Paphos holidays

How to reach Paphos

• Flight time: Direct flights from Dublin, Cork and other Irish airports to Paphos take about 4 hours 45 minutes.

• Transfer time: Paphos International Airport is just 20km from the city centre. A taxi takes around 20 minutes, while local buses reach the centre in roughly 30 minutes.

• Price: A taxi from the airport to central Paphos costs around €25–€30. Public buses cost €2 per person during the day and €3 after 9 pm. Car hire is also available from around €25 per day, ideal if you plan to explore more of the island.

Best time to visit Paphos

Paphos enjoys over 300 days of sunshine each year, making it a reliable choice for sun-seekers from Ireland. When you go depends on whether you're after sightseeing, sea swims or simply relaxing in the sun.

• April to June: This is an excellent time for sightseeing, with daily highs from 21°C to 28°C, low rainfall and up to 11 hours of sunshine a day.

• July to August: Peak summer brings temperatures above 30°C and plenty of sunshine. It’s the perfect time for beach lovers but also the busiest time of year.

• September to November: Temperatures ease to a more comfortable 26°C to 29°C. The sea remains warm for swimming and the crowds start to thin – great for couples or more active holidays.

• December to March: The off-season is milder, with temperatures between 16°C and 19°C and some rainfall. It’s a lovely time for walking trails, archaeological sites and winter sun, all with fewer tourists around.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas – and there's a large local expat population too.

• Currency: Cyprus uses the Euro (€), and you'll find ATMs, card payments and currency exchange facilities readily available.

• Getting around: Paphos has an efficient local bus network. Single fares cost around €2–€3 or €6.50 for a day pass. Taxis are easily available, and car hire is a great option if you want to explore further afield, like the Troodos Mountains or Akamas Peninsula.

• Electricity and plug types: No adaptors needed – Cyprus uses the same 3-pin plug sockets as Ireland (Type G), with 240V electricity.

• Time zone: Cyprus is two hours ahead of Irish time (GMT+2) and observes daylight saving.

• Required travel documentation: Irish passport holders can travel to Cyprus without a visa for up to 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.

Best things to do in Paphos

Whether you're a culture vulture, a history buff or a lover of the great outdoors, holidays to Paphos really do have something for everyone.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's Rock): Just outside Paphos, off the coast of a pretty pebbly beach, this dramatic sea stack is said to be the legendary birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite.

• Paphos Walkway: Linking Fabrica Hill with Paphos Archaeological Park, there are plenty of great vantage points en route.

Best districts

• Kato Paphos (Lower Paphos): Next to the sea and dotted with hotels, restaurants, bars and souvenir shops, this is the go-to neighbourhood if you want to be in the thick of things.

• Ktima Paphos (Upper Paphos): A couple of kilometres inland, hillside Ktima offers brightly painted historic buildings (an attractive mishmash of architectural styles), markets and galleries.

Parks and gardens

• Paphos Municipal Gardens: Set around Paphos Town Hall, within steps of the Municipal Art Gallery, with shaded walkways and beautiful flower beds, this is a prime spot for relaxation after exploring the city.

Museums

• Archaeological Museum of the Paphos District: Small, but with a stunning and varied collection of artefacts, including statuary, pottery (the body-shaped clay bottles are fascinating), glassware and coins.

Historical monuments

• Tombs of the Kings: Dating from the 4th century BC to the 3rd century AD and heavily influenced by ancient Egyptian funerary traditions, many resemble the houses of the living with frescoed walls and intricate rock-carved columns. These underground tombs are certainly fit for a king, even if none are buried here.

• Paphos Harbour Castle: Built to protect the port, Paphos' squat little fort isn't going to blow you out of the water, but the view from the rooftop is lovely.

Day trips in the area

• Polis: Situated at the northwest end of the island (a 45-minute drive), Polis is one of those places where life goes slow, giving you the time to fully appreciate the coves, beaches and small-town ambience.

• Akamas National Forest Park: Nextdoor to Polis, Akamas is known for its wild beauty. It is perfect day trip material if you want to enjoy the great outdoors, with hiking trails, hidden coves and a stunning lagoon with incredibly clear waters.

Activities for families in Paphos

Paphos has a wide range of attractions, from archeological sites to playgrounds and waterparks.

• Family-friendly beaches: Coral Bay is a fab option for families, with sand for sandcastles, shallow waters, inflatables and watersports.

• Playgrounds: There are plenty of places to play in Paphos, but the Park of Colours should come near the top of the list with its spacious playground, climbing wall and skatepark.

• Aquariums and zoos: Home to an array of birds, mammals and reptiles, Pafos Zoo is within a half-hour drive. As a heads-up, some visitors feel the enclosures are too small, so bear this in mind before you go.

• Archeological sites: Stunning mosaicked villas, an amphitheatre and a visitor centre with rotating exhibitions are just some of the things to see at Paphos Archaeological Park, which encompasses the ancient city of Nea Paphos.

• Waterparks: Less than 5km from the harbour, Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark boasts thrilling slides, wave pools, a lazy river and a dedicated kids' area.

Free things to do in Paphos

There are plenty of things to do in Paphos without spending a cent (or at least not too many), from festivals and events to beaches and historic sites.

• Free events: Kennedy Square periodically hosts art exhibitions and music and dance performances.

• Annual festivals: During spring, the Anthestiria Flower Festival brightens the streets with vibrant floral floats and dances, while the Paphos Aphrodite Festival in September brings the music.

• Historical sites: In the hills outside Paphos, Agios Neofytos Monastery and its gardens are free to visit. There is an entrance charge for the museum and the 12th-century rock-cut Hermitage (worth it for the extraordinary frescoes), but it's a snip at €2.

• Beaches: None of Paphos' beaches charge entrance. You have to pay for sunbeds and brollies, but rental fees are capped at €2.50 per day.

• Markets: Even if you're not there to buy, Paphos Municipal Market in the old town is a great spot to get a feel for local life with fresh produce, crafts and souvenirs.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: Stunning Avakas Gorge and the Troodos Mountains are within easy striking distance, with a network of trails to explore.

• Scuba diving: There are 17 dive sites around Paphos, including reef, wall, beach and wreck dives.

• Golf: Paphos is home to several renowned golf courses, such as the Elea Golf Club and the Aphrodite Hills Golf Resort, both set in scenic surroundings. These courses cater to golfers of all levels and provide breathtaking views of the Cypriot countryside.

• Mountain biking: The hilly terrain around Paphos provides scenic cycling routes suitable for all skill levels. Bike rentals are readily available, and popular routes take you through local villages and vineyards, as well as more challenging trails up the Troodos foothills.

Stunning beaches to explore on Paphos holidays

Paphos holidays are synonymous with sun-soaked shores and sparkling blue waters. Whether you're looking for lively beaches with plenty of amenities or peaceful spots surrounded by nature, Paphos offers a range of beaches to suit every preference.

Coral Bay – family-friendly fun

Coral Bay is a favourite among visitors for its soft golden sands and clear waters. This well-equipped beach has sun loungers, water sports, and nearby restaurants, making it a perfect choice for families and those looking for convenience. Its calm waters are ideal for swimming, and the surrounding cliffs offer stunning views.

Lara Beach – a hidden gem

For a more secluded experience, head to Lara Beach, located in the Akamas Peninsula. This unspoilt stretch of sand is a nesting site for loggerhead turtles, offering a rare chance to connect with nature. With no major developments nearby, it's a peaceful spot to escape the crowds – just bring your essentials, as amenities are minimal.

Alykes Beach – perfect for relaxation

Situated near the heart of Paphos, Alykes Beach combines a laid-back vibe with plenty of facilities. Its shallow waters make it a hit with families, while its central location means you're close to shops, cafes, and bars. Enjoy a relaxing day on a sun lounger or take a dip in the Mediterranean.

Venus Beach – tranquillity by the sea

Named after the mythical goddess Aphrodite, Venus Beach offers a quiet retreat for those seeking serenity. With soft sands and gentle waves, this beach is perfect for couples or solo travellers who want to unwind. It's a short distance from Paphos town, making it easily accessible without the crowds.

Water sports and adventure

For thrill-seekers, head to beaches like Faros Beach or Pachyammos Beach, where you can enjoy jet-skiing, windsurfing, and parasailing. These lively spots are equipped with rental facilities and beachfront cafes, ensuring a fun-filled day for all.

A beach for every mood

Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or family fun, Paphos' beaches have something for everyone. Each beach offers a unique experience, ensuring your holiday is as diverse and memorable as the scenery. Don't forget to pack your sunscreen and prepare for endless days of blissful seaside exploration.

Local dishes in Paphos

On holidays to Paphos, you won't go hungry, with plate loads of meze, seafood, melt-in-the-mouth meat mains and syrupy desserts in the offing.

Some typical dishes

• Resi: You are unlikely to come across this porridge (coarsely ground wheat in a lamb broth) outside of Paphos, so snap up a bowl if you get the chance. It's a traditional wedding food, so this may require gatecrashing.

• Souvla: Barbecue Cypriot style, seasoned lamb, pork or chicken cooked over charcoal and served on a skewer.

Meze dishes

• Halloumi: Made in Paphos since forever, this savoury sheep's or goat's milk (or both) cheese is a staple on the meze table. Served grilled, it's crispy on the outside and deliciously marshmallowy on the inside.

• Koupepia: The Cypriot spin on Greek dolma, vine leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice and fresh herbs, cooked with tomatoes and lemons.

Meat dishes

• Afelia: Cooked in a traditional clay oven, diced pork, red wine and coriander seeds is a classic combination.

• Kleftiko: Another traditional slow-cook, this time lamb infused with garlic, lemon and herbs.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Oysters: Marketed as Fine de Claire, oysters are commonplace on seafood menus and can be very good, but they are unlikely to be the real deal cultivated in Marennes, France.

• Tsipoura: Whole or filleted, sea bream is typically grilled and served with a sprinkle of oregano and a lemon and olive oil dressing.

Street food

• Sheftalia: Well-seasoned minced pork encased in caul fat, skewered, grilled and served in pitta with salad and a tahini or yoghurt sauce.

• Souvlaki: Think souvla, but smaller skewers.

Sweets and desserts

• Loukoumades: Coated with syrup or honey, these fried pastry balls are good plain but can be topped with cheese, chocolate or nuts.

• Baklava: Layers of filo pastry filled with walnuts or pistachios and drizzled with honey. It's so good that countries are still fighting over who invented it.

Typical drinks

• Zivania: A heady mix of grape pomace, Xynisteri and Mavro wines, this Cypriot brandy is incredibly potent and best drunk as an aperitif.

• Xynisteri: A native grape, Xynisteri wines are similar in style to Chablis and have a mineral aroma.