According to Greek Mythology, Paphos Cyprus is the birthplace of Aphrodite, and this has not been lost on the local people. The name and image of the goddess of love and beauty have managed to maintain an influence on virtually every level, and the travel brochures certainly don't shy away from the topic. It's not all about Aphrodite when it comes to Paphos travel, however, and fans of the great outdoors will be happy to know that there are plenty of options when it comes to recreational opportunities. The list of things to do in Paphos is a long one, and there is truly something for everyone to enjoy in this multifaceted Mediterranean destination.

The fact that Paphos Cyprus essentially offers something for everyone has a lot to do with the city's increasing tourism demands. In terms of history, Paphos doesn't fail to impress, and history buffs could linger for days on end thanks to the wealth of historical attractions. Just outside of the main city are two of the most interesting archaeological sites on the island of Cyprus. They are the Tombs of the Kings and the Pafos Archaeological Site. Nea Pafos was the name of the ancient city of Paphos, and the Pafos Archaeological Site features the ruins of this city. The Tombs of the Kings is a large necropolis that was used to entomb Nea Pafos's elite.

The whole city of Paphos Cyprus was added to UNESCO's World Cultural Heritage List, and another historical attraction that visitors won't want to miss is the Paphos Castle. Originally a Byzantine fort, this coastal fortress was rebuilt by the Ottomans in the late sixteenth century. Today, the building is a landmark and serves as the backdrop for the Paphos Cultural Festival, which is held in September. If you like cultural events, September is arguably the best time of year to visit Paphos, though you will want to remember to book your hotel room or vacation rental in advance, as they tend to go fast.

Cyprus Map

June through September is the peak season for Cyprus travel on the whole, and many travelers who choose to visit the island during these warmer months head straight for Paphos. In addition to being a historical destination of choice, this coastal outpost on the western side is also one of the top beach resort destinations in the land. Hanging out on the beach is without question one of the top things to do in Paphos, and while the Municipal Beach is the most popular stretch of sand in the more immediate area, visitors should also venture to nearby destinations such as Coral Bay and Faros Beach. All of the beaches in and around town are known for their cleanliness, which is evidenced by their Blue Flag designations. Plenty of watersports can be enjoyed at the area beaches, and some of the country's best resorts line the sand to the near north and south of town.

Swimming can be enjoyed on the beaches in and around Paphos Cyprus, though the waters of the Mediterranean Sea can be choppy from time to time. In addition to swimming, those who want to enjoy the area waters can also consider going scuba diving. There are dozens of excellent dive sites just off the Paphos coast, and they include the Valley of the Caves, which offers up some fascinating natural formations to explore.

When you need a break from the water on your Paphos getaway, there are some enticing recreational options back on land that are worth keeping in mind. Hiking is one of the most rewarding things to do on a getaway in Paphos Cyprus, and visitors who love the great outdoors are encouraged to rent a car and venture north. The relatively undeveloped Akamas Peninsula is north of Paphos, and this rugged and wild region is widely considered to be the country's most beautiful. Due east of town, the Pafos Forest can be found, and those who are hiking here might keep an eye out for the relatively elusive moufflons, which are a kind of native sheep. Whereas the summer is arguably the best time of year to visit Paphos for beach enthusiasts, those who are more into hiking are likely to prefer the cooler fall, winter, and spring months.

Delving into history, enjoying a fun cultural event, spending time on an enticing beach, and hiking the area trails are just some of the things that travelers can add to the agenda in Paphos Cyprus. The city is also known for the quality of its dining scene, and there may be no better place on the island to enjoy meze. Meze translates to small delicacies, and there are plenty of these delicacies to savor. Thanks to the renowned dining scene, the best time of the year to visit Paphos can be any time of year! As for the nightlife, it isn't as renowned as the dining, though there's enough in the way of clubs and bars for those who like to go out on the town. The main tourist center in town, or Kato Pafos as it is known, is where the bulk of the entertainment establishments can be found.

It is worth noting that Paphos Cyprus is a relatively upscale travel destination. The Paphos hotels are expensive on the whole, and such is the case when it comes to the vacation rental properties. That being said, there are some options for budget-minded travelers, including the HI Hostel and the campground at Coral Bay.