Paphos Airport (PFO) – Complete Travel Guide 2026
IATA Code
PFO
ICAO Code
LCPH
Paphos International Airport quick facts
| Airport Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Timi, Paphos, Cyprus (6.5 km southeast of Paphos city center) |
| Website | www.hermesairports.com |
| Airlines | Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2.com, TUI Airways, British Airways, Wizz Air, Lufthansa, Enter Air, Blue Air, and various seasonal charter carriers |
| Terminals | 1 main passenger terminal |
| Annual Passengers | Approximately 3.8 million (2024 data) |
| Hub for | Ryanair (seasonal operating base) |
| Phone Number | +357 25 123022 |
Paphos International Airport serves as a gateway to western Cyprus, handling over 3.8 million passengers annually. Operated by Hermes Airports under a 25-year concession agreement with the Republic of Cyprus, this single-terminal facility connects the region with major European cities. The airport is particularly busy during the summer holiday season when tourists flock to the beach resorts and archaeological treasures of the Paphos district.
Paphos International Airport Terminal Map and Layout
Paphos International Airport features a single, modern passenger terminal that opened in 2008. The layout is straightforward and linear, making navigation intuitive even for first-time visitors. The terminal building spans two levels: the ground floor houses Arrivals and the check-in area, while the upper floor is dedicated to Departures and post-security facilities.
Walking from the check-in desks to the farthest boarding gate takes approximately 5 to 7 minutes. The compact design eliminates the need for internal shuttles or trains. Moving walkways are not present, but the distances are short enough that most travelers find walking comfortable.
All gates are accessible once you pass through the single central security checkpoint. After security, the departures lounge offers duty-free shopping, food outlets, and seating areas. Gate numbers are clearly marked, and flight information displays are positioned throughout the concourse.
Navigating Paphos International Airport Terminals
Main Terminal
- Airlines that check in here: All airlines serving Paphos International Airport operate from this terminal, including Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2.com, TUI Airways, British Airways, Wizz Air, and seasonal charter carriers.
- Key features: The terminal received a comprehensive upgrade in 2008, transforming it into a bright, air-conditioned space with modern facilities. Large windows offer views of the runway and the Mediterranean Sea beyond.
- Dining and shopping highlights: After security, passengers can enjoy Cypriot coffee, sandwiches, and light meals at the airport café. The duty-free shop stocks local wines, spirits, perfumes, cosmetics, and traditional Cypriot products.
Transportation to and from Paphos International Airport
Reaching Paphos city center and the surrounding resort areas is straightforward, with several transport options available depending on your budget and destination.
Getting to and from Paphos International Airport by Car
The airport connects directly to the A6 motorway, which runs east toward Limassol and links to the B6 coastal road into Paphos town. Traffic is generally light, though summer weekends can see increased volumes heading toward Coral Bay and the Akamas Peninsula. The drive to Paphos harbor takes approximately 15 minutes, while Coral Bay is around 25 minutes away.
Short-term parking is located directly opposite the terminal building, a 1-minute walk from the check-in desks. Long-term parking is situated a short 3-minute walk from the terminal. Parking rates start at approximately $4.00 per hour for short-term parking. Long-term parking costs around $12.00 per day when booked in advance through online platforms.
Several private parking operators near the airport offer undercover and open-air options starting from approximately $3.50 per day. These include Auto Air Park Paphos and SF Paphos Airport Parking, both located roughly 2 kilometers from the terminal. Many provide complimentary shuttle transfers taking 3 to 5 minutes. Park and fly packages are available at select hotels near the airport, including properties along the Tomb of the Kings road.
Pre-booking parking online is strongly recommended, especially between June and September when spaces fill quickly. A cell phone waiting lot is not formally designated, but drivers can wait briefly at the short-term parking area for arrivals.
Curbside drop-off is permitted at the departures entrance. The time limit is approximately 5 minutes, and vehicles must not be left unattended. Security personnel actively monitor the drop-off zone, and unattended vehicles may be towed.
Getting to and from Paphos International Airport by Rideshare or Taxi
Rideshare services like Uber and Bolt operate in the Paphos area. Taxis are readily available outside the Arrivals hall. The taxi rank is located directly outside the terminal exit, and no shuttle is required to access it.
To request a rideshare, open your app after collecting luggage and set your pickup location. Drivers typically meet passengers at the designated taxi and rideshare pickup zone just beyond the terminal doors. Fares to Paphos city center range from approximately $25 to $35 for a taxi, while rideshare services may be slightly cheaper. The journey to Coral Bay costs around $40 to $50. Taxis accept both cash in euros and card payments, though confirming with the driver before starting the journey is advisable.
Getting to and from Paphos International Airport by Public Transportation
Pafos Transport Organization (OSYPA Ltd) operates the public bus service connecting the airport to Paphos city. Bus route 612 serves the airport directly, running between the airport and Paphos city center. The bus stop is located on the main road approximately 200 meters from the terminal, a 2-minute walk from Arrivals.
The bus journey to Paphos city center takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day, and no advance booking is required. Simply board and pay the driver directly.
| Route | First Bus | Last Bus | Frequency | Fare |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus 612 (Airport to Paphos City) | Approximately 12:01 AM | Approximately 11:41 PM | Every 30 to 60 minutes | $3.00 |
| Bus 631 (Connects to Tombs of Kings area) | Approximately 7:35 AM | Approximately 10:43 PM | Every 60 to 90 minutes | $3.00 |
Key Amenities at Paphos International Airport
ATMs
ATMs are located in the Arrivals hall and the Departures lounge after security. Banks represented include Hellenic Bank and Bank of Cyprus. All ATMs dispense euros and accept major international cards.
Lost and Found
The lost and found service is managed by Hermes Airports. The office is located in the Arrivals area. For inquiries, call the airport at +357 25 123022. Items found at security checkpoints are held for 30 days before being disposed of according to airport policy.
Luggage Services
Luggage carts are available in the check-in area and Arrivals hall. Baggage wrapping services are offered near the check-in desks during peak hours, costing approximately $10.00 per bag. There are no luggage storage lockers at the airport.
Pets
Pets must remain in their carriers at all times inside the terminal. A small outdoor pet relief area is located near the parking facilities. Travelers flying with pets should contact their airline in advance for specific crate requirements and documentation needed for entry into Cyprus.
Showers
Public showers are not available at Paphos International Airport. Shower facilities are accessible exclusively through the Premium Lounge after security.
Currency Exchange
A currency exchange counter operates in the Departures lounge, offering euro buy and sell transactions along with other major currencies. Exchange rates at the airport are typically less favorable than in Paphos town, so exchanging only small amounts at the airport is recommended.
Smoking Area
Smoking is prohibited inside the terminal building. Designated outdoor smoking zones are situated before security near the terminal entrance and after security on the outdoor terrace accessible from the departures lounge.
Terminal Building Features
The terminal is fully air-conditioned with high ceilings and ample natural light. Seating areas are plentiful, and the compact layout ensures easy navigation. Accessibility features include ramps, elevators, and wheelchair-accessible restrooms throughout.
WiFi
Free WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Connect to the "Hermes Airports" network and follow the on-screen registration. No time limits apply. Charging stations with USB ports and power outlets are located near seating areas in the Departures lounge.
Other Amenities
An information desk operates during flight hours in the check-in area. Medical first aid services are available upon request through airport staff. A small chapel and prayer room are located near the check-in desks, offering a quiet space for reflection.
Airport Lounges at Paphos International Airport
Paphos International Airport offers one lounge accessible to all passengers regardless of airline or ticket class. The Premium Lounge provides a comfortable retreat from the main departures area.
Airline Lounges at Paphos International Airport
There are no airline-specific lounges at Paphos International Airport. All passengers with lounge access use the shared Premium Lounge facility.
Premium Lounge
- Location: Airside, opposite Gate 7 on the upper level of the Departures lounge.
- Standout features: The lounge offers comfortable seating, complimentary standard alcoholic beverages for guests over 18, soft drinks, coffee, light snacks, flight information displays, and an air-conditioned environment. Digital cards are accepted for entry.
- How to access: Access is available through Priority Pass membership, certain credit card benefits, or by purchasing a day pass at the door for approximately $30.00 per person. Children under two years old enter free of charge. Space is limited and entry restrictions may apply during peak periods.
Priority Pass Lounges at Paphos International Airport
Priority Pass members have access to the Premium Lounge described above. There are no additional Priority Pass-affiliated restaurants, spas, or game rooms at this airport. All major credit card issuers that offer Priority Pass benefits are accepted, though capacity controls may limit access during peak summer travel periods.
| Lounge Name | Location | Access Method | Day Pass Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premium Lounge | Airside, opposite Gate 7 | Priority Pass, credit card, day pass | $30.00 | Light snacks, drinks, WiFi, flight displays, air conditioning |
Other Airports in the Region
Cyprus has two functioning international airports serving civilian passengers. Travelers heading to western Cyprus sometimes consider the following alternative:
Larnaca International Airport (LCA)
- Distance to Paphos city center: Approximately 135 km (around 1 hour 30 minutes by car via the A6 motorway).
- Best for: Travelers staying in eastern Cyprus, including Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Larnaca itself. Also suitable for those visiting Nicosia, which sits roughly equidistant between the two airports.
- Unique advantages: Larnaca is the larger of Cyprus's two airports, serving more airlines and destinations. It offers a wider selection of lounges, including the Aspire Aphrodite Lounge. Parking options are more extensive, and the terminal has more dining and shopping choices.
- Recommended for: Travelers who cannot find direct flights to Paphos or those whose final destination lies east of Limassol.
Paphos International Airport Overview
Paphos International Airport first opened to civilian traffic in 1982, replacing the old airstrip near the Tombs of the Kings. The current passenger terminal was inaugurated in 2008, part of a major modernization program by Hermes Airports. The airport serves as a joint civil-military facility, sharing its runway with the Andreas Papandreou Air Base of the Cypriot National Guard.
The airport is located 6.5 kilometers southeast of Paphos city center, in the Timi area. Its position on Cyprus's southwest coast makes it the primary entry point for travelers heading to Paphos, Coral Bay, Polis, and the Akamas Peninsula. The airport is commonly referred to locally as Paphos Airport or by its Greek name, Διεθνής Αερολιμένας Πάφου.
Passenger traffic has grown steadily, reaching approximately 3.6 million in 2024. The single runway handles all commercial and military flights, with the busiest periods occurring between April and October when European tourism peaks.
Paphos International Airport Postal Code
- Full postal code: 8507
- City: Paphos
- District: Paphos District
- Country: Cyprus
- Complete mailing address: Paphos International Airport, Timi, 8507 Paphos, Cyprus
Duty Free and Shopping at Paphos International Airport
Duty-free shopping is available for passengers departing to destinations outside the European Union. The main duty-free shop is located after security in the Departures lounge. A smaller shop operates in Arrivals for incoming passengers. The selection focuses on products that represent Cyprus and the Mediterranean region.
Popular purchases include local wines such as Commandaria (the sweet dessert wine of Cyprus), zivania (a traditional pomace brandy), olive oil, halloumi cheese (vacuum-packed for travel), and carob-based sweets. International perfumes, cosmetics, spirits, and tobacco products are also available at competitive prices.
For authentic souvenirs, the airport shop stocks items that may be slightly more expensive than Paphos town shops but offer the convenience of last-minute shopping. The Paphos old town market and harbor area offer a broader selection of handmade crafts, lace from Lefkara village, and silver jewelry at lower prices than the airport.
| Product | Category | Approximate Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Commandaria Wine 750ml | Local Wine | $15.00 - $25.00 |
| Zivania 500ml | Local Spirit | $12.00 - $18.00 |
| Cyprus Olive Oil 500ml | Gourmet Food | $10.00 - $15.00 |
| Vacuum-Packed Halloumi 250g | Local Cheese | $7.00 - $10.00 |
| Carob Syrup 250ml | Local Product | $6.00 - $9.00 |
| Perfume (Designer Brand 50ml) | Duty-Free Beauty | $50.00 - $90.00 |
| Premium Spirits 1L | Duty-Free Alcohol | $20.00 - $45.00 |
| Cyprus Delight (Loukoumi) Box | Local Confectionery | $5.00 - $8.00 |
Security Wait Times at Paphos International Airport
Security wait times at Paphos International Airport are generally manageable due to the efficient layout and single-terminal design. Current average security wait times are approximately 18 minutes. Immigration processing for arriving international passengers averages around 11 minutes. The airport uses a dual-lane passport control system: one queue for EU/EEA citizens and another for non-EU passport holders. The EU/EEA queue typically moves 40% to 60% faster.
The busiest travel periods are July, August, and December. During these months, wait times can increase by 30% to 50%. The busiest hours at security are typically 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Midday hours between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM generally see shorter queues of around 14 minutes. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are the quietest days for passenger traffic, while Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings are the busiest.
TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR are United States programs and are not available at Paphos International Airport. Travelers should arrive at least 2 hours before departure for European flights and check in online to skip queues at the check-in counter.
| Terminal | Typical Wait Time | Peak Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Main Terminal (Single Checkpoint) | 13 - 19 minutes | 6:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM |
Paphos International Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information
Departures drop-off zone: Located directly outside the terminal entrance on the upper roadway. Time limit is strictly 5 minutes. Vehicles must not be left unattended, and security staff may ask drivers to move along if waiting exceeds the limit.
Arrivals pick-up zone: Located on the ground level outside the Arrivals hall. The same 5-minute waiting rule applies. Drivers should coordinate with arriving passengers to minimize waiting time at the curb.
Cell phone lot: No formal cell phone waiting lot with amenities exists at Paphos International Airport. Drivers are advised to wait in the short-term parking area, where the first 15 minutes are free. Alternatively, the nearby gas station on the airport approach road serves as an informal waiting point.
Kiss and Fly zone: Not formally designated. Use the standard drop-off zone for quick farewells.
Commercial vehicle zones: Taxis queue at the designated rank outside Arrivals. Rideshare services pick up in the same general area. Tour buses and hotel shuttles have separate parking bays clearly marked near the Arrivals exit.
Flight Routes and Airlines at Paphos International Airport
Paphos International Airport primarily serves European routes, with a strong focus on leisure destinations. Ryanair operates a seasonal base here, positioning aircraft during the summer months. The airport is not a major hub but hosts a wide range of point-to-point services.
Ryanair connects Paphos with numerous cities including London, Rome, Milan, Krakow, Budapest, Vienna, and Athens. easyJet flies to London Gatwick and Manchester. Jet2.com offers extensive summer service from UK regional airports including Leeds Bradford, Newcastle, Birmingham, and Glasgow. TUI Airways operates holiday flights from the UK and Scandinavia. British Airways runs seasonal service from London Heathrow.
Wizz Air connects Paphos with Eastern European cities including Warsaw, Bucharest, and Budapest. Lufthansa offers seasonal service from Munich and Frankfurt. Charter airlines like Enter Air fly from Polish cities during summer.
Popular domestic destinations are limited since Nicosia International Airport remains closed. The only "domestic" route is technically to points across the Green Line. International routes dominate the schedule.
Seasonal flights peak between April and October, with the busiest period in July and August. Many routes operate only during these months, while core routes from the UK run year-round with reduced winter frequency. Booking flights for shoulder seasons (May–June or September–October) offers the best balance of availability and price.
Getting to and from Paphos International Airport
Multiple transport options connect Paphos International Airport with Paphos town, surrounding resorts, and cities across Cyprus. Choosing the right option depends on your destination, budget, and travel style.
Car Rental at Paphos International Airport
Car rental is the most popular way to explore western Cyprus, giving travelers freedom to visit remote beaches, mountain villages, and archaeological sites that public transport does not reach. The car rental desks are conveniently located in the Arrivals hall, just after baggage claim.
International companies operating at the airport include SIXT, Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, and Europcar. Local Cypriot companies such as Elephant Rent A Car, AUTOrent, and Get Your Car also have desks in Arrivals. The variety means competitive pricing and the ability to choose from economy cars (ideal for Paphos old town), SUVs (recommended for Akamas Peninsula tracks), convertibles (perfect for coastal roads), and minivans for families.
All desks are in the Arrivals hall, and the car pickup lot is a short 1-minute walk from the terminal. Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially for summer travel and for automatic transmission vehicles, which are in high demand. Booking at least 2 weeks ahead secures the best rates and vehicle availability. Basic insurance is included in all rentals, but excess reduction (super CDW) is advisable for peace of mind on Cyprus's sometimes narrow and winding roads.
Drivers from the UK and EU can use their domestic driving license. Visitors from other countries should carry an International Driving Permit alongside their valid license. The minimum rental age is typically 21, with a young driver surcharge for ages 21 to 25. A credit card in the main driver's name is required for the security deposit. Fuel stations are located along the main roads, with one near the airport on the B6 for refueling before returning vehicles.
Paphos International Airport Taxi Services
Taxis operate from the designated rank outside the Arrivals hall on the ground level. The fleet includes standard sedan taxis and larger vehicles for groups. Taxis in Paphos are metered, and fares are regulated by the government.
A trip to Paphos city center or Paphos Harbor costs approximately $25 to $35 and takes about 15 minutes. Coral Bay costs around $40 to $50 (25 minutes). Limassol costs approximately $90 to $120 (45 to 50 minutes). Fares increase by roughly 15% between midnight and 6:00 AM. Most drivers accept euros in cash, and a growing number now accept card payments. Confirm the payment method before starting your journey.
Private Car Services at Paphos International Airport
Pre-booked private transfers offer a premium alternative to taxis. Companies like Welcome Pickups, HolidayTaxis, and Suntransfers operate at Paphos International Airport, providing fixed-price rides with meet-and-greet service inside the Arrivals hall. This option is ideal for families with young children, business travelers, and those arriving late at night when public transport is less frequent. Prices are fixed at the time of booking, typically $35 to $45 for Paphos city center, including flight monitoring and 60 minutes of waiting time.
Bus Services at Paphos International Airport
Bus route 612 is the main public connection between the airport and Paphos city. The bus stop is on the main road, approximately 200 meters from the terminal, a 2-minute walk from Arrivals. The service runs from approximately midnight to just before midnight, making it reliable even for late-night arrivals. Buses depart every 30 to 60 minutes. The fare is $3.00 per person, payable in cash to the driver. The journey to Paphos city center takes roughly 15 to 20 minutes.
Route 631 connects the airport with the Tombs of Kings area, Coral Bay, and Aphrodite Hills. This service runs less frequently, approximately every 60 to 90 minutes, with first and last departures around 7:35 AM and 10:43 PM respectively.
Hotel Shuttles
Many major resort hotels in Paphos and Coral Bay offer complimentary or paid shuttle services for guests. Hotels offering shuttle services include the Annabelle, Almyra, Alexander The Great, Elysium, and Coral Beach Hotel & Resort. Arrangements must be made directly with the hotel at the time of booking or at least 48 hours before arrival. Some shuttles are complimentary for stays of 5 nights or more, while others charge a flat fee of $10 to $15 per person each way. Hotel shuttles wait in the designated tour bus and shuttle bays near Arrivals.
Parking at Paphos International Airport
Paphos International Airport offers several parking options catering to short-term visitors and long-term travelers.
Short-term parking: Located directly opposite the terminal, a 1-minute walk from check-in. Rates are approximately $4.00 per hour, with a daily maximum of about $18.00. Ideal for drop-offs, pick-ups, and stays under 24 hours. The first 15 minutes are often free, useful for quick drop-offs.
Long-term parking: Situated a 3-minute walk from the terminal, offering a secure option for travelers leaving their vehicles for multiple days. Daily rates start at approximately $12.00 when booked online in advance. Weekly rates offer savings, averaging around $60.00.
Economy/Budget parking: Private operators near the airport provide the most economical rates. Auto Air Park Paphos offers open-air parking from approximately $3.50 per day, with undercover options slightly higher. These lots are located about 2 kilometers from the terminal, with complimentary shuttle transfers taking 3 to 5 minutes. SF Paphos Airport Parking provides similar options with 24-hour CCTV monitoring.
All official airport parking lots accept payment by cash and card at pay stations located near the terminal exits. Pre-booking through the Hermes Airports website or third-party parking platforms secures the lowest rates and guarantees a space during peak summer periods. Electric vehicle charging stations are not currently available at the airport parking facilities, though plans for future installation have been announced.
Places to Explore Near Paphos International Airport
- Paphos Archaeological Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring remarkably preserved Roman mosaics, ancient theaters, and the Tombs of the Kings. Distance from airport: 8 km (12-minute drive).
- Paphos Harbor: The vibrant heart of the city with waterfront restaurants, the medieval Paphos Castle, and boat trips along the coast. Distance from airport: 7 km (10-minute drive).
- Aphrodite's Rock (Petra tou Romiou): The legendary birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite, a stunning sea stack formation with pebble beaches. Distance from airport: 25 km (20-minute drive east on the A6).
- Coral Bay: A crescent-shaped sandy beach with calm, shallow waters perfect for families. Restaurants, bars, and water sports line the shore. Distance from airport: 16 km (25-minute drive).
- Akamas Peninsula: A protected national park with hiking trails, the Baths of Aphrodite, Lara Bay turtle nesting beach, and rugged 4x4 tracks. Distance from airport: 40 km (45-minute drive).
- Tombs of the Kings: Large underground tombs dating back to the 4th century BC, a quieter alternative to the main archaeological park. Distance from airport: 9 km (14-minute drive).
- Kourion Archaeological Site: An impressive Greco-Roman city with a stunning hillside amphitheater overlooking the sea. Distance from airport: 50 km (40-minute drive east).
- Troodos Mountains: Cool pine forests, Byzantine monasteries, traditional villages like Omodos, and wine routes. Distance from airport: 70 km (1 hour 15-minute drive).
- Polis and Latchi: A quieter coastal area with a pebble beach, fishing harbor, and access to the Akamas Peninsula from the north. Distance from airport: 40 km (40-minute drive).
Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Paphos
Paphos enjoys a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild, wet winters. The coastal location moderates extreme temperatures, making it one of the most pleasant regions in Cyprus.
Spring (March to May): Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Wildflowers carpet the countryside, and the Akamas Peninsula is at its most beautiful. Between May and June, temperatures are warm enough for swimming, and crowds are moderate.
Summer (June to September): Temperatures range from 25°C to 34°C (77°F to 93°F). July and August are the hottest months with virtually no rainfall. The sea temperature reaches 27°C (81°F). This is peak tourist season, with crowded beaches and higher prices. Book accommodation and car rental well in advance.
Autumn (October to November): Temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). The sea remains warm enough for swimming well into November. September and October are excellent months to visit, with fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Winter (December to February): Temperatures range from 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F). Rain is frequent, but there are also sunny days. The Troodos Mountains receive snow, making it possible to ski in the morning and return to the coast in the afternoon.
The best time to visit is May to June and September to October, when the weather is warm, crowds are manageable, and flights and accommodation are reasonably priced.
Essential Travel Tips
👉 Arrival time recommendation: Arrive at Paphos International Airport at least 2 hours before departure for European flights. During peak summer months (July and August), allow 2.5 to 3 hours to account for longer check-in and security queues.
👉 Flight status checking: Monitor the Hermes Airports website or your airline's app for real-time flight updates. The airport's flight information displays show the most current departure and arrival times.
👉 Packing advice: Lightweight clothing is suitable for most of the year. Pack a light jacket or sweater for spring and autumn evenings, and a warmer coat for winter visits. High-factor sunscreen is essential from April through October. If visiting monasteries or churches, carry clothing that covers shoulders and knees for respectful entry.
👉 Currency recommendations: Cyprus uses the euro (€). Cards are widely accepted in Paphos town, but smaller villages and some tavernas prefer cash. ATMs at the airport dispense euros at good exchange rates. Notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks.
👉 Language considerations: Greek is the official language, but English is widely spoken throughout tourist areas, including at the airport, in hotels, and in restaurants. Road signs are in both Greek and English.
👉 Documentation requirements: EU citizens need a valid passport or national ID card. Non-EU citizens require a passport valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay. Check visa requirements before traveling; Cyprus is in the EU but not the Schengen Area.
👉 Driver license requirements: UK and EU licenses are valid. Visitors from other countries should carry an International Driving Permit. Cyprus drives on the left-hand side of the road.
👉 Fuel stations: A fuel station on the B6 near the airport is convenient for refueling rental cars before return. Most stations accept credit cards, but some require payment inside the kiosk.
About the City
Paphos is a city where mythology meets Mediterranean beauty. According to legend, this is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, who emerged from the sea foam near the rock that now bears her name. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its outstanding ancient monuments, including Roman villas with exquisite floor mosaics that rank among the finest in the Mediterranean.
With a population of approximately 90,000, Paphos balances tourist infrastructure with authentic Cypriot character. The city divides naturally into two areas: Kato Paphos (Lower Paphos) near the harbor, where most archaeological sites and tourist facilities cluster, and Pano Paphos (Upper Paphos), the traditional town center with local shops and markets.
Cypriot cuisine is a highlight of any visit. Local specialties include souvlaki (grilled meat skewers), moussaka, sheftalia (grilled sausage parcels), and the famous halloumi cheese. Fresh seafood is excellent at harbor-side tavernas. For dessert, try loukoumades (honey-soaked dough balls) or a slice of baklava. Meze, a multi-course feast of small dishes, is the traditional way to experience the full range of Cypriot flavors.
Cultural attractions extend beyond the ancient sites. The Byzantine Museum houses a fine collection of icons. The Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church contains St. Paul's Pillar, where the apostle was allegedly tied and flogged. The modern art gallery at the city center showcases contemporary Cypriot artists. Paphos is an excellent base for exploring western Cyprus, offering a compact, walkable center with good transport links and a relaxed Mediterranean rhythm.
Start Your Journey at Paphos International Airport
Touching down at Paphos International Airport places you at the threshold of one of the Mediterranean's most rewarding destinations. From the moment you collect your luggage, the promise of sun-soaked beaches, ancient ruins, and mountain villages lies just a short drive away.
Public transport connects you to Paphos town center, but to truly unlock western Cyprus, a rental car is the key. Having your own vehicle means the freedom to chase sunsets at Coral Bay, discover the wild beauty of the Akamas Peninsula, or find that hidden taverna in the Troodos foothills. Many of the region's most memorable experiences lie far from bus routes.
Booking your rental car in advance through our comparison tool at Paphos International Airport ensures the widest choice of vehicles, the best rates, and a smooth start to your journey. Collect your keys, load your luggage, and within minutes you can be cruising the coastal road with the Mediterranean Sea shimmering beside you.
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