Paphos
Slower-paced western coast with a harbour, ancient sites and its own airport.
Cyprus › Paphos
Digimad score
7.7
Very good
Best for History + Slower pace
About
Paphos is a UNESCO-listed town with Roman mosaics, a pretty harbour, its own airport and a slower pace than Limassol. Many British retirees live here, and the town is quieter and cheaper than the east of the island. The harbour area is touristy, while the upper town and nearby villages offer local life and more space. A car is essential to explore the Akamas peninsula and the coast.
Paphos at a glance
Internet
Fibre is available in town, and mobile coverage is good. Check connections in villages.
Monthly budget
$1,800/mo comfortable, $1,150 lean
Best months
Apr, May, Jun, Sep
Community
Medium nomad density, fair English
Key points
Its own airport with flights across Europe
Roman mosaics, ancient sites and a pretty harbour
Cheaper and calmer than Limassol
Neighbourhoods
Kato Paphos, near the harbour, is touristy and close to the sea. Ktima, the upper town, is more local, and villages such as Peyia and Chloraka offer space and views but require a car.
Cost of living
USD
Lean
$1,150/mo
Shared housing, local food
Comfortable
$1,800/mo
Private one-bed, coworking
Premium
$2,950/mo
Central, frequent dining
Local currency
EUR
More affordable than Limassol, with a good choice of long-term rentals outside summer.
Internet & connectivity
Fixed line
Not verified
Mobile
Not verified
eSIM
Supported
Reliability
GoodPublic Wi-Fi
FairPower stability
GoodFibre is available in town, and mobile coverage is good. Check connections in villages.
Nomad community
Nomad density
MediumEnglish
FairMeeting people
A small community of remote workers alongside a large retiree population. Expat groups organise regular events.
English is spoken everywhere, and the British community is large.
Safety
Emergency 112
At night
GoodSolo female
GoodPetty crime
GoodCommon scams
Rental scams and car rental damage claims
Paphos is very safe. Take care on mountain roads and in summer heat.
Healthcare
Pharmacies
GoodPublic system
Paphos General Hospital serves residents registered with GESY. Visitors use private care.
Private care
Several private clinics and hospitals with English-speaking staff.
Insurance
Choose a policy that covers private hospitals in Cyprus.
Getting around
Walkability
GoodPublic transport
FairAirports
- PFOPaphos International
Local buses run in the town and along the coast, and the airport is around 15 minutes away. A car is close to essential.
Climate & seasons
Mediterranean
Hot summers, slightly milder than inland, and mild winters with some rain.
All ratings
Watch out for
Spread out, with few services without a car