The best outdoor activities in Paphos

Paphos, Cyprus – Where Mythology Meets the Mediterranean

As the golden sun sets over the Mediterranean, Paphos glows with a soft amber light, the waves lapping gently against ancient harbour side walls. This coastal city on the south-western tip of Cyprus blends timeless history with beautiful natural surroundings, making it an extraordinary place to discover both culture and outdoor adventures.

Paphos is best known as the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, and it feels every bit as enchanting as the myths suggest. With its UNESCO-listed archaeological sites, sandy beaches, dramatic coastal cliffs and a relaxed Cypriot atmosphere, Paphos is a destination where you can wander from Roman ruins to sea caves in a single day.

Outdoor Activities in Paphos

Paphos is a true playground for nature lovers and active travellers. Whether you prefer hiking along rugged coastlines, exploring turquoise waters by kayak, or diving into the area’s rich marine life, there’s always something to do outdoors.

• Quad/Buggy Safaris from Coral Bay
• Scuba Diving from Paphos or Coral Bay
• Snorkelling from Paphos
• Boat Tours from Paphos

Explore the Akamas Peninsula

Just north of Paphos, the Akamas Peninsula is one of the island’s last untouched wildernesses. This national park is home to winding hiking trails, gorges, wildflowers, and rare wildlife such as the loggerhead turtle. The Avakas Gorge Trail is particularly stunning, leading you through towering limestone walls and shady riverbeds. The peninsula is also famous for the Baths of Aphrodite, a freshwater grotto surrounded by lush greenery, linked to the goddess’s mythological stories.

You may enjoy some Quad/Buggy Safaris and Boat Tours setting to the beautiful Akamas Peninsula!

Snorkelling and Diving in Crystal-Clear Waters

The waters off Paphos are incredibly clear, making them ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving. You can explore the colourful reefs around Coral Bay, swim above submerged caves, or dive the Zenobia Wreck, one of the world’s most famous shipwrecks, located a short drive away near Larnaca. For a unique experience, the Blue Lagoon, accessible by boat from Latchi, offers some of the clearest waters in Cyprus.

Jeep Safaris and Off-Road Exploration

For those who want to discover hidden corners, a 4x4 safari into the Troodos Mountains or through Akamas is a fantastic way to see remote villages, waterfalls, and rugged landscapes far from the main roads.

Best Time to Visit Paphos

Paphos is a year-round destination, but spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are particularly pleasant. The weather is warm without being overly hot, wildflowers bloom across the hillsides, and the sea remains inviting.

July and August are peak tourist months with hotter temperatures and busier beaches, while winter is quieter, perfect for those who prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind cooler water temperatures. Winter days can still be sunny, making it a good time for hiking and sightseeing.

How to Get to Paphos

Paphos International Airport is only about 15 minutes from the city centre and is well-connected with flights from major European cities. From the airport, you can reach Paphos by taxi, rental car, or airport shuttle.

If you are travelling from Larnaca, expect a two-hour drive along the island’s southern coast. Regular intercity buses also link Paphos with other main cities in Cyprus, including Limassol and Nicosia.