BJJ in Paphos

Autor: Jean-Pierre

Location: Paphos, CY

Paphos is a coastal city in southwest Cyprus known for its ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and as the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love.

Fun fact, in Cyprus are living more Cats than humans.

Find my map with points of interest in Cyprus here!

BJJ

You can find a BJJ gym in pretty much every big city in Cyprus. I had the chance to train at International Jiu-Jitsu School in Paphos with my friend Ivan Tomasetti. They have training sessions several times a day, except on Sundays. In early 2023, the club launched in Paphos.

Other gyms in Paphos: Kings BJJ and ZR JJ

More BJJ in Cyprus:

Nicosia:Palerstra JJ and Renzo Gracie

Limasoll: Orion, Hose of JJ and Checkmat

Agia Napa: Bad Dog BJJ

Larnaca: Cyprus Top Team

Food and drinks

Cypriot cuisine is a vibrant mix of Mediterranean flavors shaped by Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern influences. The island’s fertile land provides fresh vegetables, herbs, and fruits, which are the foundation of many traditional dishes. Popular main courses include souvla—large cuts of pork or lamb slow-cooked over charcoal—and sheftalia, a type of sausage wrapped in caul fat. Halloumi cheese, unique to Cyprus, is often grilled or fried and served as a starter or in salads.

Side dishes like koupepia (grape leaves stuffed with minced meat and rice) and pourgouri (cracked wheat pilaf) are commonly served with meals. Locals enjoy hearty stews like afella (pork in red wine and coriander) and stifado (rabbit or beef stew with onions and spices). For dessert, traditional sweets such as flaounes (cheese pastries with mint) and soutzoukos (nuts dipped in grape must) are popular, especially during holidays.

Cypriot drinks include Commandaria, a rich, sweet dessert wine dating back to ancient times, and Zivania, a strong local spirit made from distilled grapes. The island also produces quality wines and refreshing lagers that pair perfectly with its diverse cuisine.

Things to do

🏛️ Historical & Cultural Sites

• Paphos Archaeological Park – Wander through Roman villas, mosaics, an ancient Odeon, and more.
• Tombs of the Kings – Underground necropolis carved from rock, offering a glimpse into ancient burial practices.
• Paphos Castle – Small medieval fortress at the harbor with scenic views.

🌅 Nature & Beaches

• Coral Bay – Popular sandy beach with clear waters for swimming and sunbathing.
• Lara Bay – Remote, peaceful beach famous for being a nesting ground for endangered turtles.
• Avakas Gorge – A short drive from Paphos, great for a hike through a dramatic limestone canyon.
• Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou) – Mythical birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite; scenic for photos, especially at sunset.
• Akamas Peninsula National Park – Hike or drive through a rugged nature reserve with coastal views and wildlife.

🏊 Outdoor Activities

• Aphrodite Waterpark – Great for families or anyone looking for slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
• Scuba diving/snorkeling – Discover sea caves, reefs, or the MV Demetrios II shipwreck.
• Sea cave exploration – Visit the unique rock formations and caves along the coastline near Peyia.

🏙️ Around Town

• Paphos Old Town – Stroll the renovated pedestrian streets with shops, murals, and small galleries.
• Paphos Lighthouse – A nice walk within the archaeological park area with scenic coastal views.

Good to know

Definitely check if you need a Visa.

The best way to get around the city is by scooter, rental car, taxi or Bolt.

The currency is Euro.