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Kato Paphos Archaeological Park

The Kato Paphos Archaeological Park was listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, and houses a stunning array of historical ruins across Cypriot history. The ruins span from the Middle Ages to the Roman Empire and include the sun-bleached remains of buildings, still magnificent despite the passage of time, mosaics, murals and ancient statues. To see The House of Aion or The Ancient Odeon here is to see the remains of Cyprus’ noble past.

THE TOMB OF THE kINGS

Within the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, the Tombs of the Kings is a myriad of underground chambers, carved out of solid rock and supported by intricate Doric pillars. This is the last resting place of the high officials of Cyprus. Although no kings are actually buried here, the site is so beautiful that the name has fittingly stuck.

PaphoS castle

Cyprus has been occupied by the Romans, Ottomans, Ancient Greeks, the British, and used as a military base; and all have all left lasting impressions on the island. A key monument from its military past is Paphos Castle. It was first built as a Byzantine fort to protect the harbour and has had many uses though history; a prison, a fortress, and the castle even stored salt during the British occupation.

Church of Ayia Kyriaki

As this is still a place of worship so tourists who are respectfully attired will be allowed into the Church of Ayia Kyriaki. The church is set amid some of Cyprus’ majestic ruins; inside, the elegant paintings, mosaic floors and towering stone ceilings inspire an overwhelming sense of peace within the hushed space. Amazingly, the church still holds occasional private services. 

THE PAPHOS HARBOUR

You could spend your entire vacation just in the harbor area alone if you wanted to. The Castle of Paphos is located here. In the harbour you can also book a boat tour, pick up delicious seafood as you walk by the water or simply enjoy the sun and the sound of the water.

PAPHOS OLD TOWN

Located further inland from the water, Old Town is full of local vendors selling produce and goods. The majority of the vendors sell to locals, which helps you land lower prices on food. You can also find some souvenirs sold here at better prices than the shops by the harbour.

Paphos Promenade

If you want a break from all the ruins in the area (there are a lot), check out the new Promenade. By the seafront, this new style of architecture takes a page from the past in its construction style. It also helps bring in the natural vegetation into the design as well. It juts out into the water, making it a fantastic location to take in the sun and the crashing waves.

Paphos zoo

This attraction was once the private menagerie and aviary of a local businessman and animal collector, Christos Christoforou. At the turn of this century Christoforou decided to open his zoo up to the public with the aim of showing off his collection and educating visitors about animal conservation.

The zoo is situated in a landscaped environment of gardens and ponds, and houses monkeys, giraffes, tigers, white lions, kangaroos, meerkats and more. The bird area is possibly the most interesting, with more than 200 species including a wide range of birds of prey.

Troodos Mountains

For a change of scenery you could always take to the Troodos Mountains. It’s the largest range on the island, with Cyprus’ tallest peak, Mount Olympus. In the foothills, the range has sleepy old villages next to terraced olive groves and vineyards, woven by chuckling streams that are ensconced in deciduous woodland.

As you go higher you’ll come to peaks forested with pine trees and here in winter you can even go skiing. For culture keep your eyes peeled for Troodos’ UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches and monasteries. These medieval buildings may look modest from the outside, but have the most incredible painted murals within. In winter, you can also ski sometimes.

Akamas Peninsula

In Paphos you’re close enough to make a day-trip to a fabulous corner of the island. Akamas is less than an hour north along the coast and because of its rugged terrain of peaks and gorges has never been developed. The upshot is an abundance of nature, with a third of Cyprus’ endemic plant species found here.

Akamas also is one of the Mediterranean’s key nesting areas for the loggerhead and green turtles.
At the remote Lara Beach you’ll be able to swim or relax on the golden sands, but will also get to see the areas that have been set aside to provide space for hatchling green turtles to reach the water.

Aphrodite’s Rock

Aphrodite’s Rock, or Petra tou Romiou as it’s also known, is a sea stack located between Paphos and Limassol. It is so named Aphrodite’s Rock as it is said to be the birthplace of the ancient Greek goddess, who emerged from the foamy waters there. Apart from the fact that it’s such a stunning area of beauty, hundreds of people flock to the sacred rock due to its status in mythology.

The impressive rock formations and azure waters make for the perfect photo opportunities, so it is well worth the effort to go and see the marvel for yourself. The sea in the area is normally quite rough and it’s not permitted to climb on the rock, so swimming in the area isn’t a good idea. However, there is a restaurant, a beach and a tourist pavilion nearby to allow you to get the best views of the rock and enjoy a nice meal whilst you’re there.

Blue lagoon

"Wow" is the word that best sums up this bay. If you've holidayed on Cyprus without seeing the Blue Lagoon - well, you have only yourself to blame. Here nature is revealed in all her beauty. The crystal clear water is every possible shade of blue. The spectacular surrounding area of the Akamas National Park is a haven for many other hidden delights. There are several different ways of getting to the Blue Lagoon. Whether you travel by quad bike, on foot or by boat, your trip to this special place will be unforgettable.

GOLF COURSES

With par facilities in beautiful surroundings, Paphos is the latest destination on the golfing map, a place where you can play the game all year round. There are four top class golf courses in the Paphos region (Aphrodite Hills, Minthis Hills, The Secret Valley and Elea Golf Club) while a few others currently under construction. Situated in peaceful surroundings amidst landscaped hills with spectacular views.