Rock of Aphrodite (Petra tou Romiou)

The Basics

The Rock of Aphrodite is part of Cyprus’ Aphrodite Cultural Route, and visitors can follow the walking trail from neighboring Kouklia Beach or take a boat trip along the coast. Most travelers visit on a day trip from nearby Paphos, Limassol, or Ayia Napa, often in combination with seeing the ancient ruins of Kourion or sights of Paphos, such as the Tomb of the Kings and the Villa of Dionysos.

One of the most popular pastimes in this area is swimming around the rock, although no one is permitted to climb on the rock itself. The act of circling the rock is alleged to bestow beauty and fertility on those swimmers who complete the loop.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There is no entrance fee for visiting the Rock of Aphrodite.

• The waters around the Rock of Aphrodite can be quite rough, and only strong swimmers should try the loop around the rock.

• A restaurant and parking lot are situated above the beach, with a view of the rock.

• The Rock of Aphrodite viewpoint is wheelchair accessible, but the beach can only be reached via stairs.

How to Get There

The Rock of Aphrodite is located on Cyprus’ southwest coast, along the A6 highway, about 25 minutes’ drive from Paphos. Buses run directly to the rock from Paphos’ harbor and take about 30 minutes.

When to Get There

It’s possible to visit the Rock of Aphrodite anytime, but day-trippers arrive in droves throughout July and August, so get there early if you hope to take a crowd-free photo. The rock is most impressive at sunset.

The Legend of Aphrodite’s Rock

Guarding the coastline since ancient times, Aphrodite’s Rock is more than just a geological wonder. The sacred rock takes its name from the Greek goddess of love and beauty, who is said to have to have risen from the ocean at this spot. Legend has it that, in certain weather conditions, the waves rising and breaking against the rock create a cloud of sea foam that appears in the shape of a human.

Is swimming or water activities allowed near the Rock of Aphrodite?

Yes, swimming is allowed near the Rock of Aphrodite. There's a beach just in front of it, and while you aren't allowed to climb up the rock and jump off, you can swim or wade in the waters. The beach isn't the most beautiful of the many options found in Cyprus, but it is maintained.

What is the mythology or legend associated with the Rock of Aphrodite?

According to ancient Greek mythology, the Rock of Aphrodite marks where Aphrodite—the goddess of love and the Hellenistic equivalent of Venus—emerged from the sea. Legend says that if you swim around the rock, you'll be rewarded with beauty and fertility.

Is there an entrance fee to visit the Rock of Aphrodite?

No, there is no entrance fee to visit the Rock of Aphrodite. The rock is just next to a beach; all beaches in Cyprus are free and open to the public. You may still want to bring a little cash for snacks and beverages, available across the street at a small shop next to the attraction’s parking lot.

Is there free parking at the Rock of Aphrodite?

Yes, there is free parking at the Rock of Aphrodite on an open-surface gravel lot big enough to accommodate buses and cars alike. The lot is situated across the street from the main attraction and is accessible via a narrow tunnel that connects it to the beach.

Are there restrooms at the Rock of Aphrodite?

Yes, there are restrooms at the Rock of Aphrodite. They’re located next to the snack shop in the attraction’s parking lot, across the street from the rock and the beach itself. However, the restrooms are small and not ideal for changing into swimwear, so you may wish to wear your bathing suit under your clothes.

Are there any guided tours available for the Rock of Aphrodite?

Yes, there are guided tours available for the Rock of Aphrodite. However, most tours don’t only visit the famous rock. Instead, they combine a trip to the Rock of Aphrodite with other nearby attractions or stop at the rock en route to Paphos, Limassol, or the Troodos Mountains.