There’s a certain kind of feeling that hits you the moment you land in Paphos, Cyprus.
A blend of ancient mythology, rugged Mediterranean landscapes, and a coastal calm that instantly slows your pulse.
Flying in from London Stansted with Jet2, I could already feel that familiar excitement of stepping into a place where history and holiday bliss intertwine.
Cyprus has always been a destination that rewards curiosity, but Paphos in particular has a way of pulling you into its stories, its flavours, and its scenery from the moment you arrive.
Stay at Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel
My base for this adventure was the Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel, an adults‑only retreat that sits right on the shoreline.
It’s the kind of hotel where the sea breeze greets you before the staff do, and where the sound of waves becomes the soundtrack to your stay.
Spacious suites, warm hospitality, and a sense of calm made it the perfect launchpad for exploring everything Paphos has to offer.
Whether I was sipping a morning coffee on the balcony or returning after a long day of exploring, the Asimina Suites Hotel felt like a sanctuary, a place to recharge before the next chapter of the journey.
A Full Day Exploring Paphos: From Ancient Tombs to Harbour Meze
My first full day in Paphos began with a guided tour showcasing the city’s most iconic sights.
It was the kind of day that blends culture, scenery, and food into one seamless experience, giving you a real sense of what makes Paphos such a compelling destination.
We started at Geroskipou Beach, a peaceful stretch of coastline that set the tone for the day ahead.
From there, we made our way to the legendary Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou), a dramatic coastal formation steeped in mythology.
According to ancient lore, this is where Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, emerged from the sea foam.
Standing there with the waves crashing against the rocks, it’s easy to see why this place has inspired stories for centuries.
The water glistened under the morning sun, and the rugged cliffs created a backdrop that felt almost cinematic.
Our journey continued into Paphos Town, where a guided tour revealed just how much the city has transformed in recent years.
The historic centre has been beautifully restored, with upgraded public spaces, pedestrian‑friendly streets, and a renewed sense of character that blends old and new.
Wandering through the town, I noticed how the architecture, street art, and local cafés all contribute to a vibrant atmosphere that feels both modern and deeply rooted in tradition.
It’s a place where you can easily lose track of time, drifting between shaded squares, artisan shops, and historic landmarks.
One of the most striking stops of the day was the Tombs of the Kings, a UNESCO‑listed archaeological site dating to the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
Despite the name, no actual kings were buried here, but the grandeur of the tombs, carved directly into the rock, conveys the importance of the people who once rested in these chambers.
Walking among the ancient columns and sunken courtyards, I felt that familiar travel sensation of being transported to another era.
It’s a place that invites reflection, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the layers of history beneath your feet.
From there, we made our way to the medieval Paphos Castle, a stone fortress that stands proudly at the edge of the harbour.
Originally built as a Byzantine fort, it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times throughout history, each reconstruction adding another chapter to its story.
Standing on its ramparts, looking out over the fishing boats and shimmering water, I felt a sense of connection to the countless travellers who have passed through this port over the centuries.
By lunchtime, the sea air had worked up a serious appetite, and we wandered down to the picturesque Paphos Fishing Harbour for a meal at Theos Seafood Restaurant.
There’s something special about eating fresh fish right by the water, and the meze spread did not disappoint.
Plate after plate arrived: grilled octopus, calamari, prawns, dips, salads, and more, each dish capturing the flavours of the Mediterranean in its own way.
It was one of those meals that lingers in your memory long after the plates are cleared.
The afternoon took us to the UNESCO Archaeological Park, home to some of the most impressive Roman mosaics in the Mediterranean.
The intricate designs, preserved for centuries beneath layers of earth, depict scenes from mythology and daily life with astonishing detail.
Walking through the park, I found myself imagining the grandeur of the villas that once stood here, their mosaic floors telling stories to guests long before modern tourism existed.
As the sun began to set, the day gave way to a new kind of experience: discovering Paphos by night.
We headed to Pagkratios Tavern, where a traditional Cypriot dinner awaited, complete with live music.
The atmosphere was warm and lively, with locals and visitors sharing food, laughter, and the kind of music that makes you want to stay long after the last song ends.
It was the perfect way to wrap up a day that had taken me from ancient ruins to modern hospitality, all within a few kilometres.
4×4 Jeep Adventure into the Troodos Mountains
The next morning brought a completely different kind of adventure, a 4×4 jeep excursion into the Troodos Mountains, one of Cyprus’s most breathtaking natural regions.
Leaving the coast behind, we drove through the villages of Salamiou and Kelokedara, watching the landscape shift from coastal plains to rolling hills and dense forests.
The air grew cooler as we climbed, and the scenery became increasingly dramatic.
Our first major stop was Arminou Dam, a peaceful reservoir surrounded by rugged terrain.
The stillness of the water contrasted beautifully with the surrounding cliffs, creating a moment of calm before the adventure continued.
We then visited Pera Vasa, another scenic spot that offered sweeping views of the countryside.
From there, we began a forest hike toward the Tzielefos Venetian Bridge, one of the most beautiful and well‑preserved Venetian bridges in Cyprus.
The 20‑minute walk through the forest was refreshing, with sunlight filtering through the trees and the sound of birds echoing through the valley.
When we reached the bridge, whose stone arch rose gracefully over the river, it felt like stepping into a fairytale.
The bridge has stood for centuries, once part of a network that transported goods across the island, and today it remains a peaceful reminder of Cyprus’s layered history.
Our journey continued deeper into the mountains as we made our way toward Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Cyprus at 1,951 metres.
Along the way, we passed through the village of Foini, known for its traditional pottery and mountain charm.
We stopped at the serene Trooditissa Monastery, a place of quiet reflection surrounded by towering pines.
A nearby picnic site offered a chance to relax and enjoy a traditional outdoor brunch, the kind of simple, hearty meal that tastes even better in the fresh mountain air.
After exploring the monastery, we headed to the Hantara Waterfalls, a hidden gem tucked away in the forest.
The cool spray of the falls was a welcome break from the heat, and the area even offers swimming and shower facilities for those who want to fully embrace the experience.
It’s the kind of spot that makes you appreciate the diversity of Cyprus’s landscapes, from beaches to waterfalls in just a short drive.
We continued toward Troodos Square, where we took a short walk along the Artemis Nature Trail, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The crisp air, the scent of pine, and the sweeping vistas made it one of the most memorable moments of the trip.
As we descended back toward Paphos through the Diarizos Valley, the day ended on a delicious note with a wine tasting at Linos Winery. Sampling Cypriot wines while surrounded by vineyards and mountains was the perfect way to reflect on the adventure.
What a trip to Paphos, Cyprus, it has been in Spring
I went to Paphos, Cyprus, with the British Guild of Travel Writers in collaboration with the city/region of Paphos. With additional thanks to Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel and Jet2 Holidays.
As my time in Paphos came to an end, I found myself reflecting on just how much this corner of Cyprus manages to pack into a single trip.
From ancient ruins and myth‑laden coastlines to mountain trails, waterfalls, and long, laughter‑filled dinners, every day revealed a new layer of the island’s character.
What struck me most was the balance, the way Paphos effortlessly blends relaxation with adventure, history with modern life, and familiar comforts with moments that feel wonderfully unexpected.
Flying home with Jet2, I realised this wasn’t just another Mediterranean getaway; it was a journey that reminded me why I travel in the first place: to explore, to connect, and to be surprised.
And Paphos, with all its warmth and wonder, delivered that in abundance.
