Ktima – Paphos Old Town

Ktima – Paphos Old Town

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North of the tourist biz of Kato Paphos, there is Ktima; also known as the Old Town and typically has more of a local atmosphere. Ktima is bathed in history, culture and tradition.

Get away from the hustle and bustle of the harbour and up to Ktima to take a stroll around the market stalls. The market sells everything from fresh fruit and vegetables, to clothes, to souvenirs ranging from fridge magnets to shot glasses. The market is undercover so can be a lovely escape in the shade from the sizzling 30 degree heat in the summer months.

Apart from the market, there are many different shops including designer clothing and opticians. There are also numerous options for cafes and restaurants hidden away in the side streets such as the Laona Taverna. In the heart of the old town, you will also come across the quaint traditional Kinras Hotel which is full of character and has been operating since the 19^th century. Kinras is also home to a stunning courtyard with a beautiful garden.

If you go a little bit further east of the market on the Makarios Avenue, you will come to Kennedy Square. Before the times of multiplexes etc. Kennedy Square was the hotspot for entertainment as it held a total of 3 different cinemas! In the Titania centre in the square, you can go and see one of the old projectors.

As for nightlife, there are lots of different buzzing bars including Kraft that usually has live music with customers paying an entrance fee. Within Kennedy Square, there is the luxurious Noir, which is a tapas and wine bar, which is very popular in the evenings. There is also Boulevard right next door, also a wine bar, which has a hidden garden at the back complete with fairy lights and chill vibes. Plato on the corner of the square is known for its outstanding sushi platters.

Paphos Town Hall is just off to the right which has all been refurbished due to Paphos being the European City of Culture 2017. Here is where you will find Paphos’ hidden gem, the vintage café entitled Let Them Eat Cake. The café will cater to all of your needs whether it be smooth Cypriot coffee, a bite for lunch or the decadent cakes made fresh everyday. Paphos’ own modern Marie Antoinette, Souzana Anastasi, also caters for large events whether it be birthday cakes, christenings or the perfect wedding cake. The café is a treat not to be missed!

 

Tip

Shops in Cyprus do take afternoon breaks, usually starting from 1 and can vary between 2-4pm to open again. Just be aware of this when going for an afternoon stroll around the old town as you may be doing more window shopping than actual shopping!

 

Location

The Old Town is just north of Kato Paphos, there are buses that go from the Harbour and stop in Karavella in the middle of the old town.