Explore Cyprus! Everything you want to know about making the most of a weekend in Paphos without a car.

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Cyprus is one of those destinations that’s well set up for tourists, and gets plenty of them, but is relatively less crowded than Greece or Italy. It’s also warm earlier in the year, so it’s perfect for getting some sunshine in spring

If you’re thinking of spending a weekend in Paphos without a car, here’s everything you need to know before you go!

A Weekend in Paphos Without A Car

Like so many Mediterranean destinations, it’s been part of so many cultural groups that it includes pieces of all its history. Culturally, Cyprus is closest to Greece, with Turkish influences. 

I’ll skip the details the current geopolical situation in Cyprus, but here’s the short version: the northern piece of Cyprus is run by a different government, called the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. This government isn’t recognized by the EU or UN; so it can be complicated to go to the northern part of the island. There’s peace; don’t stress. It’s very safe to visit Cyprus. [Common sense reminder to check the current recommendations of your home country* before visiting, just like you should for everywhere you visit.]

Either way, Paphos is far from this part of Cyprus so you won’t be affected on a weekend visit! 

Cyprus also was a British colony for nearly a century, so it carries a lot of British impacts in daily life. They drive on the left side of the road, and nearly everyone speaks English. You’ll also see tons of British tourists – flights to the UK  run all the time! 

Cyprus uses the Euro, and credit cards are accepted in most places. I still recommend having some cash for small places or tipping.

Paphos Hotels: Should I Stay Seaside or in Old Town?

It’s worth noting that the coastal part of Paphos is for tourists. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing! It’s the best area to stay if your focus is the water or doing organized day trips, or if you’re not planning to rent a car. 

It just means that the shops are all tourist kiosks and you won’t find many locals at the restaurants. But that doesn’t mean they aren’t some great options mixed in! 

Since many first timers to Cyprus choose Paphos for a few easy days of sun and sea, I’m focusing this guide on the coastal part of town.

I opted for a budget friendly property that still had all the amenities I wanted. Apollonia Hotel Apartments hit the best of both worlds for me – it was a small family run place with both hotels rooms and apartment style rooms. There’s a pool on site, with plenty of wine and snacks right there to relax! The staff were also super helpful with restaurant recommendations and navigating arranging transportation.

If you’re looking for a more resort style experience, try Leonardo Cypria Bay. It’s a beachfront property that does the whole resort thing well: multiple pools, swim up bars, a spa, and a kids club if you’re here with littles!

What to do in Paphos, Cyprus

Kato Pafos Arachaeological Park

Cyprus is full of archaeological ruins, and the Kato Pafos Archaeological Park (sometimes also called Nea Paphos) is the best one walking distance in the city. You can spend an hour or two wandering 2000 year old ruins. There aren’t many signs, but their free app includes an audioguide to give you the details of what you’re seeing. 

You’ll find lots of mosaic floors shockingly well preserved for their age. Many tell classic Greek and Roman myths. There’s also amphitheater, partially restored. The crazy thing about these (to me) is that some you can sit and climb on! Just think about the history of those rocks you’re touching. Crazy.

Tomb of the Kings 

While Kato Pafos may be the best in walking distance, the best in Paphos is really the Tomb of the Kings.

As the name says, this complex is an ancient necropolis from the 3rd century BC. It didn’t actually house kings, but aristocracy and public officials. There are 8 marjor tomb complexes and tons of small ones – plenty to explore for a few hours!

You can get a combo ticket for both this and the Kato Pafos park, just ask at whichever you visit first. 

Get there by taxi or taking a bus – I believe the 611 will get you there pretty easily.

Walk the boardwalk 

If you want to embrace the Mediterranean traditions of passagiata and aperitivo, head to the harbor! It’s well developed and has plenty of bars and restaurants along the way to stop in for a drink with a sea view. I’ll share more specific restaurant recommendations in my food and drink guide coming soon!

Head north of the Kato Pafos for a bit more nature, because this area backs up to the archaeological park. It connects to more beaches and resorts, so you’re still never far from a place to stop for a drink or snack! This section also gets great sunset views. 

Go to the beach

Paphos has plenty of free beach space! 

In Cyprus, the beachside resorts don’t own the beach. Obviously, beach chairs are a different story: they’re either for rent or reserved for hotel guests. But there’s enough open space on the beach that you can snag a spot without paying! 

Because of Cyprus’ location, it’s warmer much earlier than much of Europe. So if you’re craving sun in April, it’s a good choice! 

Boat day trip

One of the best ways to experience Cyprus is by boat! Whether your focus is views, snorkeling, or just relaxing at sea, there’s a boat for you! There are plenty of great affordable options like this one, or if you want something private and luxe, I’d recommend this boat company.

Want more day trip ideas? GetYourGuide is my go-to for finding the best organized-for-you day trips and experiences!

Paphos Castle is a 13th century fortress sitting right on the waterfront. it’s not a massive structure, but it’s iconic Paphos’ architecture. It’s inexpensive to enter, or you can see if the exterior easily if you’re done with visiting ruins. Look for the Venetian lion – the Venetian Republic ruled here for a while!

Don’t forget Old Town Paphos up the hill. It’s about a 30-40 minute walk or quick taxi. It’s where most of the locals live, so food will be a little more authentic and streets are cuter! if you come up here, definitely plan a meal in old town – I’d recommend Laona or Koutoutrou Ouzel.

A weekend in Paphos without a car is a great little getaway! Cyprus overall makes a great easy destination for sun and sea with a side of history and reat food. Check back soon for my favorite restaurants in Paphos and day trips around the island, or grab my favorite Mediterranean destinations like Italy, Greece or Malta!