Polis Travel Guide

A few transportation options are available if you plan a Polis trip. Depending on your destination and travel budget, you can fly, drive, or take public transportation. The closest airport to Polis is Paphos International Airport (PFO), approximately 40 minutes away by car.

You can take a taxi or rent a car at the airport. A taxi ride from the airport to Polis will cost 60-70 euros.

Several rental companies are available at the airport terminal if you rent a car. If you prefer driving, renting a car is the best option as it gives you more flexibility and freedom during your stay in Polis.

The roads in Cyprus are well-maintained and signposted, making for an enjoyable road trip experience. A taxi from Paphos city center to Polis will cost around 40-50 euros.

If you're on a tighter budget or prefer not to drive during your holiday, bus services connect Paphos with other cities and towns in Cyprus, including Polis. The local bus service KTEL offers daily buses from Paphos Bus Station to Latchi Harbour (which is close), and then visitors can take another bus route to get into town.

When planning a trip to Polis, it's essential to consider the best time of year for your visit. The weather in Polis tends towards hot summers and mild winters, making its Mediterranean climate an excellent place for outdoor activities all year round. The peak tourist season runs from June through August when temperatures reach the high 30s °C / low 90s°F and beaches get crowded with locals and foreigners vacationing along this stretch of coastline.

The shoulder season lasts from April to May and September to October, where you can expect the weather to be mild and fewer crowds. This is a great time to visit if you're looking for a quieter holiday.

If you are interested in outdoor activities such as hiking or exploring the Akamas peninsula, springtime is the best time to visit Polis (March-May). Flowers bloom throughout this period, making it a beautiful sight for nature lovers.

Winter is an off-season in Polis, but it still has its perks. Visitors can see Cyprus' cultural festivities with fewer tourists during Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations.

You can enjoy mild temperatures by exploring historical sites and museums in Paphos and less-crowded local cafes. There are various transportation options available when getting to Polis.

Whether you fly into Paphos International Airport or drive your car from the mainland, there's an option for every preference and budget. Additionally, deciding when you want to visit depends on your interests. Generally, early spring or late summer/autumn are excellent periods that offer enjoyable weather conditions with less crowded attractions.

Polis is rich in natural beauty and historical significance. Visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities, explore ancient ruins, and immerse themselves in local culture. Here are some of the top things to do while visiting Polis.

Beaches and Water Activities

Akamas Peninsula National Park is a protected area on the western tip of Cyprus. It boasts stunning cliffs, rocky coves, and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. One of the most popular beaches within the park is Lara Beach, home to loggerhead turtles during nesting season.

Latchi Beach is another excellent option for those seeking sun, sand, and sea. The golden stretch of Latchi's coastline runs along the picturesque fishing village that inspired Greek mythology's story of Aphrodite emerging from the waves.

If you're looking for even more adventure, consider scuba diving or snorkeling in Polis' deep blue waters. Explore underwater caves with experienced guides to see colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Historical Sites and Cultural Experiences

Paphos Archaeological Park offers visitors a glimpse into ancient Greek history through its collection of mosaics depicting scenes from Greek mythology. The park also contains several Roman ruins, such as an amphitheater with up to 800 people.

The Tombs of Kings are located just outside Paphos city center; these underground tombs date back to Hellenistic times (323 BC - 31 BC) and are carved out entirely from solid rock. They were used as burial chambers rather than tombs – but it's still quite interesting!

The Byzantine Museum of Arsinoe showcases artifacts dating back to the early Christian period in Cyprus (AD 325-1191). With over 200 pieces on display, including frescoes, icons, jewelry, and ceramics, visitors can glimpse life during this time in history.

Polis showcases traditional Cypriot cuisine, offering visitors a mouth-watering experience. With a mix of Greek and Turkish influences, the dishes are as diverse as they are delicious. Visitors to Polis should prepare to indulge in meze, Souvlaki, halloumi cheese, and many other local delicacies.

Local cuisine (meze, souvlaki, halloumi cheese)

Meze is a staple of Cyprus food culture and can be found in almost every restaurant in Polis. It comprises small plates shared among tables, including anything from dips like tzatziki or taramasalata to grilled meats like lamb or pork.

Souvlaki is another typical Cypriot dish that consists of skewered meats (usually pork or chicken) grilled over charcoal before being served with pita bread. Halloumi cheese is perhaps the most famous export from Cyprus.

Made from sheep's milk (occasionally cow's milk), it has a salty taste that makes it perfect for salads or sandwiches. Visitors should try fresh halloumi during their stay in Polis to appreciate the flavor.

Restaurants with a view

Polis has plenty of restaurants; however, those with panoramic city views often represent exceptional experiences. One such restaurant is Arsinoe Fish Tavern, which sits on the edge of Latchi Harbour overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

The menu features fresh seafood caught by local fishermen daily. Another spot for breathtaking views while eating out is Moustakallis Taverna – perched high above Polis town itself, commanding stunning panoramas over Chrysochous Bay below - this family-owned taverna serves traditional Cypriot dishes using ingredients sourced locally where possible.

Best bars for nightlife

Polis may not be known for nightlife, but visitors can enjoy an exciting evening out. Many of the restaurants in Polis have bars attached and serve delicious cocktails, local wines, and beers.

One trendy spot is the Yialos Beach Bar at Latchi Beach, which has a great atmosphere and live music on weekends. Another option is the Arayi Beach Bar just outside Polis which offers a more laid-back vibe with spectacular views over the sea.

Visitors can enjoy drinks while watching the sunset over Chrysochous Bay; it's a perfect way to end a day of sightseeing and exploring. Food and drink are an integral part of visiting Polis.

There's something for everyone, from local cuisine like meze and Souvlaki to restaurants with amazing views like Arsinoe Fish Tavern or Moustakallis Taverna. And even though the nightlife is more low-key than other Cypriot destinations – bars such as Yialos Beach Bar or Arayi Beach Bar offer visitors plenty to enjoy after dark too!

Polis is an excellent destination for shopping enthusiasts, offering many traditional products and souvenirs. From the locally-produced olive oil to the unique jewelry pieces, there are plenty of items to choose from that will serve as a reminder of your trip.

Traditional Products

One of the top traditional products in Polis is olive oil. The region boasts some of the finest quality olive oil, produced from olives grown in the fertile soil.

You can find various types and flavors at local markets and shops. Wine is another popular product, with many vineyards producing high-quality wine using traditional methods.

Honey is also an essential commodity in Polis, with several local beekeepers producing small-batch honey varieties. You can find jars of honey made from wildflowers and herbs unique to the region.

Souvenirs

If you're looking for souvenirs from Polis, many options are available. One popular choice is jewelry made by local artisans using traditional techniques and materials such as silver and precious stones.

You can find unique pieces that reflect the island's rich cultural heritage. Pottery is another excellent souvenir option, with many studios offering handmade ceramics inspired by traditional Cypriot designs.

From plates to vases to decorative tiles, you will find something that catches your eye. Consider purchasing handwoven textiles or embroidered linens made using natural fibers like cotton or linen for more practical gifts.

These make excellent gifts for friends or family back home. Shopping in Polis offers an opportunity to take home a piece of this beautiful region's culture and tradition through various products like olive oil, wine, and honey and unique souvenirs such as jewelry or pottery inspired by Cypriot designs that reflect its cultural heritage.

Polis offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you're looking for a luxurious stay in an award-winning resort or a budget-friendly option like camping, there is something for everyone in Polis. When planning your next trip to this charming town on the northwest coast of Cyprus, consider the many options available for accommodations to make your stay as comfortable and memorable as possible.

Hotels and Resorts

Polis has various hotels and resorts catering to different budgets and preferences. For those looking for a luxurious stay, the Anassa Hotel is a five-star resort offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and an award-winning spa.

The Natura Beach Hotel is an excellent choice for a more budget-friendly option with its comfortable rooms and easy access to the beach. Other notable hotels include the Villa Eleni Hotel Apartments, which offer self-catering accommodations complete with kitchens, and the Zening Resorts, which provide eco-friendly lodgings nestled in serene surroundings.

Vacation Rentals and Apartments

For travelers who prefer more privacy or need larger living spaces for families or groups of friends, vacation rentals or apartments are viable options. The Bungalow Kalogris is located near Latchi Beach and has two bedrooms plus a large outdoor area for barbecues or leisure time.

Another popular choice among locals and tourists is George's House, which features fully furnished apartments with air conditioning units. Beachfront villas are also available on Airbnb, such as Villa Limoneira, situated just 300 meters from Pomos Beach.

Budget-Friendly Options

Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate Polis's many affordable accommodations options. The Akamanthea Holiday Village offers comfortable lodging at reasonable rates and includes amenities such as kitchenettes, outdoor pools, plus indoor heated ones.

Another option worth considering is Mariela Hotel Apartments; they have cozy studios well equipped with essential tools used in cooking, such as microwaves and kettles, among others. Camping Laona also provides an adventurous way to explore Polis while saving money without sacrificing comfort. They offer air-conditioned tents and chalets at affordable prices and are located only 9km from the Baths of Aphrodite.