Planning a trip to Paphos? Brilliant. The city has tons to see and plenty to keep you inspired. To maximize your time in Cyprus’ most famous city, we suggest arriving with a trip itinerary in mind.
Luckily, that’s exactly what we’ve got lined up for you. This Paphos itinerary will cover all the best attractions and activities spread out over a blissful five-day plan. You’ll walk through Roman ruins, visit monasteries, and even see Mount Olympus. Don’t worry, though. We’ve set aside plenty of time to relax on the beach as well.
So, let’s get started. This is our ultimate five-day Paphos itinerary, designed to give you the best experience of Cyprus.
Day 1: Archaeology and Nightlife
Morning:
Your first day in this Paphos itinerary will include visiting the city’s most famous attraction – the Archeological Site of Nea. But first, let’s grab breakfast.
Start your first day in Paphos properly with a top-rated breakfast at The Moorings Café. The café opens at 9 am every day, so there is no need to rush out of bed. Make your way to the café slowly, grab a table outside overlooking the beach, and fuel yourself for the day. We’d recommend indulging in a cooked breakfast.
After your breakfast, it is a short walk along the Paphos promenade to reach the Archaeological Site of Nea. Remember to bring a hat, water, and wear sun cream, as Cyprus is known for its scorching midday heat.
Nea is a massive Roman archaeological area with different sites, so you’ll easily spend the rest of the morning and afternoon exploring. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nea is well-recognized for the cultural and historical importance it holds.
Afternoon:
First, you’ll want to purchase an audio guide, book a guided tour, or download the Pafos UNESCO Park app. The best way to appreciate the Archaeological Site of Nea is through accessing information as you explore. Otherwise, interesting and important details can be easily overlooked.
The main sites to visit in Nea are the Paphos Mosaics, Forty Columns Fortress, and the Roman Odeon (a large amphitheater). However, there are plenty of other ruins to visit along the way. The Villa of Theseus is particularly impressive, and the 2nd-century Roman villa features a preserved mosaic depicting Theseus fighting the Minotaur.
Evening:
After spending some time to refresh in your hotel, it is time to experience some of Paphos’ nightlife. Head down to some of the beach clubs and bars along the coastline. Antasia Beach Clubs and Alykes Beach Bar are popular favorites if you are stuck choosing between all the options.
Day 2: Beaches and Mini Golf
Morning:
After a late night last night, you’ll probably want a relaxed day today. Luckily for you, that is precisely what we’ve got lined up in our Paphos itinerary. Day two will be full of beach hopping, sunbathing, and swimming in the ocean.
Reach SODAP Beach before noon to grab one of the best spots. We’d recommend renting a sunbed and parasol for shade, as you’ll be able to enjoy the whole day on the beach without worrying about spending too long in the sun.
SODAP Beach is one of the best options for beach days in Paphos. You’ll have toilets and showers to use for free, and you can always walk along to Pachyammos Beach if you want to try some water sports.
Afternoon:
We’d recommend the Crocodile Pub or Romeos Tavern when you get hungry. Crocodile Pub is a sports bar that serves excellent cocktails and fast food. In contrast, Romeos Tavern serves traditional Greek food and drinks.
We’ll let you choose. For a culinary experience, Romeos Tavern is the most authentic of the two. But if you want a party holiday atmosphere or to watch your favorite team playing, Crocodile Pub is best.
Evening:
If you partied hard last night, don’t fear, as a non-alcoholic activity is on the cards. Island Cove Adventure Mini Golf is open until 7:30 pm. It is the perfect activity to enjoy outdoors as the temperature cools in the early evening.
Day 3: Paphos Forest and Troodos Mountains
Morning:
Today, you’ll set off bright and early to explore the Troodos Mountains. The Mountains are full of waterfalls, woodland, hikes, and attractions. You’ll pass through tiny Cypriot villages and can also spot Mt Olympus – the tallest mountain in Cyprus.
The only ways to see the Troodos Mountains from Paphos are by renting a car (or scooter) or taking a guided tour. Most mountain tours from Paphos only cost around $50 and last around eight hours, which is often better value than renting a car. However, we’ll cover the best spots you should visit if you decide to go alone.
Start your trip with a scenic drive into Paphos Forest to see Kykkos Monastery. The drive takes an hour and forty minutes, although you should allow longer to stop off for pictures along the way.
Afternoon:
After visiting Kykkos Monastery, it is time to hop back in the car to drive forty minutes to Trooditissa Monastery. Just a quick stop here to admire the 1731 built monastery and Virgin Mary statues. Then continue 20 minutes to Caledonia Waterfall.
Caledonia Waterfall is 42ft high, and its plunge pool is a popular spot for paddling. The waterfall is accessed via a short hike, and you can stop for lunch at the restaurant by the trailhead. We’d recommend spending an hour or two at this stop.
Refreshed and refueled, you can drive north twenty minutes to catch a glimpse of Mt Olympus. Then, after a successful day of sightseeing, make the hour and fifteen-minute drive back to Paphos.
Evening:
Take it easy this evening. Perhaps go for a sunset swim, grab a drink at a bar near your hotel, or just cozy up with some hotel television.
Day 4: Waterpark
Morning:
Day four of our Paphos itinerary is all about fun. You’ll spend the day at Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark, so pack your swimmers and sun cream.
The waterpark opens at 10:30 am, which gives you plenty of time to get a filling breakfast. You can re-visit your favorite breakfast spot so far or try the all-day breakfast at Tea For Two. This restaurant is located nearby to Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark – a great option if you are keen to get there.
Once you arrive at the waterpark, you’ll have a wave pool, a lazy river, and tons of slides. The waterpark is suitable for all ages, with slides to challenge even the bravest of adults and a special kids area for younger guests.
Afternoon:
Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark doesn’t close until 17:30 pm, so don’t rush off.
You should definitely try the Free Fall ride before you leave. The slide is no gentle ride and drops you down a vertical 50ft drop. After the initial drop, you reach speeds of up to 40km per hour and splash into a plunge pool at the end. Let’s just say that you best leave eating until after this ride.
Evening:
This evening, check to see if any theatre productions or concerts are showing in Paphos.
It is popular for restaurants to host live music performers and the Markideio Theatre often showcases talent and entertainment. See what is available and spend this evening entertained with an open mind.
Day 5: Archaeology and Beaches
Morning:
We know. Time in Paphos goes fast! The final day in our Paphos itinerary is just as important though, as you are yet to tick off one of Paphos’ best attractions.
We’d suggest heading to the Tomb of the Kings early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. While the Archaeological Site of Nea is famous in central Paphos, the Archaeological Site of the Tomb of the Kings is an equally fantastic place to visit.
The Tomb of the Kings is a necropolis that dates back to the 4th century BCE and is used as a burial site for important officials. You’ll have different tombs to see, and the structure is well-preserved, with indoor and outdoor sections to explore. The site is much smaller than Nea, but we’d still recommend purchasing the guidebook upon entry. You’ll get more from having information as you go.
Afternoon:
After your final trip around Paphos’ archaeological sites, it is time to hit the beach. Venus Beach is located just a ten-minute walk from the Tomb of the Kings, so you don’t have to go far.
Rent a deck chair and enjoy the calm waters. Venus Beach has shallow water and is protected from waves by an outcrop of rocks. You’ll be able to swim and snorkel to your heart’s content, and the water is suitable for paddling for those less confident swimmers. Venus Beach is also much quieter than the beaches you’ve visited so far, which will be a calming finish to your Paphos holiday.
Evening:
Squeeze in a final sunset drink overlooking the ocean if you have time. Otherwise, safe travels! We hope you’ve enjoyed your time in Paphos.
