Paphos is Cyprus' treasure trove of interesting activities and beautiful spots. At any time of year you can find something to do here to your liking. However, spring has a few significant advantages. For example, from March to May it is not as hot as in summer, there is less rain than in winter, and everything is blooming and green. So it's a great time to go for adventure and sightseeing!
Stroll along the Paphos promenade
Any exploration of a city by the sea starts with a stroll along the seafront. In Paphos, it runs from the medieval castle and harbor all the way to Geroskipou, past many beaches. At the end of the path walkers "meet" the church of St. Nicholas in the classic Mediterranean style: snow-white walls and bright blue roof. The Paphos promenade is approximately 6 kilometers long.
If you are lucky, on the way you can meet not only seagulls, but also pelicans, which are frequent guests here. Along the promenade there are a sufficient number of cafes and stores. It is also worth noting a convenient asphalted path, which allows you to walk absolutely everyone - from small to large.
Explore the Old Town and admire the panorama
The Old Town of Paphos is a separate song. It is an ancient neighborhood with narrow streets, located on an elevation. It can not be called completely touristy, but there are a lot of tourists here. And not only because the Old Town has a special flavor. There are a lot of unusual establishments, art galleries, cafes and very cozy hotels.
On the highest point, there is a viewing platform with a local attraction - a sculpture of a girl holding a sparrow. Curiously, the bird was stolen by someone, and not only once. However, not only the girl is worthy of attention, but also the view behind her.
Visit Paphos Castle, the excavations of the Archaeological Park, and the Royal Tombs
Paphos without antiquities is not Paphos. And near the seafront itself, there is a treasure trove of interesting things to see. First of all, it is an ancient castle, the last construction of which dates back to the XVI century. You can get inside for a small fee, and it is better to do it at sunset: the view of the sea is magnificent.
The Archaeological Park is a rather large area of excavations, where you can see ancient mosaics, remains of temples and even the Faros Lighthouse. From here, by the way, you can go the other way and get on foot to the royal tombs. You will be able to see everything in one full day.
Walking through the blossoming Akamas
Akamas is a national reserve of Cyprus, which is famous for its rich nature and magnificent, unique walking routes. Located on the peninsula of the same name, there is really something to do here. You can spend more than one day walking around Akamas. But if you come from afar, you should have time to see the most interesting things.
In spring, these are flowering meadows and the awakening of animal life. It is also worth following the Smigies trail and getting to the northernmost point of the peninsula - the view is simply mesmerizing. If you are physically fit, it is recommended to climb higher and enjoy the view of the land wedged into the sea from the observation deck.
Drive to Kouklia and see the temple of Aphrodite
Kouklia is a village near Paphos. It is famous for its world history treasured landmark, the Temple of Aphrodite, which was rebuilt by the Romans (before that, the temple was almost completely destroyed by an earthquake). Of course, it is not as well preserved as, for example, the famous Parthenon, but there is a lot to see here.
Be sure to look at the mosaic "Leda and the Swan", and also walk to Marcello Hill - the center of the ancient "predecessor" of the city of Paphos. And closer to the sea are the remains of an ancient sugar mill, also worth seeing since you've reached Kouklia.
Interact with moufflons, the symbol of Cyprus
The Mouflon Reserve is located in the mountains of Paphos district. It takes a long time to get here, but the journey is worth it: you will see the beautiful animals, which have been revered in Cyprus since ancient times. Moufflons were even depicted on Cypriot coins before the Euro came into use.
You should go to Stavros tis Psokas, which is a forest reserve. It is better to make a full day for the trip in order to have time to see the animals themselves, as well as to walk in the high mountain forest with the purest air. There is also a picnic area where you can have a wonderful lunch.
Wine tasting
Paphos is famous for its wineries and vineyards. It has the most favorable climate on the whole island for growing grapes. Lots of forests, green and cooler on average by a few degrees in summer. There are quite a few vineyards, but the best wineries can be found in Pano Panagia, in Statos and in Polemi. Here you will not only be "formalized" with a tasting, but also given a small tour of the production.
Hint: local wine can also be found in monasteries. Many of them have their own small wineries.
Take a walk through the forest and reach the Venetian Bridge
Paphos' nature is best experienced in the foothills. One of the most beautiful places is around the village of Agios Nikolaos. Not only are there gorgeous forests (which look especially green in spring) and the picturesque Arminou Reservoir, but you will also find a perfectly preserved bridge from Venetian times. By the way, in spring a river flows under it, which almost completely dries up in summer and fall.
The bridge is signposted on the way to the village, so you won't get lost. The name of the bridge is Kelefos. So you can just type the name in the map and follow the navigator. It is recommended to bring warm clothes (the river is cool) and everything you need for a picnic.
Visit an abandoned flooded village
For lovers of abandoned villages! There is more than one abandoned and dilapidated village in Cyprus, but Finikas (located on the banks of the Asprokremmos Reservoir) is unique in a way. The thing is that it is flooded in floods, and it looks like a post-apocalyptic landscape. At the same time, it is very quiet and peaceful here.
From about the middle of spring the water gradually decreases, so it is worth visiting Finikas in the first half of the season. However, when the dry season arrives, the village doesn't get any worse. There is a special flavor that remains all year round, and without water you can get close to each of the buildings and have a picnic on the bank of the dam.
Visit Kykkos Monastery
The monastery houses a miracle-working icon of the Virgin Mary, which, according to legend, was painted by the Apostle Luke himself. Legends do not mention how the icon came to Cyprus, but it is known that up to a certain time it stood in the open. Today it is covered with a blanket, and no one dares to lift it.
In addition to the shrine, it is worth visiting the surrounding area. Kykkos is located high in the mountains, so it is worth to walk here and admire the stunning views. On the way you will also have time to see a lot of beauties.
Swim near the rock of Aphrodite
If you are lucky enough to come to Cyprus at the beginning of the bathing season (that is, in May), it is definitely worth taking a dip in the sea. And do it not somewhere, but near the rock (or stone) of Aphrodite. This way you will kill two birds with one stone: swim in clean water and rejuvenate yourself.
According to the legend, how many times you swim around the stone of Aphrodite (it lies in the water), you will be rejuvenated for as many years. You can also make a wish here, for love, of course. Unmarried girls usually wish for a soulmate, while married girls wish for a strong and happy marriage.
Buggy rides
In principle, in any area of Cyprus you can ride a buggy. Paphos also has such points. Why it is recommended to ride in spring is worth explaining. Firstly, in spring it is not so hot and not so dusty. At the same time it is not as cold as in winter. In other words, the weather conditions are as comfortable as possible.
Secondly, in spring you will be able to catch the most beautiful view all around. Blooming fields, bright fresh greenery and blue sky - the best "comrades" to enjoy the extreme to the full!
Visit the Tulip Festival in Polemi
At the beginning of April, wild tulips bloom around Polemi (there's a good winery there, remember?). In honor of this, the municipality holds a festival dedicated to these flowers. It's not just for the beautiful pictures of tulips: at the event, you'll be immersed in a true Cypriot atmosphere.
You'll have time to listen to local bands and watch traditional dances, as well as taste delicious Cypriot food. You'll also buy some cool souvenirs and see what you can't see in any other city in Cyprus - true village life and local mentality.
Check out the catacombs of St. Solomonia
Cave churches are always very unusual and always leave a strong impression. Even with atheists. And the catacombs of St. Solomonia are doubly so. This is due to a very sad legend, in which because of the refusal to renounce the faith in front of Solomonia brutally killed seven of her sons.
Another legend is more positive, but less likely to be true: allegedly Solomonia was walled up in a cave, but 200 years later, when the entrance was opened, she came out alive and unharmed. Whatever the case, it's worth seeing this amazing place.
Take a trip to the zoo in Peyia
If you have kids, make sure you get to the Bird and Animal Park - that's its name, although many people refer to it simply as the Paphos Zoo. All the inhabitants are kept in excellent conditions, close to natural conditions. You will be able to see them up close and personal.
The highlight of the program is the parrot show, which delights both children and even rather callous adults. And lastly you can walk around Peyia and, if the sea temperature allows, swim on the beach of Coral Bay.
For more information about all projects in Paphos, please contact the professionals of DOM, the number one real estate agency in Cyprus, by phone +357 26 030 205, or in person at 1st Apriliou Street 8, Aristo Center 8011, Paphos, Cyprus.
Read also:
