a place of mythical significance since antiquity. Here, on the coast between rocks and foam, the goddess Aphrodite is said to have emerged from the sea. The Romans made Paphos the capital of their province of Cyprus and left behind world-class floor mosaics.

Today, Paphos is a relaxed coastal town with about 35,000 inhabitants, clearly divided into two parts: Kato Paphos (Lower Paphos) by the harbor with the Archaeological Park and tourist hotels, and Ktima (Upper Paphos), the authentic old town on the hill above, where locals live, shop, and sit in the kafenions.

The Paphos region is also the gateway to the Akamas Peninsula, the last undeveloped coastal stretch of Cyprus — with the legendary Blue Lagoon, turtle beaches, and wild gorges.

★★★ The Mosaics of Paphos

The Archaeological Park of Kato Paphos is Cyprus's most significant cultural monument and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1980. Situated on a vast area right by the sea are the remains of the ancient Roman city of Nea Paphos, which was the capital of the province of Cyprus from the 2nd century BC to the 4th century AD.

The absolute highlight is the floor mosaics — among the most beautiful and best-preserved in the entire ancient world:

House of Dionysos

The most impressive building with 14 mosaic rooms. The scenes depict the wine god Dionysos, hunting, the four seasons, the triumph of Dionysos over Ikarios (who made the farmers drunk — they thought they were poisoned and killed him). The colors are still vibrant after 2,000 years — orange, red, blue, black.

House of Aion

Five large mosaic panels from the 4th century AD with mythological scenes: Leda and the Swan, the beauty contest between Cassiopeia and the Nereids, the birth of Dionysos.

House of Theseus

Once the palace of the Roman governor. The mosaic shows Theseus fighting the Minotaur in the labyrinth — a masterpiece of composition.

House of Orpheus

Three mosaics, including Orpheus charming the wild animals with his lyre. Less visited than the others — perfect for a quiet moment.

Besides the mosaics: a Roman Odeon (concert theater, 2nd century), the Agora (marketplace), early Christian basilicas, and the Saranda Kolones (a Byzantine fortress destroyed by an earthquake in 1222).

Kato Paphos, directly north of the harbor. €4.50. Daily 8:30–19:30 (Apr–Sep), 8:30–17:00 (Oct–Mar). At least 2–3 hours. Little shade — sun hat, water, sunscreen! Best in the morning (less hot, less crowded).

★★★ Tombs of the Kings

The necropolis of Nea Paphos, 2 km north of the harbor, is also part of the UNESCO World Heritage. The name is misleading — no kings are buried here, but high-ranking Ptolemaic and Roman officials (3rd century BC – 3rd century AD). However, the monumentality of the site led later visitors to assume royal burials.

The tombs are carved into the rock and partly designed as underground palaces: with Doric columns, courtyards, and decorated chambers. Tomb 3 is the most spectacular — an underground peristyle courtyard with massive columns that looks like a sunken palace. Tomb 8 has an impressive columned courtyard with a view of the sea.

The site is located on a flat peninsula directly by the sea. The light in the late afternoon is magical — golden light between rock tombs and the Mediterranean.

Leoforos Tafon ton Vasileon, 2 km north of the harbor. 2.50€. Daily 8:30–19:30 (summer), 8:30–17:00 (winter). 1–1.5 hours. On foot or bus 615 from the harbor.

★★★ Aphrodite's Birthplace

This iconic rock in the sea, 25 km southeast of Paphos on the road to Limassol, is the mythical place where Aphrodite (Venus) emerged from the sea foam — born from the seed of Uranus when Cronus emasculated him and threw it into the sea (as told by Hesiod).

According to legend, those who swim around the rock three times are blessed with eternal youth. However, the currents here are treacherous — be careful when swimming!

The most dramatic perspective is offered by the viewpoint on the cliff above (on the opposite side of the road, accessible via a tunnel). At sunset, when the light turns the rocks golden and the sea glows in pastel tones, this is one of the most romantic places in the Mediterranean.

Kouklia, road B6 between Paphos and Limassol. Free. Accessible 24/7. The beach is pebbly and the water can be rough. Parking directly on the road. Best time: sunset.

The Akamas Peninsula in the far northwest of Cyprus is the last undeveloped coastal stretch of the island — a natural paradise of wild gorges, secluded bays, endemic plants, and sea turtle beaches.

★★★ Blue Lagoon

The most famous bay in Cyprus: crystal-clear, turquoise water in a sheltered rocky bay, so clear that boats seem to float. Accessible by boat from Latchi (15 km north of Paphos) — the trip takes 30–45 minutes and follows the cliff coast. Bring snorkeling gear!

Boat tours from Latchi: Half-day (3–4h) approx. 25–35€, full-day (6–7h) with lunch approx. 45–60€ per person. Book in the morning during high season. Also accessible by quad/jeep, but the tracks are rough.

★★ Lara Beach

One of the last nesting beaches of the Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) and the Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) in the Mediterranean. The golden sandy beach is deliberately undeveloped — no loungers, no bars, no road. Just sand, sea, and with some luck, turtle nests (June–August). A conservation project marks and protects the nests.

Only accessible by 4WD vehicle or on foot (approx. 2 km from the nearest track). No shade, no drinking water — bring everything!

★★ Avakas Gorge

A narrow, 30-meter deep limestone gorge, whose walls narrow to just 3 meters at the tightest point. The hike leads over river stones and through shallow water pools — sturdy footwear is essential. The play of light between the rock walls is particularly breathtaking in the morning. The gorge is home to rare plants and the Cypriot whip snake.

10 km north of Coral Bay. Free. The hike into the gorge and back takes about 1.5–2 hours. At the entrance: unpaved parking lot. Not during rain — flash flood danger!

★★ Adonis Baths

Natural rock pools and small waterfalls in a green gorge, named after the handsome youth Adonis, who was Aphrodite's lover. There are two versions: the "official" Adonis Baths (private, entrance 4€, with restaurant) and the "real" Baths of Aphrodite slightly further north near Polis (free, but more touristy). Both are worth visiting on hot days.

Aphrodite Trail

The most beautiful hiking trail on the Akamas Peninsula starts at the Baths of Aphrodite near Polis and leads in a 7.5 km loop through fragrant maquis forest, past the spring where Aphrodite is said to have bathed, with panoramic views of Chrysochou Bay. Medium difficulty, 3–4 hours.

★★ Paphos Castle (Medieval Castle)

The small but photogenic harbor castle stands alone at the end of the harbor pier — the landmark of Paphos. Originally a Byzantine fortress, expanded by the Crusaders, destroyed by the Venetians, and rebuilt by the Ottomans in the 16th century. In summer, it becomes an open-air stage for the Paphos Aphrodite Festival — opera performances with the harbor as a backdrop.

From the rooftop terrace: splendid views over the harbor and coast.

Paphos Harbor. 2.50€. Daily 8:30–19:30 (summer), 8:30–17:00 (winter). 20–30 min.

Harbor of Paphos

The picturesque fishing harbor is the tourist center of Kato Paphos. Restaurants, cafes, and bars line the harbor pier, fishing boats and excursion boats are moored. In the evening, the atmosphere is particularly atmospheric — the illuminated castle is reflected in the water.

This is also where the boat tours start: glass-bottom boats (from 15€), snorkeling trips, and excursions to the Blue Lagoon.

Recommended Restaurants

★★★ Seven St. Georges (Meze Master)

In the village of Chlorakas, 5 km north of Paphos. Probably the best meze in the entire region — 25+ dishes in a family-friendly atmosphere with sea views. Halloumi fresh from the grill, Sheftalia, Kleftiko, Taramosalata, Tahini, Koupepia (stuffed vine leaves). Make a reservation!

Chlorakas. Meze 22€/person. Thu–Tue, closed Wed. Reservation recommended.

★★ Fettas Corner

Traditional tavern in the market hall of Ktima (Upper Paphos). No frills, honest Cypriot cuisine: Moussaka, Stifado, grilled Halloumi, Zivania on the house. The regulars are all locals — the best sign.

Agora Market Hall, Ktima. Main courses 8–14€.

★★ Oniro by the Sea

Upscale seafood restaurant right by the sea in Kissonerga. Freshly caught fish, creatively prepared. The terrace with sunset views is magical.

Kissonerga coast. Main courses 16–28€. Reserve in the evening.

Regional Specialties

• Kleftiko: Lamb slow-cooked in a clay oven — buttery tender, spicy, irresistible. The national dish.
• Kolokasi (Taro): Particularly popular in the Paphos region — stewed with celery and tomatoes
• Loukoumia: Cypriot lokum from Geroskipou (5 km east of Paphos), the "Loukoumi capital." The best at Aphrodite Delights.
• Fresh Fish: Directly from the fisherman at the harbor — Barbouni (red mullet), Kalamari, Octopus

Getting There

Paphos International Airport (PFO) is located 13 km southeast. Bus 612 to the center (1.50€, 30 min.), taxi 25–30€. From Larnaka: Intercity bus (9€, 1:45h).

Accommodation

Kato Paphos (Harbor): Perfect for sightseeing. Hotels and apartments within walking distance to the Archaeological Park. Recommendation: Almyra (luxury, right by the sea), Annabelle (upscale), Louis Paphos Breeze (mid-range).

Coral Bay: For beachgoers and families. Beautiful sandy beach, many resorts. Holiday apartments here are often cheaper than hotels in Kato Paphos.

Polis/Latchi: Quiet, authentic, gateway to Akamas. For nature lovers and those wanting to escape the crowds.

Day Trips from Paphos

• Aphrodite's Rock (Petra tou Romiou): 25 min. by car, best at sunset
• Blue Lagoon & Akamas: Boat trip from Latchi (45 min. drive to Latchi) or jeep safari (full day)
• Avakas Gorge: 20 min. to the parking lot, then 1.5h hike
• Troodos & Kykkos Monastery: Full day, 1.5h drive via B8 through the mountains
• Limassol: 1h by bus (4€) or car, combine with Kourion

Coral Bay — The Family Beach

12 km north of Paphos lies Coral Bay, the most popular sandy beach on the west coast: 600 m of golden sand, shallow, calm water, sunbed and umbrella rental, water sports, restaurants. Ideal for families with children. Crowded in high season — come early!