Axiothea Hotel, Paphos

The Axiothea is the best-value base in Paphos and a favourite with independent travellers who would rather spend on experiences than on a resort. It is a simple, well-kept hotel in the upper town, known as Ktima, on a quiet street a few steps from the Byzantine Museum and the cathedral of Agios Theodoros, and a short walk from the old town’s market streets, cafés and squares. Being on the ridge, it looks out over the rooftops to the sea, and guests often single out the terrace and its views. The rooms are straightforward and comfortable, with air conditioning, free WiFi and free bottled water, and some have balconies with sea views. There is a bar, a garden and a lift. Breakfast is a buffet that costs extra, but reviewers praise it consistently, and the service is warm and personal. Guest scores are exceptional for a hotel at this price, at 9.4 out of 10 on Expedia.

Location and getting around: the hotel is at 2 Andrea Ioannou Street in the upper town. Old-town shops and tavernas are on the doorstep, the Tombs of the Kings are about one and a half kilometres away and Paphos harbour about two and a half kilometres downhill. Local buses link the upper town with the harbour, and taxis are inexpensive for the trip down to Kato Paphos. Many day tours pick up in the upper town or at nearby meeting points.

The rooms: rooms are compact and simply furnished, in a few categories, with the best ones having balconies facing the sea. Ask for a sea-view room when you book.

Who it suits: budget travellers, solo travellers and couples who want an authentic town base with real Cypriot life around them, and who plan to spend their days out on tours or in a rental car.

Good to know: free parking is available but limited, so arrive early or ask the staff. Check-in is from two in the afternoon, a late arrival after one in the morning carries a small fee, and an airport transfer can be arranged on request for a modest charge per vehicle.