Paphos is largely a family destination and because of this, there is an extensive range of activities for children and the whole family. A firm favourite is the Aphrodite Water Park, while the surrounding countryside is great to explore. If the Paphos’s natural attractions fail to keep the kids entertained, there are abundant manmade sites to discover.

Go-karting
Paphos has a mini F1 track which is used for go-karting. It is popular with all age groups and a great family day out. It is the closest many people ever get to driving on a F1 track. www.paphoskartingcentre.com

Horseback Riding
The countryside surrounding Paphos has some impressive trails for horseback riding. There are trained guides to go with you and safety gear such as helmets are a must. Popular routes include trails through Peyia forest, along the beaches and in the enormous coastal caves.

Hiking and Cycling
As with horseback riding, Paphos boasts some excellent cycle trails. Keen cyclists will find a number of winding country roads which offer impressive vistas over the coast and lead to some traditional quaint villages. The forests are excellent for exploration on foot and if you take a picnic, you can have a family picnic among beautiful woodlands.

Paphos Aquarium
This popular attraction found close to the centre of town is a fascinating insight into marine life. It is popular with all ages due to its underwater caves, replica ruins and artificial reefs. The tanks are all very modern and house a wide range of Mediterranean sea-life. The restaurant is also popular, as it offers stunning views of the harbour. Phone: +357 26 953 920.

Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark
This water theme park offers fun and excitement for the whole family. There is an enormous selection of slides and attractions which include adrenaline-pumping rides such as Kamikaze, Free Fall and Black Hole. For those not into such adventurous waterslides, there is a gentle wave pool, sun beds and a number of cafés and restaurants. For young kids, the Pirate Ship Slide and the Water Mushrooms are very popular. www.aphroditewaterpark.com

Despite its small size, Paphos is home to a number of different cultural attractions. There are a dozen museums to choose from as well as the Roman amphitheatre. It is, however, the ancient Temple of Aphrodite which attracts the largest hordes. This sacred site may be in ruins, but pilgrims and tourists are still drawn to it in their droves.

Byzantine Museum
This fascinating museum boasts a number of rare works of art and religious artefacts dating to the Byzantine era. Every exhibit has been gathered from churches around Paphos with the icon of the Virgin Eleousa being the highlight. Phone: +357 26 231 392.

Ethnographical Museum
Once known as the Folk Art Museum, the Ethnographical Museum houses a private collection of artefacts which detail local history. Exhibits include literature, archaeology and folk art, with the first collections having been excavated by George Eliades. If you are at all interested in Cypriot history you should not miss a trip here. Phone: +357 26 232 010.

Odeon Theatre
This ancient amphitheatre is among the most famous in the world despite being very small compared to others. It was built in the second century AD and is still used today. Most of the region’s summer festivals are held here as well as plays and concerts.

Paphos Archaeological Museum
This important and impressive museum is home to a large number of relics, some of which date back to Neolithic times. They help to create a timeline of Paphos’s evolution through until the 18th century, with many artefacts having been found locally. The most popular items include marble statues of Aphrodite and Asklepios. Phone: +357 26 231 392.

Temple of Aphrodite
The Temple of Aphrodite is one of the most important religious sites in the world, and was even more revered in the ancient world. The site now lies in ruins but attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Tourists are also attracted to the site, as the remains date back to the 12th century BC. The site has been excavated and many historic artefacts uncovered. These can be seen in the nearby Lusignan Manor.

Meal time in Cyprus is very important. It is a time for families and friends to gather and discuss the day’s events. The evening meal is a great social event throughout the country. Paphos is home to a number of excellent international restaurants, although to experience a true taste of Cyprus you should head to a small local restaurant and try some local dishes.

Cypriot cuisine is very similar to Greek, with mezze (small dishes and dips) being popular. Other main courses which should not be missed include: loukanika, sausages cooked in wine; lountza, a smoked pork dish; ofto kleftiko, a tender lamb dish; and barbouni, red mullet cooked in wine.

The majority of Paphos’s restaurants can be found along the coast. You will find some of the island’s best seafood restaurants here while you enjoy views across the harbour. Other restaurants in the city worthy of note can be found at the foot of the medieval castle’s hill. If you are after a light evening meal, many of the bars offer mezze and light snacks.

Shopping opportunities in the city can be found in abundance. Most of the major shops are conveniently located in the same district so you can buy a wide range of products without having to travel far between stores. There are a number of trendy boutiques as well as modern shopping malls and local market stalls.

Popular buys in Cyprus include: Cypriot lace, handmade pottery, paintings, sculptures, jewellery and souvenirs. A lot of work goes into these products, but the price does not reflect this. It is possible to pick up some excellent bargains and unique souvenirs. For those into designer labels, there are a number of designer shops all over the city.