Paphos is the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite and one of the most historically significant cities in the Mediterranean. Located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, it was the capital of the island in Hellenistic and Roman times and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town is divided into two parts: Kato Paphos, the lower town with the harbour, the archaeological park, and the tourist amenities; and Pano Paphos (Ktima), the upper town with the shops, the municipal gardens, and the old town character. Hiring a car here lets you explore the Tomb of the Kings, the mosaics of the Houses of Dionysus and Theseus, the birthplace of Aphrodite at Petra tou Romiou, and the Troodos Mountains. For a wider itinerary, compare Cyprus car hire guide, car hire in Larnaca and car hire in Ayia Napa before choosing the pickup point.

We compare Avis, Hertz, Europcar and local operators in Paphos. Compact cars start around €14/day in low season and €25–€40/day in summer. Paphos International Airport is 15 kilometres southeast of the city.

Why Hire a Car in Paphos

• The Archaeological Park: Kato Paphos is a vast open-air museum of Hellenistic and Roman ruins. The Houses of Dionysus, Theseus, Aion, and Orpheus have mosaic floors that are among the finest in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Saranta Kolones fortress, the Odeon, and the Asklepion are also in the park.
• The Tomb of the Kings: A necropolis of underground tombs carved out of solid rock, dating from the 4th century BC. Despite the name, no kings were buried here — it was the resting place of high officials and aristocrats. The scale and complexity are extraordinary.
• Petra tou Romiou: 25 kilometres east. The legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, goddess of love. According to myth, she emerged from the foam of the sea at this stack of rocks. The sunset here is spectacular.
• The Akamas Peninsula: 20 kilometres north. A national park of wild coastline, gorges, and rare flora and fauna. The Baths of Aphrodite, where the goddess is said to have bathed, are at the entrance. The Blue Lagoon is a highlight.
• Troodos Mountains: 1.5 hours northeast. The highest peak in Cyprus (Mount Olympus, 1,952 metres), with pine forests, Byzantine churches, and ski slopes in winter. The Kykkos Monastery is the richest and most famous monastery on the island.
• Limassol: 1 hour east. Cyprus’s second-largest city, with a castle, a marina, and a long beachfront promenade.

Driving in Paphos and Cyprus

Cyprus drives on the left (British colonial legacy). The A6 motorway connects Paphos to Limassol (1 hour) and the A1 to Nicosia (2 hours). The roads are good, but mountain roads to Troodos are winding. Speed limits are 100 km/h on highways, 80 km/h on rural roads and 50 km/h in towns.

Parking in Kato Paphos is in designated areas near the harbour and the archaeological park. At the Tomb of the Kings, parking is free. In the Akamas, use the car parks at the trailheads.

Booking Tips for Paphos

• Book 3–4 weeks ahead for summer (July–August).
• If visiting the archaeological sites, wear comfortable shoes and bring water — there is little shade.
• GPS is essential — the road signs are limited, especially in the Akamas.
• If combining with Limassol, the drive is 1 hour east.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Hire in Paphos

Is Paphos worth visiting? Yes — it is one of the most historically rich cities in the Mediterranean, with world-class archaeology, mythology, and beaches.

Do I need an SUV? No — a compact car is fine for the city, the coast, and Troodos. An SUV is only needed for rough tracks in the Akamas.

Is Paphos family-friendly? Very — the beaches are safe, the archaeology is fascinating for older children, and there are water parks and family activities.