Paphos

Aphrodite’s birthplace is the lucky host to eight months of summer weather each year, meaning Cyprus is an ideal choice for sun-worshippers. Enjoy the rays in stylish fashion at the superb Amathus Beach Resort (Poseidon Avenue), which offers large, modern rooms and a delightful spa, or at the Thalassa Boutique Hotel & Spa (Coral Bay Main Road), which lies a little further out of town right next to the beach. More modestly priced are the Anna Hotel Apartments (15 Evagorou Street) found in the centre of town, while the family-run Axiothea Hotel (2 Ivis Mallioti Street) is a great budget choice.

Delicious chewy sweets, loukoumia, and delicate handmade lace are among Paphos’ most popular souvenirs, and starting at the harbourside is a good shout on your shopping adventure. Here quaint shops sell a good range of lace, leather goods and local food products. Hit the boutiques and stores of Makariou Avenue for more lace, antiques and Cypriot ceramics, or if you're after inexpensive local textiles, art and jewellery then try the covered market along Nicodimou Mylona Street in the centre of the Old Town.

The restaurant scene in Paphos is encapsulated by the freshest of seafood and full-on Mediterranean flavours at moderate prices. Try Ouzeri (12 Poseidonos Avenue) for superb meze while enjoying harbour views in a romantic setting, or for well-priced traditional Cypriot dining head to one of the many ‘taverna’ restaurants. Akis Tavern (Airport Road) and Les Amis (Kleious Street) are among the best choices in town. The harbour area’s Agiou Antoniou Street (known as 'Bar Street’) is Paphos’ drinking and dancing hotspot, with Boogies Bar and Robin Hood among the popular haunts along the strip.

Sa Rua Carnival

February

Sa Rua Carnival is also known as Darrers Dies, and marks the beginning of Lent. Expect colourful floats, lively music and masked dancers along the vibrant La Rambla.

Maundy Thursday parade

March/April

Different brotherhoods of the city make their way to the cathedral during the largest parade of Semana Santa, or Holy Week, holding statues aloft as they proceed.

Palma International Boat Show

May

This glitzy boat show is held in Palma Marina, encompassing all things nautical as everything from luxury yachts to humble boats are featured.

Nic de Foc (Night of Fire)

23 June

The end of midsummer is lit up by swathes of bonfires and fireworks, as locals and visitors are attracted to Parc de la Mersignal.

Festa de l'Estendard

31 December

New Year’s Eve in Paphos also celebrates the Christian conquest of Palma in 1229, which includes a parade from the town hall to the cathedral, culminating in mass.