Explore the charm of Cyprus, where history meets the Mediterranean sun. Indulge in Cypriot cuisine, relax on pristine beaches, and discover the warmth of local hospitality. From ancient ruins to modern cities, Cyprus offers a perfect blend of tradition and adventure. Create lasting memories on this island paradise.
MUST VISIT PLACES IN CYPRUS
Larnaca Town
The city which is built on the ruins of ancient Citium is endowed with numerous attractions such as Larnaca Castle, the Church of Saint Lazarus, Hala Sultan Tekke etc. Larnaca’s waterfronts, scenic vistas, parks and beautiful beaches with leisure and water sports facilities enhance its beautiful coastline.
Lefkara Village
Probably one of the most famous areas for lace in Cyprus, the region of Lefkara (and the village) is one of the best places in Cyprus to spend a relaxing afternoon.
Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa can have something of a bad rep – which if you’re not into partying in summer, you can easily see why. Ayia Napa has become one of the bigger party spots in Europe and easily one of the best places in Cyprus to visit if you want a night out and clubs.
Paphos
Paphos is easily up there as one of the best places in Cyprus to visit, especially if you want to explore some of the island’s long history.
Once here, make sure to explore the ancient Odeon Ruins and Kato Paphos Archaeological Park and make sure spot the mosaics, amphitheatre and catacombs.
Afterwards, pop over to the Tombs of the Kings, visit the Agios Neophytos Monastery and explore the House of Dionysus.
Pervolia
In ancient times, the village of Pervolia was a resting place for kings and the wealthy. Once you arrive, make sure to explore the Pervolia Lighthouse, see the Tower of Regaena (around 500 years old) and gorge in one of the local taverns. Plus, don’t forget the Agios Leontios church dating back to the 16th Century.
Protaras
Perched in Eastern Cyprus, Protaras is one of the larger towns that has plenty of hotels and restaurants along the coast.
Once here, make sure to explore the Church of Profitis Elias, enjoy Fig Tree Bay and head out snorkelling or scuba diving with a guide. There are a few different wrecks (like the Zenobia Wreck) which are really easy to visit with a professional.
Nicosia
Being the largest city on the island, Nicosia is one of the best places in Cyprus to visit if you want a real taste of Cypriot life. Now, the city itself has thousands of years of history and there’s so much to do when you get here.
Once you arrive, make sure to visit the Shacolas Tower Museum & Observatory, see the Selimiye Mosque and find the Cyprus Museum. For a tasty bite to eat, pop into To Anamma which has the tastiest food and lovely garden.
Pegeia
Perched on top of the cliffs, overlooking Coral Bay, Pegeia is one of the best places in Cyprus to visit if you’re looking for a smaller town. Now, Pegeia itself has lots of newer buildings and is quite sprawling. This means it can be quite hard to find a definitive centre where you can hop between restaurants and taverns.
Polis
Nestled within the North West of the island, Polis is one of the best places in Cyprus to visit if you want a quieter trip.
Once here, make sure to explore the Akamas peninsula nature reserve close by and wander across the trails. It is one of the few untouched areas of the island where you can hike along the Adonis nature trail. That being said, if you’re more of a beach bum, pop over to Latsi beach.
Now, although it’s about a 40-minute drive from Polis, make sure to also visit the stunning Avakas Gorge. Now, the trek is generally a bit hard on the feet, make sure to wear good walking boots (waterproof) or sandals as you’ll be walking over all manner of uneven terrain and streams.
Omodos
Nestled within the Troödos Mountains, Omodos is easily up there as one of the best places in Cyprus… and not just because of the wine!
Platres
The village of Platres is in an almost ideal location if you want a little slice of history and some gorgeous natural landscapes. Now, being in the Troödos Mountains, it can actually be a little cooler than the coastal regions of Cyprus. This makes it the perfect respite from that intense summer heat.
Kyperounta
Perched high in the mountains, Kyperounta is one of the highest villages on the island. Now, Kyperounta is pretty easy to visit if you’re staying in Limassol (about an hour away) and is a lovely little spot to spend an afternoon.
Once here, make sure to visit the Winery of Kyperounta and head out on the nature trails that surround the village itself. It’s a great way to get out in the countryside of this gorgeous region.
Kakopetria
Kakopetria is one of the highest villages in the Solea Valley and easily up there as one of the best places in Cyprus to explore.
Drouseia
The traditional character of the village is maintained through its stone houses with carved doors and windows, and in its narrow, winding streets that offer stunning views of hillside and coast. The tranquil and traditional environment makes Drouseia perfect for agrotourism,
The taverns of the village are also known locally for their excellent Cypriot cuisine, and the warm family welcome they give.
Aside from its pretty views, the village is home to the religiously significant ancient monastery of Agios Georgios Nikoxilitis, which was built in the 15th century, and was rebuilt in 1923 after it was destroyed by a fire
Kourion
Perched on the historic coastal road between the towns of Paphos and Limassol is Kourion. It’s easily one of the best places in Cyprus to visit if you love ancient history.
Lofou
Nestled within the Limassol District, Lofou is a tiny little village that’s perfect to explore if you want some chill time. Though don’t be fooled by its size, it’s still crammed with a shed load of history. Make sure to wander around the village, take in some of the walking trails or partner a stop to the village with some of the local vineyards that are famed in this area.
TRADITIONAL FOOD IN CYPRUS: Best Dishes & Desserts You Must Try!
Meze
The Meze in Cyprus (a.k.a. ‘small dishes’) is perfect for anyone wanting to try various options before committing to a meal. It’s also sharable, so it’s great to order a Meze Platter for the table so that everyone has something to snack on before the first course.
Stiffado
Stifado is one of Cyprus’ famous foods with Greek Origins. However, no tomatoes are added to the Cypriot version. Instead, there are lots of pearl onions, vinegar (as I’d noticed from my first bite), garlic, red wine and, the main spices are cinnamon, bay leaves and, peppercorns.
Souvlaki
Souvlaki is one of the most popular foods in Cyprus. Souvlaki comprises cubes of meat, of which chicken and pork are the most popular, that are marinated and grilled on a skewer.
Kleftiko
Kleftiko is a traditional Greek recipe that involves marinating lamb in olive oil, onion, garlic, and lemon and then cooking in greaseproof paper to make sure the meat takes all the flavor and moisture from the liquid.
Moussaka
Moussaka is a casserole or lasagna-type dish that’s made of layered minced meat and eggplant. The dish became very popular in Greece after the chef Nikolaos Tselementes topped moussaka with a layer of béchamel sauce, which is now considered the Greek way of making it. It’s absolutely incredible.