Attraction · UNESCO World Heritage
Tombs of the Kings
Short answer
The Tombs of the Kings is a large necropolis of underground tombs cut into the rock from the Hellenistic period onwards. Despite the name, no kings were buried here — the tombs belonged to wealthy officials and aristocrats, and the name comes from their grandeur. The best tombs have open courtyards ringed by Doric columns, carved straight out of the bedrock. It is part of the Paphos UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Why visit Tombs of the Kings
- Nowhere else in Paphos lets you climb down into ancient architecture like this — courtyards, columns and burial chambers all cut from solid rock.
- It feels more like exploring than museum-going, which makes it one of the better ancient sites for children.
- It sits on the sea, so the setting is better than the name suggests.
What to see
The peristyle tombs
The most impressive tombs have a sunken central courtyard surrounded by columns, with burial chambers opening off it. Look for the numbered signs; the larger peristyle tombs are the highlight.
The smaller chamber tombs
Scattered across the site, these give a sense of how extensive the necropolis was.
How long to spend
Around 1.5 hours to see the main tombs without rushing; 2 hours if you explore the whole site. Most people underestimate the walking.
Best time to visit
Opening time or the last couple of hours before closing. There is almost no shade on the site, and it is uncomfortable in the middle of a summer day.
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.
There is an entrance fee set by the Department of Antiquities. We do not publish a price until we have verified the current one; check the official site or pay at the gate.
How to get there
The site is about 2 km north-west of Paphos harbour on Tombs of the Kings Avenue. It is walkable along the coast in cooler weather; otherwise take a local bus or taxi. There is on-site parking.
Accessibility
Reaching the tombs involves uneven ground and steep, irregular stone steps down into the courtyards. Not suitable for wheelchairs beyond the upper level.
Who might skip it
Mobility is limited or it is the middle of a summer afternoon — the steps and exposure are the main obstacles.
Frequently asked questions
How long do you need at the Tombs of the Kings?
About 1.5 hours for the main tombs, up to 2 hours to see the whole site.
Can you walk to the Tombs of the Kings from Paphos Harbour?
Yes — it is roughly 2 km, mostly along the coast. In summer, walk early or take a bus or taxi; the walk back in midday heat is unpleasant.
Is the Tombs of the Kings worth visiting?
Yes for most visitors. If you can only do one ancient site, choose the Archaeological Park for the mosaics; if you can do two, add the Tombs of the Kings — it is a very different experience.
Is the Tombs of the Kings suitable for children?
Generally yes for school-age children, who tend to enjoy climbing down into the tombs. Supervise closely — there are open drops and uneven steps.
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
Paphos Castle
Small harbour fort with roof-top views — a 20-minute stop rather than a destination.
- Kato Paphos
- 20–30 minutes
- €
Attraction
Paphos Harbour & Seafront Promenade
The harbour, castle and coastal promenade — Paphos' evening walk and boat-trip departure point.
- Kato Paphos
- 1–2 hours
- Free
Itinerary
1 Day in Paphos
One day in Paphos, planned properly: the mosaics and Tombs of the Kings in the cool of the morning, the harbour at sunset — all on foot from Kato Paphos.
- 1 day
- Car: no
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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.
Family
Paphos With Kids
Planning Paphos with children: the beaches, ancient sites and activities that work for kids, how to plan around the heat, and where families should stay.