Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Paphos gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from PFO to the city takes roughly 70 minutes by Paphos Bus Route 612 / 613, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at PFO:
First, verify that you can enter Cyprus — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Paphos Bus Route 612 / 613 takes about 70 minutes into Paphos, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — EUR is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Paphos International Airport into town:
- Paphos Bus Route 612 / 613: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Paphos layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What’s Worth Seeing in Paphos
If you head into Paphos, here are two things worth checking out:
Paphos Archaeological Park is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
Paphos Harbour & Castle is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
If you’d rather stay inside PFO — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Aspire Lounge PFO
- Paphos Duty-Free Shop
Food Worth Trying
For food in Paphos, local travelers recommend Hondros Tavern. If you have time for a second stop, The Lodge Steak & Seafood Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at PFO, Burger King PFO is the go-to. Ritazza PFO rounds out your in-terminal options.
Storing Your Luggage at Paphos International Airport
You can store your luggage at No public luggage storage or lockers available at Paphos International Airport.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Paphos as well.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at PFO, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Paphos itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Cyprus that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at PFO include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Cyprus also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Paphos is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Paphos.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.