Believed to be the birthplace of Aphrodite, Greek Goddess of love and beauty, it is impossible to resist the spell of Paphos.
Paphos is famous for its sun-kissed beaches, fascinating history, lively nightlife and fun family attractions
Situated on the coast of western Cyprus, Paphos is famous for its sun-kissed beaches, fascinatinghistory, lively nightlife and funfamily attractions.
As well as the many beaches offering watersports, kids will love Aphrodite Water Park. Packed with a varied selection of slides, pools, snack bars and amenities, the park boasts the biggest family rafting ride in Europe.
Families flock to Paphos Bird Park, which has a tremendous variety of birds and animals. Little ones will marvel at the parrot shows before getting up close andpersonal at the petting zoo.
When the sun goes down, there are plenty of bars and eateries to suit all tastes.
The street ‘Ayios Antoniou’ – better known locally as Bar Street – is the most popular night-time hangout. Here you’ll find everything from cocktail joints to karaoke pubs; sports bars to discos and upmarket nightclubs. All of them stay open till the wee small hours.
If you’re looking for something quieter, there are countless top quality eateries to be found along the seafront and in the old town, offering seafood, local dishes and high end cuisine.
Culture vultures and history lovers will also find much to keep them entertained.
There’s the landmark Paphos castle on the edge of the harbour, a former Byzantine fort rebuilt by the Lusignans in the 13th century.
And there’s also the Odeon, a fully restored amphitheatre-like structure unearthed during excavations. Built in the 2nd century, it has approximately 1,200seats and these days ithosts many musical andtheatrical performances.
Don’t miss the Tomb of the Kings, a large necropolis burial ground listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site. Believed to be the burial sites of aristocrats and high officials, many of these underground tombs date back to the4th century BC.
At the end of August and beginning of September, Paphos is turned into an international cultural centre by the Aphrodite Festival, featuring opera performances in the medieval castle square.
Lovers should take a trip to Aphrodite’s Rock, located between Limassol and Paphos. Legend has it that this is the place Aphrodite emerged from the sea in 1,200 BC and she chose this rock as the ideal place to begin her life as a mortal.