Midsize Woman

Escape freezing Europe to sunny Cyprus. This is my first trip to Europe, and let me be honest: I underestimated winter.

After hopping through Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Sofia, I reached a point where my bones felt permanently frozen. I’m a tropical girl, born and raised where the sun shows up every single day like it’s part of a contract. Europe in winter is beautiful, yes, but also brutal if you’re not built for it.

I remember standing in Sofia, wrapped in layers I didn’t even know how to style properly, thinking: There has to be a warmer place… but still in Europe.

That’s when Cyprus entered my mind.

An EU country, relatively close, with Mediterranean weather, palm trees, ancient history, and winter temperatures that don’t require emotional support. I booked a flight almost immediately and that decision led me to Paphos, a coastal town that quietly stole my heart.

This is my story of one day in Paphos, Cyprus, and why it’s one of the best winter escapes in Europe.

Wait… Is Cyprus in Europe or Asia?

Before coming here, I had a small existential geography crisis. So let’s clear this up in a fun, honest way.

Geographically? Cyprus is in Asia. It sits in the eastern Mediterranean, closer to the Middle East than mainland Europe.

Politically and culturally? Cyprus is very European. It’s a member of the European Union, uses the Euro, and follows European systems. So basically:

• Your body is in Asia
• Your passport stamp is European
• Your vibe is Mediterranean

Cyprus is that friend who doesn’t fit into one box and refuses to explain herself and honestly, we respect that.

Flights in Europe Still Surprise Me

One thing that continues to shock me while traveling Europe is how cheap flights are.

I booked a local European flight to Cyprus, and the price made me do a double take. Coming from Southeast Asia, especially Indonesia, domestic flights can be surprisingly expensive for the distances you travel. Here in Europe?

• Countries are close
• Budget airlines are aggressive
• Flying sometimes costs the same as dinner

It honestly reminded me that Europe is small but mighty. You can have breakfast in one country and lunch in another and Cyprus is proof that you don’t have to freeze to stay within the EU.

How to Get from Paphos Airport to the City Center

Paphos International Airport is small, efficient, and no chaos. Here are the main ways to get to Paphos city center:

Bus (Cheapest Option)

• Bus 615 connects the airport to Paphos Harbor
• Cost: around €1.50 – €2
• Travel time: 30–40 minutes

Perfect if you’re traveling light and not in a rush.

Taxi (Most Convenient)

• Cost: €25–€30
• Travel time: 15–20 minutes
• Great if you arrive late or have luggage

Car Rental

• Cyprus is very car-friendly
• Driving is on the left side (UK-style!)
• Ideal if you plan to explore beyond Paphos

I took the bus, slow, scenic, and budget-friendly and my first impression was simple: sunlight, blue sky, and olive trees. I could finally feel my fingers again.

Things to Do & See in Paphos

Paphos feels quiet and calm. Maybe it’s because of the hills and olive trees around the city, or maybe because I visited in winter, which is the low season. Either way, it felt peaceful. And that’s exactly why Paphos worked so well for me.

1. The Tombs of the Kings

Despite the dramatic name, no kings were actually buried here.

The Tombs of the Kings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site carved directly into rock, dating back to the 4th century BC. Walking through it feels surreal, ancient, quiet, and humbling. Winter is the best time to visit:

• Fewer tourists
• Soft sunlight
• Cool (but not cold) breeze

It’s one of those places where history doesn’t feel like a lesson, it feels like a presence.

2. Paphos Market & Old Town

The Paphos Municipal Market is small but charming. Here you’ll find:

• Local fruits and nuts
• Handmade souvenirs
• Olive oil and Cypriot products
• Friendly vendors who love to talk

Nearby, Old Town (Ktima) shows a more local side of Paphos, less polished, more real. It’s perfect for wandering without a plan.

3. Churches & Quiet Corners

Cyprus has a deep Orthodox Christian tradition, and Paphos reflects that beautifully.

Small churches appear almost unexpectedly between streets. Even if you’re not religious, they’re peaceful spaces, cool stone walls, flickering candles, and a sense of calm that’s rare in busy cities.

4. Local Cafés by the Sea

This might have been my favorite part. Paphos has an effortless café culture. I sat by the sea with:

• A strong Cypriot coffee
• A warm pastry
• The sound of waves instead of traffic

As someone who comes from a fast-paced tropical environment, this kind of stillness felt luxurious.

5. Paphos Archaeological Park

This is one of the most important historical sites in Cyprus and surprisingly easy to visit. The park is large, open, and right by the sea. Inside, you’ll find Roman villas with beautifully preserved mosaics, showing scenes from Greek mythology. What I liked most is that everything is outdoors, so even in winter it’s comfortable to walk around without feeling rushed or crowded.

6. Paphos Harbor Walk

The harbor area is one of the nicest places to slow down in the late afternoon. It’s flat, walkable, and lined with cafés and benches facing the water. Sunset here is simple but beautiful, the sky changes color slowly, fishing boats move quietly, and the whole area feels calm rather than touristy, especially in winter.

7. Eat at Local Tavernas

Food in Paphos is straightforward and comforting. Local tavernas serve halloumi cheese, souvlaki, grilled seafood, fresh salads, and warm bread. Portions are generous, prices are reasonable, and meals are meant to be enjoyed slowly. Winter is a good time to eat locally because restaurants are less busy, and service feels more personal.

8. Coastal Paths and Sea Walks

Paphos has several easy coastal walking paths that don’t require hiking experience. You can walk along the sea, stop to sit on rocks, or just enjoy the Mediterranean views. In winter, the air is cool but sunny, making it perfect for long walks without the summer heat.

Overall, Paphos is ideal if you enjoy history, nature, good food, and a calm travel style. It’s not a nightlife destination, and that’s part of its charm, especially if you’re traveling in winter and want a place that feels peaceful rather than busy.

Useful & Educational Travel Tips for Paphos

Before wrapping up, here are some practical things I wish more people talked about:

1. Winter Weather in Paphos

• Temperature: 15–20°C
• Sunny days are common
• Light jacket is enough during the day

2. Currency

• Uses Euro (€)
• Cards widely accepted, but carry some cash

3. Language

• Greek is the official language
• English is widely spoken

4. What to Pack

• Light sweater or jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunglasses (yes, even in winter)

Final Thoughts

After weeks of cold European cities, Paphos felt like a break.

It’s not flashy or dramatic, but it’s warm, calm, and easy to enjoy. For a tropical girl experiencing her first European winter, Cyprus felt like a good balance, still Europe, just without the freezing temperatures and big crowds.

If you’re traveling around Europe in winter and need somewhere a bit warmer and slower, Paphos is a solid option.

For me, it was a reminder that sometimes the places you enjoy most aren’t the busiest ones, just the ones where you can slow down a little.