Things to see and do in Cyprus on a budget: Paphos, Europe's Capital of Culture 2017

Go to Cyprus on the cheap

The ancient port of Paphos is one of the most popular towns in Cyprus. With its spectacular mix of beaches, party towns and crumbling ruins, the Cypriot town is the place to be this summer.

Famous for its Ancient Greek mythology and the birthplace of Aphrodite, “the goddess of love”, Paphos also has one of the most stunning harbours in the Mediterranean.

Image by senza senso (Flickr/Creative Commons)

This year it takes over as joint European Capital of Culture (alongside Denmark’s Aarhus) and visitors can expect an ‘open air’ festival of culture. From street dancing, live concerts and exhibitions, travellers visiting Paphos will have a feast of a time.

Cyprus also has plenty of hotels that offer comfort, style and affordable drinks all-year-round. If you book a cheap place to stay, then you’ll soon discover that Paphos won’t break your budget.

Arriving in Paphos

Paphos has two distinct sections for first-time travellers. Ktima, the grand old town, where most of the tourist attractions and museums can be found; and Kato Paphos, the main tourist section, full of restaurants and harbour pubs.

How to travel around Cyprus on a budget

The cheapest way to get from Paphos and Larnaca airports to your hotel is by bus. Local buses, cost €1.50 one-way or €5 for a one-day ticket. Once you arrive, the town can easily be navigated on foot.

What is there to see and do in Paphos?

Image by Anna & Michal (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Most people come to Cyprus for the beaches. You’ll find the most popular in Ayia Napa and Protaras, in the west of the island. Access to all beaches is free, but its €2.50 a day for a sun lounger and same again for an umbrella.

If you want some culture in Paphos, then go for a stroll along Kato Paphos waterfront towards the harbour and Paphos Castle. Afterwards you can visit Paphos Archaeological Park (open 8am-7.30pm every day, entry €4.50) and explore the ancient Roman ruins.

Forming part of the archaeological park, but in a separate location is the legendary ‘Tombs of the Kings’. The immaculately carved site is the last resting place of the Cypriot upper classes. It’s definitely one of the highlights of any trip to Paphos.

Eat and drink like a local

Image by Leonid Mamchenkov (Flickr/Creative Commons)

If you’re on a budget and want to save on food, then stock up on tahinopitta (tahini pie), tiropitta (cheese pie), and eliopitta (olive pie) from local bakery shops. They cost around €2 each.

If you want to eat like a king or queen on a pauper’s budget, then head over to Zorbas Bakery close to Paphos harbour. Here you can buy traditional Cypriot sweet and crisps for a day out or a midnight binge. Soft drinks, cheeses, ice cream and light snacks are also on sale. They are open 24/7 too.

If you fancy a cheap meal, then go to Hamam Cafe & Lounge Bar. Situated next to the old municipal market, the popular budget restaurant is housed in former Ottoman baths. Here you can enjoy fresh Cypriot taverna-style dishes with a European twist.

Book a budget hotel in Paphos

If you're travelling to Cyprus on a budget, then why not stay in the ancient port of Paphos for less than €15 per night? Book your holiday today and explore the sunny delights of Cyprus on a backpackers budget with HostelsClub.

*Header image by`TOMS` BALCUS (Flickr/Creative Common)