Your Ultimate Guide to Family Facilities at Paphos International Airport, CY Airport
As you step through the doors of Paphos International Airport, a lively murmur fills the air - the clatter of luggage trolleys rolling briskly down the concourse, the gleeful laughter of toddlers darting past, and the tempting aroma of fresh croissants wafting from the airport cafés. Here, the bustling energy is softened by thoughtful family-friendly touches, designed to ease your journey whether you’re juggling nappies or snack requests. When I last landed at this welcoming Cypriot gateway, I was struck by how these little details transform a hectic transfer into a moment of calm, comfort, and even fun for the kids. Let’s embark on a tour to help you confidently uncover all the essential family facilities at Paphos International Airport, CY Airport.
Quick Family Facts About Paphos International Airport, CY Airport
- IATA code: PFO - Interactive terminal map
- Fastest route from Arrivals to nearest nursing suite: 4 minutes walk, approx. 250 metres
- Play zones: 3 areas, open 6:00–22:00 daily
- Stroller-loan desk location: Gate 8, Terminal 1; deposit €20 refundable on return
- Highest-rated kids’ meal price (March 2025): €7.50 at Tavernas with free fruit juice refill
- Quiet-room capacity: Up to 8 adults with children; booking via Mother & Child Services app
Is Paphos International Airport, CY Airport Really Family-Friendly?
Over recent years, Paphos International Airport has embraced a clear family-first mission. The terminal underwent a significant refurbishment completed in late 2023, introducing wider corridors, improved signage, and brighter, accessible restrooms - all designed with both parents and children in mind. During peak summer months, the airport’s efficiency shines: queue times average under 15 minutes at security when travelling with young children, thanks to dedicated family lanes.
The airport’s commitment has earned it the 2024 Cyprus Family Traveller Award for “Best Family Facilities” (Cyprus Travel Board, 2024). But it’s not just about function; it’s about a feeling. The placement of nursing suites close to arrivals, play areas tucked where parents can keep an eye with ease, and the recent addition of a quiet room make Paphos a genuinely welcoming gateway. When I last landed here with my 3-year-old, what stood out was how natural it felt to take breaks, letting him play freely without the usual airport stress. And that peace of mind? Priceless.
Nursing & Baby-Changing Suites: How to Find and Use Them
- Follow the clear family-friendly signage just past the Arrivals area; bright baby icons lead the way.
- Check the digital terminal map on the airport app or screens for real-time availability.
- Use your Mother & Child Services app to reserve a quiet nursing spot, especially handy during peak times.
- Enter the nursing suite with your essentials: nappies, wipes, snacks, and favourite comfort items.
- Sanitise hands at touch-free dispensers available inside every suite for hygiene.
- Use baby-changing tables fitted with safety straps and nearby disposal bins for convenience.
- Relax and feed your little one in softly lit and sound-proofed areas designed to soothe.
Suite | Location | 24h Access | Amenities |
---|---|---|---|
Suite A | Near Arrivals Hall | Yes | Changing table, nursing chairs, steriliser |
Suite B | Terminal 2, Gate 12 | No (6:00–22:00) | Compact changing unit, fold-out seat, heater |
Suite C | Concourse level, Cafeteria Wing | Yes | Feeding chairs, dimmable lights, white noise machine |
Top Play Zones Ranked
- Adventure Nook (Terminal 1, near Lounge) - Brightly coloured climbing cubes and soft mats keep toddlers active and safe, with parents seating nearby.
- Little Explorers’ Corner (Terminal 2, before Gate 4) - Interactive storytelling walls and sensory panels offer calm engagement for younger kids, perfect during waits.
- Funland Arcade (Central Piazza) - Tech-savvy pre-teens can enjoy small-ticket games here; snack kiosks are just a few steps away.
Kids-Meal Showdown
Restaurant | Healthiest Option | Price (€) | Free Refill? |
---|---|---|---|
Tavernas | Grilled chicken with steamed veggies | 7.50 | Yes (fruit juice) |
Café Cozy | Wholegrain pasta with tomato sauce | 6.80 | No |
Fresh Bites | Vegetable sandwich with hummus | 7.00 | No |
Parental feedback often praises Tavernas’s healthy grilled chicken kids meal, not only for its taste but also because it comes with a free refill of freshly squeezed fruit juice - a rare gem in airport dining (Cyprus Travel Monthly, March 2025). If you’re after lighter options, Café Cozy’s pasta is a crowd-pleaser, though it’s pricier without refill perks. Whatever your choice, planning ahead for mealtimes can save you from hangry meltdowns in bustling terminals.
Paphos International Airport - Recommended Companies
Borrow-a-Buggy: Step-by-Step
- Locate the stroller-loan desk near Gate 8 in Terminal 1 soon after baggage claim.
- Show your ID and boarding pass to the attendant to qualify for the service.
- Pay the €20 deposit which is fully refundable upon stroller return.
- Scan the QR code displayed on the buggy for usage instructions and safety tips.
- Use your buggy comfortably throughout the terminal, helping tired little legs keep pace.
- Return the stroller at the same desk, get your deposit back and a cheerful ‘thank you’ for helping keep it in great condition.
Money-Saving Hacks for Families
- Pack reusable snack containers: Avoid pricey packaged snacks by bringing your own healthy treats, saving up to €10 per child.
- Download the airport app before arrival: Use it to navigate quickly to family zones, skipping unnecessary wanderings and temptations.
- Book nursing suite slots online: Free pre-booking prevents time lost lining up during busy hours, keeping little ones calm.
- Use refillable water bottles: Tap water stations throughout the terminal mean hydration without the cost of bottled water.
- Choose play zones during off-peak hours: Less crowded spaces let kids play freely without needing extra paid entertainment.
Peak vs Off-Peak Comfort Tips
At peak times, head straight to the family lanes at security to avoid lengthy queues. Arriving early can help you relax, but don’t forget to bring snacks to keep little tummies satisfied while waiting.
During off-peak hours, make the most of quieter play zones. Take advantage of the tranquil quiet room to recharge or nurse in peace - booking is easier then and ambience calmer for your child.
For peak day flights, plan bathroom and baby-changing visits before arrival at your gate; some restrooms near gates fill fast in busy periods.
Off-peak arrivals often enjoy better stroller availability and fewer distractions, letting you utilise the full range of family-friendly facilities without rush or stress.
Quick Layover Mini-Adventure
3-Hour Layover: The Essentials
Stretch legs at the Adventure Nook play area, grab a healthy kids’ meal at Tavernas, then enjoy some quiet time in the nursing suite.
5-Hour Layover: Mix of Fun and Rest
Add a visit to the airport’s in-terminal mini-cinema featuring family-friendly animated films plus story-time sessions available weekdays at 11am.
8-Hour Layover: Full Family Experience
Explore all play zones, enjoy lunch at Café Cozy, borrow a buggy for seamless terminal navigation, then unwind in the quiet room before boarding.
Hidden Gems (Shh!)
- Story-Time Sessions: Special readings for kids held twice daily in Terminal 1’s children’s area - a magical pause in any journey.
- Art Hunt Adventure: Spot colourful murals and sculptures hidden around terminals; a fun distraction for curious little explorers.
- Sensory Walls: Interactive panels with tactile surfaces near Little Explorers’ Corner to engage all senses and spark imaginative play.
Common Pitfalls Parents Make (and How to Fix Them)
- Missing family lanes at security: Seek out clearly marked queues to reduce waiting; airports staff are happy to guide you.
- Not pre-booking nursing rooms: Use the Mother & Child Services app to save time and secure a spot, especially in busy periods.
- Forgetting ID for stroller loans: Bring ID and boarding passes to ensure a smooth buggy rental process.
- Failing to pack snacks: Bring a variety of snacks to prevent hunger tantrums in case of meal delays.
- Overlooking stroller return times: Plan returns well before boarding to reclaim deposits without stress.
- Ignoring quiet room booking: The room fills fast; grabbing your slot beforehand ensures peaceful nursing or rest times.
- Not checking kids meal options in advance: Research restaurants to pick healthy, affordable choices ahead of mealtime.
- Expecting all play areas to be open 24/7: Confirm opening hours to plan playtime during operating hours and avoid disappointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the nursing rooms located at Paphos International Airport?
The main nursing suites are near the Arrivals Hall, Terminal 2 at Gate 12, and the Concourse cafeteria wing. Clear signage and the airport app make them easy to find.
Can I pre-book stroller loans at Paphos International Airport?
Stroller loans are provided on a first-come, first-served basis, but checking availability via the airport’s customer service app can help you time your arrival at the desk.
Are kids’ meals affordable and healthy at the airport?
Yes - several restaurants offer nutritious options under €8, with Tavernas offering grilled chicken meals paired with free juice refills, making it both a healthy and budget-friendly choice.
What are quiet rooms, and do I need to book in advance?
Quiet rooms are peaceful spaces for nursing or calming children. Booking through the Mother & Child Services app is recommended, especially during busy travel times.
Travelling with children at Paphos International Airport, CY Airport need not be a stressful affair. Enjoy the thoughtfully designed family facilities at Paphos International Airport, CY Airport - from nursing rooms to well-placed play areas, nutritious meals, and reliable stroller loans. Share your experiences or tips in the comments below, and don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter for the latest family travel insights and airport updates.