Attraction · UNESCO World Heritage
Paphos Mosaics
Short answer
"The Paphos mosaics" refers to the Roman-era floor mosaics found in the villas of ancient Nea Paphos, now inside the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park. They depict Greek myths and everyday scenes in remarkable detail and are the main reason the Park is a world-class site. You see them on the same ticket as the rest of the Park.
Why visit Paphos Mosaics
- They are among the best-preserved Roman mosaic floors in the eastern Mediterranean.
- Many are under protective roofs, so they are viewable in sun or rain.
What to see
House of Dionysus
The biggest collection, discovered in the 1960s. Look for the triumph of Dionysus, Pyramus and Thisbe, and the story of Ikarios, said to be the first to make wine.
House of Theseus
Theseus and the Minotaur, and the bathing of the infant Achilles.
House of Aion
A dense, multi-panel composition including the beauty contest between Cassiopeia and the Nereids.
House of Orpheus
Orpheus charming animals with his lyre, plus Hercules and the lion.
How long to spend
Around an hour for the three main villas if you focus on the mosaics.
Best time to visit
Morning, before the rest of the Park gets hot.
Opening hours and tickets
Opening hours change with the season (longer in summer, shorter in winter). We have not yet verified this season's hours — check the Department of Antiquities before you go.
Included in the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park ticket.
How to get there
Inside the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, by the harbour.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need a separate ticket for the Paphos mosaics?
No. The main mosaic villas are inside the Archaeological Park and covered by its entrance ticket.
Which Paphos mosaics should I prioritise?
If you only see one villa, make it the House of Dionysus. Add the House of Theseus and House of Aion if you have another 30–45 minutes.
Plan around it
Attraction
Kato Paphos Archaeological Park
Roman villas with some of the finest mosaics in the Mediterranean, an odeon and a ruined castle, by the harbour.
- Kato Paphos
- 2–3 hours
- €
Attraction
Tombs of the Kings
Underground rock-cut tombs with columned courtyards, on the coast north of the harbour.
- Tombs of the Kings area
- 1.5–2 hours
- €
Things to do
Things to Do in Paphos
The best things to do in Paphos, Cyprus — ancient sites, beaches, the Akamas, wine villages and day trips — with how long each takes, who it suits and what to skip.
Attraction
Agia Kyriaki Chrysopolitissa & St Paul's Pillar
A medieval church set among the ruins of an early Christian basilica, with the pillar linked to St Paul.
- Kato Paphos
- 20–30 minutes
Experience
Paphos Boat Trips
Harbour cruises, Blue Lagoon trips from Latchi, sunset sails and private charters — which one to pick.
- Kato Paphos
- 2–6 hours
- €€
Experience
Scuba Diving in Paphos
Try-dives and certified dives along the Paphos coast, from caves and reefs to wrecks.
- Kato Paphos
- Half day
- €€€