Things to do in Paphos
Heading to Cyprus on holiday? The city of Paphos has it all – including delicious local cuisine, stunning beaches and fascinating cultural sights. As the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, there’s lots of archaeological sites to discover that date back to ancient times, while foodies will be catered for with the various food and vineyard tours on offer. For kids, there’s a zoo and a water park that’ll keep them entertained for hours on end. Here’s our ultimate guide to the best activities in Paphos.
Kato Paphos
This lively resort area is situated around Paphos harbour and features plenty of shops, hotels, music venues, bars and restaurants. As the evening draws in, take a wander down Ayiou Antoniou street, which comes to life as its various clubs and bars open up and locals get ready to dance the night away. The area also features Alykes beach, which features sunbeds and plenty of opportunities for water sports. Further inland, put on your walking shoes and hike to Kyriaki church, which is situated among Ottoman Baths dating back to the 1500s, and the Chrysopolitissa Basilica, which dates back to the early-Christian era. If discovering ruins interests you, you should also explore the Kato Paphos Archaeology Park, which features incredible remnants from Roman times. Here you’ll find four Roman villas that were inhabited by well-heeled citizens. Their mosaics date back to the year 100AD, and feature depictions of mythology from the period.
Paphos Archaeological Museum
If you want to dig deep into the history and culture of Cyprus, this museum is one of the best things to do in Paphos. The extensive collection of artefacts from 15 archaeological sites documents human life on the island from the Neolithic age, right up to the 18th century. You’ll find intriguing historical items from ancient Paphos and Kouklia, featuring housewares, furniture and even a large collection of coins that were originally minted in Paphos. Every room in the museum takes visitors through another stage of the island’s history, including Ancient Greek and Roman marble sculptures.
Aphrodite’s Rock Brewing Company
You may not think of beer when you think of Cypriot cuisine, but the island has its own brewery, and has actually been making beer for thousands of years. Located just outside of Paphos, this microbrewery offers an insight into how the golden amber is created, using English brewing traditions and Paphos spring water. On weekdays, you can book a tour of the premises which starts at 2pm, where you can sample the various beverages on offer. Just make sure to book a taxi back to your Villa Pola for an alfresco dinner next to your private pool!
Aphrodite Water Park
This fun-filled water park will keep the entire family entertained and cooled down from the scorching heat. The park is the largest water-slide theme park on the island, with 17 attractions for all ages, including tube rides, a lazy river, four high speed plunges and various waterfalls and fountains.
Paphos Zoo
The animals in this zoo were once owned by a private collector called Christos Christoforou. He then decided to open his zoo to the public, so that all could enjoy learning about animal conservation. A great day for all the family, wander around the complex and discover ponds and gardens, monkeys, tigers, kangaroos, white lions, meerkats and giraffes. The zoo also boasts a diverse collection of birds, with more than 200 species living on site (including birds of prey), making for an interesting day out and one of the best activities in Paphos.
Troodos Mountains
If you feel like stretching your legs and getting the whole family on a day out from relaxing in your Villa Haliki, take a drive to the Troodos Mountains – the largest mountain range on the whole island. Expect some breathtaking scenery and wide ranging vistas that you will want to share with your friends and family. Take a break from hiking the foothills and rest awhile in one of the small cafes in the area’s sleepy mountain villages. Also worth exploring are the various churches and Byzantine monasteries you pass on your way.
Now you’ve read our guide to the best things to do in Paphos, you’ll need to book somewhere to stay while you explore the island. Discover our quality holiday properties in Cyprus