About
Paphos is a coastal city in southwestern Cyprus, an island that sits where Asia and Europe meet. For visitors interested in the past, it is one of the island's main draws, with ancient archaeological sites spread across the town and its surroundings.
What to see
- Roman mosaics and the remains of Roman-period houses, which give a clear sense of daily life in the city in antiquity.
- Ruins linked to Greek mythology, which connect the landscape to the stories the Greeks told about this part of the island.
- The coast itself, where the town meets the sea and where a walk between sites can be combined with time by the water.
What kind of visit it makes
Paphos suits a slower visit built around history. Many travellers spend a day or more moving between the archaeological areas, with the harbour and the old quarter offering a change of pace in the evening. Because the sites are concentrated, the town works well as a base for exploring the island's west coast.
If you enjoy ancient history, coastal walks and an easygoing city rather than a large urban centre, Paphos is a place that rewards a few unhurried days. Check opening times and access for individual sites before you set out, as these can change.