cyprus tourism

16 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Cyprus

Written by Jess Lee Updated Mar 22, 2022

This island has a grand history. Coveted by empires across the centuries, Cyprus' enviable position has made it a prized possession for all who rose to power in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Today, people still flock here, but it's now to seek out the island's beaches rather than to gain power and glory.

For travelers interested in more than sand and sun, you're in for a treat, as Cyprus has archaeological sites , fine Byzantine churches, and monasteries and museums galore among its historic tourist attractions.

It's also a wonderful place to go hiking , with an incredible wealth of unique flora and fauna. Best of all, it's so small that you can easily base yourself in one town and head out on sightseeing day trips from there.

Make sure you don't miss any of what's on offer by using our list of the top attractions and places to visit in Cyprus.

1. Ancient Kourion

2. st. hilarion castle, 4. karpas peninsula, 5. ancient salamis, 6. kolossi castle, 7. cape greco, 8. troodos villages, 9. house of dionysus, 10. cyprus museum, 11. nissi beach, 12. kyrenia, 13. underwater museum, 14. famagusta old city, 15. protaras beaches, 16. nicosia old city.

There's no shortage of ancient sites in Cyprus, but Kourion is the pick of the bunch. Exploring the grand monuments and mosaics here is one of the best things to do in Cyprus .

Romantically situated across a coastal cliff, with tumbling views of the countryside and Mediterranean below, it's a magical place.

The entire site is vast, but the most famous places to visit while here are the theater and the House of Eustolios , which holds a clutch of fine, well-preserved mosaics.

For those with more time up their sleeves, the large Byzantine basilica area is wonderfully picturesque with its tumbled columns and scraps of mosaic floor.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Limassol

One of the Mediterranean's most beautiful castle ruins, St. Hilarion is an old Crusader bastion and home to many myths and legends.

Local lore claims the castle itself was built by a fairy queen, who used to charm local shepherds on the slopes here.

The castle's extensive ramparts and chambers snake up the mountain and are explorer heaven. A trail runs through the lower castle buildings of soldier barracks and stables, up to the remnants of towers, royal apartments, and chapels.

For those that climb right to the top, the views across the hills and down to the coastal plain are phenomenal.

St. Hilarion is in north Cyprus, so you need to cross the Green Line to visit. The north has three major castle ruins, but St. Hilarion is by far the best preserved. This is the one to visit if you're only on a day trip to the north.

Easygoing Larnaca, on the island's southeast coast, may be a seaside resort, but it's kept its local soul.

This is by far the most laid-back base for holidaymakers here. All the facilities for sun- and sand-based fun can be found, but the old crumbling Turkish Quarter (called Skala) and ornate Agios Lazaros (Church of St. Lazarus) give the town an interesting historical edge, while the center itself has retained the atmosphere of a proper workaday town rather than just a summer resort.

Even better, the salt lake , just to Larnaca's west, is packed full of flocks of pink flamingos during spring, and plenty of hill villages and cultural tourist attractions lie in the surrounding hinterland.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Larnaca

The most beautiful region in Cyprus is the lonely and rugged Karpas Peninsula, which stretches out in a long finger of golden beaches backed by rugged hills in the northeast of the island (in north Cyprus).

It's Cyprus' least trodden area with sublime hiking, quaint villages, and hidden historical sites in abundance.

This is the place you need to head if you want to experience the undiscovered and undeveloped island life of old.

Venture out for the day in a car (the area has virtually no public transport) and visit the mosaics of Agia Triada at Sipahi village before heading further northeast to remote Dipkarpaz village and the small ruin of Agios Filon church.

Afterwards, move on to the peninsula's famous Golden Beach, a vast swath of sand that sums up the Karpas' rugged appeal.

This huge archaeological site is home to a wealth of marble ruins and ranks up there with Ancient Kourion as the top historical site on the island.

Wandering along the dirt tracks of Salamis between sets of ruins from a muddle of different time periods is a lesson in the vast history of Cyprus.

Grand Hellenistic statuary – missing their heads, which were lopped off by over-zealous Christians – sit amid the ruins of the Gymnasium.

Two substantial ruins of Byzantine churches stand amid fields of wild fennel and weeds, and a humongous reservoir area showcases the engineering ability and management of what must have once been a grand ancient city.

Ancient Salamis is in north Cyprus and is easily combined with a day trip to Famagusta.

If castles had cuteness competitions, Kolossi would surely come up trumps. This tiny but perfectly formed castle just outside of Limassol is an old Crusader stronghold and a reminder of Cyprus' importance for the Europeans during the Holy Land Crusades.

First held by the Knights of St. John, the castle was used as a commandery for the area, with an excellent location looking out over the coast line.

Today, the castle's appeal is mostly down to its dollhouse proportions and its tranquil position amid snoozy Kolossi village.

Even along Cyprus' buzzing south coast, there are regions where you can escape the crowds.

Cape Greco is a rugged and rocky coastal national park covering the promontory that makes up the island's southerly tip. There's a variety of walking trails here that start just east of the resort of Agia Napa.

The longest trail winds across the rocky headland, with staircases at points along the cliff, where you can descend to swim by the sea caves, and ending at the tiny cove of Konnos Beach, where you can cool off with another swim after your walk.

There is a wonderful variety of local flora here, particularly many of Cyprus' endemic wild orchids that bloom in early spring but the real highlight is the absolutely gorgeous coastal scenery with azure blue sea beyond.

The Troodos Massif (Troodos Mountains), in the hill region of the southwest, are packed full of pretty villages full of stone-cut traditional houses and cobblestone alleys.

They're also home to some of Cyprus' most amazing churches and monasteries that hold vibrant frescoes and wall paintings that date from the medieval era.

The Troodos churches are so important historically that nine of them have been given UNESCO World Heritage status.

Hiring a car and tootling around this area, searching out stone cut chapels is a great day out but if you only have time to view one, the Church of Archangelos Michail in the little village of Pedoulas should be top of your things to do list.

For self-drive day trip potential, the Troodos Mountains are easiest accessed using Limassol or Nicosia as your base.

To cut down on the driving there are also plenty of small boutique-style hotels in the main Troodos Mountains villages themselves.

The big-hitter site in the resort of Paphos is the House of Dionysus, home to an incredible collection of mosaic floors that are feted for their excellent preservation and vibrant coloring.

Part of the larger Paphos Archaeological Site which contains the excavated remains of ancient Paphos, the area is home to a variety of Greco-Roman ruins, as well as several other mosaic houses.

The House of Dionysus remains the most visited part of the site because it contains the best examples of intricate mosaic artistry.

The house is named after the god Dionysus who crops up in many of the mosaics throughout the house, which mostly depict scenes of Greek mythology.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paphos

With so many archaeological sites, Cyprus is packed full of museums, but the Cyprus Museum in the capital Nicosia is where you go to pull together all of the island's history.

Extremely well-curated, the museum takes visitors on a journey from the Neolithic age right up to the Ottoman era using beautiful artifacts to show the sophisticated artistry of each period.

The standout exhibits are the huge collection of terra-cotta votive statues that date from the 7th century BC.

Even if you're based on the coast, you should definitely make a half-day trip to the capital just to view the museum.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nicosia

A swath of white sand loveliness that rolls onto the turquoise sea in Agia Napa, Nissi Beach is Cyprus' most famous strip of sand.

Yes, it gets crowded in summer (a beach this gorgeous doesn't stay a secret), but even with rows of sunbeds, there's no denying Nissi's beauty.

The water is very shallow at the shoreline and very calm within the bay as a whole, making it a great spot for families with young children, and in the summer high season, bags of facilities are on offer, meaning you can make an entire day at the beach.

Kyrenia (Girne) is north Cyprus' prettiest town having clung to the old Ottoman character of its harborside district.

Kyrenia Castle overlooks the quaint harbor on the eastern side, and climbing up onto the castle's ramparts rewards you with fantastic views across the town.

A squiggle of narrow lanes meander back from the waterfront area, full of wooden-shuttered houses in various states of disrepair. It's a great place for strolling and soaking up the timeless atmosphere and there are plenty of cafés overlooking the harbor for when you want to put your feet up.

Opened in 2021, the underwater museum park (officially called MUSAN Museum of Underwater Sculpture Ayia Napa) is an underwater forest featuring 130 sculptures created by reef artist Jason deCaires Taylor.

As well as being a major new tourist attraction, the forest has been created to help the local marine environment, with the sculptures (all made from PH neutral cement that will eventually attract coral) set between kelp, which will grow to become a dense forest attracting marine life to the area.

Both snorkelers and scuba divers can explore the underwater museum, though divers will be able to head down to the farthest depths of the park.

MUSAN is situated off the coast of Pernera Beach in Ayia Napa.

Official site: http://musan.com.cy/en/home

In north Cyprus, don't miss the old city of Famagusta, surrounded by sturdy, high Venetian-era walls and inside, scattered with the crumbling ruins of Gothic churches.

In the center is the Lala Mustafa Paşa Mosque, which was originally the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, built in the early 14th century during the reign of the Lusignans.

Sprinkled throughout the old city's lanes are several other churches in various states of ruin or disrepair, mostly dating from the 14th century and built in the Gothic style but also some earlier Byzantine examples.

Famagusta's biggest tourist attraction, though, is its 16th-century Venetian walls, with its bastions and gates, which can still be climbed up and traversed across at some sections.

In the island's southeast corner, the coastline running north from Cape Greco up to the Green Line (which separates the Republic from the north) is speckled with beaches.

This stretch of coast is a summer resort haven, with the little town of Protaras the central base for family-friendly holidays devoted to sun, sea, and sand.

Protaras Beach and Fig Tree Bay are the two most popular strips of sand, with plenty of water sports on offer and facilities for a full day of beach time, though the small white-sand cove of Konnos Beach, on the northern edge of Cape Greco, comes a close third.

To the north of Protaras, the little sand strips of Agia Triada Beach and Skoutari Beach are great options if you want to escape the biggest crowds, but during mid-summer, don't expect any patch of sand along this coast to be empty.

Nicosia is Europe's last divided capital. Nicosia (Lefkosia) is the capital of the Republic of Cyprus, and North Nicosia (Lefkoşa) is the capital of UN-unrecognized north Cyprus.

The Green Line slices right through the center of the walled old city district, and you will need to have your passport (and fulfill any of the current border requirements, which change regularly) if you want to cross.

In Nicosia (Lefkosia), the old city lanes are home to several excellent small museums, including the Makarios Cultural Foundation Byzantine Museum, and some fresco-covered churches, such as the Agios Ioannis Church.

Two of the city's best preserved architectural sights are in North Nicosia (Lefkoşa). Here, you'll find the glorious Gothic architecture of the Selimiye Mosque, originally the 14th-century St. Sophia Cathedral, and the Ottoman-era caravanserai of the Büyük Han.

More on Cyprus

Registration

Announcements

Incentives and Subsidies

Strategic Planning

Tourism Investments

Incentive Scheme towards the organisation of conferences / meeting and incentive trips to Cyprus

News & announcements.

• - 16/01/2023 - COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus – valid from 15th January 2023
• - 02/09/2022 - COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus – valid from 31st August 2022
• - 11/07/2022 - COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus – Valid from 8th July 2022
• - 30/05/2022 - COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus – valid from 1st June 2022
• - 17/05/2022 - COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus – Updated 15th May 2022
• - 04/05/2022 - COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus – updated as of April 22nd, 2022
• - 13/04/2022 - COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus – updated as of April 18th, 2022
• - 11/03/2022 - COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus – updated as of March 8th, 2022
• - 19/02/2022 - COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus – updated as of February 21st, 2022
• - 28/01/2022 - COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus – updated as of January 28th, 2022

Contact Information

• Address: Leoforos Lemesou 19, 2112 Aglantzia, Lefkosia
• Telephone: +357 22 691 100, Fax: Fax: +357 22 331 644, +357 22 334 696
• Email: [email protected]
• Contact us using the online form.
• Website: www.tourism.gov.cy

©2019 Republic of Cyprus - Deputy Ministry of Tourism Design & Development: Department of Information Technology Services

Explore Cyprus

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Essential Cyprus

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Cyprus Is Great For

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Birthplace of Aphrodite and crossroads between three continents, Cyprus has seduced and inspired generations of travellers for hundreds of years. And it continues to do so today. The promise of Cyprus is one of dazzling beaches, shimmering blue seas, endless summers and tables groaning under heaped platters of mezé and bottles of sweet chilled wine.

Where to go in Cyprus

Crossing the green line.

On the cusp between West and East , between Christian and Muslim , and with towns and cities that are vibrantly modern yet bear witness to the island’s long and culturally diverse history, Cyprus is blessed with a balmy climate and a rugged landscape of coast and mountains dotted with vineyards, villages and monasteries. Cyprus has earned its place as one of Europe’s tourist hotspots . From quaint, rustic cottages to luxury hotel complexes, from welcoming village tavernas to burgeoning fine-dining restaurants, from coastal resorts with all the tourist bells and whistles to empty wilderness peninsulas and forested mountains, Cyprus can cater for all tastes. And native Cypriots, whether Greek or Turkish, are famous for the warmth of their hospitality .

Venture beyond the resorts, with their karaoke bars and restaurants knocking out fish and chips, pizza and, more recently, Russian stroganoff, and it’s not hard to find another Cyprus. Traces of the exotic and Levantine are never far away, from ruined Lusignan and Venetian castles and elegant Islamic minarets to cool mountain villages hiding sacred icons from the very first days of Christianity.

No stranger to turbulence and strife, Cyprus has suffered waves of foreign invaders , from Mycenaean Greeks and Persians to sunburnt Crusaders, Ottoman pashas, and British Empire-builders. More recently, it has attracted numerous Russian expats . Internal division, too, has left its mark on the island. First, in the 1950s and 60s, came the struggle by Greek Cypriots for independence and union with Greece , then intercommunal violence prompted by fears among the minority Turkish Cypriots regarding what union with Greece might mean for them, and finally the Turkish invasion of the island in 1974 which resulted in its de facto partition between a Turkish Cypriot north and a Greek Cypriot south. Bitterness caused by the split lives on today. However, in recent years the easing of tensions and the gradual opening up of the Green Line has made it easier for travellers to explore the island as a whole. It is now possible to experience both sides of the divide in one day, and in the capital you can immerse yourself in two distinct cultures – Greek and Turkish, Christian and Muslim – simply by walking down a street and crossing between the two halves of the city.

Cyprus, then, offers the traveller not only a welcome whose warmth is legendary, but both hedonistic pleasure and cultural diversity out of all proportion to its size.

One of the great advantages of Cyprus as a holiday destination is that it’s a relatively small island offering a huge variety of attractions, scenery and activities linked together by an excellent road system. Wherever you stay, you can get to pretty much anywhere else in a day.

The vast majority of tourists begin their trip on the narrow coastal strip in the south, which hosts the main towns of Larnaka, Lemesos and Pafos, each with a historic old town, promenade and popular beaches. Beyond them, to the north, foothills rise to the island’s main mountain range, the Troodos Massif, dotted with villages, churches and monasteries. To the west of the island is a plateau covered in vineyards, the great wilderness forest of Tilliria and the stark empty beauty of the Akamas Peninsula. North of the Troodos (and lying within Turkish-occupied north Cyprus), lie the more impressive but less lofty mountains of the Kyrenia Range. Beyond here is the even narrower northern coastal strip on which Girne/Kyrenia is by far the most important and most beautiful town. To the east is the broad and largely flat Mesaorian Plain on which stands the island’s divided capital, Nicosia, known today as Lefkosia (south) or Lefkoşa (north); further east is the crumbling port city of Gazimağusa/Famagusta, with its range of pretty and not-so-pretty ruins, and the long, tapering Karpaz Peninsula, home to wild donkeys and far-flung villages.

For traditional sun, sea and sand holidays, you have an extensive choice – in the south, Protaras and Agia Napa, east of Larnaka, the beaches either side of Lemesos, Pafos and its satellite Coral Bay – which are packed with resorts offering a range of activities; in the north, the coast either side of Girne and north of Gazimağusa offers more of the same. For smaller hotels with a more individual character, try the north coast around Polis and the Akamas Peninsula, or the hill villages of the Troodos Mountains, which offer traditional homes converted into guest houses.

For a taste of Cyprus’s newly developed restaurant scene head to Lemesos, the island’s gastronomic capital. Lefkosia also boasts several cool cafés and Cyprus’s best shopping, while the northern towns of Girne and Gazimağusa provide a relaxed harbour-side ambience. Wine lovers are particularly well-catered for by the wine museum and wine festival in Lemesos, and by six well-signposted wine routes in Pafos and Lemesos districts.

Cyprus has a rich history, and virtually every region has its Roman (or earlier) ruin, its Byzantine church, a Crusader castle or Ottoman mosque, plus some grand British colonial architecture. Standout sights include the prehistoric villages at Tenta and Choirokoitia, the ancient cities of Kourion and Salamis, crusader castles such as those at Kolossi and Lemesos in the south and St Hilarion, Buffavento and Kantara in the north, monasteries like Kykkos and Machairas, and the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage painted churches of the Troodos Mountains. Ottoman architecture can be admired in Lefkoşa’s Büyük Han, and Muslim mosques in Hala Sultan Tekke in Larnaka or Hazret Omer Tekke east of Girne.

For nature and the great outdoors, the Troodos and Kyrenia mountains offer superb climbing, hiking and cycling, the seas around the island provide stimulating dive sites, and the beaches at Lara Bay in the west and Algadi in the northeast are great for turtle-watching. Golfers will enjoy the fine courses in Pafos and Girne. Across the island look out for the colourful religious and village festivals that take place in spring, summer and autumn.

In terms of what to avoid, be aware that certain southern resorts (especially parts of Lemesos) can be quite sleazy (dominated, it’s said, by the Russian mafia), with dubious “gentlemen’s clubs” and sex workers operating openly in the streets. North Cyprus has also developed a reputation for vice and more obviously gambling; driven by Turkish organized crime, its dozens of casinos attract not only Turks from the mainland but also, perhaps surprisingly, hedonists from the south.

Discover more places in Cyprus

• Pafos and around Travel Guide
• The Troodos Mountains Travel Guide

With seven crossing points now open across the Green Line – the de facto border separating the northern and southern sectors of Cyprus – visitors can stay in the south and cross to the north as often as they like. It’s not yet quite as straightforward the other way around (cars rented in the north, for example, are not allowed to cross to the south), but things appear to become more relaxed each year. Visitors accustomed to heavily signposted checkpoints elsewhere in the world will be surprised at how anonymous these Cypriot ones are – on both sides of the Green Line. If you’re not careful, you can find yourself stumped as to how to get back so be sure to take a note of landmarks and directions and take a map (preferably two, owing to the different place names used either side of the line). The crossing points (west to east) are:

Limnitis/Yesilirmak

The most recent (and prettiest), crossing, in the hills above Kato Pyrgos. This represents the westernmost part of the TRNC (apart from the militarized Kokkina Enclave). The best crossing for visiting the Palace of Vouni and Soli from the west.

Astromeritis/Zodhia

The best crossing for Morphou/Güzelyurt from the main Lefkosia–Troodos road. Cars only.

Agios Dometios/Metehan

The closest vehicle crossing point to Lefkosia, ideal for Kerynia and the north coast.

Ledra Palace, Lefkosia

Pedestrians only, just outside the Venetian walls on the western side of the city.

Ledra Street, Lefkosia

Pedestrians only. At the top of south Nicosia’s main shopping street, and therefore the best for exploring north Nicosia.

Pyla/Beyarmudu

Best place to cross into the north from Larnaka.

The easternmost crossing point, and the most convenient for visiting Gazimağusa (Famagusta) from Agia Napa, Paralimni and Deryneia.

• Cyprus, with a land area of 9251 square kilometres, is the third largest island in the Mediterranean. Its nearest neighbours are Turkey (75km) and Syria (105km) respectively. The capital, once Nicosia, now Lefkosia and Lefkoşa, is over 900km from Athens and only 250km from Beirut. The island’s highest point, at 1952m, is Mount Olympos.

• The official population (of the whole island) stands at just under 900,000, of which the majority (around 70 per cent) are Greek Cypriot (and therefore Orthodox Christian), while Turkish Cypriots (and therefore Muslims) are in the minority (around 10 per cent). There’s also a significant expat community based on the island.

• The government of the Republic of Cyprus (and therefore de jure of the whole island) is a democracy which, since 2004, has been a member of the EU. North Cyprus, occupied by Turkey since 1974, has declared itself to be the “Turkish Republic of North Cyprus”, but is recognized internationally only by Turkey. Since 2003 the number of crossing points on the dividing (and UN-administered) Green Line has increased to seven, with two more in the pipeline. Attempts to reunite the island are ongoing, reinvigorated by a new negotiating process introduced in February 2014.

• Over 1 million Britons visit Cyprus each year (42 percent of total arrivals). The fastest growing group of visitors are Russians (over half a million in each of 2013, 2014 and 2015).

• Famous people of Cypriot origin include singers George Michael, Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens), Peter Andre and Tulisa Contostavlos (N-Dubz), actress Angela Bowie (ex-wife of David), sportspersons Marco Baghdatis (tennis) and Muzzy Izzet (Premiership football), celebrity chef George Calombaris (Masterchef Australia), businessmen Stelios Haji-Ioannou (founder of easyJet) and Asil Nadir (of Polly Peck fame) and artist Tracey Emin.

Travel advice for Cyprus

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Cyprus

• Eating and drinking in Cyprus
• How to get to Cyprus
• Getting around Cyprus: Transportation Tips
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Cyprus
• Travel Tips Cyprus for planning and on the go
• Culture and Etiquette in Cyprus
• Best time to visit Cyprus

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updated 26.04.2021

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This Often-overlooked European Island Is the Perfect Year-round Destination — With More Than 300 Days of Sunshine Each Year

How to plan the perfect trip to the sun-splashed island of Cyprus, according to local experts.

Lindsay Cohn is a writer, editor, and avid traveler who has visited 45 countries across six continents — and counting. She contributes to Travel + Leisure, Hotels Above Par, InsideHook, Well+Good, The Zoe Report, and more.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Best things to do, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, how to get around.

AIS60/Getty Images

While travelers flock to Mediterranean hot spots like Santorini and Capri, those same sun-seekers all too often seem to overlook less obvious vacation destinations in the region, like the dreamy island of Cyprus. 

Originally settled by Mycenaean Greeks, the island nation offers archaeological sites, delicious traditional cuisine, and stunning scenery. More than just a summer standout, it enjoys consistently pleasant weather and more than 300 days of sunshine each year. That means ample time to catch some rays on the sandy beaches, swim in the clear water , and hit the scenic hiking trails. Plus, this under-the-radar gem's low-key status translates to fewer crowds and lower rates (yes, even in the summer).

Read on for tips from local experts on how to plan a perfect trip to Cyprus. 

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Soak up the sunshine on the nation's sandy beaches. 
• Eat delicious Cypriot specialties like halloumi cheese and moussaka. 
• Step into the past with a visit to Kourion archaeological site. 
• Explore the charming villages in the Troodos Mountains. 
• Stay in swish style at an oceanfront resort. 

COURTESY OF MARRIOTT

Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol

A favorite of discerning travelers, Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol provides an array of accommodations — from rooms to suites to luxury villas — plus tons of amenities. The hardest decision you’ll have to make while staying at the property is whether to relax by one of the outdoor pools or the sandy beach. 

Anassa Hotel

Anassa Hotel gives off vacation sanctuary vibes thanks to a serene hillside setting, sweeping vistas, and a secluded beach. The spa offers an indoor pool surrounded by Roman columns, saunas, steam baths, and tranquility-inducing signature treatments. Not just prime for relaxation but also romance, it’s a splendid option for a couples getaway or a honeymoon. 

Columbia Beach Resort

Columbia Beach Resort , a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, merges many of the most captivating aspects of Cyprus. Situated on a beach overlooking Pissouri Bay, the five-star property shows off traditional Cypriot architecture, an infinity pool, gourmet dining, and a wonderful spa. 

Set in the coastal enclave of Agios Tychon, Amara feels like the backdrop of a fabulous vacation. With two lauded, upscale restaurants — Matsuhisa and Ristorante Locatelli — exclusive suites featuring private pools and ocean views, and a sublime spa, it’s virtually impossible to leave. 

Almyra Hotel

Spread across eight acres of gardens on the coast of Paphos, Almyra Hotel is a contemporary boutique resort. Tailor-made for couples, it also welcomes families with open arms. However, parents may want to book a babysitter to fully bliss out with marine-based rituals at the spa. 

Igor Klyakhin/Getty Images

Kourion Archaeological Site

Built up in the hills overlooking the Kouris valley, the archaeological remains of the once prosperous city-kingdom of Kourion continue to impress centuries later. “Highlights include the magnificent Greco-Roman amphitheater — which is now used for open-air musical and theatrical performances during the warmer months — private villas with intricate mosaic floors, and a bathing complex,” says Froso Patsali, the head concierge at Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol. 

Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's Rock)

“Legend has it that Aphrodite was born from the foams at Petra Tou Romiou, commonly known as Aphrodite's Rock,” says Cyprus-based ToursByLocals guide Sirin Suha . “Not only is the area steeped in mythology, it’s also very beautiful and a popular tourist location.”

Kykkos Monastery

“Perched in the mountainous Marathasa Valley, Kykkos Monastery, which was founded at the end of the 11th century by Byzantine emperor Alexios I Komnenos and dedicated to Panagia (the Virgin Mary), is one of the wealthiest and most photogenic religious sites on the island,” explains Patsali. Visitors can admire the stonework, arches, and frescoes and sip zivania, a Cypriot pumice brandy produced right on the premises.

Nissi Beach

While Cyprus boasts many gorgeous beaches, Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa looks like a postcard with its crystal-clear waters and white sand. Thanks to the pleasant climate, visitors can swim, sunbathe, stroll along the shore, and enjoy sunset cocktails at the many lively bars and tavernas virtually all year. 

Troodos Mountains

The Troodos Mountains are known for charming villages and UNESCO-listed painted churches. The region is also home to many wineries that keep centuries-old viticulture traditions alive. Pro tip: If you plan to do a few tours and tastings, be sure to prearrange transportation for the day. 

Andrii Marushchynets/Getty Images

Meze Taverna

One of the top-rated restaurants in Limassol, Meze Taverna is a small, family-run operation that earns rave reviews from diners for traditional dishes that follow recipes passed down through the generations. It’s also a special place to experience warm Cypriot hospitality.

Pyxida Fish Tavern

What could be better than fresh fish, a crisp glass of local white wine, and views of Limassol Marina? Not much, and that’s exactly what you can expect when dining at Pyxida Fish Tavern . The light, airy space and professional service are also deserving of attention.

Estiatorio Evroulla

Tucked away in Nicosia — a complex city and the last divided capital in the world — sits Estiatorio Evroulla , a casual eatery that serves some of the best no-fuss local food on the island (think: kebabs, Greek salad, and crispy fries), all for a reasonable price. It's the perfect quick, easy, and affordable lunch spot. 

Laona Restaurant

Laona Restaurant is a tiny treasure in the Old Town of Paphos. Tables spill out from the taverna onto the cobbled sidewalk, giving passersby a front-row view of the homemade Cypriot dishes like rabbit stifado and moussaka, which patrons happily devour for lunch and dinner.

When you're walking along the marina in Paphos and want something memorable for dinner, pop into Estia (or better yet, have the foresight to make a reservation ahead of time). The menu spotlights traditional Greek cuisine, with octopus and chicken skewers served alongside pita and tzatziki as some of the homemade standouts.  

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Cyprus is a year-round destination, though it’s worth noting tourism (like the temperature) surges in the summer. To avoid the heat and crowds, consider planning a trip in May, June, September, or October. You’ll get to experience the wonders of swimming in the clear, blue Mediterranean water as well as the many hiking and cycling trails. 

Travelers fly into either Paphos International Airport or Larnaca International Airport. Coming from the U.S., it’s essential to transfer through a larger European hub like London or Munich.

It’s easy to pick up a rental car at the airport to drive and explore at your leisure. Travelers who prefer the ease of organized tours or private transfers will find plenty of options.

Must-see attractions in Cyprus

Pafos Archaeological Site

Nea Pafos (New Pafos) is, ironically, the name given to the sprawling Pafos Archaeological Site, to the west of Kato Pafos. Nea Pafos was the ancient city…

Ancient Kourion

Defiantly perched on a hillside, with a sweeping view of the surrounding patchwork fields and the sea, Ancient Kourion is a spectacular site. Most likely…

Tombs of the Kings

Imagine yourself surrounded by ancient tombs in a desertlike landscape where the only sounds are waves crashing on rocks. The Tombs of the Kings, a Unesco…

For divers, the one reason to come to Larnaka is to explore the Zenobia, a Swedish-built cargo ship that sank just off the coast of Larnaka in 1980…

St Hilarion Castle

The full fairy-tale outline of St Hilarion Castle only becomes apparent once you’re directly beneath it. The stone walls and half-ruined buildings blend…

Venetian Walls

Defining the Old Town, these imposing ramparts were constructed by the Venetians in the early 16th century. Although over 15m high and up to 8m thick, and…

Kykkos Monastery

Kykkos Monastery & Around

The island’s most prosperous and opulent Orthodox monastery was founded in the 11th century by Byzantine emperor Alexios I Komninos after a bizarre series…

Selimiye Mosque

North Nicosia (Lefkoşa)

North Nicosia’s most prominent landmark (also clearly visible from the southern half of the city), the Selimiye Mosque is a beautiful mongrel of a…

Ancient Amathous

The remains at this archaeological site, about 11km east of Lemesos, belie its original importance. Amathous was one of Cyprus’ original four kingdoms,…

Aphrodite’s Rock & Beach

Possibly the most famous beach in Cyprus, Aphrodite’s Beach is distinctive for its two upright rocks, which are easy to spot, particularly as you'll…

Hrysopolitissa Basilica

This fascinating site was home to one of Pafos’ largest religious structures. What remains are the foundations of a 4th-century Christian basilica, which…

Akamas Peninsula

This stunning unspoilt beach has clean, calm water and pristine sands for those who want to escape people and parasols. The beach is most famous, however,…

Sanctuary of Aphrodite

A World Heritage Site, the sanctuary is recognised as being one of the most important ancient sites related to Aphrodite in Cyprus and yet it is arguably…

Archangelos Michail

Troödos Mountains

Most people visit Pedoulas to see this extraordinary Unesco-listed church. Dating from 1474, the gable-roofed building sits in the lower part of the…

Golden Beach

South Coast

Possibly the best on the island, Golden Beach is worth the trip to the Karpas in itself. Its white-sand dunes and gentle curves meet the calm, clear sea,…

Panagia Forviotissa

This Unesco-listed church is in a stunning setting on the perimeter of the Adelfi Forest 4km southwest of Nikitari village. Dedicated to the Virgin of …

Lemesos Castle

Lemesos (Limassol)

This 14th-century structure, built over the remains of a Byzantine castle, has been utilised by conquerors throughout Cyprus’ turbulent history. The…

Troödos Botanical Gardens

Part of the excellent Troödos Geopark, this is a small but well-laid-out botanical garden with a lily pond and other water features, including a tumbling…

Kourion Museum

History buffs should not miss this excellent museum signposted off the Lemesos–Kourion road and marked from Episkopi. The collection includes terracotta…

Ancient Salamis

According to legend, Salamis was founded around 1180 BC by Teucer (Teukros), son of Telamon, king of Salamina, on the Greek mainland. Brother to the hero…

Kyrenia Castle

Kyrenia (Girne)

If the grand fortifications of Kyrenia Castle could talk, they could sure tell some tales. The castle was first built by the Byzantines – possibly over…

Agios Lazaros

This 9th-century church is dedicated to Lazarus of Bethany, whom Jesus is said to have resurrected four days after his death. The church itself is an…

Nicosia (Lefkosia)

The Venetian walls form a border around the Old City and are so unusual that, once seen on a map, you’ll never forget the odd snowflake-like shape.

Church of Apostolos Varnavas

This beautiful Orthodox church is dedicated to St Paul’s good friend Varnavas (Barnabas), who was born in Cyprus and carried out his missionary work here…

The Büyük Han is Cyprus' best-preserved example of Ottoman caravanserai architecture. Built in 1572 by the first Ottoman governor of Cyprus, Lala Mustafa…

Monastery of Apostolos Andreas

It's not as glitzy as other churches, with a plain, small interior holding an iconostasis with some lovely icons from the late 19th century. But the…

Cyprus Museum

Just outside the Old City walls, this excellent museum houses the island's most important collection of archaeological finds. Highlights include Hall 11's…

Buffavento Castle

Buffavento perches precariously at 940m, overlooking the Mesaoria plain. The constant pummelling it endures from high winds is how it derived its Italian…

Bellapais Abbey

The exquisite ruins of this Augustinian monastery are reason enough to drive up the mountain to Bellapais. It was built in the 12th century by monks…

Pierides Archaeological Foundation

This museum was established in 1839 by Demetrios Pierides as a protective answer to the region’s notorious tomb raiders and the illegal selling of the…

Wrapping around the Old Harbour, the diminutive Old Town is an atmospheric area for a wander. Its winding alleyways hold a jumble of abandoned stone…

Lala Mustafa Paşa Camii

The former Cathedral of Agios Nikolaos (St Nicholas) is the finest example of Lusignan Gothic architecture on the island, built between 1298 and 1326…

AG Leventis Gallery

Located just outside the Old City, this art museum features three collections displaying European paintings and sculpture from the 16th to the 20th…

Sanctuary of Apollon Ylatis

About 2km west of Ancient Kourion’s main entrance, and prominently signposted off the highway, is the Sanctuary of Apollon Ylatis, which is part of the…

Armenian Church & Nunnery

This church and nunnery is first thought to have been established in the 13th century as the Abbey of Our Lady of Tyre, and was handed over to the island…

Agios Mamas Orthodox Church

Dedicated to the island’s beloved tax-repelling patron saint, this church was formerly the site of a pagan temple. Before the 1974 Turkish invasion of the…

Nicosia Municipal Arts Centre

This contemporary-art museum is housed in a former power station, and is the city’s equivalent to London’s Tate Modern. The former industrial setting is…

Arabahmet Quarter

This neighbourhood rubbing up against the Green Line is home to well-preserved examples of Ottoman-era town-house architecture. The narrow alleyways are…

Alagadı Beach

Alagadı (Turtle) Beach, approximately 19km east of Kyrenia, is where the Society for the Protection of Turtles (SPOT) has its small sea-turtle…

Opened in 2014, CVAR's collection of art and archival material showcases the story of modern Cyprus. Galleries full of paintings and other artworks…

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10 Top Tourist Attractions in Cyprus

The easternmost island in the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus is an independent nation with a long and colorful past. Legend has it that Cyprus was the birthplace of Aphrodite, and it’s easy to understand why the ancients chose this appealing island to worship the Greek goddess of love. With its mild climate, beautiful beaches, forested mountains and lush green valleys, Cyprus is the ideal destination for a romantic holiday.

Lovers of history will be enchanted by the ancient attractions in Cyprus as well. The isle is peppered with archeological sites, ruins and remnants of past empires, conquerors and civilizations. Mouth-watering cuisine, a modern infrastructure and a welcoming populace make a vacation in Cyprus a pleasurable experience for any traveler.

10. Kourion [SEE MAP]

Scholars believe that the ancient city of Kourion was founded around the 13th century B.C., but it’s the 5th-century Greco-Roman ruins that most attract visitors to the archeological site near the city of Limassol. Perched on a hill overlooking Episkopi Bay, the tumbled homes, temples and public buildings of the Kourion complex make it easy to imagine what life was like on Cyprus two thousand years ago. Standout sites include the remains of Roman baths, an open Agoura, a temple to Apollo and an amphitheater where classical plays are still performed today.

9. Kolossi Castle [SEE MAP]

Situated near the southern tip of Cyprus, Kolossi Castle is a three-story keep built as a military fortress for the Crusaders of the High Middle Ages. From the 13th to 15th century, the fortress was controlled by the Hospitallers known as the Knights of St. John and was later taken by their rivals, the Knights Templar. While not much remains of the original complex beyond the sturdy stone walls of the keep, a spiral staircase leads visitors to the roof-top battlements for breathtaking views of the vineyard-covered peninsula and blue Mediterranean Sea.

8. Omodos Village [SEE MAP]

Located in the Troodos Mountains near the city of Nicosia, Omodos Village is the premier destination for wine aficionados in Cyprus. Wine-tasting stalls offer samples of local varietals like Mavro and Xynisteri, and restaurants and bars serve traditional fare. With its cobbled streets, stone houses and lush gardens, Omodos is well worth visiting for its beauty and charm as well. The town’s 17th-century monastery is home to several museums, including an icon museum that features extraordinary wood carvings as well as an extensive collection of icons.

7. Zenobia Wreck Diving [SEE MAP]

In 1980, the Swedish ferry Zenobia began listing to port during her maiden voyage off the coast of Cyprus, eventually capsizing outside Larnaca Harbor. The ship sank slowly, coming to rest on her port side in one piece. Today, the wreck of the Zenobia is ranked as one of the world’s best diving sites. Easy accessibility, mild currents and temperate water temperatures bring around 45,000 divers to the wreck each year. Although the ship’s many intact rooms are open for exploration, inexperienced divers are encouraged to confine their dive to the outside of the ship where they can view sea life from groupers to barracudas.

6. Tomb of the Kings [SEE MAP]

The Tombs of the Kings near Paphos is a large necropolis dating back to the 4th century BC. The tombs are carved out of the solid rock and decorated with Doric columns. Despite the name there is no evidence of any royalty buried here. Instead the site was the final resting place of Ptolemaic aristocrats and high officials. The tombs are unique in Cyprus, being heavily influenced by ancient Egyptian tradition, when it was believed that tombs for the dead should resemble houses for the living. The 7 excavated tombs are scattered over a wide area. The most impressive is No 3, which has an open atrium below ground level, surrounded by columns.

5. Nissi Beach [SEE MAP]

The most popular of the many beaches that grace the shores of the resort city of Ayia Napa, Nissi is best known for its lively beach party scene. Young people flock to its powder-white sands to sip libations at the famous Nissi Bay Beach bar where DJs play music day and night. Like all the beaches in Ayia Napa, there’s a water sports center in Nissi where visitors can enjoy everything from paragliding and windsurfing to water-skiing and pedal boating. Shallow crystal-clear water makes Nissi Beach perfect for wading and swimming as well. The beach takes its name from the small islet located close to the coast. The uninhabited island can be easily reached on foot through the shallow waters and provides good shelter.

4. St. Hilarion Castle [SEE MAP]

Spread over the top of a rocky crag near the city of Girne off the northern coast of Cyprus, St. Hilarion Castle is the best preserved of the island’s 11th-century fortifications. Originally a monastery, the fortress gets its name from a local ascetic and hermit known as Hilarion, who attracted a group of devout followers during the 4th century. A 20-minute hike from Girne takes visitors up past the castle’s stables and soldiers’ quarters to the royal residence and church. A restored staircase leads to a hilltop guard tower where visitors can enjoy a panoramic vista of the mountains, valleys and shoreline.

3. Agios Lazaros Church [SEE MAP]

Situated in the town center of the southern city of Larnaca, the Church of Saint Lazarus is a 9th-century monument to the man that Christians believe Jesus raised from the dead. According to tradition, Lazarus fled to Cyprus to escape persecution and served as the city’s first bishop for thirty years. Built over Lazarus’ second tomb, the Byzantine church was refurbished in the Baroque style during the 1800s with Greek Orthodox ornamentation. Although the tomb now stands empty, renovations made after a fire occurred in 1970 found relics of the saint in a marble sarcophagus located under the altar.

2. Kykkos Monastery [SEE MAP]

Nestled in the hills west of the inland city of Pedoulas stands the Kykkos Monastery, a gorgeous Byzantine complex founded in the late 11th century. While all of the original structures were destroyed by fire, a no-expense-spared renovation begun in 1831 restoring the monastery to its original glory. Each building, particularly the chapel, is heavily ornamented in the Greek Orthodox style with murals lining the walls, indoors and out. The most prized artifact in the wealthiest monastery in Cyprus is a portrait of the Virgin Mary believed to have been painted by St. Luke.

1. Paphos Archaeological Park [SEE MAP]

With artifacts dating back to the Prehistoric Era, the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park located in the southwestern city of Paphos is an archeological treasure trove of ancient monuments, villas and underground tombs. The most impressive sites include Roman villas built around the 3rd century A.D. The ancient homes are named after their preserved mosaic floors, which feature pictorial narratives of Greek and Roman mythology. Nearby in the Agora is the Odeion, a recently restored 2nd-century theater. With its granite columns, thick walls and corner towers, the Saranta Kolones fortress constructed in the 7th century is worth a visit as well.

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Reader interactions.

August 22, 2016 at 2:26 pm

The shipwreck looks like it would be really cool to explore. I love all of the historical aspects of Cyprus, and it sounds like there’s a lot to explore. Thanks for sharing the tips!

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Cyprus Tourist Travel Guide

Cyprus Travel Guide

Essential Cyprus Tourist Information for the Island of Aphrodite…

Cyprus Travel Guide Vacation Planner

Booking Your Flight To Cyprus 

Find a flight that suits your needs and enjoy a few weeks in the sun.

Cyprus has two airports – one in Larnaca and the other in Paphos, on the southwest of the island.

You can book your flight here .

Cyprus Travel  

Cyprus Travel Guide ~ Cyprus Resorts

The island has an exotic and exciting mix which is reflected in the culture, traditions and lifestyle we know today.

Read More  >>

Wine-making Villages & Byzantine Churches

This all changes during the winter months and early spring when the mountains become a popular skiing resort (see Platres Hotels ).

Travel to the hilltop wine growing villages and sample the traditional wine of the Gods.  Commandaria dessert wine was named by the Knights of St. John during the Crusades when Richard the Lionhart married his queen in the historic castle in Limassol Old Town .

Cyprus Travel Guide 

Akamas Peninsula

For the energetic there’s cycling or you can relax on the lovely tranquil and secluded beaches on this side of the island.

Cyprus Travel Guide Tip!   ~ If you hire a car you will be able to visit all the lovely beaches and areas such as the Akamas Peninsula which are not so easy to access with local transport.

Golf in Cyprus

Needless to say,  many of the golf courses are set  in stunning locations. The Aphrodite Hills leisure resort includes an 18-hole championship golf course,  spa facilities and many lovely villas.

Cyprus Travel Guide Holiday in the Sun…

There are various types of accommodation from the most luxurious to affordable budget hotels and apartments ~ Read More >>

Book Your Romantic Holiday in Cyprus…

Cyprus is a year round destination and an ideal location for holidays , weddings , honeymoons and romantic holidays in the sun .

Read More >>

Cyprus Travel Guide Weather

During the summer months the vineyards overflow with juicy grapes and the intoxicating scent of jasmine is heavy in the night air. We hope you enjoy the island of Cyprus as much as we do.

Accommodation in Cyprus / Cyprus Airport Transfers

4 thoughts on “ Cyprus Travel Guide ”

We have been going to Larnaca on holioday for the last twenty five years and I have done a review for your guide on a coupleof restaurants in Larnaca. We are due to go back again in a few months time. Just wondered if you vould let me know how the coastal road renovations are getting on in Larnaca the ones that are going on right along the sea front to Mackenzie Beach.

Many Thanks Sandra.

Hi Sandra – I remember your Larnaca restaurant reviews and am sure many people enjoyed reading them. The reconstruction of the old Piale Pasha sea road in Larnaca is expected to take 18 months so I don’t think it will be finished this year.

Hi all I will be arriving in cyprus next week after a few years absence. I was wondering if you could recommend a mobile phone sim card. I will be calling the UK a few times a day.

You’ll find all the info you need on this page. Try the Cyta pay as you go sim – if your mobile phone is unlocked you could buy a CytaVoda, So easy sim card pack.

http://www.cyprus-tourist-guide.com/telephones-in-cyprus.html

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Cyprus tourism “cannot do without foreign labour”

D eputy Minister of Tourism Kostas Koumis on Friday acknowledged that the Cypriot tourism sector is in need of foreign workers, noting that the increase in tourist arrivals has further exacerbated the issue of labour shortages.

In statements following a tour in Protaras and Ayia Napa, Koumis said that “the results so far for tourism indicate an upward trend”.

“The quarterly results show an increase of over 5 per cent compared to the previous year”, he stated, while also noting that Protaras has also experienced a rise in visitors.

“We have made upgrades to the beaches and the services offered have been revitalised, something we welcome at the Deputy Ministry of Tourism,” he added.

Asked about the presence of workers from third countries in tourist businesses, Koumis explained that “it would certainly be preferable to have our compatriots in every position in tourism”.

“However,” he continued, “we cannot do without foreign labour, and this is evidenced by the numbers”.

Tourism in our country, he explained, “recorded an increase of just over 4 million arrivals in 2016, to almost four million in 2023”.

“All of these increases in arrivals require additional hands in the industry — we are a country with a limited population, so it is necessary to enrich the tourism sector with foreign labour,” Koumis said.

What matters, the Deputy Minister continued, “is that these people are trained properly before entering the industry or during their work, so that the quality of hospitality does not fall”.

He explained that the government is now trying to address this issue by dealing directly with the educational sector. This is done for two main reasons. One is to help train newcomers into the sector, and the other is to create specialised courses for students. In this context, he referenced the ‘Pausanias the Traveller 2024’ student competition.

For me, Kostas Koumi said, “it is very important for the new generation of our country to understand which sectors contribute to the economy, what are the sensitivities that characterise these sectors, and to receive the right messages”.

Responding to another question, Koumis said that “the Ministry of Tourism works day and night to have another successful tourist year,” noting that “we place particular emphasis on upgrading the tourist product offered”.

“We are trying to take advantage of every opportunity arising from the Recovery and Resilience Fund,” he stated.

“We have announced some incentive plans in specific geographical areas of Cyprus, areas that, of course, allow us to proceed with tenders,” he added.

Moreover, he said that “what we expect is that these specific plans will be utilised by the local authorities in order to continue to upgrade our tourist product”.

“It is very important for everyone to understand that the increase in competitiveness is imperative. The increase in the attractiveness of destinations is imperative. If we want to have better days in tourism, we must all work together to raise the level of competitiveness of the services offered,” Koumis stressed.

Asked about adventure tourism, the minister said that “this is a special form of tourism that is recording an upward trend globally, and we at the ministry are also trying to benefit from this popularity”.

“Something like this could be done in the Cape Greco area, where there is a certain altitude present, but perhaps it cannot be done in that specific area,” he concluded.