The 10 Best Things to Do in Paphos in 2024
Welcome to the city of Paphos, Cyprus, which stretches along the coast. It’s a top destination to visit during the summer, but be prepared for the intense heat. We’ve got a lot of great content, so stay tuned until the end to catch all the amazing things to do in Paphos. A heads-up for anyone planning a summer visit: make sure to wear plenty of sunscreen because the sun is scorching.
#1 Take a Cruise to the Blue Lagoon
Number one on the list is to take a boat to the Blue Lagoon, a paradise found on the Akamas Peninsula. Exciting boat tour designed for small groups of up to ten people. For just 60 euros per person, you’ll get to explore a stunning area of Cyprus, right outside the Blue Lagoon.
This region features modern architecture and homes that stand out along the coast. During the four-hour tour, you can enjoy the views as we navigate through the area.
The Blue Lagoon is a must-visit spot. It’s known for its clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just looking to swim, you’ll enjoy these waters. The journey to the Blue Lagoon offers beautiful views of the Cyprus coastline and the Mediterranean Sea. Arriving by boat or car, you’ll take in the landscapes along the way.
#2 Enjoy the views of Aphrodite Viewpoint
Imagine discovering a spot that feels like a secret beach, minus the crowds and noise. Nestled between mountains, this place offers peace and natural beauty. On one side, you’ll find sandy beaches perfect for lounging and swimming. On the other side, rocky shores provide a landscape to explore.
One of the main attractions is the Aphrodite viewpoint. From here, you can admire views of Petra tou Romiou, also known as Aphrodite’s Rock. According to Greek mythology, this sea stack is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love.
#3 Visit the Old Town
Old Paphos is the historic heart of the city, located slightly inland and uphill from the coast. This more authentic residential side is a maze of charming cobbled streets lined with traditional houses, shops selling souvenirs and local crafts, and tavernas serving delicious Cypriot cuisine.

Make sure to wander past the Blue Shell House, the Hammam Baths, the beautiful Town Hall, and the Paphos Market. And don’t forget to look up from time to time, as some of the buildings are covered with beautiful street art. Since the old town sits really high up on a cliff, you can actually get some great views of the sea, as well as Kato Paphos below.
#4 Mosaics of Paphos
Number four on our must-see list is a visit to the Mosaics of Paphos, situated within the New Paphos Archaeological Site, which is recognized as a World Heritage Site. These incredibly well-preserved Roman mosaics offer a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing intricate scenes from Greek mythology. Each mosaic reflects the superb artistry and craftsmanship of ancient times, making this a significant cultural and historical landmark.
As visitors explore the site, they’ll notice the mosaics’ stunning detail and beauty, even after centuries of exposure to the elements. The designated viewing platforms allow for an excellent perspective of these ancient masterpieces from various angles, highlighting their almost pristine condition. It’s fascinating to think about the efforts required to maintain and restore these mosaics to their current state of preservation.
#5 Have fun at Aphrodite Water Park
This attraction promises an exhilarating day for both families and thrill seekers alike.Once you arrive, you’ll be equipped with wristbands, which offer a hassle-free experience, allowing you to leave your wallet behind. Simply scan your wristband for all purchases, and settle your bill at the end of the day. Tickets are conveniently available online, often at a discounted rate, around $35 USD.

Food and drinks are also easily accessible. For example, the cost of a meal is approximately 7.50 Euros, while drinks are around 3.50 Euros. With the convenience of scanning your wristband, you can enjoy your visit without the worry of carrying cash or cards.
#6 Day Trip to the Troodos Mountains
Another worthy day trip from Paphos is to the refreshing Troodos Mountains. This scenic adventure away from the city takes you to charming villages nestled among the pines. Visit Omodos, a traditional village known for its cobbled streets, artisan shops, and a renowned monastery. This is arguably the most picturesque area in Cyprus. Seek out the nearby Millomeris Waterfalls, perfect for a photo stop or a dip on a hot day.
Indulge in a wine tasting at a boutique winery. Here, you can sample unique Cypriot wines while learning about the region’s winemaking traditions. This tour offers a great mix of nature, culture, and local flavors.
#7 Visit the Medieval Castle
Number seven on the list is to visit Paphos Castle. This Byzantine fort on Paphos Harbor offers a journey back in time. Having served as a fort, prison, and a salt warehouse over the centuries. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the harbor, from up on the castle. This is about all you can do with the castle. You just climb up here and get some amazing views.
#8 Swim at the Adonis Baths Waterfalls
A 30 minute drive to the north of Paphos lies Adonis Baths. This natural beauty boasts a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation, as well as two cool pools that are ideal for a refreshing dip. Legend has it that this spot was a favorite hangout of Adonis, the Greek god of beauty and love, where he bathed with his lover Aphrodite. While the actual bathing experience might be rustic with minimal changing facilities, the beauty of the surroundings make it a worthwhile adventure. Many tourists drive a buggy or ATV to get here, but it’s also possible to drive a car.

#9 Relax at the Paphos Beaches
Paphos has a variety of beaches. The easily accessible ones lining the harbor offer calm waters and amenities, perfect for a relaxed day under the Cypriot sun. Venus Beach, just a short walk from the harbor, is a haven for families due to its shallow waters. For a livelier vibe, Coral Bay has a beautiful sandy stretch that is ideal for sunbathing and swimming.

#10 Explore Akamas Peninsula with a 4×4
A favorite place to visit for many tourists in Cyprus is the Akamas Peninsula, located northwest of Paphos.
This rugged and protected nature reserve boasts breathtaking scenery and hidden gems accessible by off-road vehicles only. That’s why we did this as a day tour. One of the main highlights is Avakas Gorge, a scenic lush canyon that you can hike in. The walls here get really narrow and tall after about 25 minutes on the trail.
Lara Beach is another cool area and is a protected nesting ground for endangered loggerhead turtles. The Baths of Aphrodite are an interesting quick stop and the Blue Lagoon is the highlight at the end. This secluded bay is known for its shallow crystal clear waters that are perfect for swimming and relaxing. Before heading back to Paphos, we also indulged in a delicious lunch and stopped at a shipwreck.
If you’re planning to visit more destinations in Cyprus, make sure to check out our video about the top 15 places to visit on this fascinating island. We included can’t miss places, some hidden gems, and important travel tips for the country. And if you’re planning your Paphos trip, we recommend keeping things organized with our interactive travel planner. Find a discount code in the description below the video.