Paphos Castle: A Coastal Fortress Through the Ages
Explore Paphos Castle, a historic fortress on Paphos Harbour, with Byzantine roots, Ottoman reconstruction, and panoramic views, offering a glimpse into Cyprus's rich past.
Paphos Castle, a prominent landmark on Paphos Harbour, boasts a rich history spanning from its Byzantine origins to its Ottoman reconstruction. Originally built as a Byzantine fortress to protect the harbor, it was rebuilt by the Lusignans in the 13th century and later dismantled by the Venetians. The Ottomans reconstructed it in 1592, and today, visitors can explore the castle's interior, including its central hall, prison cells, and rooftop battlements, which offer panoramic views of the harbor. The castle has served various purposes throughout its history, including a fortress, a prison, and even a salt storage facility during British rule. Today, it hosts cultural events and is a must-see attraction for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Its strategic location next to Nea Archaeological Park further enhances its appeal, making it a key part of any Paphos itinerary. Don't miss the chance to witness the sunset from its rooftop for an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Paphos Castle
- QC34+FQ4, Kato Paphos Harbour, Coastal Broadwalk, Paphos, CY
- +35726306217
- Visit website
- Monday 8:30 am-7:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:30 am-7:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:30 am-7:30 pm
- Thursday 8:30 am-7:30 pm
- Friday 8:30 am-7:30 pm
- Saturday 8:30 am-7:30 pm
- Sunday 8:30 am-7:30 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak summer months.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking on uneven surfaces and climbing stairs to reach the rooftop battlements.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Paphos Archaeological Park to explore more of Paphos's ancient history.
- Check the schedule for cultural events, such as the Aphrodite Festival, to enhance your visit with a unique performance.
- Bring your camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of Paphos Harbour and the Mediterranean Sea from the castle's rooftop.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Kato Paphos Main Bus Station, walk east along the coastal road for approximately 5 minutes. The castle is located at the end of the harbor promenade, easily visible from most points in the area. Look for signs directing you towards the Paphos Archaeological Park and harbor; the castle is adjacent to the park's entrance.
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Public Transport
If arriving by bus from other parts of Paphos, take any bus that stops at the Kato Paphos Main Bus Station (Harbour Station). Bus routes 610, 611, and 615 are common routes. From the bus station, it's a short 5-minute walk to the castle. A single bus fare within Paphos is typically €2.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from anywhere in Kato Paphos to the castle should cost approximately €8-€12. Simply ask to be dropped off at Paphos Castle or Paphos Harbour. The drop-off point is very close to the castle entrance.
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Driving
If driving, follow signs to Paphos Harbour. There is a large paid parking area near the harbor. Parking fees vary, but expect to pay around €0.20 per hour on weekdays. Payment can be made via the “Paphos Now” app, by texting the parking bay number to 9191, or by using the “PafosSmartParking” app. Alternatively, there is a small free parking area near the hop-on-hop-off bus stop, but spaces are limited.
Discover more about Paphos Castle
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Pier Paphos Castle View
0.2 km
Experience stunning views of the Mediterranean and Paphos Castle from the serene observation deck of Pier Paphos Castle View.
Ruins of Old Fort
0.2 km
Uncover the captivating history and stunning views at the Ruins of Old Fort, a must-see historical landmark in Paphos, Cyprus.
Pafos Archeological Park, Visitor Center
0.3 km
Explore the ancient wonders of Pafos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring stunning mosaics and rich historical significance.
Tom's meeting point
0.4 km
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Early Roman House
0.4 km
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Early Christian House
0.5 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kepuneia
0.1 km
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En Plo, Gallery
0.1 km
Explore contemporary art at En Plo Gallery in Paphos, Cyprus, and immerse yourself in the island's vibrant cultural scene.
Λιμανάκι Πάφου
0.2 km
Discover Paphos Harbour: Where ancient history meets modern charm on the sun-kissed shores of Cyprus, offering a blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty.
View point
0.2 km
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The Pahos Super Jumbo Real Glass Bottom Boat
0.2 km
Discover Paphos's underwater world aboard the Super Jumbo St. Raphael, the largest glass-bottom boat, for a unique marine adventure!
Wave Dancer Cruises & Events
0.2 km
Experience the beauty of Paphos Harbour with Wave Dancer Cruises – a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation on the Mediterranean Sea.
Basilica of Panagia Limeniotissa
0.2 km
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Paphos Promenade
0.3 km
Experience the allure of Paphos Promenade: a captivating coastal destination blending history, culture, and stunning Mediterranean views for an unforgettable Cypriot escape.
Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos
0.3 km
Explore the remarkably preserved ruins of Nea Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and step back in time to discover the rich history and cultural heritage of ancient Cyprus.
Kato Pafos Archaeological Park
0.3 km
Explore Kato Pafos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Cyprus, showcasing exquisite mosaics and ancient ruins that tell the story of civilizations.
House of Aion
0.4 km
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Sunset Viewpoint
0.4 km
Experience breathtaking sunset views over the Mediterranean Sea from this tranquil Paphos vantage point, perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and romantic escapes.
Achilles' Mosaic
0.4 km
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Villa of Theseus
0.4 km
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Paphos Mosaics
0.4 km
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Essential places to dine
Sail At Castle
0.2 km
Experience exquisite modern European cuisine with Mediterranean flair at Sail At Castle in Paphos Harbour.
Pelican Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience exquisite seafood dining at Pelican Restaurant in Paphos Harbour with stunning views and delightful local flavors.
Theo's Restaurant
0.2 km
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Kings Restaurant
0.3 km
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Solemio
0.5 km
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The Harbour
0.5 km
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The Moorings Cafe restaurant
0.5 km
Discover the flavors of Cyprus at The Moorings Cafe - where every meal is accompanied by stunning sea views and exceptional service.
Captain's Bistro
0.5 km
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Captain’s View
0.5 km
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Mar Bianco
0.6 km
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Bacchus Restaurant Cafe
0.6 km
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Hondros - The oldest traditional tavern
0.7 km
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Saigon Vietnamese Food
0.7 km
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Mother's Restaurant
0.7 km
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INCANTO
0.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sea View Souvenir & Gift Shop.
0.5 km
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Station of Traditional Products & Gifts.
0.5 km
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BLUE Memories
0.5 km
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Have A Look Souvenir & Gift Shop.
0.6 km
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Neldi Art Gallery
0.6 km
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BorsaBella
0.6 km
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April Shop
0.6 km
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More4Less
0.6 km
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Papantoniou Supermarket Kato Paphos
0.6 km
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Aphrodite's Secret
0.7 km
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Antoniou & Kyriacou
0.7 km
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Artesanato
0.7 km
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Natural Choice Cyprus
0.7 km
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The Coffee Alchemist
0.8 km
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L&K Principles Accessories & Gifts
0.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Wooden Pub
0.6 km
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The Rose Pub
0.8 km
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The Bottle Bank Pub Cafe
0.8 km
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Alea Allday Lifestyle
0.9 km
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Buzz Bar
0.9 km
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Aces Bar
0.9 km
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Waterhole Bar
0.9 km
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Different Bar
0.9 km
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Flintstones
0.9 km
Flintstones Bar in Paphos: A unique nightlife experience with friendly service and a vibrant atmosphere inspired by your favorite cartoon.
Baywatch
1.0 km
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Robin Hood Pub Paphos
1.0 km
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Friends Resto Bar
1.0 km
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Red Lion Bar
1.0 km
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Why Not?
1.1 km
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The Meeting Pub
1.1 km
Experience the friendly ambiance and local flavors at The Meeting Pub in Paphos, where every visit feels like coming home.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rainbow Club Paphos
1.0 km
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Tropical nights
1.0 km
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Boogies Karaoke Club
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Boogies Karaoke Club in Paphos, Cyprus, where every night is filled with music, fun, and unforgettable memories.
Flairs
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Flairs, Paphos' top night club offering a dynamic atmosphere and unforgettable dance parties.
Heavenlapdanceclub
1.1 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Paphos at Heaven Lap Dance Club, where electrifying performances and a dynamic atmosphere await.
stursky and hutch
1.1 km
Discover the pulsating nightlife of Paphos at Stursky and Hutch, where vibrant music and energetic dancing await you.
Vibes Club
1.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Vibes Club in Paphos, where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments await every night.
Phoenix Social Club
1.2 km
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Loft Club
1.2 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Paphos at Loft Club, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories come alive every weekend.
Planeta Karaoke Club
1.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Planeta Karaoke Club in Paphos, where singing, dancing, and unforgettable moments come alive in Cyprus.
Bank Nightclub
3.0 km
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Studio54 Retro Club Paphos
5.7 km
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