Plan a CruisePaphos Cruise Port Guide
Paphos, a charming town on Cyprus's west coast with a population of just 28,000, offers a blend of holiday appeal and ancient history. Your cruise ship will anchor offshore, and you'll be tendered directly to the center of town, specifically to the vibrant harbor area of Kato Paphos (Lower Paphos). This picturesque area is characterized by its small harbor, lined with open-air fish restaurants, colorful fishing boats, and pleasure craft. Paphos is renowned for its deep connection to Greek mythology, particularly as the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, whose cult once flourished here. The town is divided into two main parts: Kato Paphos, near the sea, home to the harbor, tavernas, souvenir shops, and significant archaeological sites; and Pano Paphos, also known as Ktima or the Old Town, located slightly uphill, featuring classical-style buildings and a main shopping district.
Getting Around from the Port
Upon tendering to the harbor in Kato Paphos, you'll find much of the immediate area, including the archaeological sites and many shops and restaurants, is easily explored on foot. For reaching Pano Paphos (Ktima), the Old Town, you can walk, though it's an uphill journey. Most of Ktima's major historic buildings and interesting sites, with the exception of the Archaeological Museum, are also within walking distance once you reach the upper town.
For broader exploration or reaching sites further afield, consider the Hop-on/Hop-off Paphos tour, which provides a convenient way to see key attractions. Taxis and local buses are also available for destinations outside the main town areas, such as the Aphrodite Rocks or the Sanctuary of Aphrodite at Kouklia Village.
Attractions and Activities
Given 8-10 hours in port, Paphos offers a rich blend of history, mythology, and local charm.
- Explore Kato Paphos (Lower Paphos): Immediately accessible from the tender drop-off, this area boasts the harbor, numerous fish tavernas, souvenir shops, and important archaeological sites. Spend time discovering the ancient ruins, including impressive mosaics, which are conveniently located around the harbor.
- Wander through Pano Paphos (Ktima / Old Town): Head uphill to the Old Town to experience its classical architecture and main shopping area. Most historical buildings and interesting sites here, apart from the Archaeological Museum, can be explored on foot. It offers a different atmosphere from the coastal Kato Paphos.
- Aphrodite's Legendary Sites: For those interested in mythology, Paphos is steeped in the legend of Aphrodite.
- Aphrodite Rocks (Petra tou Romiou): The rugged, chunky rocks where Aphrodite is said to have been born from the sea foam. This iconic site is a short drive from Paphos.
- Sanctuary of Aphrodite at Kouklia Village: An evocative ancient shrine and a key site for pagan festivals dedicated to the goddess, located inland from Paphos.
- Further afield, the Baths of Aphrodite at Polis and the Fountain of Love (Fontana Amorosa) in the Akamas Peninsula are also associated with the goddess, though these would require more significant travel time and are best visited via an organized tour or private transport. Visiting the Aphrodite sites outside of central Paphos will require a taxi, local bus, or participation in a local tour.
Dining & Shopping
Paphos offers diverse dining and shopping experiences across its two main areas. In Kato Paphos, especially along the charming harbor, you'll find numerous open-air fish restaurants where you can enjoy fresh seafood amidst views of fishing boats and pleasure craft. There are also many souvenir shops in this lower part of town.
For shopping, both Kato Paphos and Pano Paphos (Ktima) provide plenty of browsing opportunities. You'll discover sparkling jewelry stores featuring lovely local products, handicrafts centers, and boutiques selling locally made clothes. Paphos is an excellent place to find Cypriot lace, hand-turned pottery, and local paintings and sculptures. These locally made items are often well-crafted and reasonably priced, making them popular souvenirs and gifts.
Currency and Language
The local currency in Paphos is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in most shops, restaurants, and tour operators. ATMs are readily available throughout the town. The official language is Greek, but English is widely spoken and understood in tourist areas.