Paphos is a city that practically invites you to explore on foot. With its blend of well-preserved archaeological sites, lively harbors, and scenic coastal paths, walking is one of the best ways to soak up its charm. We especially love the private walking tour with a local guide, which offers personalized insights into the city’s ancient ruins and stories that bring the stones to life. Meanwhile, the Lighthouse Area Beach Walk with rescue dogs provides a relaxing seaside stroll with a feel-good twist—supporting local rescue efforts while enjoying stunning views. And for travelers craving a deeper dive into Cyprus’s layered history, the full-day tour to Nicosia and Famagusta uncovers the island’s complex past beyond the beaches, with visits to the Hala Sultan Tekke and the Green Line crossing.
In this guide, we’ve rounded up the best walking tours in Paphos, covering everything from private archaeological explorations to scenic coastal ambles, and even historic city excursions. Whether you prefer a tailored private experience, a leisurely walk with rescue dogs, or a comprehensive day trip into northern Cyprus, there’s something here for every type of traveler. Let’s explore each option in detail.
1. Paphos: Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide
At number 1, this private walking tour provides a highly personalized experience of Paphos’s highlights. For around 3.5 hours, a professional guide leads you through the Archaeological Park of Paphos, focusing on areas like the House of Dyonisos and the Forty Columns Fortress. This tour is ideal if you’re keen on deepening your understanding of the ruins without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd. The private format means your guide can tailor the experience to your interests and answer all your questions.
What makes this tour stand out is the detailed exploration of hotspots like the Guiding in Archeological Park of Paphos and a walk along the Paphos Harbour. The tour includes visits to significant sites, with a chance to enjoy the harbor walk and possibly visit Paphos Castle if time allows. Reviewers highlight how friendly and knowledgeable the guide is, with one stating, “A fantastic tour in every way.” The personalized aspect makes it a top pick for travelers who prefer a more intimate, flexible experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive, customizable introduction to Paphos’s archaeological treasures with expert guidance, this private tour offers excellent value.
2. Paphos: Lighthouse Area Beach Walk with Rescue Dogs
This scenic coastal walk is perfect for animal lovers and those seeking a relaxed pace. In just about an hour, you’ll stroll along the Lighthouse Path, enjoying the sea breeze and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. What sets this tour apart is the chance to walk with foster rescue dogs, who accompany you along the trail, adding an extra layer of companionship and warmth to your experience.
During the walk, you’ll learn about the local rescue project, which aims to give vulnerable dogs a second chance. Photographers will love the chance to capture pictures of the coastline and Paphos Lighthouse. With a perfect 5-star rating from two visitors, this tour offers a meaningful way to connect with the community and support a good cause. While it’s short, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a gentle stroll and some memorable moments with rescue dogs.
Bottom Line: For a peaceful, feel-good walk that combines natural beauty with local compassion, this coastal stroll is a charming choice.
3. From Paphos: Caledonia Waterfalls Walking Tour with Lunch
If you’re up for a full day of adventure, the Caledonia Waterfalls tour from Paphos combines a manageable hike with delicious local cuisine. Starting in the Troodos Mountains, you’ll visit Platres village, where you can enjoy a refreshing homemade lemonade before heading into the forest. The main event is a 3 km hike along a stream to the stunning Caledonia Waterfalls, where the sound of rushing water and lush greenery make for memorable scenery.
The tour is well-suited for those who enjoy light trekking and want to experience Cyprus’s natural beauty firsthand. Reviewers mention that the hike is doable even for beginners, and the guide’s attentiveness makes all the difference. Afterward, you’ll indulge in a relaxing lunch at Psilo Dendro restaurant, famed for its trout dishes, providing a perfect end to a day immersed in nature.
This tour is a good value for those who want a mix of gentle exercise, scenic views, and local flavors, all within a manageable day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for outdoor lovers who enjoy a moderate hike and authentic Cypriot food, with a scenic payoff.
4. From Paphos to Divided Nicosia (North Cyprus walk-in) and Larnaca
For those intrigued by Cyprus’s political and cultural history, this full-day excursion covers both Larnaca and Nicosia in one go. Starting with a visit to the Hala Sultan Tekke, an important Islamic shrine built over the tomb of Ummü Haram, you get a glimpse of the island’s religious diversity. Next, a walk along the Salt Lake offers spectacular views, especially in the winter months when flamingos can sometimes be seen.
The journey continues into Nicosia, the only divided capital in Europe, where you’ll walk along Ledra Street and cross the Green Line into the Turkish-controlled north. Here, you’ll visit Othello’s Tower and the Venetian Castle, gaining insight into Cyprus’s complex history. The trip is perfect for history enthusiasts eager to go beyond the beaches and explore the political landscape.
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation and hotel pickup, making it convenient. Reviews note the value of the full-day experience, though some mention the challenge of coordinating pickup times. This tour suits those interested in history, culture, and politics, offering a rundown of Cyprus’s divided identity.
Bottom Line: A long but rewarding day for history buffs wanting to understand Cyprus’s past and present beyond its sunny beaches.
5. Private Walking Tour of Paphos
This private walking tour offers a rich dive into Paphos’s ancient history and archaeology over about 3.5 hours. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour takes in the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, famous for its Roman mosaics, as well as the House of Dionysus. You’ll also explore the Saranta Kolones Castle and enjoy free time in the Paphos Harbour area.
The guide’s expertise shines through as they connect the ruins to stories of Roman life and early Christianity. Reviewers mention how the guide’s depth of knowledge “brought the mosaics to life,” making history tangible. The tour’s small group size allows for personalized questions and a relaxed pace. The admission tickets are included, offering good value for a comprehensive experience.
Best suited for travelers who prefer a flexible, in-depth exploration with a focus on archaeology and history. While the price might be higher than group tours, the tailored approach justifies it for those wanting a more intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers who want a private, detailed look at Paphos’s archaeological sites.
6. Festive Christmas Private Walking Tour in Paphos
If you’re visiting during the holiday season, this festive tour is a unique way to experience Paphos’s Christmas charm. It lasts about 2 hours and takes you through decorated spots such as the Paphos Town Hall, Municipal Gardens, and Agios Theodoros Cathedral. The tour focuses on Christmas legends, traditions, and local stories, creating a warm, festive atmosphere.
The tour is ideal for families or anyone wanting to see how Paphos celebrates Christmas. The local guide shares stories and legends, adding a personal touch to the holiday sights. Although the reviews are not yet available, the small-group format and focus on Christmas traditions make it a memorable seasonal experience.
Note that this tour is seasonal, so booking early is recommended if you want to enjoy the holiday festivities in Paphos.
Bottom Line: A charming way to enjoy Paphos’s holiday spirit, perfect for families or holiday enthusiasts.
7. From Paphos: Famagusta, Salamis, and Varosha Walking Tour
Rounding out our list is the full-day tour exploring Cyprus’s eastern coast, including Salamis ruins, Famagusta’s old town, and the haunting Varosha ghost city. Starting early, this 11-hour journey is packed with historic, archaeological, and modern sights, ideal for travelers eager to understand Cyprus’s complex past.
You will see Salamis, built in the 12th century BC, with its impressive theater and gymnasium, and explore the Venetian Castle and Othello’s Tower in Famagusta. The highlight for many is the visit to Varosha, a ghost town frozen since 1974, which offers an eerie glimpse into recent history. The tour provides detailed commentary from your guide on the island’s conflicts and resilience.
This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who want an in-depth look at Cyprus’s historical layers. The long day involves some walking and a fair amount of driving but offers excellent value for an all-encompassing experience.
Bottom Line: For history and political history enthusiasts, this tour offers a compelling, eye-opening journey through Cyprus’s past and present.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Paphos
When selecting your ideal walking tour, consider your interests and travel style. Are you after an in-depth archaeological exploration? The Private Walking Tour of Paphos offers a personalized experience perfect for history buffs. If you prefer a casual coastal stroll with a feel-good twist, the Lighthouse Beach Walk makes for an enjoyable, relaxing outing.
For those wanting a full-day adventure into Cyprus’s layered history, the Nicosia and Famagusta tour combines archaeology with political insights. If you’re traveling during the holidays, the Christmas tour brings seasonal magic. And outdoor lovers might lean towards the Caledonia Waterfalls for a manageable hike paired with local cuisine.
Practical tips include booking early for seasonal events and full-day excursions, checking if the tour includes tickets or meals, and matching the tour length with your available time and stamina. Always read recent reviews for an up-to-date sense of what you’ll experience.
Final Thoughts
Paphos offers a surprisingly diverse range of walking tours, from private archaeological explorations to scenic coastal walks and history-rich city visits. For those interested in deep archaeological insights, the private tour provides a personal touch. Nature lovers will enjoy the Caledonia Waterfalls hike, while history enthusiasts should consider the full-day trip across Cyprus’s divided cities.
No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or on your own, these tours help you see Paphos from a local’s perspective—making your visit memorable and meaningful.