Once a relaxed, pleasant spot on a rocky and dramatic coastline, this town in western Greek Cyprus has been transformed into a thriving monument to package tourism. Paphos consists of two areas: the coastal resort area (Kato Paphos) and the town itself (Ktima Paphos), which is slightly inland and has a small historic center. Not too long ago, Kato Paphos was one of the most romantic spots on the island (facing west, it has a near-monopoly on sunsets over the sea), but it has now been developed to within an inch of its life. Ktima Paphos remains pleasant, however.
The area has plenty of attractions, the highlight being the third-century AD mosaic floors at the House of Dionysus and Theseus, set within the large Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside the huge park-like site, there are several major attractions, which are all connected by clear pathways. There are several different sections of mosaics, a row of tall Roman stone columns, ancient cave homes, a lighthouse and the ruins of a Byzantine castle fortress. From the mosaics, walk along the waterfront to the ruined castle.
Other sights in Paphos include a separate archaeological museum, the Byzantine castle of Paphos, the Tombs of the Kings, St. Paul's Pillar (which marks the spot where the apostle was chained to a column and whipped for his faith), the Temple of Aphrodite , the spectacular coast at Aphrodite's Rocks (aka Petra tou Romiou) and other historical and religious sites.
Some 2 mi/3 km east of Paphos is the Folk Art Museum (local arts and crafts, handicrafts and daily traditional lifestyle displays) in Geroskipou. There are several churches, monasteries and ruins worth seeing—of special note are the Monasteries of St. Neophytos (Byzantine frescoes and icons) and Chrysorrogiatissa, situated high in the mountains. Nearby Agios Neophytos Monastery is a large cat sanctuary, housing more than 900 cats that are very well cared for.
Paphos also has an international airport and three 18-hole golf courses. Plan one night to one week, if you want to visit all the regional attractions.
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