Paphos, located on the western coast of Cyprus, attracts numerous tourists with its historical landmarks, picturesque landscapes, and pleasant climate. However, when planning a family vacation with children, it’s important to consider not only the advantages but also potential challenges that might arise in the Paphos area.
1. Beach Holidays with Children in Paphos
Paphos is known for its clean beaches and mild climate, making it an excellent destination for a beach holiday with children. Many beaches offer family-friendly infrastructure, ensuring comfort for everyone, while the safety and cleanliness of the water are key factors for families with young or older children.
1.1. Coral Bay Beach
One of the most famous beaches in all of Cyprus, Coral Bay is located 12 km north of Paphos. This cozy spot in a bay features soft golden sand and a gentle entrance to the water, making it perfect for children. Thanks to the unique features of the coastline, there is almost no strong wind or high waves here.
Along the entire stretch of Coral Bay Beach, you'll find cafes, rental points for umbrellas and sun loungers, as well as water sports stations offering activities such as banana boat rides, jet skiing, and rental of watercraft, diving, and snorkeling equipment. Even simply sunbathing becomes a special pleasure on this picturesque beach.
1.2. Lara Bay, or Lara Beach
A secluded beach located 30 km from Paphos, Lara Bay is famous as a nesting site for sea turtles. The beach is a mix of sand and pebbles, surrounded by nature, creating a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation. However, the infrastructure here is undeveloped because the beach is part of a protected area. This means that setting up beach equipment (including personal items), lighting fires, or otherwise disrupting the local ecosystem is strictly prohibited.
Here, you can also learn more about the rare loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta), which choose Lara Beach as their nesting site. Guided tours are available, where you can see turtles housed in aquariums—usually animals undergoing treatment or in need of temporary protection.
1.3. Faros Beach
This beach is located near the namesake lighthouse at the northern tip of Paphos. It features fully equipped areas for relaxation, with umbrellas and sun loungers. The shallow waters and pristine conditions make it safe for children of all ages.
In addition to standard beach activities like swimming and banana boat rides, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and visit nearby cafes offering local and European cuisine. Several nearby attractions are worth exploring either before or after your time at the beach.
1.4. Geroskipou Beach
Geroskipou Beach, located just a few kilometers from Paphos, is perfect for families with children. Its fine sand and gently sloping shoreline provide safe swimming conditions for toddlers and older kids. The beach is relatively less crowded than urban ones, offering a more secluded and relaxing atmosphere. Facilities include sun loungers, umbrellas, and snack bars, and there’s a promenade along the shore for a pleasant walk. This beach is especially convenient for those staying in Geroskipou, as it’s only a few minutes’ walk away.
In spring and autumn, the beaches are quieter, offering opportunities not only for swimming but also for family picnics. Many people choose to visit Cyprus during the off-season to avoid large crowds and intense heat.
Important! In winter, beach activities become limited as the water temperature drops, and strong winds make staying on the beach less comfortable. However, the water temperature does not fall below +17°C, so hardy adults and teenagers can still enjoy swimming.
2. Sightseeing with Children in Paphos
Paphos is not just a beach resort but also a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks that will captivate both adults and curious children.
2.1. Paphos Archaeological Park
Paphos Archaeological Park is an extensive complex that includes the ruins of an ancient city, noble villas, temples, and magnificent mosaics. Some of the mosaics depict scenes from ancient Greek myths, which can be especially intriguing for children interested in mythology and history.
How to Get There: The park is located in the center of Paphos, just a few minutes’ walk from the harbor. It is easily accessible by bus or taxi from any part of the city, and you can also walk from Kato Paphos.
Prices: Admission for adults is €4.50, and children under 16 can enter for free.
2.2. Paphos Castle
Paphos Castle was built in the 13th century, initially serving as a fortress and later as a prison. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of its medieval walls and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea from the upper level.
How to Get There: The castle is located near Paphos Harbor, making it very convenient to visit. You can walk to it from any central area or take a bus.
Prices: Admission is €2.50 for adults, and children enter for free.
2.3. Tombs of the Kings
This unique archaeological site features ancient tombs carved into the rocks. The complex consists of various chambers that once served as burial sites for aristocrats. The vastness of the tombs is impressive, and older children will find it exciting to explore this fascinating place.
How to get there: The Tombs are located just outside Paphos, about a 15-minute ride by bus or taxi.
Prices: admission is €2.50 for adults, and children enter for free.
2.4. Paphos Zoo
The zoo is home to a wide variety of exotic birds and animals, including giraffes, flamingos, peacocks, kangaroos, and many others. It’s a fantastic place for children to connect with nature and learn about wildlife. Additionally, the zoo features a playground, a museum, walking areas, and a café.
Make sure to catch the parrot and owl show, held three times daily almost every day. This colorful spectacle is sure to delight children of all ages.
How to Get There: The zoo is a 15-minute drive from Paphos or accessible by bus from Coral Bay. You can also reach it via taxi or the zoo's transfer service.
Prices: Admission is €17.50 for adults and €9.50 for children aged 2 and older.
Exploring historical and natural landmarks gives children a chance to learn about ancient culture, myths, and exotic animals. Many sites are located close to each other, making them convenient for family outings.
Tip! Hot weather during the summer months can make walking, especially through archaeological sites, challenging. It’s best to visit in the morning or evening. Some historical locations, like the Tombs of the Kings, lack entertainment elements, which might make the visit less engaging for younger children. Additionally, some tours involve long trips, which can be tiring for small kids.
3. Entertainment for Children in Paphos
Paphos offers a variety of entertainment options for families with children, including a water park and playgrounds, perfect for active fun with kids of all ages.
3.1. Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark
Few children would pass up a visit to a water park—especially on a hot summer day! Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark is just a 10-minute drive from the city center. It’s one of the most popular destinations for family outings, featuring slides for kids, wave pools, and special shallow areas for toddlers to play safely. Parents can relax or join their little ones on a variety of slides and attractions.
How to Get There: The water park is located 3 km from the center of Paphos, near the road leading to the airport. You can get there by bus, taxi, or rental car, and the water park also offers a free shuttle service.
2024 Prices: Admission is €35 for adults, €20 for children (ages 3 to 11), €115 for a family of 2 adults and 3 children (ages 3 to 11), and free for children under 3 years old. Two-day tickets offer a better deal.
Attractions: The park features open and closed slides, wave pools, rides, lazy rivers, special areas for toddlers, photo zones, a playground, a café, and a souvenir shop.
3.2. Eleouthkia Botanical Park
Eleouthkia Botanical Park is a charming place where children can learn about unique Cypriot plants. The visit will be particularly interesting for older kids who are curious about botany and nature.
The park also hosts a small museum showcasing Cypriot life, where the whole family can discover how native Cypriots lived 100 or even 200 years ago. You can end the tour with lunch at a local tavern.
How to Get There: The park is a 15-minute drive from the center of Paphos, towards the village of Anarita. You can get there by taxi or rental car.
2024 Prices: Admission starts from €5.
3.3. Playgrounds at Kings Avenue Mall
Kings Avenue Mall, located in the center of Paphos, features several modern playgrounds for children. It’s a great spot for a short break while parents, for example, enjoy shopping. The play areas include trampolines, slides, and arcade games.
How to Get There: Kings Avenue Mall is located in the center of Paphos, on Poseidonos Street. You can reach it on foot, by bus, or by taxi.
2024 Prices: The cost of playing in the play areas is approximately €2-5 for 15-20 minutes, depending on the type of attraction.
Attractions: Trampolines, arcade machines, and other installations.
3.4. Holiday Festivals
During the summer months, Paphos and its surroundings host festive fairs and festivals that create a lively atmosphere. These events usually feature rides, food and souvenir stalls, and interesting masterclasses. Children can enjoy carousels, street performances, and try traditional Cypriot sweets.
- How to Get There: Festivals are usually held in villages, so it’s most convenient to travel by rental car.
- 2024 Prices: Prices for rides and food vary. On average, rides cost between €2 and €5, and traditional treats range from €2 to €4.
- Attractions: Carousels, street performers, various play areas, and masterclasses.
Keep in mind that during peak season, some venues may become overcrowded, leading to long queues for rides. Some play areas might not offer enough variety for older children, so it might be a good idea to suggest other activities for them.
4. Active Outdoor Recreation
For nature enthusiasts, Paphos offers numerous trails where you can enjoy walks along picturesque paths and see unique flora and fauna. These routes are perfect for families with older children, providing the opportunity to experience the unforgettable beauty of the surrounding nature.
4.1. Akamas Peninsula
The Akamas National Park is a protected natural area with rich flora and fauna, perfect for hiking or cycling trips. Here, children can observe rare species of plants and animals in their natural habitat.
The Akamas Park is about a 45-minute drive from the center of Paphos. You can reach it by taxi or rental car. The park has several entrances, including through the villages of Droushia and Neo Chorio. Walking through the park gives access to trails that pass through canyons, sandy beaches, and rocky shores. Akamas is home to rare plants and animals, as well as a unique "island" of wild Cypriot nature.
Special attention should be given to the famous trails – Aphrodite and Adonis. These scenic routes run near the Baths of Aphrodite, known for its legends and natural beauty. The trails are suitable for families with older children, as they are relatively challenging and long, although they do have shaded sections.
The peninsula is located 25 minutes from the center of Paphos. You can reach it by taxi or rental car. Plan for a full day or longer for the trip. Overnight stays in the reserve are allowed in specially equipped campsites.
Important! In the national park, it is prohibited to make a fire, so you should bring prepared food. You can also use a gas stove to cook.
2.2. Coastal Walks
The coastline of the Paphos district truly deserves attention from both children and adults. From almost any point, walkers are treated to stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, and the small city routes are perfect for short family walks. These routes offer an ideal combination of fresh air and beautiful landscapes.
Popular walking spots for tourists include:
- Coral Bay bay
- Poseidonos promenade, which stretches along all of Paphos and leads to Geroskipou
- Peyia village promenade and the sunken ship EdroIII
- Polis and Latchi promenade (northern bay of the Paphos district)
- Sea caves
- Agios Georgios village promenade with a view of the deserted island Geronisos
- The beach near Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's rock)
Usually, on most of these routes, you can find cafés and small restaurants where you can relax and have a snack. This option is great for families with young children and those who are not in the mood for long and exhausting walks.
2.3. Mountain Villages: Kouklia and Omodos
The mountain villages of Kouklia, Omodos, and others offer a peaceful atmosphere and are ideal places for family walks and a relaxing time. In these places, the whole family can enjoy the charms of traditional Cypriot culture and cuisine, as well as try local products.
Kouklia is mainly visited to see the remains of the Temple of Aphrodite and stroll through the village streets. It’s easy and quick to reach from Paphos – the drive takes no more than 15-10 minutes by car.
Although Omodos is located in the Limassol district, it is definitely worth visiting for those who are vacationing in Paphos. The village is nestled in the mountains, offering stunning views and fresh, clean air. But apart from the beautiful scenery and traditional architecture, visitors should also try local delicacies: crispy chickpea bread "Arkathena Koulouri," sweets like souzouki and palouzi, and jams. For adults, it’s recommended to taste wines from local private wineries. Omodos is quite far and accessed via mountain roads, so it’s best to rent a car.
Important! Many of the routes require good physical fitness, which may be challenging for small children. In summer, walks can be tiring due to the high temperatures, and some places lack infrastructure. For example, in the Akamas National Park, there are not enough toilets and rest areas, which can make it difficult for families with very young children.
5. Culinary Tourism with Children in Paphos
Paphos offers a variety of opportunities for gastronomic tourism with children, combining traditional Cypriot dishes with modern culinary trends. Families can enjoy local cuisine by visiting restaurants and farmers' markets, where fresh seasonal produce is available.
Sometimes it’s enough to simply visit the market and buy local farm products. Fresh vegetables, especially tomatoes and cucumbers, are highly recommended. The following fruits are recommended according to the season:
- Spring: strawberries, cherries, pitaya, bananas.
- Summer: juicy fruits including watermelons, melons, apples, pears, plums, figs, loquats, and peaches.
- Autumn: pomegranates, grapes, and persimmons are in season; you can also find local papaya, prickly pear, and guava.
- Winter: citrus fruits such as oranges, mandarins, and lemons; persimmons, kiwis, and pomegranates are still available.
Visiting local farmers' markets can be an interesting activity. At the Paphos market, you can buy fish, olives, traditional Cypriot bread, meat delicacies, cheeses, beans, and seasonal fruits and vegetables. The prices for fruits and vegetables range from 0.7 to 4 EUR per kilogram on average.
It is definitely worth visiting taverns with local cuisine and ordering mezze. Seafood lovers should try the local fish and squid. If you have time, it's recommended to visit Lachi – a fishing village where you can buy the freshest catch.
Tip: Mezze (plural mezedes) is a set of dishes that can be "themed," such as meat or seafood. First, appetizers are served, followed by the main courses.
Many people note that Cypriot potatoes, meat products, moussaka, and fresh vegetable salads are particularly delicious. Don’t miss out on local desserts! But remember: the portions in Cyprus are very large, so it’s better to order one mezze for 2-3 people.
Some foods and dishes may be unfamiliar to children due to their taste or preparation method. Also, not all restaurants offer dishes adapted for children, so parents should check the menu in advance.
6. What to Do in Paphos with Children by Seasons
In short, it's important to understand that different activities are suitable for each season. If you're looking for a beach holiday, the period from May to October is ideal, while if you prefer more walking, the shoulder seasons are the best.
6.1. Spring In spring, the temperature in Paphos is comfortable, making it the perfect time for sightseeing and active holidays with children. Visit archaeological sites and natural spots like the Paphos Archaeological Park, Kouklia, or the Akamas Peninsula. The beaches are still not crowded, allowing for a peaceful time by the shore, and by May, you can already swim. This period is also ideal for cycling and outdoor sports.
6.2. Summer The summer months are perfect for beach holidays and water activities. Paphos' beaches, with warm water and sandy shores, are perfect for swimming with children. The Aphrodite Waterpark offers many attractions for the whole family. Excursions to natural and cultural landmarks are also an option, but you should be mindful of the high temperatures and avoid going out during the midday heat. This is the time for boat trips and visiting local seaside restaurants and cafes.
6.3. Fall
Autumn is a great season for active recreation, such as hiking, nature walks, and sightseeing tours. The temperatures become more comfortable for trekking and hiking, and there are fewer tourists than in the summer. Families can visit waterparks, caves, take a boat trip, or explore botanical gardens. Beach holidays are still possible, but without the summer heat.
6.4. Winter
Winter holidays in Paphos can include cultural tours and gastronomic journeys. Active types of recreation are also possible, such as skiing in the Troodos Mountains, which are located near Paphos. Winter is better for avoiding beach holidays due to the cool water, but you can still enjoy peaceful walks along the promenade.
Thus, for families with children, Paphos offers entertainment in every season: whether it's a beach holiday in summer, cultural excursions in spring and autumn, or winter activities around the city.
7. How to Choose a Hotel for a Holiday with a Child in Paphos
When choosing a hotel, it's important to consider several factors to make the stay comfortable and safe for the whole family. Paphos lacks a well-developed public transport system, so it’s best to choose a hotel close to major attractions or beaches. This will significantly simplify getting around the city, especially if you have a small child with you.
Many hotels in Paphos do not offer an all-inclusive system and may not have specialized children's menus. Therefore, when booking, it’s important to check in advance whether the hotel provides facilities for feeding children. Some hotels may offer high chairs, microwaves for warming food, or even food upon request. For young children, you should consider whether the room has a kitchen or a kitchenette.
It is also important to pay attention to the availability of children's swimming pools, playgrounds, and entertainment. Hotels with such amenities will be the most suitable for family holidays, providing entertainment for children while parents enjoy their relaxation. Additionally, it is necessary to ensure that the hotel meets all safety standards for children. This includes the availability of baby cribs, door locks that can be used for baby safety, as well as the level of cleanliness and comfort in the room.
Paphos is a great place for family holidays with children, offering a variety of beach, sightseeing, entertainment, active, and gastronomic activities. Beautiful beaches with their clear waters and safe atmosphere provide ideal conditions for family vacations. Excursion routes, such as the Archaeological Park and the Royal Tombs, allow children to explore the region’s rich historical heritage, while nature trails offer the opportunity to enjoy nature and active walks. Therefore, Paphos remains an excellent choice for those who want to spend time with their family, enjoying a combination of culture, nature, and active recreation.
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