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Cyprus continues to grow as a year-round tourist destination, having consolidated its reputation as an island nation with amazing weather, delightful coastal resorts and fascinating historic sites.
This island combines Mediterranean culture and cuisine with a distinctly laid-back way of life, offering tourists the ideal holiday blend of pristine beaches, characterful resorts and lively nightlife.
The cultural hub of Nicosia is the capital of the country, while Paphos holds its historical presence with ruins that trace back many centuries. In addition, there are numerous charming beaches in that area.
The Troodos Mountains provide an opportunity to explore and hike in a scenic setting, as well as offering ski slopes. Limassol and Larnaca offer a more laid-back beach resort experience, away from the bustling town of Ayia Napa.
We have a variety of places to stay in all six of our hot spots in Cyprus, or you can take a day trip since the island is small and easy to explore in a few hours. Keep reading to discover the top destinations to visit during your trip.
According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite’s birthplace is Paphos.
Paphos continues to be a top choice for tourists in the country, thanks to its enjoyable weather throughout the year. Visitors can fully enjoy its Mediterranean waterfront and famous beaches, such as Aphrodite’s Rock, Coral Bay, and the Blue Lagoon.
The urban center contains a delightful historic district (featuring vibrant buildings, outdoor dining establishments, and stunning views of the harbor), a multitude of nearby ancient ruins, a bustling nightlife, and numerous opportunities for excursions like wine tastings or exploring neighboring towns.
Some popular attractions for tourists are the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, known for its various ruins such as villas, mosaics, an ancient fortress, and an outdoor theatre called the Odeon. Another must-see is the Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery, as well as the Harbour Castle.
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Nicosia, in Greek, is also referred to as Lefkosia.
The capital is a magnificent showcase of Cypriot history, where Venetian, Ottoman and Byzantine architecture attests to the city’s complicated past. The skyline is dominated by russet-tiled roofs and walls of white and honey, with an old town surrounded by 16th-century Venetian city walls, delightful squares such as the recently redesigned Plateia Eleftherias and quaint neighbourhoods like the Chrysaliniotissa Quarter or Laïki Geitona.
The UN-administered Green Line divides Cyprus into two sections, cutting through the country’s capital. The city’s north and south are split between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities, while the immediate vicinity of the line is a prime location to gain knowledge about Cyprus’ recent history.
Elements of Ottoman and Byzantine culture can still be seen today in Nicosia’s numerous churches, mosques, and the Hamam Omerye bathhouse. Two prominent churches, Archangelos Michail and Agios Ioannis, and the Omeriye Mosque, which welcomes non-Muslim visitors, are popular sites to visit. For panoramic views of the city, head to the Shacolas Tower Observatory.
Although Limassol is now a modern city, its origins can be traced back to the medieval era.
Limassol is a lively and diverse option compared to Paphos or Larnaca. It is the second largest city on the island, known for its charming marina and various beaches such as Lady’s Mile, Dasoudi Beach, and Governor’s beach that are perfect for swimming.
Starting from the water’s edge, the urban area is comprised of bright, white buildings that run along streets made of cobbled limestone. There is a mixture of tall modern buildings and well-maintained historical sites. Some examples of older landmarks include Limassol Castle, Kolossi Castle, and the ancient remains of Amathus, which are over 2,000 years old. Visitors can also take a day trip to the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion, which was once a significant location on the island.
Larnaca is located less than an hour away from Limassol.
Larnaca is situated along the southern coastline of Cyprus, with Paphos and Limassol to the west, and enjoys similar excellent weather and beautiful beaches. The most notable beaches include Makenzy, Finikoudes, Kastella, and Dhekelia.
Larnaca may not have the same glamour as its neighboring resort towns, but it boasts a strong tourist infrastructure and various attractions to keep visitors entertained for a weekend, should they choose to venture away from the beach. The primary thoroughfare, Leoforos Athinon, connects the marina to Larnaka Fort and is lined with numerous hotels and dining options. Many popular sites in the city can be found in close proximity, such as the 9th-century Agios Lazaros church, natural history and archaeology museums, and the ancient Greek city-kingdom of Ancient Kition.
One could also choose to spend half of a day exploring the Turkish Quarter or diving at the Zenobia wreck, considered one of the top wreck dives globally. The nearby towns of Protaras and Ayia Napa are also easily accessible.
Protaras is located within a 15-minute drive of Ayia Napa.
Protaras provides a more relaxed and family-oriented option compared to the lively party scene of Ayia Napa. It is also smaller in size, spanning from Fig Tree Bay in the south to Trinity Bay in the north (only a 10-minute drive along the coast). Other beautiful coastal areas such as Konnos Bay and Pernera also offer appealing beaches.
The attractions in Protaras cater to families, with options like mini-golf, arcade games, and the Ocean Aquarium all readily available. For hiking enthusiasts, the Konnos Nature Trail is a must-visit, while the picturesque Cape Greco is the go-to spot for breathtaking ocean views. Another notable location for stunning views is the Church of Profitis Ilias, situated on a hilltop overlooking the coast.
Troodos Mountains
The peak of Mount Olympus, standing at 1,952m, is the highest elevation in the Troodos Mountains.
The mountain range in Cyprus presents a contrasting landscape, featuring tranquil villages nestled in the midst of thick pine trees and ancient churches located near historic monasteries. The lower temperatures make it suitable for summer hikes and during the colder months, visitors can even experience skiing on Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Cyprus.
The main settlement here is Troodos village, which sits just under Mount Olympus, and this is the best base for tourists. Some of the most desirable villages to visit include Fikardou, Pedoulas and Agros, all of which are well-preserved and filled with churches and russet-roofed buildings that hug the verdant hills. Hiking trails in the area to check out include the Caledonia, Millomeris and Artemis.
Explore the top-rated accommodations in Cyprus.
Source: independent.co.uk
