POPULATION
100.175
CURRENCY
EURO (€)
TIMEZONE
GMT +3:00
LANGUAGE
GREEK
TURKISH
WEATHER
JULY 25ºC /
JANUARY 13ºC
AIRPORTS
Paphos International Airport
HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE OF PAPHOS
Paphos, located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, holds significant historical importance dating back several millennia. It is known as the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty, and has been inhabited since Neolithic times. Paphos flourished under various civilizations, including the Greeks, Romans, and Byzantines, serving as a prominent center for culture, religion, and trade. The city was renowned in antiquity for its famous ancient port, where St. Paul the Apostle arrived in 45 AD, making it an important early center of Christianity. Today, Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its outstanding archaeological remains, including the intricate mosaics of the Houses of Dionysus, Theseus, and Aion, which provide insights into daily life and mythological scenes of the Roman period. The city's historical significance, coupled with its natural beauty and cultural attractions, continues to draw visitors from around the world to explore its rich heritage and archaeological treasures.
BIRTHPLACE OF THE GODDESS APHRODITE
Paphos, located on the southwestern coast of Cyprus, is famed in Greek mythology as the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, beauty, and fertility. According to legend, Aphrodite emerged from the sea foam near the rock of Petra tou Romiou, also known as Aphrodite's Rock, situated along the coastline of Paphos. This mythical event has long been celebrated in ancient Greek literature and art, solidifying Paphos's reputation as an important religious and cultural center in antiquity. The association with Aphrodite has attracted pilgrims and visitors throughout history, contributing to the city's prominence as a destination of both mythological and archaeological interest. Today, visitors to Paphos can explore archaeological sites linked to Aphrodite, including the Sanctuary of Aphrodite at Kouklia and the nearby archaeological park, where ancient temples and artifacts further highlight the city's enduring connection to the goddess of love.
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PAPHOS
The best time to visit Paphos, Cyprus, is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these seasons, the weather in Paphos is pleasantly warm, ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), ideal for exploring the city's archaeological sites, such as the Tombs of the Kings and the House of Dionysus with its stunning mosaics. Spring brings colorful wildflowers and lush green landscapes, while autumn offers a cooler climate and fewer tourists, making it easier to enjoy Paphos's attractions and beaches, such as Coral Bay and Lara Beach. Additionally, these seasons are perfect for outdoor activities like hiking in the Akamas Peninsula or exploring the Troodos Mountains. Avoiding the peak summer months also means escaping the intense heat and larger crowds, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable visit to this historic and picturesque city on Cyprus's southwest coast.
TRANSPORTATION TO PAPHOS
Transportation to Paphos, Cyprus, is convenient and accessible through Paphos International Airport, located about 15 minutes from the city center. The airport serves as a major gateway with numerous international flights arriving daily. From the airport, travelers can easily reach Paphos city center and surrounding areas via taxis, airport shuttles, or rental cars. Additionally, intercity buses operate regularly between Paphos and other major cities in Cyprus, providing a cost-effective option for travelers. Once in Paphos, getting around is straightforward with a network of local buses, taxis, and rental services available to explore the city's archaeological sites, beaches, and attractions such as the Paphos Archaeological Park and Paphos Castle. Whether arriving by air or traveling within Cyprus, Paphos offers efficient transportation options to enhance your visit to this historic and scenic coastal city.
EUROPEAN CAPITAL OF CULTURE
Paphos held the prestigious title of European Capital of Culture in 2017, alongside Aarhus in Denmark. This designation is awarded annually by the European Union to cities that demonstrate rich cultural diversity, vibrant arts scenes, and a commitment to promoting cultural exchange and understanding. Paphos was selected for its rich historical and archaeological heritage, including its status as the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the ancient Greek goddess of love. Throughout 2017, Paphos hosted a diverse program of cultural events, performances, exhibitions, and community initiatives that showcased its cultural wealth and brought together artists, performers, and audiences from across Europe and beyond. The European Capital of Culture designation not only boosted Paphos's international profile but also highlighted its role as a hub for creativity, heritage preservation, and cultural tourism on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus.
THINGS TO DO AND PLACES TO VISIT
WHAT TO EAT IN PAPHOS
LOUKOUMADES
Loukoumades are a popular Greek and Cypriot dessert consisting of small, deep-fried dough balls that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. After frying, they are typically soaked in honey or syrup, which gives them a sweet and sticky coating. Loukoumades are often garnished with cinnamon and chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, adding texture and flavor. They are enjoyed hot and fresh, making them a favorite treat at festivals, celebrations, and family gatherings throughout Cyprus and Greece. Loukoumades are beloved for their irresistible sweetness and satisfying crunch, offering a delightful indulgence that has been cherished for centuries in Mediterranean cuisine.
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SOUVLAKI
Souvlaki is a popular Greek and Cypriot dish consisting of small pieces of meat, typically pork, chicken, or lamb, skewered and grilled to perfection. The meat is usually marinated beforehand in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and various herbs and spices, which infuses it with a delicious flavor. Souvlaki is traditionally served hot off the grill, often accompanied by pita bread, tzatziki sauce (a yogurt-based condiment with cucumber and garlic), and a side of Greek salad or fried potatoes. It is a beloved street food and can be found at tavernas, restaurants, and outdoor markets throughout Cyprus and Greece, enjoyed both as a quick snack and as a main meal. Souvlaki's juicy, tender meat and vibrant flavors make it a quintessential dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
KLEFTIKO
A widespread delicacy in Cyprus, Oven Kebab, also known as Kleftiko, is a special dish prepared by long, slow cooking in a clay (brick) oven. Rooted in ancient Cypriot traditions, this kebab is associated with sheep stolen from the wealthy. The stolen lamb meat would be buried underground and cooked in the same pit to conceal the pilfered meat. Hence, it is sometimes referred to as "Thief's Kebab." The preparation of the kebab is quite distinctive. After preheating the stone oven, potatoes and meat are placed in a large tray. Salt, black pepper, and spices are added, and bay leaves are a must. The tray is moistened with a bit of water, covered with foil, and placed in the oven. The oven's mouth is sealed with clay, and after cooking for approximately 5-6 hours, you can be ready to experience this traditional delight.
HALLOUMI
Halloumi is a traditional Cypriot cheese that has gained international acclaim for its unique taste and versatile culinary uses. Made from a combination of sheep's and goat's milk (sometimes cow's milk), halloumi has a semi-hard texture and a distinctive salty flavor. What sets halloumi apart is its ability to retain its shape when heated, making it ideal for grilling or frying without melting. This characteristic gives halloumi its satisfyingly crisp exterior and soft, creamy interior. Typically enjoyed fresh or lightly cooked, halloumi is often served as part of meze platters, salads, sandwiches, or as a standalone appetizer. Its popularity has extended beyond Cyprus, with halloumi now enjoyed worldwide for its delicious taste and unique texture.
MEZE
Meze is a traditional dining experience in Cyprus and throughout the Eastern Mediterranean, consisting of a variety of small dishes served as appetizers or as a full meal. Typically enjoyed with family and friends, meze offers a communal dining experience where guests share and savor an array of flavors and textures. The selection of dishes can include dips like tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber dip) and hummus, grilled halloumi cheese, olives, salads, and a variety of meats such as souvlaki (skewered meat), keftedes (meatballs), and sheftalia (sausage). Meze is often accompanied by freshly baked bread and served in multiple rounds, allowing diners to leisurely enjoy each dish while engaging in lively conversation. It embodies the hospitality and rich culinary traditions of Cyprus, making it a beloved and memorable dining experience for both locals and visitors alike.
HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD YOU SPEND IN PAPHOS?
The ideal duration to spend in Paphos, Cyprus, typically ranges from 3 to 5 days, depending on your interests and travel preferences. This timeframe allows you to explore the city's rich historical and archaeological sites, such as the Paphos Archaeological Park with its impressive Roman mosaics and the Tomb of the Kings, which offers a glimpse into ancient burial practices. You can also relax and enjoy Paphos's beautiful beaches, like Coral Bay or Lara Beach, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or water sports. Additionally, visiting nearby attractions such as the Aphrodite's Rock and the scenic Akamas Peninsula for hiking or nature walks adds to the experience. Allowing a few days ensures you have ample time to immerse yourself in Paphos's culture, history, and natural beauty without feeling rushed, making for a rewarding and memorable visit to this historic city on the Mediterranean coast of Cyprus.
