Petra Tou Romiou beach views from the coast

Paphos

Destination

When the travel gods bestow hoards of visitors upon a city, it’s inevitable that it’s going to sling up a tourist district. Paphos is no exception, but it pays to look beyond the souvenir schtick and roam a little further. Start with a stroll around the Old Town to peer into Paphos life. From there? Take your pick from a coastal conservation outcrop that’s protecting and rescuing turtles to an ancient collection of mosaics that’s a star among antiquities. Drop into the harbour to eye up the yacht scene, or hop aboard for a day on the suitably glittering ocean.

Stay on dry land to scamper among the sands, track down some crafty artisans creating all manner of local art and produce or plan a day trip to loop around village outposts, folk museums, churches and coast roads. If all this sounds a little exhausting, drop in to a five star hotel for some fine dining, a taverna for a family-style welcome or beach club for lounging and cocktails. Of course, you could just spend a fortnight by the pool, making the most of the Paphos sun. But really, could you relax with all this and more on your doorstep?

green hill tavern restaurant in Paphos

After dark: A guide to Paphos nightlife

See & Do

Mention Paphos nightlife and it won’t be long until someone compares the scene to one destination. Ayia Napa. And, yes, they’re on the same island, but that’s where the comparison begins and ends. Clubs in Paphos aren’t short on style or atmosphere, and the bars can certainly stoke up a lively atmosphere. But it never quite hits the frenetic levels you’ll find on the other side of Cyprus. So what to expect? Paphos nightlife is a heady mix of dazzling views, molecularly structured cocktails and gimmicky bars.

Poseidonos Avenue in Paphos

Shop til you drop: The ultimate guide to shopping in Paphos

See & Do

Is there any greater joy than browsing the shelves of a bizarrely stocked souvenir shop far from home? Shopping in Paphos more than delivers on that front, but the local crafts and tourist trinkets are bolstered by the Paphos mall, market and a healthy selection of independent shops. As you’d expect from any urban area, just about anything is on sale in the stores, stalls and streets. Your only real conundrum might be just how you’re going to get your unique sculptures, artisan wines and locally produced olive oils to fit in your suitcase.

paphos golf resort

Tee off on Paphos’ best golf courses

See & Do

In just a few decades, Paphos golf courses have popped up along the coast to make this area a strong contender for a Cyprus golfing holiday. Big names in the course design world have applied their signature styles to greens and fairways, luxury clubhouses lure you in for a post round bite to eat and new developments are keeping the older courses on their toes. Golf academies are the place to hone your skills. Though, if you forget your clubs – or can’t face the faff of excess baggage, there’s a pleasing 9 hole, par 3 that’ll lend you a set to get your golfing fix. Let’s look at your Paphos golf options…

petra tou romiou beach in Paphos

Secrets of Paphos’ best beaches and bays

See & Do

How do you like your sand served? In Paphos, you’ve got plenty of options. Coastal action comes with a hearty helping of amenities and convenience near the town centre. Or, if you like your coastline a little more wild and untouched, there’s a rugged piece of protected coastline waiting to be discovered. Of course, there’s the goldilocks-esque middle ground too, where almost everything is just right for a day by the sea. Sounds too good to be true? Not in Paphos, the beaches are as diverse as can be. The only snag? To access some, you’ll need a sturdy hire car.