Endless Holiday

Paphos is located in the Mediterranean Sea at the southwestern tip of the island of Cyprus. The town is situated between the Troodos mountain range and the island’s coastline, and is a highly popular holiday destination. In addition to the island’s spectacular scenery, it is also renowned for its unique sightseeing opportunities. Paphos features a pleasant mild climate, making it one of the healthiest and most enjoyable areas of the world in which to spend time. There is a vast array of holiday villas in Cyprus, and accommodations are available to suit virtually every budget and lifestyle.

The Paphos International Airport is small, but can be quite busy as it receives connecting and charter flights from many of the United Kingdom’s regional airports. Wednesday is the airport’s busiest day, and one may wish to take this into consideration when planning a trip to this engaging area of the world.

Must-See Attractions and Landmarks

Cyprus boasts a high number of diverse attractions, and those located in Paphos are especially interesting as they feature a variety of themes such as history, art, religion, culture and local customs. The following are some landmarks and establishments that no traveller should miss when spending time in Paphos:

Basilicas and Churches

A substantial portion of the history of Paphos can be seen in its religious landmarks. Some of the basilicas and churches that no holiday maker should miss include the Panayia Chrysopolitissa Basilica, which dates back to the 5th century and gives visitors a glimpse into the Byzantine religious period. The Theoskepasti Church is also an impressive structure, and although it was built in the twentieth century, it features Renaissance style architecture. In addition, it is the largest religious structure in Paphos.

Museums

Paphos is also home to numerous museums which contain impressive art collections and intriguing artifacts. The Ethnographical Museum is a wise choice for those who enjoy learning historical facts about the areas to which they travel. The museum features an outline of the town’s history and the development of its culture from as far back as the 4th century, up to and including present day individuals currently making their mark on Paphos. The Byzantine Museum is also a good choice for Phaphos tourists, as it highlights the area’s history during the 12th through the 18th centuries and explores the Byzantine influence on Paphos’ culture throughout this period.

The Tomb of the Kings

The Tomb of the Kings is an impressive complex of rooms and ornate mausoleums. This outstanding landmark was chiselled into a Phaphos hillside at the time of Christ’s birth, and has been maintained almost in its original state throughout the centuries. However, the tombs do not hold the bodies of Greek kings as its name infers. The site was actually a cemetery for Paphos aristocrats, and owes its name to some of the more colourful local legends that were passed down through the centuries. Several tombs are opened to the public, and a visit to this attraction is certain to be a one-of-a-kind experience.

Paphos Castle

Paphos Castle was originally designed as a Byzantine fort for the purpose of protecting the city’s harbour from pirates and other marauders. It was destroyed by the Venetians when they stormed the small city during the 9th century, but shortly thereafter Cyprus was captured by the Ottomans who completely restored the castle which still stands to this day. Holiday makers should allow at least three hours to fully experience this amazing landmark.

As previously mentioned, Paphos offers a wide variety of accommodations for visitors from all over the world. Villas in Paphos can be rented on a weekly or monthly basis, and many of the villas and hotels in Paphos are located directly on the beach. Regardless of one’s vacation objectives, whether to visit some of the city’s many attractions or to simply relax on the beach, Paphos in Cyprus offers something for everyone.