To really get to know a city, you need to explore its yeitonies – the neighbourhoods. These are the areas that give life to the city. All so diverse with each neighbourhood having its own personality.
Old Town Market
The Old Town Market, known as Ktima, is probably one of the best places to kickstart your journey. After Paphos was named the European capital of culture in 2017, the area was renovated and transformed into a place of culture and rich heritage. As you wander along the pedestrian roads you will get to admire Medieval, Ottoman, and Neoclassical builds that showcase the island’s history and reveal Paphos’ personality!
The best way to enjoy the Old Town Market is to stroll around the main shopping area and get acquainted with Cyprus’ handcrafted arts, jewellery, and souvenirs. There is also an outdoor covered market, selling fresh fruit and vegetables, produced by local farmers. When you are ready to take a break, enjoy a traditional Cypriot coffee in one of the local coffee shops in the area.
OLD TOWN MARKET
Limanaki
Whether you are craving your afternoon coffee boost or you’re drooling with the thought of fresh seafood, the Limanaki area has something for all tastes.
The beautiful scenery of the big waterfront area will certainly help you relax and unwind. Walk up to the end of the pedestrian road and you’ll notice Paphos’ medieval castle. It was originally a Byzantine fortress built to protect the port from enemies.
Limanaki is the perfect setting for a delicious seafood lunch. You will be spoilt for choice with numerous restaurants that serve fresh fish from their catch of the day.
As an added treat, be sure to get some fruity frozen yoghurt and ice cream from the local shops in the pedestrian walkway!
LIMANAKI
Kennedy Square and Town Hall Square
Kennedy Square and the surrounding roads are unexpectedly interesting areas to explore. Although the area was renovated a few years ago, Kennedy Square and Town Hall Square still preserve a traditional and graphical feel that is reminiscent of the rich history of the town, while also showcasing a modern touch that will intrigue the savviest traveller.
Walking the narrow-paved streets around Kennedy Square, you will also discover a few local boutiques and souvenir shops that opened their doors recently. This is your chance to buy a few things that will remind you of this beautiful island when you get back home.
If the heat is taking a toll on you, then visit Kennedy and Town Hall Square sometime in the afternoon, when the sun immerses itself into the sea and temperatures start to dip a little bit.
KENNEDY SQUARE
Tombs of the Kings
Tombs of the Kings is one of the most important archaeological sites of Cyprus and one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites. The underground tombs date back to the 4th century BC and are thought to be burial sites of aristocrats and government officials. The tombs are unique due to their courtyard architecture; some are simply carved in the rock while some others imitate the houses of the living with burial champers opening onto a peristyle atrium.
Tombs of the kings is located just two kilometres northwest of the Paphos harbour, so if you’re around the area then it’s worth paying a visit. The site is open all year round and the entrance fee is as little as €2,50.
TOMBS OF THE KINGS
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