Things to do in Paphos

Must-see Paphos sights

Paphos has endless appeal. With outdoor activities aplenty, relaxing beaches and detailed Roman mosaics peppering the district, Paphos is always a winner.

Find intricate Roman mosaics
Enjoy the great outdoors
Soak up some culture and history
Marvel at some fascinating frescoes
Slip and slide at a water park
Practise your golf skills
Shop til you drop!
Soak up some rays

With fantastic historical sites, interesting museums and lots of water fun, Paphos keeps on attracting travellers. With sun aplenty and pretty gardens, Paphos is an area that never disappoints.

Paphos holidays

In collaboration with

Rough Guides

1. Find intricate Roman mosaics

Housed in an archeological park northwest of the harbour you’ll find a collection of beautiful Roman mosaics. These pieces are one of the glories of Cyprus and are simply unmissable. The mosaics were first revealed in 1942 when British soldiers digging trenches for air-raid shelters uncovered a representation of Hercules and the Lion. In the 1960s, more mosaics were revealed. The Department of Antiquities excavated the site and so far, four villas have been unearthed.

Best for: Mosaic finds

While you’re there: One of the villas, the House of Theseus, contains the mosaic Theseus and the Minotaur. A circular artwork, it positively glows.

2. Enjoy the great outdoors

One of the best things to do in Paphos is to make the most of the outdoors. Head to the Municipal Gardens for a pleasant afternoon. Kids will certainly enjoy the space with three playgrounds to explore. The gorgeous gardens are the ideal place to perch and have a picnic. After eating, stroll around the green space to find hundreds of types of flowers. Listen out for the joyful sing-song of birds from the treetops. At the bottom of the gardens is Kostis Palamas Square. Another pretty place for a pitstop, look out for the bold Neoclassical rotunda.

Best for: An afternoon wander

While you’re there: If you want to explore even more, find the memorial of Kostis Palamas (1859–1943). He was the Greek poet who composed the words to the Olympic Hymn.

3. Soak up some culture and history

Also known as the ‘Ethnographical Museum,’ the Cultural Heritage Museum, is one of the most interesting things to do in Paphos. It’s a private assortment of finds collected by George S. Eliades, a local secondary-school teacher and amateur archeologist. Laid out on two floors, the museum is a charming find. The building itself is gorgeous and features a variety of exhibits. There are tools associated with particular trades here. Spinning, weaving and winemaking tools can all be found.

Best for: An interesting culture fix

While you’re there: Find the pre-Christian tomb onsite, too.

4. Marvel at some fascinating frescoes

The Byzantine Museum houses a collection of icons and other religious paraphernalia. Its collection is undeniably beautiful and interesting. Among the icons on show is one claimed to be the oldest in Cyprus – that of Saint Marina. This dates back to the seventh or eighth century. Other rooms contain frescoes rescued from derelict churches, wood and metal artwork.

Best for: A look back at some impressive religious artwork

While you’re there: Make sure to find the intricate frescoes taken from wood and metal artwork.

5. Slip and slide at a water park

What to do in Paphos if you’re looking for some water fun? Head to the Aphrodite Water Park, of course. The biggest of its kind in the Paphos district, it’s massively popular. The water park features thrills aplenty. Take your pick of high-speed water slides and dip into the numerous swimming areas.

Best for: Water thrills

While you’re there: The park is home to one the largest wave pools in Europe.

6. Practise your golf skills

If you’re an avid golfer, look no further. Paphos is home to numerous golfing venues. Only a ten-minute drive from Paphos, head to the Elea Golf Club in Geroskipou. Green fees can be around €100 in the high season and around €80 in the low season. Aphrodite Hills Golf Club in Koulia charges from €100 (including one buggy) per round of its eighteen-hole course. For those who don’t want to splash out on the big eighteen-hole courses, Cyprus Golf Park might be the answer.

Best for: Golfing enthusiasts

While you’re there: Between Paphos and Coral Bay, there is a mini golf course and a driving range which offers footgolf.

7. Shop til you drop!

A short bus ride up the hill from Kato Paphos stands Ktima Paphos. Its most atmospheric part is the old Turkish Quarter, or Mouttalos. This teeming area of narrow lanes has been turned into a covered market by the addition of glass and timber roofs. In these labyrinthine streets you can buy a range of goods. From souvenirs and sunglasses to slippers and tablecloths, you’ll find everything you ever needed.

Best for: Shopoholics

While you’re there: Head to Pafiasafroditis Street, where you’ll find a series of cafés and restaurants offer fine views south towards the harbour.

8. Soak up some rays

What to do in Paphos? Hit the beach of course! Last but not least is beach fun. Further north along the picturesque coastline, Lara Bay is a popular spot. It’s one of the best beaches in the area for natural wonders. Spot loggerheads and green turtles nesting away while you stretch out on the sand. Don’t miss the Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station. Learn about environmentalism while you see rescued hatchlings paddle away. This is one of the most rewarding things to do in Paphos.

Best for: Beach and wildlife fun

While you’re there: On the hunt for cheap holidays to Paphos? Look no further. For more beach views, stay at the Azia Resort and Spa.