There are a so many interesting things to do and places to see in Paphos, which is a coastal town located in the south-western area of Cyprus that the city is almost like a real life museum.
The town of approximately 35,000 people offers visitors more than they can usually handle when it comes down to culture and history. The town is the capital of the Paphos region in Cyprus and was recognized as the capital of the island during the Greco-Roman period.
The location is also known around the world as the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty and is listed by UNESCO as a natural and cultural treasure.
Visitors come from all over the world to Paphos each year to take in the excellent weather, the incredible scenery, and the fantastic food. When you add in the historical churches, numerous museums and the theme parks for the kids it becomes the ideal location to spend a holiday.
The town itself is actually separated into two distinct areas. The upper district is known as the commercial area and the lower district is where most of the archaeological sites, hotels, and bars are located.
Paphos is also well known as the home to the remains of several structures such as villas, palaces, theatres, and forts. It also houses some of the worlds’ most fascinating mosaics.
You will never get bored in Paphos as there are so many places to visit. These include the Archaeological Park which includes mosaics and the ruins of Roman villas. The Tombs of the Kings is also an interesting attraction as it is where many of the town’s high-ranking officials and aristocrats are buried.
The Paphos Fort is very historic and is located at the tip of the town’s marina. It was used throughout the years as a prison and military fort. The current fort was built by the Turks in 1586.
There is also an animal sanctuary called the Paphos Bird Park, which sits just north of Paphos. If you are traveling with children, they’ll be sure to love the Paphos Aphrodite Water Park as it offers an assortment of wave machines, river rides, and water slides.
Sports lovers are sure to find enough things to do in Paphos as it offers a wide variety of activities such as windsurfing, swimming, kayaking, and paragliding.
There are also soccer, volleyball, and basketball teams in town as well as a gymnastic club which is known as Korivos.
Photo Credit: Jeremy and Zarnia
