Where to stay in Paphos: 5 districts and the best hotels in each

Paphos has five main districts, and you can stay in any of them. The nightly rate, the walk to the beach, and the evening scene all depend on your choice.

Some people book apartments in Kato Paphos and walk to the sea. Others stay in Ktima to pay less and have dinner at local tavernas.

We broke down all five districts by the facts: where they are, who they suit, how much accommodation costs, and what to see nearby. Prices and opening hours below are given with the date they were checked.

Ad: this article contains affiliate links, we earn a commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.

A guide to Paphos districts: where to stay

💡 In short:

• First visit, harbor and park on foot: Kato Paphos
• Budget and local tavernas: Ktima
• Bars, theaters and nightlife: Moutallos
• Quiet and boutique hotels: Chloraka
• Sandy beach and a family holiday: Yeroskipou
• Prices, tickets and opening hours: 09/2026, checked on the official Visit Cyprus website

© Jules Verne Times Two · CC BY-SAPhoto: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Paphos is divided into the lower town by the sea and the upper town on the hill. You can get between them by bus in 10 minutes (according to the map).

Choosing a district in Paphos rarely comes down to distance. It comes down to how you want to spend your evening and how much you are willing to pay per night. Below are five options with hotels and the honest catch of each.

Accommodation prices vary not only between districts but also by season. The upper town is cheaper than the coastal strip, and the difference between winter and August is noticeable in every district.

Our pick: which district suits you best

Kato Paphos

The lower town by the harbor: the promenade, the archaeological park and most of the hotels within a short walk of the water.

© China Crisis · CC BY-SAPhoto: China Crisis, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Ktima

The upper town with the market, Kennedy Square and the lowest accommodation prices.

© Viaggiamocela · CC BY-SAPhoto: Viaggiamocela, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Moutallos

The historic old town quarter: bars, restaurants and theaters within walking distance.

© greglaskiewicz · CC BYPhoto: greglaskiewicz, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Chloraka

A coastal village west of the center: boutique hotels, sea views and quiet.

© Chris06 · CC BY-SAPhoto: Chris06, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

Yeroskipou

A village east of the harbor with a sandy beach, a relaxed pace and the airport nearby.

© Berthold Werner · CC BY-SAPhoto: Berthold Werner, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

1. Kato Paphos: where to stay on your first visit

Kato Paphos occupies the lower town between the harbor and the sea. It is home to the Paphos Archaeological Park, Paphos Castle, the promenade and most of the hotels. From the center of the district you can reach the water in 5-10 minutes (according to the map).

© Fry72, Karel Frydrýšek · CC BY-SAPhoto: Fry72, Karel Frydrýšek, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), Wikimedia Commons

The area suits those visiting Paphos for the first time who don't want to rent a car. Buses run regularly here.

The catch is noticeable. In July and August it gets crowded, and accommodation prices go up. For a sunbed by the promenade, it's better to come in the morning; by midday there are almost no free spots.

The promenade stretches along the shore past the harbor and beaches. In the morning people run here, during the day they swim, and in the evening they have dinner at waterfront restaurants. From the harbor you can walk to the Tombs of the Kings in about 30 minutes or ride a couple of stops by bus (per the map).

On foot from Kato Paphos you can reach the archaeological park, where the mosaic floors of the House of Dionysus and the House of Theseus are preserved. These mosaics are considered among the best in the Mediterranean; park admission costs €4.50 (as of 09/2026, Archaeological Park on Visit Cyprus). The Odeon is nearby, and beaches and water sports rental points line the shore.

Accommodation in the area varies: from cheap apartments to seafront hotels. You won't need a car, and the selection here is the widest in Paphos.

• Who it's for: first visit, couples, those who want to walk everywhere

• Not for: those seeking quiet and local atmosphere away from tourist streets

• To the airport: about 20 minutes by car (per the map)

• Budget: from budget apartments to seafront hotels

• The catch: crowded and pricier than usual in high season

What to see in Kato Paphos

• Walk along the harbor to the medieval Paphos Castle.

• Find the ruins of the Saranta Kolones fortress inside the archaeological park.

• Explore the Paphos Archaeological Park: it has been part of a UNESCO site since 1980 (per Visit Cyprus: Kato Paphos park).

• Visit the House of Dionysus and the House of Theseus with their mosaic floors.

• Take a ready-made tour if you don't want to deal with logistics: tickets and entry are already included. Half-day Paphos tour

• Sunbathe and try SUP, water skiing, or parasailing.

• Catch the sunset on the promenade with a view of the harbor.

Tickets and opening hours (as of 09/2026)

We checked the table rows on 12.09.2026 on the official Visit Cyprus and Pafos Buses websites. In summer the park is open until 19:30, in winter until 17:00, so a morning visit is more comfortable in the heat. For city tours and tickets to the area's museums, see Tiqets.

Best hotel: Anemi Hotel and Suites

Anemi Hotel and Suites is located in the center of Kato Paphos. You can walk to the harbor, beach, and the area's main attractions. The hotel has a pool, fitness center, and sun terrace.

Both couples and families book this hotel: the amenities are designed with children in mind. It wins on location; you won't need a car.

• Who it's for: couples and families who want to stay by the sea

• Location: center of Kato Paphos, harbor and beach within walking distance (per the map)

• Price: mid-range for the area, check rates for your dates on Trip.com

• The catch: the area is noisy in high season, and prices go up

Best apartments: 1 Bedroom apartment close to the beach

The apartment is located in the very center of Kato Paphos. You can walk to the beach, the harbor, and restaurants in a few minutes.

Inside there is a large double bed, a separate living room, and a fully equipped kitchen. The terrace is a good spot for coffee before heading out into the city.

• Who it's for: couples and friends who cook for themselves

• Location: center of the area, everything within walking distance (see map)

• The catch: this is a popular option, open dates appear a few weeks in advance

Best Airbnb option: panoramic seaview studio

The Panoramic Seaview studio overlooks Paphos harbor. Breakfast is included and served at the host's restaurant, which is rare for a rental.

Inside there is a cozy bedroom, a spacious bathroom, and a kitchen. You can walk to the harbor, beach, bars, and cafes in a couple of minutes.

• Who it's for: couples who want a harbor view and breakfast

• Location: center of Kato Paphos (see map)

2. Ktima: where to stay on a small budget

Ktima occupies the upper town and is also called Pano Paphos. Accommodation here is cheaper than by the sea, and tavernas keep prices for locals.

Around Kennedy Square and the old market you'll find independent cafes, shops, and inexpensive food. Nearby lies the Moutallos quarter with its narrow streets.

You can reach Kato Paphos and the beach by bus or car.

In winter, Ktima wins twice over. Paphos has mild weather and fewer tourists, and accommodation prices in the upper town drop even lower. If you plan to live here for a month, the area works well: cafes, the market, and buses are all nearby.

The market in Ktima has been renovated, and now it sells local products, wine, and souvenirs. Kennedy Square functions as the heart of the area: cafes, bakeries, and shops surround it. Food in the upper town costs less than at the harbor, and in the evening you can see the sea and sunset from the squares.

For a long stay, Ktima is more convenient than Kato Paphos. Groceries are cheaper here, and the noise of the promenade doesn't keep you up at night.

• Who it's for: budget trips, long visits, local atmosphere

• Not for: those who want to step out of their hotel straight onto the beach

• To the airport: about 25 minutes by car (according to the map)

• Transport: buses connect Ktima with Kato Paphos and the beaches

• Budget: the lowest in Paphos

• The catch: not within walking distance of the sea, you need a bus or car

© greglaskiewicz · CC BYPhoto: greglaskiewicz, CC BY (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

What to see in Ktima

• Walk through the streets of Moutallos, one of the oldest quarters of the city.

• Stop by Kennedy Square and the renovated market: products, souvenirs, and inexpensive cafes.

• Take a day trip to Troodos: mountains, villages, and wine tasting at a winery. The Troodos trip from Paphos runs with multiple pickup points.

• Sit in the coffee shops on Pafias Aphroditis Street and in the neighboring alleys.

• Have dinner at a family-run taverna in the upper town.

• See icons and church art at the Byzantine Museum of Paphos.

• Walk down past the Agia Solomoni catacombs to Kato Paphos.

• Catch the sunset from the upper town: from there you can see the whole coast.

Best hotel: Kiniras Traditional Hotel and Restaurant

Kiniras Traditional Hotel and Restaurant occupies a restored historic building in the center of Ktima. The traditional interior is complemented by a sun terrace and a bar.

Rooms have a minibar, refrigerator, and kitchenette. The hotel restaurant serves both breakfast and dinner.

• Who it's for: couples who value the character of the building

• Location: center of Ktima, Kennedy Square nearby (according to the map)

• Price: mid-range for the upper town, check prices for your dates on Trip.com

Best hostel: Bee Hostel Paphos

Bee Hostel Paphos stands in the city center, close to cafes, bars, and bus stops. For a solo traveler, it's a convenient starting point.

The hostel has mixed, female-only, and male-only dorms, with curtains and a locker at each bed. Bed linen and towels are included in the price.

• Who it's for: solo travelers and budget trips

• Location: center of Paphos (according to the map)

• Price: low range, check availability for your dates on Trip.com

• The catch: the place is popular, so book well in advance

Best Airbnb option: Sappho Manor

Sappho Manor is not in Ktima but in Drouseia, on the edge of the Akamas Peninsula. It's a countryside alternative for those tired of city noise.

The studios are simple but comfortable: guests have access to a shared kitchen and a pool. For a budget trip, it's a good value option.

• Who it's for: couples and solo travelers who drive

• Location: the village of Drouseia, you need to drive to Paphos (according to the map)

• The catch: you'll need a car to reach the harbor and the beaches of Paphos

3. Moutallos: where to stay for nightlife

Moutallos lies on the edge of Paphos's old town. From here you can walk to the bars, restaurants, and evening venues of Ktima.

During the day the area is quiet: historic streets, independent cafes, local residents. In the evening the streets fill up, and that's the main difference between Moutallos and the promenade.

Accommodation here is cheaper than in Kato Paphos, and you don't need a taxi. You can reach Kato Paphos and the beach by bus.

In the evening the area works as an extension of Ktima. You have dinner in the old town, listen to music, and walk back to your hotel without a taxi.

The area's theaters include Markideio and Attikon: they host concerts, comedy shows, and cultural evenings. During the day in Moutallos it's interesting to look at the old houses and doors, and in the evening the bar signs light up. Moutallos is small, and you can cover its streets in a single walk.

Moutallos's streets are narrow, so leaving a car here is inconvenient. If you arrive in your own vehicle, look for accommodation with courtyard parking and confirm it when booking.

Nightlife is concentrated in a few blocks near the old town. From any point in the area you can walk to the bars in 5-10 minutes (according to the map).

• Who it's for: nightlife, couples, those who want bars within walking distance

• Not for: families with small children and early risers

• To the airport: about 25 minutes by car (according to the map)

• Transport: on foot, buses to Kato Paphos and the beach

• Budget: cheap and mid-range

• The catch: the area is noisy from bars in the evenings

AIIllustrative image: AI-generated

What to see in Moutallos

• Have dinner at a bar or restaurant in the old town.

• Listen to live music at Markideio Theatre.

• Go on an evening cruise with dinner, drinks, music, and fireworks. Cruise with a show from Paphos

• See a concert or comedy show at Attikon Theatre.

• Walk through the evening streets and take in the old town.

• Find a wine bar or a late-night coffee shop in the neighboring blocks.

Best hotel: Axiothea Hotel

Axiothea Hotel operates as a family-run hotel in the heart of the old town. The windows look out over the Mediterranean Sea, and breakfast is included.

The hotel has a small art gallery and a bar. The rooms are simple, but come with air conditioning, a fridge, and a private bathroom.

• Who it's for: couples and travelers who want local character and a central location

• Location: old town, bars and restaurants within walking distance (see map)

• Price: mid-range for the center, check rates for your dates on Trip.com

• The catch: rooms are simple, no frills

Best hostel: The Hostel Inn Paphos

The Hostel Inn Paphos is a good fit if you want to stay near the old town nightlife and spend less. It has dorms and private rooms.

Guests have access to a shared kitchen, a garden, and common areas for relaxing. The vibe is laid-back, so meeting other travelers is easy.

• Who it's for: solo travelers and backpackers

• Location: walking distance to bars, restaurants, and buses (see map)

• Price: budget level, check availability for your dates on Trip.com

Best Airbnb option: Royal Seacrest Crown apartment

Royal Seacrest Crown apartment is located in the city center. Inside there are two bedrooms, a spacious living room, a fully equipped kitchen, and a bathroom.

There's an outdoor pool in the courtyard, and you can walk to bars, restaurants, and cafes.

• Who it's for: couples and small groups

• Location: Paphos center, pool in the courtyard (see map)

• The catch: you'll need to drive to the beach, it's too far to walk

4. Chloraka: where to stay for peace and quiet

Chloraka stretches along the coast west of central Paphos. It's a few minutes' drive from the harbor, and the pace of life here is noticeably calmer.

Villas and small hotels line the shore, with several good restaurants nearby. You can reach Peyia and Coral Bay in 10-15 minutes (per the map).

The area is convenient for walks: the Avakas Gorge and the trails of the Akamas Peninsula start close by. In the evening, it's worth heading to the shore for the sunset.

Chloraka begins right after Kato Paphos and extends west along the road to Coral Bay. Hotels and apartments sit away from the main road, so the area stays quiet even in high season.

The Avakas Gorge is considered one of the most impressive hiking trails in Cyprus, and the Aphrodite Trail leads to views over the Akamas Peninsula. Peyia and Coral Bay lie west of Chloraka: that's where the sandy beaches, restaurants, and cafes are concentrated, so locals head there for a beach day.

From here, it's easy to take day trips to Peyia, Coral Bay, and the Avakas Gorge. You'll come back to quiet lodging rather than a noisy promenade.

• Who it's for: couples, walkers, anyone looking for peace and quiet

• Not for: those who want to be in the middle of the nightlife

• To the airport: about 30 minutes by car (per the map)

• Transport: buses to Kato Paphos and Coral Bay, a car is more convenient

• Budget: mid-range and above

• The catch: less flexibility without a car, buses run less frequently

What to see in Chloraka

• Walk the coastal path along Chloraka.

• Do yoga in a villa with a sea view: part of the booking goes to animal welfare. Puppy yoga in Peyia

• Swim at St. George Beach, a quiet beach with sunset views.

• Drive to Peyia and Coral Bay for beaches, restaurants, and cafes.

• Hike the Avakas Gorge, one of Cyprus's most striking routes.

• Climb the Aphrodite Trail to views over the Akamas Peninsula.

• Catch the sunset on the shore.

Best apartments: Chloraka Terrace Apartments

Chloraka Terrace Apartments offers modern apartments with an outdoor pool, jacuzzi, and sea views. Every unit has a kitchen.

You can reach the Tombs of the Kings and Paphos's main sights in a few minutes by car.

• Who it's for: couples and families who want a pool and sea views

• Location: a quiet part of Chloraka, a drive from central Paphos (per the map)

• Price: mid-range for Chloraka, check rates for your dates on Trip.com

Best budget apartments: Livia's Apartments

Livia's Apartments offers a simple, affordable base near Paphos. The studios are spacious: a large double bed, a private terrace, and a kitchenette.

Shops, restaurants, and the main sights are a drive away.

• Who it's for: those planning to spend their days out and about

• Location: a quiet part of Chloraka (per the map)

• The catch: the kitchen is basic: fridge, toaster, and kettle

Best Airbnb option: Panoramic Eden

Panoramic Eden suits families: the windows look out over the sea and the city. The apartment has a kitchen, a washing machine, and a living room with a gas fireplace.

The bedroom has a king-size bed, and there's a separate kids' room with toys, swings, and a sofa. The enclosed balcony works in any weather.

• Who it's for: families with children

• Location: Chloraka, a drive from the beach and the center (per the map)

• The catch: without a car, the area is inconvenient for getting around with kids

5. Yeroskipou: where to stay with kids

Yeroskipou sits east of Kato Paphos, a few minutes' drive from the harbor. The village is calmer than the center, and it has a municipal sandy beach.

© Nikodem Nijaki · CC BY-SAPhoto: Nikodem Nijaki, CC BY-SA (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), Wikimedia Commons

Yeroskipou is historically linked to the sacred gardens of Aphrodite. Today the village is known for its tavernas, local sweets, and unhurried pace.

It's closer to Paphos Airport than the other areas. Buses connect the village with Kato Paphos, the harbor, and the airport.

Yeroskipou is convenient for families for another reason: there are few nightlife spots. In the evening, you have a quiet dinner and head back to your hotel, and the kids sleep without bar noise.

You can walk to the municipal beach from the village center (per the map). Sweets and groceries are sold right there, so you don't need to drive into central Paphos for shopping.

A bus runs to Yeroskipou from Kato Paphos: the ride costs €2 (as of 09/2026, Paphos bus tickets), and by car the trip takes about 10 minutes (per the map).

• Who it's for: families with children, a quiet beach holiday

• Not for: those who want bars and nightlife right outside their door

• To the airport: about 15 minutes by car (per the map)

• Transport: buses to Kato Paphos, the harbor, and the airport

• Budget: mid-range, plenty of family hotels and apartments

• The catch: you need to drive to Paphos's main sights

What to see in Yeroskipou

• Spend a day at Yeroskipou municipal beach: calm water and full facilities.

• Visit Aphrodite Waterpark, the largest in the Paphos area: adult ticket €36, child (3-11) €20 (as of 09/2026, waterpark price list). Waterpark tickets

• Try a wine and food tour of the surrounding area. Wine tour with tasting

• Visit the Church of Agia Paraskevi, one of the most significant Byzantine churches in Cyprus.

• See the collection at the Folk Art Museum of Geroskipou.

• Buy local Loukoumi Geroskipou sweets.

• Take a pottery workshop at Avgoustinos Pottery.

• Have dinner on the seafront or enjoy a drink by the sea at sunset.

The village is home to the Folk Art Museum and the Avgoustinos Pottery workshop, which offers hands-on classes.

Loukoumi Geroskipou sweets are made in the village, and local shops sell them by weight. In the evening, restaurants and bars along the seafront stay open, with sunset views.

Best hotel: Fitos Inn

Fitos Inn is a good fit for families on a budget. The hotel has an outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi, and a golf course is nearby.

Rooms are modern, with a private bathroom and a fridge.

• Who it's for: families coming for the beach rather than luxury

• Location: Geroskipou, a drive from the beach and town center (see map)

• Price: lower range for the area, check rates for your dates on Trip.com

Best beachfront hotel: Leonardo Plaza Cypria Maris Beach Hotel & Spa

Leonardo Plaza Cypria Maris Beach Hotel & Spa sits right by the sea: it has its own beach access, several pools, and a generous breakfast.

Rooms are spacious, and many have sea views. If you want a comfortable vacation without leaving the shore, this is a solid choice.

• Who it's for: couples and families who want a beach right at the hotel

• Location: the coast between Geroskipou and Kato Paphos (see map)

• Price: upper range for the area

Best Airbnb option: Little White House, Cyprus

Little White House is a restored family home in a quiet part of Geroskipou. Inside there are two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and space for six guests.

The large garden with fruit trees is a plus for families with children.

• Who it's for: families of up to six

• Location: a quiet part of Geroskipou, a drive from the beach, airport, and Paphos (see map)

• The catch: the area is quiet, so you'll need to drive to the harbor and promenade

Getting around Paphos: bus, car, airport

Paphos buses run through the lower and upper town, as well as to Peyia, Coral Bay, and the airport. A single ticket costs €2, a day ticket €6.50 (as of 09/2026, Pafos Buses ticket prices). After 9:00 PM a single ride costs more, €3 (as of 09/2026, Pafos Buses ticket prices).

Children under 12 get a 50% discount on tickets, and children under 5 ride free (as of 09/2026, Pafos Buses discounts and child tickets). The €6.50 day ticket beats single tickets if you take more than three rides in a day (as of 09/2026, Pafos Buses ticket prices).

For longer trips there are passes: a weekly pass costs €35, a monthly pass €60 (as of 09/2026, Pafos Buses weekly and monthly passes). Passes are sold at information offices at bus stations, not by the driver.

If you're planning to visit the Avakas Gorge, Coral Bay, or Troodos, a car saves time. Renting a car eliminates transfers: car rental in Paphos.

Paphos Airport is about 20 minutes from the harbor, about 15 from Geroskipou, and about 30 from Chloraka (according to the map). Taxis and transfers should be booked in advance; the bus to the airport takes longer.

Buses connect Kato Paphos with Ktima, the harbor, and the beaches, so you can stay in Paphos without a car. Get a car if you want to fit more into a short trip.

Travel insurance for Paphos

Medical care in Cyprus is paid for tourists, so you should get a policy before your trip. A policy usually covers treatment, trip cancellation, and baggage, but terms vary by company.

Separately check whether the policy includes active recreation and car rental. Get insurance in advance, not on the day you fly.

Compare terms and coverage of different policies on EKTA before buying tickets.

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

Kato Paphos or Ktima: which to choose for a first trip?

For a first trip, choose Kato Paphos. You can walk to the harbor, Paphos Castle, and the Archaeological Park, no car needed. Ktima is worth considering if your budget is tight and you're fine taking the bus to the beach.

How much does it cost to enter the Paphos Archaeological Park and the Tombs of the Kings?

The Kato Paphos Archaeological Park costs €4.50, and a separate ticket to the Tombs of the Kings costs €2.50 (as of 09/2026, park admission and opening hours). In summer the park is open from 8:30 AM to 7:30 PM, in winter until 5:00 PM. Go in the morning: by midday the park gets hot.

Where should I stay in Paphos with kids?

In Geroskipou. It has a calm sandy beach, family-friendly hotels, and it's close to the airport, about 15 minutes by car (according to the map). The Aphrodite Waterpark is nearby: an adult ticket costs €36, a child ticket €20 (as of 09/2026, tickets on the waterpark website).

Do I need a car to stay in Paphos?

In Kato Paphos and Moutallos you don't need a car: everything is within walking distance. For Chloraka, Geroskipou, and the Avakas Gorge, a car saves time.

Which area of Paphos is quietest?

Chloraka and Geroskipou. Chloraka is quieter but farther from the center: you need a car to reach the harbor. Geroskipou is closer to the airport and the main sights, so families choose it more often. If you want bars right outside your window, go for Moutallos.

When is high season in Paphos?

The highest demand is in July and August: prices in Kato Paphos rise and beaches fill up. May, June, September, and October offer a warm sea and fewer people. In winter Paphos is mild and quiet, so Ktima is chosen by those who come for a long stay.

In short: what to book

If it's your first visit: go for Kato Paphos. If your budget is tight: look at Ktima and Moutallos. If you're traveling with kids: Geroskipou with its sandy beach and nearby airport. If you want quiet and a sea view: Chloraka.

Hotels in Paphos are easier to compare by dates on Trip.com: check prices on Trip.com. Book in advance: in July and August, popular options sell out quickly.