Pafos: practical travel guide for sightseeing, beaches and food
Want sun, history and clear water in one town? Pafos (Paphos) on Cyprus’s southwest coast delivers. It’s compact, easy to walk, and full of Roman mosaics, seaside cafes and family-friendly beaches. This guide gives you the must-see spots and smart tips so you can plan a smooth 2–4 day trip.
Top things to do in Pafos
Start at Paphos Archaeological Park. The mosaics in the House of Dionysos and the House of Theseus are striking and well preserved. Right by the harbour you’ll find Pafos Castle — small but photogenic, and great for sunset photos.
Don’t miss the Tombs of the Kings. It looks like ancient tombs carved into rock and gives a real sense of history without a long museum tour. For myth and views, drive to Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock) where legend says Aphrodite rose from the sea.
If you want a beach day, head to Coral Bay for golden sand and shallow water — good for families. For quieter coves, look for small bays west of the harbour. Snorkeling is easy right off the rocks near the harbour and at some beaches.
Practical tips: getting around, when to go, food
Getting there: Paphos International Airport is 15–20 minutes from town. There are direct flights from many European cities. From the airport you can grab a taxi, a shuttle, or rent a car. If you plan day trips, a car is handy, but the town itself is walkable.
Best time to visit: April–June and September–October. The weather is warm, sea water is pleasant, and crowds are smaller than peak July–August. Winters are mild but some hotels and restaurants close off-season.
Food and drink: Try a meze — small plates of local dishes that let you taste a lot. Look for fresh grilled fish, halloumi, tahini and local salads. Cafes by the harbour serve coffee and fresh pastries; tavernas inland often have better prices and traditional flavours.
Money and safety: Cyprus uses the euro. Pafos is safe for solo travellers and families, but watch your belongings in busy tourist spots. Tap water is drinkable in most places, but bottled water is common.
Day trips: Drive east to Limassol for a bigger-city feel, or head into the Troodos Mountains for cooler air and simple village hikes. Many visitors combine Pafos with a day in the Akamas Peninsula for wild beaches and short trails.
How long to stay: Two full days cover the main sights and a beach. Stay three to four days if you want relaxed beach time and a day trip. Pack sunscreen, comfortable shoes for mosaics and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Pafos mixes history, beach time and easy dining. Keep your days simple: one big site, one beach, and time to stroll the harbour. You’ll leave with good photos and a relaxed mood — and maybe a plan to come back.
UEFA Conference League Clash: Fiorentina Secures Thrilling Win Over Pafos
In an exhilarating UEFA Conference League match at Stadio Artemio Franchi, Florence, Fiorentina emerged victorious with a 3-2 win over Pafos. Led by coach Vincenzo Italiano, Fiorentina showcased a robust lineup featuring stars like Arthur Cabral and Luka Jović, while Pafos, under Henning Berg, offered a commendable performance. Fiorentina's triumph marked their sixth consecutive home win in the competition.