Paphos is a southwestern Cypriot coastal city famous for being the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite.

It served as the capital of Cyprus for centuries during the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

The old Paphos was different to the Paphos currently known to us. The region was split in two. Old Paphos, which is now known as the village of Kouklia was the site of a major temple to Aphrodite while the new Paphos is the modern coastal city and harbour.

New Paphos had been the port town to Old Paphos.

Paphos is the fourth largest city in Cyprus and enjoys long summers while winters are mild and relatively short.

Tomb of the Kings

The Tomb of the Kings form part of the Archaeological Park of Paphos, one of the most important archaeological sites in Cyprus.

Despite the name, it’s high ranking officials rather than kings that are buried here.

The underground tombs are carved out of solid rock which date back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Tombs were designed to imitate actual houses of the living.

Here you get an open setting with a view of the sea and the promenade.

Once you’re finished exploring there’s an exit over the opposite side of the entrance that takes you straight to the promenade of the harbour.

Paphos Castle

And if you find yourself walking along the harbour, pop into Paphos Castle.

Located in the western part of the city port, it was originally a Byzantine fortress built to protect the port.

The castle has been rebuilt throughout the times and has been used as a prison and a warehouse.

Although an entrance fee was advertised, there wasn’t anyone on the kiosks and people were freely walking in and out.

It’s one of the smallest Castles you’ll visit. The longest time you’ll spend is on the top floor taking photos of the sea view.

It’s not far from the markets.

Coral Bay

Coral Bay is a lively coastal area 11km north of Paphos

If you’re not staying in the area and you’ve got a car rental it’s worth taking a trip to the beach and exploring the area.

I didn’t spend too much time here. I went on the recommendation that it was good for a sunset. I got here and didn’t really find a good place to enjoy the sunset.

Halfway way from between Paphos and Coral Bay there was a good spot along the coast at the Kissonerga area where there’s a heart shaped monument.

The sun sets over the sea. The beach is rocky and not an area you’d usually go for a swim. There are parking spots as well and surprisingly wasn’t busy for a place that’s a good for a sunset.

Aphrodite’s Rock

Aphrodite’s Rock, known as Petra tou Romiou, is a geological formation on a beach along the coast of Paphos located off the shore along the main road.

Legend has it that Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, was born from the waves of the Mediterranean Sea near this very spot. For centuries, people have traveled to Aphrodite’s Rock to seek her blessings for romance and love.

It’s over 20km outside the centre of Paphos, and seeing as it was on the way to Limassol it was worth stopping off.

I would hinge a bet that it would be one of the best places for a sunrise or sunset in Cyprus. Sadly for me timings didn’t work for me to see either but it’s something I’d do when I make it back to Cyprus.

You can get a bus here but you can’t rely on public transport. Locals will recommend coming here with a car rental. Generally having a car just gives you extra freedom and flexibility.

Aphrodite’s Rock was my favourite of all the ones I visited in Cyprus. It’s secluded, and beautiful. I guess that’s all you need.

I liked Paphos, even if you don’t have a car you can get around if you’re staying local. Having a car is much easier and parking is inexpensive.

Another area you can visit is the old town. It’s not big by any stretch, but a good place to check out the markets, and there are good options for eating out.

Although public transport to and from the airport is generally good, it’s not as reliable if you’re looking to get around Paphos, especially over long distances or if you need to change.

Paphos was the hottest and most humid part of Cyprus I visited (more on those in other posts) so make sure you’ve got hats, your factor 50 and a water bottle to refill.