🇨🇾 Cyprus · Places to discover
What to see in Paphos ?
15 places curated by Hozy - landmarks, nature, hidden restaurants and activities.
MAP · OVERVIEW
Paphos occupies a singular place in Cyprus: a UNESCO World Heritage site, it concentrates some of the Mediterranean's best-preserved Roman mosaics within a few square kilometres, along with a Byzantine port and Neolithic sites. The city operates at two speeds-the touristy Kato Paphos by the water, and upper Paphos, Ktima, where locals do their shopping and drink their coffee without giving a thought to organised tours.
Spring (March–May) is the most reliable season: the heat is manageable and archaeological sites like Paphos Archaeological Park or the Tombs of the Kings are visited without suffering. Two days cover the historical heart, three if you explore the region. Car hire is essential once you leave the waterfront. Steer clear of tavernas directly on the harbour: they live entirely off passing trade and quality suffers accordingly.
Landmarks & heritage (6)
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SATombs of the Kings
Landmark
A Hellenistic and Roman rock-cut necropolis with impressive chamber tombs featuring Doric columns. Despite the name, these were the burial places of high-ranking Ptolemaic officials – the atmosphere at sunset is unique.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAPaphos Castle
Landmark
Medieval Byzantine fortress modified by the Lusignan and later Ottoman rulers, positioned at the end of the fishing port. Commanding views of the sea and fishing boats from the battlements, with modest entrance fees.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAKato Paphos Archaeological Park
Landmark
UNESCO-listed site housing some of the world's best-preserved Roman mosaics, dating from the 2nd–4th centuries. The Houses of Dionysus, Orpheus and Aion reveal astonishing iconographic richness.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SARoman Odeon of Kato Paphos
Landmark
Small Roman theatre from the 2nd century, partially restored and still used for summer concerts. Sitting on the stone tiers, you understand why the Romans always chose the best locations.
Wikipedia (fr) - CC BY-SASt Paul's Column
Landmark
Ancient granite column to which, by tradition, the Apostle Paul was scourged before converting the Roman governor Sergius Paulus. Nestled in a small garden beside the Chrysopolitissa basilica.Chrysopolitissa Basilica
Landmark
Ruins of one of Cyprus's largest Early Christian basilicas (4th century), superimposed with a later Gothic Frankish church. A fascinating architectural palimpsest in the open air.Nature & parks (1)
Viewpoints (1)
Activities (4)
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SASnorkelling and diving at Sea Caves
Activity
Network of sea caves carved into the limestone cliff north of Paphos, accessible by swimming or kayak. The water is exceptionally clear and the underwater rock formations are spectacular.
Wikipedia (en) - CC BY-SAPaphos District Museum
Activity
Small archaeological museum in Ktima housing local finds from prehistoric to Byzantine times. Essential viewing before visiting sites to understand the context – and remarkably quiet.E4 Trail towards Troodos from Paphos
Activity
A section of the European E4 trail ascending from Paphos vineyards towards mountain villages. A day's hike through maquis, olive and century-old vine landscapes, poorly marked but authentic.Agora of Ktima (Municipal Market)
Activity
Covered marketplace in Paphos's upper town, where local traders sell artisanal halloumi, loukoumades, marinated olives and regional produce. The true daily pulse of the city, away from the seafront.Beaches (1)
More to discover (2)
Ktima - upper district of Paphos
Place
The true town of Paphos, perched on the plateau above the harbour, with its Cypriot shopping streets, locals' kafeneions and market. A striking contrast with the seaside tourist zone.Tsangarides Winery
Place
Family-run vineyard in Lemona producing endemic Cypriot grape varieties such as Xynisteri and Maratheftiko. Cellar visits and tastings by appointment in a setting surrounded by terraced vineyards.