Paphos, Cyprus has been inhabited since Paleolithic times, and is one of the few continuously-inhabited places in the world with a history stretching back 9,000 years. There are a wide range of things to do and see, which we describe briefly below. From Paphos, you can also visit all other major sites in Cyprus, which are no more than a 1.5-hour drive away. We would be happy to make some recommendations to you when you arrive: please contact the Capital Coast reception desk for more information. Please read more below, or visit the websites of the Paphos Region or the Cyprus Tourism Organisation.

Tombs of Kings

The Tombs of the Kings are a vast, underground necropolis of tombs which date back to the 4th Century BC. They include late Hellenistic, Hellenic and Roman tombs, and feature intricate rooms carved out of solid rock. Many feature Doric columns and other features. This is a unique site, similar to (but more limited than) the Catacombs of Rome or the ruins of Akrotiri in Santorini.

This site is a must-see for anyone visiting Cyprus and Paphos. The site is run by Municipality of Cyprus and is located about 1 km from the Capital Coast Resort & Spa. A public bus runs between the Capital Coast and the Tombs of the Kings at frequent intervals during the summer. Admission is only EUR 1.71 per person.

Paphos Mosaics

When Cyprus was part of the Roman empire, a number of Roman officials built distinctive villas in Paphos, which at the time functioned as a regional capital. The archaeological legacy of their administration remains today, and can be visited in Kato Paphos near Paphos Harbour. The mosaics, architecture and remains of major public buildings is a fascinating tour for individuals and families.

Among the highlights include unique mosaics, such as those of Dionyssus, the Greek god of wine and entertainment, or the House of Theseus, which include depictions of Theseus killing the Minautar and the birth of Achilles.

A visit to the Paphos mosaics is guaranteed to impress you with the historical achievements of Roman architecture, and the importance of Greek mythology, and is suited to both children and adults. The site is run by the Municipality: admission is EUR 3.42 per person.

Baths of Aphrodite and Adonis

Cyprus is known as the birthplace of the Goddess Aphrodite, and she was born in Paphos. The Baths of Aphrodite is the place where, according to mythology, she emerged from the sea as reflected in Botticelli's Birth of Venus and by many other artists through the ages. Today, you can visit the Baths of Aphrodite for a refreshing swim or to reflect on the azure Mediterranean sea which has served as a trade route and inspiration for millenia.

Adonis, the mythological lover of Aphrodite, is also associated with Paphos. According to the myth, he died after being gored by a boar (by one account), or by the God Ares (by another), and died in Aphrodite's arms. Today, you can visit the Baths of Adonis, which you reach after a short hike along a nature trail. This site is on the Aphrodite Cultural Route developed by the Cyprus Tourism Organisation.

St. Neophytos Monastery

The monastery of St. Neophytos is located 10 km outside Paphos near Tala village. The monastery comprises several historic buildings and churches which date back to approximately 1400. The churches are decorated with frescoes and contain Byzantine icons of exceptional quality. The saint's rock table and stone platform are still preserved, as is his cell. Visiting the monastery is best done as a day trip, together with and excursion to Polis Christochous, Pyrgos or the Akamas Peninsula.

Kykkos Monastery

The monastery of Kykkos, in the region of Marathasa approximately 1.5 hours from Paphos by car, is located on a mountain peak and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The monastery is famous because it contains three icons attributed to St. Luke the Evangelist. The monastery was founded at the end of the 11th Century AD, and was founded by Alexios I Komnenos of Byzantium. A visit to the monastery is well worth the viewing of icons and frescoes which illustrate the Orthodox religion. This is best visited as part of a day trip, which could also include a visit to the Church of St. Lazarus in Larnaca.

Akamas

The Akamas Peninsula is a nature preserve which surrounds Paphos. It is a unique region in terms of geology and animal and plant life, and includes some 530 indigenous plants, of which 35 are endemic. The landscape includes narrow, deep valleys, caves, small islands and gorges, including the picturesque Avakas Gorge. The peninsula is a haven for migratory birds, and under Cypriot law has been left largely undeveloped. The best way to visit is either via a walking tour or organised excursion.