Exploring Paphos by car offers unparalleled freedom to discover both iconic
landmarks and hidden treasures at your own pace.
Our comprehensive driving guide provides expert advice, local insights, and practical information
to ensure your journey through this beautiful region is safe, enjoyable, and memorable.
For the best Paphos car hire, trust our team of local experts to provide you with the
perfect vehicle for your adventure
Petra tou Romiou (translkated to Rock of the Roman), also known as Aphrodite's Rock is the legendary birthplace of the goddess of love rises majestically from the sea. This iconic landmark offers breathtaking views and a connection to ancient mythology. For a truly magical experience, visit during sunset when the golden light transforms the rock into a silhouette against the crimson sky.
Learn more about Aphrodite’s Rock and discover the best times to visit for photograph
Step back in time at this UNESCO World Heritage site, where remarkably preserved mosaics tell stories of ancient gods and heroes. ts sites and monuments date from prehistoric times through the Middle Ages. The House of Dionysos features some of the finest Roman mosaics in the Mediterranean, with intricate designs that have survived for nearly two millennia.
For detailed information about the park’s exhibits and history, visit the Paphos Archaeological Park Information page
Dating back 5,000 years, the magnificent Tomb of the Kings is one of the finest ancient sites on Cyprus. Carved into solid rock, these magnificent underground tombs feature Doric columns and frescoed walls that have defied time. Despite their grand name, they were actually the final resting place for aristocrats and high officials rather than royalty. Visitors should allow at least two hours to fully explore and appreciate the necropolis.
You can find full information on Tomb of the Kings Information pageEmbark on a breathtaking drive along the shimmering coastline from Paphos to Limassol, where the deep azure of the Mediterranean meets rugged, dramatic cliffs. The route unfolds with countless scenic viewpoints, perfect for capturing unforgettable photographs or simply pausing to admire the landscape. While the direct journey takes just about an hour, setting aside half a day allows you to stop at charming seaside villages, hidden coves, and panoramic lookouts, making the experience as memorable as the destination itself.
Escape into a world of pine-scented forests and traditional stone villages that seem frozen in time. As you climb higher, the temperature drops refreshingly, making this an ideal summer escape. Don’t miss Omodos with its venerable wine traditions, or Kakopetria, where narrow lanes wind between beautifully preserved traditional houses.
View detailed information about the Troodos Mountains with recommended stops and photo opportunities.
Nature’s masterpiece awaits in this dramatic ravine where limestone walls tower up to 30 meters overhead. Home to rare plants and wildlife, the gorge rewards explorers with astonishing geological formations. This moderate 2-3 hour hike requires sturdy shoes and plenty of water, particularly during summer months.
Step into authentic Cyprus in this charming settlement where traditions remain vibrant. Built on the site of ancient Palaepaphos, where the oldest sanctuary of Aphrodite once stood, today’s village offers a glimpse into island life unchanged by mass tourism. The local tavernas serve some of the most authentic meze you’ll find anywhere in Cyprus.
The Edro III Shipwreck is one of the most striking landmarks on the Paphos coastline, located about 15 minutes from Coral Bay and 25 minutes from Kato Paphos. Directly opposite, Oniro By the Sea Bar & Restaurant provides an excellent vantage point, especially for watching the sunset.
The cargo ship ran aground in 2011 during a storm while travelling from Limassol to Rhodes, and since then it has become a must-see attraction. Its dramatic setting against the Mediterranean makes it a favourite for sightseeing and photography. Situated in the well-known Sea Caves area, the surroundings are also popular with walkers.
There is ample parking nearby, but visitors should note that swimming around the wreck is dangerous and climbing aboard is strictly prohibited. The terrain is rocky, so suitable footwear is recommended. During the summer months, the best times to visit are early morning or just before sunset.
Latchi Harbour, nestled on the unspoiled northwest coast of Cyprus, is a charming fishing port that perfectly balances tradition with relaxation. Famous for its fresh seafood tavernas and laid-back atmosphere, the harbour invites visitors to unwind by the waterfront, sample authentic local cuisine, and soak in the sweeping coastal views. Its tranquil setting makes it an ideal place to pause during your journey, whether for a leisurely meal or a gentle stroll along the marina. Beyond its charm, Latchi serves as the main gateway to one of Cyprus’s most celebrated natural wonders — the Blue Lagoon.
The Blue Lagoon is famed for its crystal-clear waters, making it a perfect spot for swimming and snorkeling. However, it's important to note that the lagoon is not accessible by rental car. Most visitors opt for one of the many boat trips available from Latchi Harbour to reach this stunning location. These boat trips offer a convenient and scenic way to explore the lagoon and its surroundings.
For more details on boat trips, visit this link.
Before setting out on your Paphos adventure, familiarize yourself with these key regulations:
It is essential to hold a full, valid driving licence in order to hire a car in Cyprus. You must have held this licence for at least one year, and if you are under 25 years old, a minimum of three years is required. These rules are in place to ensure road safety and compliance with Cypriot driving regulations:
At Paphos Car Rental, we make this process as smooth as possible. When booking, all necessary documents are uploaded securely online in advance. Our team verifies everything before you arrive, so when it’s time to collect your vehicle, there are no delays or paperwork complications. This exclusive service ensures complete peace of mind and sets us apart as the only car rental company in Paphos offering such a convenient, stress-free system.
Paphos has embraced digital parking management through the “SmartParking” app (available on Google Play and App Store). This convenient system eliminates the need for coins and paper tickets in metered zones.
Look for blue-lined parking spaces in commercial areas that indicate paid parking. Free alternatives include the spacious Kings Avenue Mall underground lot and beach parking areas (though these fill quickly). Most hotels provide complimentary parking for guests.
For more information and the download visit Smart Parking Paphos
Fuel stations are widely available across Paphos, making it convenient to refuel whether you are in the city, near tourist areas, or exploring more rural locations. Standard opening hours are generally from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm on weekdays and Saturdays, though you will also find larger stations along main highways and primary routes that operate 24 hours a day. These typically have automated pumps and card payment facilities, with instructions in English, so you can refuel even outside of staffed hours.
Unleaded petrol is the standard for most rental vehicles. Unlike other countries, fuel prices are regulated across Cyprus, so there’s little variation between stations.
Renting a car in Paphos has never been simpler with our modern, user-friendly booking system: