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Car hire in Paphos - The Best of Cyprus

The famed birthplace of the Greek goddess Aphrodite, Paphos is one of the most important cultural centres in the whole of the Mediterranean region. Idyllically located on the south-west coast of Cyprus, the city is conveniently divided into two parts, the upper town being the commercial hub while the lower town (known as Kato) blessed with the most important places of archaeological and tourist interest. Most visitors flock to the Kato area where the majority of the Paphos' hotels, bars, restaurants and attractions can be found. The excellent seafront promenade extends to the city's modern marina and is the ideal place to take a stroll and feel the unique atmosphere exuded by one of Europe's most ancient and historic cities.

Here you can step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Greek mythology by exploring the many ancient ruins dotted around town. There's much to see and you'll definitely need to rent a cheap car in Paphos with Auto Europe to have any chance of seeing all the main sights. Those looking to discover the ancient wonders and rich treasures of Cyprus should start at the Paphos Archaeological Park which is bursting with Roman mosaics (mostly intact) and old fortresses (some showing signs of some wear and tear).

After that, you'll want to spend time at the Indiana Jones-esque Tombs of the Kings, a spectacular subterranean necropolis of immense proportions intricately hewn from the rock. Then there's nothing better than a leisurely drive up into the Troodos Mountains to visit one or two of the working monasteries (the monks are always warm and welcoming), most notably Kykkos Monastery which dates all the way back to the 11th century. And if there's any time left, why not explore the House of Dionysos, a well-preserved Roman villa remarkable for its beautiful coloured mosaics. In Paphos it's all about the gods and visiting the archaeological sites to hear the many historical tales to be told.

Auto Europe is here to help you plan your trip to the amazing city of Paphos. As one of the world’s leading car rental companies, we are proud to tell you that we currently operate in over 24,000 locations in more than 180 destinations all over the world. We offer total flexibility for people looking to pick up their car hire in Paphos in a convenient downtown location of from Paphos Airport a short drive south-east of the city. We also offer our customers the lowest rates on the market on account of the fact that we are in strong partnerships with all the industry’s most prestigious suppliers, namely Sixt, National, Hertz, Europcar, Dollar, Budget, Avis and Alamo. Combine that with our award-winning customer service and you know your trip is in the best possible hands! Take a look at the ratings and comments posted by other Auto Europe customers in Cyprus by visiting our Paphos car hire reviews page.

How is the traffic in Paphos?

Once you have picked up your car rental in Paphos, you'll find that the driving experience in the city is similar to other European city destinations, with many of the same rules and regulations in place. Although the local drivers are no more reckless than other parts of Cyprus or Greece, our general advice is to be alert and expect the unexpected, especially in the summer when more tourists are visiting the city. The first (and most important) thing to remember is that driving in Paphos is always on the left-hand side of the road, which is most convenient for British drivers because they are used to it!. Local driving regulations are strict but not necessarily adhered to by the locals, but visitors are well advised to follow the rules of the road with their low-cost car rental in Paphos. Be extra careful on roundabouts because sometimes there's an 'anything goes' attitude, especially among the younger drivers who often seem to be in a great hurry to get to where they want to go. Turning right at traffic lights is another manoeuvre that requires a bit more caution (remember that you're driving on the left-hand side of the road). You'll often find that occasionally the local drivers fail to indicate when making a turn, so it's worth keeping an eye out for that as well. You can read more about the island's driving and traffic regulations in Cyprus in our Cyprus driving guide.

Where can I park my car hire in Paphos?

Paphos has plenty of affordable car parks (municipal and privately-run) located in and around the city centre. The main public parking facilities in the Old Town exist close to the market and main shopping areas. On-street parking is also available which has a charge during office hours on weekdays but is generally free in the evenings and at weekends. In the Kato district, the main municipal car park is situated near the harbour. In the popular Tombs of the Kings tourist area you'll find several public car parks dotted along the main approach. Please note that parking and even waiting is strictly prohibited on streets marked with a double yellow line. A single yellow line means that loading and unloading is allowed but parking is still prohibited at all times. Be aware that fines are payable for unpaid parking tickets or if you're caught running over the permitted time.

Paphos Airport

Paphos (Pafos) Airport (PFO) is located approximately 10 miles from the city, which makes it the ideal gateway for people looking to visit Paphos and many of the surrounding towns and villages, such as Polis, Latchi and the Troodos Mountains, among others. The airport is also within easy reach of some of the island’s top seaside resorts, namely Limassol, Larnaca, Ayia Napa, Protaras and Pernera, all of which are quickly and easily reachable from Paphos International Airport.

Paphos International Airport (PFO)
Telephone: +357 2680 1800
Address: Paphos 8320, Cyprus
Website: https://www.hermesairports.com/

What to do in Paphos

When you rent a car in Paphos, you can really discover the true beauty of southern Cyprus by visiting all the main sights in and around this legendary city. You can soak up all the atmosphere of being in the birthplace of Aphrodite herself before embarking on a journey through ancient Greece with all its myths, history, architecture, mystery and magic.

• House of Dionysus: The amazing mosaic pavements to be seen here are amongst the world’s best. Part of the famed Paphos Archaeological Site, they depict scenes from Greek mythology, such as the story of Ganymede being taken back to Olympus by an eagle and the triumphant return of Dionysos with god being transported in a leopard-drawn chariot.


• Tombs of the Kings: Not far from the city lies one of the most intriguing archaeological sites in the whole of the Mediterranean region. Hewn from the rock, the magnificent Tombs of the Kings is a set of impressive underground tombs dating as far back as 4 BC, including some intricately decorated with Doric pillars. Now a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, it was once the burial ground during the Greek and Roman periods, probably for the highest ranking officials.


• Agia Paraskevi: This beautiful Byzantine church is located in the Geroskipou district of the city. Dating from the 10th century, it is most notable for its five domes forming a cross and the fine collection of 15th-century murals portraying the life of Jesus Christ. Don’t miss the fantastic Last Supper fresco which has been well preserved and still retains all its vibrant colours.


• Paphos Archaeological Museum: One of the best of its kind in Cyprus, the city’s archaeological museum is full of artefacts excavated from the local area. Housed across four modern rooms, the collection includes idols, ancient pottery, sculpture, old coins and many rare pieces from the Neolithic Age through to the Ottoman occupation.


• Sanctuary of Aphrodite: One of the most absorbing sites on the island is without doubt the goddess’ sanctuary a few miles south of Paphos. Once a holy place for the ancient Greeks, it was believed to be the mythical place where Aphrodite landed when she rose from the sea. There’s lots to see, including the remains of a large Roman house built in 1 AD.


• Paphos Promenade: The people of Paphos like nothing better than to stroll along the waterfront which now extends for over three miles through the city centre. The southern section takes you as far as the iconic Paphos Fort (another of the city’s key tourist attractions) and beyond the popular Louis Phaethon beach resort. Walking north brings you to the ancient Tombs of the Kings and the ever-popular Paphos Archaeological Site.

Best day trips with my car rental in Paphos

Paphos is a great travel destination with many interesting places to visit within a relatively short distance by car. The city’s environs are interesting enough, but if you venture even further afield you’ll find ancient Greek and Roman sites and some of the most interesting archaeological remains in Cyprus.

Beaches

Besides the abundance of historical sites in and around Paphos, one of the city’s key attractions are its wonderful beaches. Close to the town centre is Alykes Beach which is a top choice for visitors and locals alike, especially in summer. If you’re looking for a nice spot near the city with less people, head for Kissonerga Bay which has a lovely long beach embroidered by some of the most crystalline waters in the Mediterranean. An important turtle-nesting site in summer, Lara Beach north of Paphos is generally regarded to be one of the best beaches in Cyprus.

Fyti

A very enjoyable half-day excursion option from Paphos is the charming village of Fyti, where time seems to have stood still for centuries. You’ll love wandering through its narrow streets and enjoy savoruing a long leisurely lunch before visiting the excellent Folk Art Museum where locally-made handicrafts can be purchased for friends and family back home.

Akamas Peninsula

A nice alternative to city sightseeing is the half-hour drive north to the enchanting Akamas Peninsula, home to dozens of indigenous species of plant. Follow the Aphrodite Trail which finishes up at the famous Baths of Aphrodite before visiting the ancient ruins of the Pyrgos Tis Rigainas Monastery close by.

Ancient Vouni

Paphos is the ideal base from which to visit Cyprus’ spectacular west coast, most notably the magnificent site of Ancient Vouni where you can explore the extensive 4th-century BC palace ruins built on the top of a hill, which is thought to have been of Persian or Greek origin. Don’t forget your camera because the views of the surrounding land and seascapes are absolutely breathtaking.

How to get around Paphos

The public transport system in Paphos is operated by Osypa Ltd which runs local buses routes in and around the city centre, as well as to most of the top tourist areas. The main transport hub is Karavella station which is the nucleus for the downtown routes and intercity services. The other main bus station in Paphos is the Kato Paphos Harbour station located close to the waterfront, which is ideal for visiting the Paphos Archaeological Park. Buses also run to Coral Bay, Polis and other local villages but to reach the Troodos Mountains and Akamas Peninsula you’ll need an Auto Europe car hire in Paphos. For intercity bus services, the main operator is Intercity Buses which provides daily connections to all the main towns and cities in the Greek Cypriot territory.

Useful links

Paphos Tourist Info