Top 5 things to see and do in Paphos – European Capital of Smart Tourism 2023

There’s much to explore in this Cypriot coastal city, reports Adam Shaw

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1. Paphos Old Town

The city’s colonial history has left an arresting legacy of medieval, Ottoman and neoclassical architecture, from the domed Agioi Anargyroi church to the colourful 1920s Old Post Office. Pick up a bargain at the Old Town Market, which sells everything from leather shoes to fruit and veg, or spot street art in the district west of Kennedy Square.

Then settle down for modern Mediterranean offerings at upmarket Honey, which is housed among craft workshops in a restored former inn known as Hani of Ibrahim.

2. Aphrodite’s Rock

Head to Petra tou Romiou, better known as Aphrodite’s Rock, to discover more about the Ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty who is said to have been born here. Visitors with a smart device can download a ‘Myth of Aphrodite’ app to view animated images of the goddess at different places along the beach, including coming out of the sea, sitting on a rock and reading a book on the sands.

3. Kato Pafos Archaeological Park

History buffs will love the well-preserved remains of this vast space, which contains monuments stretching from the 4th century BC to the Middle Ages. A Unesco World Heritage Site since 1980, it is known for its impressive collection of mosaics detailing legends from Greek mythology, while original Roman seating and columns can be viewed at the former agora (marketplace).

4. Try fresh fish and explore boutique wineries

Paphos’s coastal location means you’re never far from great seafood. Try harbourside venue Theo’s for fresh calamari or book a table at Filiotis by the Sea for rich fish meze and far-reaching ocean views.

In the surrounding hills, visitors can enjoy underrated Cypriot wine. Just north of the city in Kathikas are the wineries of Vasilikon, which specialises in white xynisteri, and Sterna, known for its rich red koralli.

5. Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station

Paphos’s designation as one of two EU Smart Tourism Capitals in 2023 reflects its achievements in areas including sustainability, and the conservation area at unspoiled Lara Bay is a great example of those efforts.

Best reached by buggy or 4×4 vehicle, the station protects green and loggerhead turtles and educates visitors, particularly during the endangered species’ laying and hatching season between May and August.

Book it…

EasyJet holidays offers a seven-night B&B stay at Avlida Hotel from £456, including transfers and flights from Gatwick, departing on June 3.
easyjet.com

PICTURES: shutterstock/Molenira, Marcin Krzyzak, Iordanis, futuristman, beltsazar.

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