Paphos Holidays

The western half of Cyprus is generally regarded to be the more grown up and sophisticated sister of the party girl out in the east, where energetic resorts such as Ayia Napa keep the dance floors busy.

The legend of Aphrodite abounds on this island, and around Paphos in particular, where the goddess is reputed to have risen from the seas. You can visit Aphrodite's Rock - also called Petra Tou Romiou - and see for yourself why she ventured above the water here.

Paphos, also known as Pafos, is an excellent base for holidaymakers. The yacht-speckled harbour sits at the foot of magnificent Paphos Castle, and plenty of shops line the streets high above the bobbing boats. Restaurants, bars and clubs are centred on the area known as Kato Paphos, in the lower part of town.

The town is just 15 minutes from Paphos Airport (PFO), so it's a quick and easy transfer once you land. The airport also serves neighbouring resorts such as Agios Georgios, Latchi, Pomos, Neo Chorio, Miliou, Limassol and Amathus Bay.

Paphos holidays mean days spent lazing on the beach, with the soft sands of Coral Bay forming the main base for your seaside adventures.

There's plenty to see and do while you're in Paphos too. Worthwhile visits include the Tombs of the Kings, the many Greek and Roman historical sites, and St Paul's Pillar at Ayia Kyriaki Chapel, to which the saint was allegedly tied and flogged. Thankfully visitors get a much warmer welcome these days, with invitations extended to join in with traditional Greek and Cypriot dancing. It's an opportunity not to be missed.

Also worth noting is that the spectacular heights of the Troodos Mountains are only a short distance from Paphos. You can ski here in the winter and then head to the gentler slopes of the beach in the afternoon. More sedate holiday options are available at the many excellent spa hotels in the area, some of which offer an all-inclusive experience.

Holidaymakers will find a very good standard of self-catering, villa and high-end hotel accommodation in Paphos.

In short, perfect Paphos will transport you to holiday heaven. Get your journey underway today with the holiday finder on TravelSupermarket.

Best of Paphos Holidays for...

Kids and teens: If lazing on the beach isn't the kids' idea of fun, there are plenty of exciting days out in Paphos to keep them entertained. Head to Aphrodite Water Park for exciting water slides or visit Paphos Zoo to see an interesting collection of animals and birds.

Grown-up families: Take a boat trip out to Aphrodite's Rock to see up close the spot where the goddess is meant to have risen from the seas.

Nightlife: Put on your dancing shoes and walk along the harbour up to Bar Street where you will find a selection of lively bars and clubs.