Are you planning a trip to Paphos, Cyprus? Congratulations! The city has so much to see and do, whether it’s sunshine, beach days you are after, or cultural exploration.
One of the most important things to prepare for your travels is familiarizing yourself with currency.
Understanding money exchange rates and knowing what payment type is accepted will ensure your trip goes smoothly.
In this blog post, we’ll cover all the basics about money in Paphos so you can hit the ground running when it comes time for booking accommodation and exploring!
The Currency in Paphos, Cyprus
On January 01, 2008, Cyprus said goodbye to the Cyprus pound and welcomed the Euro! This transformational event welcomed a new currency at an irrevocable fixed exchange rate of €1 = CY£ 0.585274 – and the Republic of Cyprus has been embracing its new tender ever since!
The Euro banknotes come in seven denominations – from 5 to 500 (5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500)!
And each has a different color and size, so the higher the denomination, the larger it is. Check them out; they’ll make your wallet look great!
Break out your Euro coins – because one Euro is divided into 100 cents! There are eight coins to choose from – 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, plus 1 and 2 euros – and each has a unique national design on one side.
And the best part? These coins can be used in any country that uses the Euro – no questions asked!
The Currency Exchange in Paphos, Cyprus
Exchanging money in Cyprus couldn’t be easier:
All banks can swap Euros for foreign currencies, and the exchange rates are updated daily.
Hotels are an option, too, if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere.
And if you need to brush up on your currency’s knowledge, check out the Central Bank of Cyprus – they have all the info you need.
Now that’s what we call convenient!
Forms of payment in Paphos, Cyprus
The most popular form of payment in Paphos is cash and credit cards.
Euros are accepted everywhere, and you can withdraw cash from ATMs in various locations around the city.
Most hotels, large shops, tourist attractions, and restaurants accept credit cards, especially MasterCard and Visa.
Cards like American Express and Maestro were accepted but fewer than the other two.
So as a tourist, you have nothing to worry about – Paphos is a touristic-friendly city!
Before you pull out that trusty credit card – remember you may get hit with a fee!
But don’t worry; some cards have no fees, and others will lower the usual 3% charge.
So make sure to do your research before leaving home.
Finding an ATM in Paphos
If you’re looking for a convenient way to get Euro cash, ATMs are almost everywhere in the city.
You can find one near the bank, shops or petrol stations, and major tourist attractions like ports and airports.
Be aware that there may be limits on how much you can withdraw once, so check with your bank beforehand.
Also, keep an eye out for any fees associated with using the ATM – it’s always best to ask the bank before proceeding.
Tipping in Paphos
Tipping in Paphos is not obligatory but a nice gesture to show appreciation.
Many restaurants and hotels will include a service charge on the bill, so check that out before leaving any extra cash.
But if you find yourself with excellent service – feel free to give a few extra Euros!
It’s always appreciated.
V.A.T. in Paphos
Please visit my guide about V.A.T. in Paphos.
Cost of living in Paphos
Living in Paphos is generally cheaper than in the rest of Europe or other cities in Cyprus, like Limassol.
Food, drinks, general goods, and services are much more affordable here.
Housing prices vary greatly depending on what type of rental or purchase you’re looking for.
But expect to find some good deals if you do your research!
And, of course, the closer you are to the beach and amenities like supermarkets – the higher the price.
Whether it’s catching a bus, watching a show, or grabbing a bite – you’ll find plenty of options.
Bus tickets? Just €1.50! Want to hit up the movies or the theatre? That’ll be €8 for an adult ticket.
And for dinner, indulge in a local tavern with beer and meze for just €22.
Want to explore the culinary delights of Cyprus? There’s something for everyone, from a continental breakfast for less than €4 to a lunch fixed menu for €13.50.
Cappuccino in the morning? Just €4 – not too shabby!
And in the evening, enjoy a glass of beer between €3.50 and €5, with a soft drink at €2 – cheap and cheerful.
You can get your pack of cigarettes for only €4.50 for the smokers out there!
So don’t forget your wallet – but leave some room in it when visiting Cyprus!
Prices at the supermarket
You can always know how expensive or inexpensive the city is by looking at the prices of everyday things such as groceries.
Whether you’re shopping at a local convenience store or a supermarket, the cost of items can vary significantly.
For example, bread can range from €1.70 to €2 per loaf, depending on where you shop.
Milk is usually around €1-€1.50 per liter, and eggs will cost €2-€3 for a dozen.
For fruits and vegetables, prices vary depending on the season and variety.
In the mood for some delicious local Halloumi cheese? €13-15.50 per kilo will do just the trick.
Lastly, you can expect to pay around €0.90-€1.50 for a water bottle in Paphos.
Wash it down with a tin of local beer for only €0.68-0.79, and pair it with pork for 4.50-5.90 per kilo, chicken for 4-4.40 per kilo, and tomatoes and apples for 0.85-3,75 per kilo.
Bon appétit!
In conclusion
Paphos is a safe and affordable city to visit.
Whether you’re looking to pay with cash or a card – plenty of options are available.
You can also enjoy delicious local delicacies without breaking the bank, as groceries and restaurant meals are relatively cheap.
So don’t forget your wallet when you come to Paphos! Have a wonderful time!
It’s always nice to share your appreciation with some extra Euros, but tipping is unnecessary.
And don’t forget that V.A.T. can be refunded upon departure, so read my V.A.T. guide.
Happy traveling!
