A Guide to Paphos: The Mediterranean Jewel of Cyprus

Paphos is a vibrant coastal city located on the southwest coast of Cyprus. With its rich history, stunning beaches, and Mediterranean charm, Paphos has become a top destination for travellers and expats alike. This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth look at everything Paphos has to offer. 

Why Cyprus is a Great Choice When Relocating

With its sunny Mediterranean climate, low cost of living, and a laidback lifestyle, buying a property in Cyprus has become an increasingly popular relocation destination, especially at Soho Resort, Paphos. The island offers a high quality of life backed by well-developed infrastructure and services in towns like Paphos. Cyprus’s residency and tax incentives make it attractive to expats who want to reduce their tax burdens. 

British expats can feel at home with English widely spoken while also enjoying Cyprus’s friendly culture and sites like the Tombs of the Kings. The low crime rate provides peace of mind for families. Cyprus's central location near the tip of Cyprus allows easy travel access to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Excellent international schools, modern healthcare, and a thriving expat community centred around places like Paphos Harbour allow for an easy transition.

In addition to its beaches and historic sites, Cyprus also provides job opportunities in sectors like tourism in cities such as Paphos. For those seeking sun, affordability, and an improved lifestyle, Cyprus checks many boxes as a relocation destination.

Is Paphos a Good Place to Live?

With its idyllic seaside setting, fascinating history, and enviable Mediterranean climate, Paphos offers an extremely appealing lifestyle for expats looking to relocate. Here's a closer look at why this city on the southwest coast of Cyprus represents an excellent choice for living abroad.

Ideal Climate

Paphos enjoys sunshine-filled days nearly year-round, with summer highs around 30°C dropping to comfortable averages of 16-19°C in the mild winters. The climate allows endless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in Paphos and take advantage of the city's scenic coastal setting and attractions like Paphos Harbour.

Laidback, Affordable Lifestyle

Life in Paphos moves at a relaxed pace in tune with Mediterranean culture. Residents can soak up historic sites, explore colourful markets, and savour fresh local cuisine. The cost of living is approximately 20-30% lower than in the UK, especially for housing, dining, and daily expenses.

Vibrant Expat Community

With its large British expat population, Paphos makes it easy to meet others and adjust to life abroad. Organizations like the Paphos International Club help connect expat residents through events and activities. English is also widely spoken.

Paphos is a City Steeped in Mythology and History 

Paphos oozes mythology and history across its labyrinth of archaeological sites. The city is home to the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty at the Petra tou Romiou rock formation. Paphos was also once the capital of Cyprus during Roman times. Excavations continue to uncover mosaic floors, tombs, and artefacts from ancient times at sites like the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Kato Paphos Archaeological Park contains ruins like villas, palaces, and an ancient Odeon theatre from the 4th century BC. Other historic sites include the Tombs of the Kings, a necropolis dating back over 2000 years, and Paphos Castle, originally built to protect the harbour in the medieval period. Wandering the old town near the picturesque Paphos Harbour takes you back in time with whitewashed buildings and cobblestone streets.

Sun-Soaked Shores and Scenic Surrounds

Fringed by the mesmerizing Mediterranean Sea, Paphos boasts a spectacular coastline dotted with golden sand beaches like Coral Bay. Inland, vineyards and hills create a scenic backdrop. Nature lovers can explore walking trails and scenic villages nestled in the foothills. The region enjoys over 300 days of sunshine per year, making Paphos the perfect destination to enjoy the sunny beaches and outdoors.

The coastline near Kato Paphos and Coral Bay has some of the best beaches, with calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and watersports. Inland, hikers can explore trails along the Akamas Peninsula and up into the Troodos Mountains. Quaint villages like Kissonerga, Lemba, and Kathikas offer a glimpse of traditional Cypriot life.

Lively Harbor and Old Town Charm

The picturesque Paphos Harbour provides front-row seats to stunning sunsets along the scenic southwest coast of Cyprus. Whitewashed buildings and cobblestone streets lining the harbour promenade radiate old-world charm.

By night, restaurants and bars centred on the harbour come alive with mouthwatering Cypriot cuisine featuring fresh seafood and regional wines. Visitors can enjoy a lively nightlife scene full of entertainment options in this popular area of Kato Paphos.

The heart of Paphos town lies just north of the scenic harbour area. Along busy pedestrian walkways, you'll find shops, cafes, and historical sites like the Paphos Agora showcasing remains from Roman and Byzantine times. Nearby, the Paphos Archaeological Museum located in Kato Paphos displays artefacts unearthed at excavations across Southwest Cyprus, including stunning mosaics and artefacts dating back to the 4th century BC.

Visitors staying near Paphos Harbour can easily access top attractions like the Tombs of the Kings and the Paphos Castle. The nearby Coral Bay Beach also provides opportunities to enjoy Paphos' idyllic Mediterranean climate and coastline.

Whether you want to experience centuries of heritage or relax on golden sand beaches, the Paphos Harbour area offers some of the best things to do in Paphos and the ultimate base to explore this scenic part of Cyprus.

Cost of Living in Paphos

The cost of living in Paphos is generally lower than many other European destinations, making it an appealing choice for expats and retirees. Overall expenses for housing, food, transportation, and entertainment can be 20-30% cheaper compared to the UK.

Groceries from local markets and supermarkets cost 20-40% less than British stores. Eating out at local tavernas and restaurants is very affordable, with meals costing €10-15 on average. Public transport like buses and taxis have low fares starting from just €1.50. Things like utility bills, internet plans, and medical care also come at discounted rates. While prices rise during the tourist season in summer, the Paphos cost of living remains budget-friendly year-round for visitors and residents. Careful planning and smart spending allow expats to thrive in Paphos without breaking the bank.

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