It may be a small island in the Mediterranean, but you won’t run out of things to do in Cyprus. Situated between Greece and Turkey, it’s considered one of the most beautiful places in the world. That’s why it’s no surprise tourists all over the world flock to it to bask in its natural beauty.
Filled with a rich history, visiting this island will have you feeling like you’re in dreamland. Whether you’re looking to lounge on the sandy beach, immerse in historical sites, or check out one of the many nightlife spots, Cyprus always offers stunning views for an unforgettable experience.
But how can you maximize your adventure with so many attractions and a limited time to explore?
This article will show you the best things to do in Cyprus and the must-see places. From ancient ruins to beautiful beaches, we’ve got you covered. By the end of this, you can create a well-informed itinerary to enjoy this spectacular Mediterranean Island.
Let’s get started!
How To Get Around Cyprus And Where To Stay?
Before we get lost in the beauty of this magnificent island country, let’s discuss how you can get around. You need to know your options before embarking on a new place.
If you hire a tour guide company, your transport needs will be taken care of considering they have their vehicles for their clients and handle the different tour groups. But if you’re an independent traveler, you can have several choices to discover the city.
You can rent a car, which is quite easy since there are plenty of car rental agencies, both in the North and South. Although, expect to have fewer options in North Cyprus.
And if you don’t want to drive, you could always utilize public transport in the country. You could hail a cab or catch buses to get where you need to be. Additionally, you could always walk or cycle if you’re only going to places nearby each other.
As for your accommodation, Cyprus is littered with hotels for all budgets. But if you want to treat and pamper yourself, you can choose from the wide array of luxury hotels with great amenities. You can find them in almost any city on this island.
When booking a hotel, there are a lot of agencies running different booking engines. You’ll notice that some are cheaper, while others are more expensive. Plus, you’ll see some that are more open to discounts. Thus, it’s important to pick the right hotel booking site when selecting your accommodations to ensure it’ll fit your needs and secure your data.
With that, it’s time to get to the exciting part. Let’s see what you can explore in Cyprus.
Where To Go And What To Do In Cyprus
When you start researching this gorgeous island country, all you’ll want to do is visit every nook and cranny. But that’s not possible when you’re on limited vacation time.
There’s no need to worry though. We’ve got you covered with this list of activities you could do and places you could visit to experience the best Cyprus has to offer.
1. Visit The Birthplace Of Aphrodite
As a country rich in history, it’s no surprise that Cyprus is also rich in mythology. And perhaps the best representation of that is Aphrodite’s Rock, also known as Petra tou Romiou. This is said to be the birthplace of its namesake goddess.
It’s located in Paphos, and once at the base of the rugged cliffs, there is an amazing view of a stunning natural rock formation with distinctive columns and shapes. Although, you can’t climb on the rocks, just seeing its beauty up close is enough. Plus, you could enjoy the serenity of its pebble beach and pristine waters while you watch the sunset.
2. Explore Adonis Baths
According to the lore, this is where Adonis and Aphrodite spent a lot of time together. Today, you too could enjoy this amazing ancient site sanctuary. One of the best things to do here is to swim and enjoy the waterfalls while being surrounded by the lushness of the forest.
After cooling off in the waters, you can visit the small on-site museum or check out the two statues in honor of the said Greek mythology lovers. There are also hiking trails you could explore if that’s an activity more up your alley.
Pro Advicetip:
Use the rope swings for a more fun and dramatic entrance into the waters.
3. Tour The Church Of Saint Lazarus
Built during the 9th century in Larnaca, the church is where Saint Lazarus was laid to rest. Aside from its significance in religion, the church is famous for its stunning architecture, which embodies the Byzantine Style.
Not only that, but its interior is worth a mention here as well. It’s covered in mosaics and frescoes, which captivates every visitor that comes through its doors. It’s a great place for tourists who want to pay homage religiously or those who simply want to revel in its exterior and interior magnificence.
4. Outdoor Adventure At Cape Greco National Park
Located near Ayia Napa (a.k.a Agia Napa), Cape Greco is one of the top destinations for nature lovers who love the great outdoors. It’s a protected National Park, which is great for preserving its natural wonders. Beautiful panoramic views abound along the many sea caves, hiking trails, and cycling paths in the area.
Not to mention, it offers many adrenaline-rich activities such as cliff-diving, snorkeling, and scuba diving. And if you’re not up for any of those activities, you could just enjoy the view overlooking the scenic coastline and clear blue waters. Furthermore, you could visit the Agioi Anargyroi Chapel or the nearby towns of Ayia Napa and Protaras.
With so many available activities in this one area, be sure to pack up appropriate attire for each. For instance, for a proper hiking outfit, there are brands you could always count on, including The North Face and Patagonia. As such, you’ll be at ease (and safe) even during long hikes since you’ll have the right clothing, footwear, and equipment.
What’s more, if you’re planning to swim in the sea caves, a great swimwear from Julbie’s collection would be perfect for a dip in the waters and to stay picture-ready. Having the proper attire for each activity allows you to be comfortable.
Let’s be honest, it won’t feel good to swim with a sweaty, musty t-shirt on once you decide to jump into the waters after a hike, then wear the same on your way back.
5. Trek Through Avakas Gorge
The Avakas Gorge is truly a sight to behold. It’s enveloped by massive rock formations that make it look like there are tunnels leading inside them. Any nature lover would fall in love with its natural atmosphere and lush vegetation. Many wildlife, like foxes and butterflies, also call it their home.
Although, if you’re not an experienced hiker, extra caution should be taken. The trail includes rocky and wet terrain, making it hard to pass through, especially when it’s already dark. As such, it’s best to have a guide if you want to see the wonders of Avakas Gorge. Be sure to prepare in advance to properly and safely explore this place.
6. Walk Through Nicosia
No visit to Cyprus is complete without exploring its capital city, Nicosia. This is Europe’s last divided capital. One part of the city is under Cyprus, while the other is under the unrecognized Turkish Republic of North Cyprus. So, if you’re interested in politics, you can learn more about this unique situation from your tour guides.
If not, you can just enjoy the diverse cultures while you wander this historical town since there’s something for everyone. You can enjoy religious sites such as the Selimiye Mosque or the numerous museums in the city like the Ethnographic Museum of Cyprus.
Reminder:
You should carry your passport if you plan on crossing the line dividing this Cypriot capital.
7. Live It Up At Nissi Beach
Cyprus has many stunning beaches, but Nissi beach in Ayia Napa just takes it up a notch. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it can get pretty crowded during the summer but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the natural beauty of this paradise.
Once you get there, the fine white sand and crystal-clear water will greet you with warmth and serenity. This is a perfect spot for families traveling with children because the water is very shallow. Plus, there are plenty of water sports for everyone to enjoy.
But this isn’t just for families. Those traveling solo can live it up with the parties and the lively nightlife scene in the nearby town center. Soak up the sun in the morning, and transform into clubbing mode at night as you dance the night away while the DJ plays music.
8. Explore The Underwater Museum
Yes, you read that right. One of the most unique and thrilling places you could visit in Cyprus is the Museum of Underwater Sculpture Ayia Napa (MUSAN). You can access the museum through a snorkel tour and see the amazing art pieces up close. As an additional treat, you can also encounter several aquatic life.
This magical place is a must-see whether you’re a diving or art enthusiast and certainly makes for an unforgettable trip. You could take your GoPro and record your memories because you’re not going to see a lot of places like this. And if you want, you can share with others as well through video-sharing platforms and share your experience with the rest of the world.
9. Stop By The Cyprus Museum
This is a stop-over for any history buffs visiting Cyprus. The exhibits are well-curated and do a great job of showing the history of this beautiful island. It’s a great way to further appreciate the country’s long-standing history.
In addition, there are plenty of artifacts and stories to be immersed in. From the Neolithic age to the Byzantine era, there’s a lot to uncover and learn in this museum. Not to mention, you can see how Cyprus came to be a multicultural island by learning about the cultures that influenced it.
10. Be Immersed In The Ancient Towns
With its rich history, it’s no surprise that some of its attractions are remnants of ancient times. One of which is the Salamis Ancient City, where you can explore the ancient Roman history and be engrossed by the architecture, statues, and massive columns.
But that’s not all. You can also explore Nea Paphos and enjoy the beautiful Roman art that represents the best of Greco-Roman society. Additionally, you can visit 5 different houses on the site that’ll amaze you with their gorgeous mosaic floors. Also, make sure to see the Odeon amphitheater and experience what it was like being a spectator during the 2nd century.
11. Enjoy The Rides At Parko Paliatso
To those who have children or are simply young at heart, make sure to visit Parko Paliatso. It’s the largest amusement park in the country, so you’re not going to run out of things to try. There are thrilling rides for the daredevils like the Sling Shot, where you’ll be ejected 90 meters into the air.
As for the kids, there are more mundane rides and attractions, including the classic, bright Ferris Wheel. This amusement park is another outlet for fun if you want to get away from the sand and sun for a while.
12. Watersport Adventure At Fig Tree Bay
Located in Protaras, Fig Tree Bay is another beach that’ll take your breath away with its golden sand and crystal blue waters. It’s considered one of the best beaches in Europe, and once you lay eyes on it, you’ll know why.
This is a place perfect for families, thanks to the shallow waters where the children could swim safely. Nonetheless, adrenaline junkies also have a place in Fig Tree Bay. It offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy including windsurfing, boating, water sports, and horseback riding.
13. Take A Bout Tour To Blue Lagoon
Glowing with turquoise water, the Blue Lagoon is one of the best places to visit in Cyprus. It’s got everything you could want from a day at the beach: beautiful scenery, crystal-clear water, and even a few activities to keep you entertained.
If you’re looking for something more active than just swimming and sunbathing, Blue Lagoon has an array of activities including scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking. There are also several restaurants nearby where you can grab lunch or dinner after spending all day enjoying yourself at this magical place.
14. Have A Food Tour
Cypriot cuisine is a unique blend of Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern flavors, with influences from all over the world. The island’s geographical location has made it a meeting point for many cultures, and this is reflected in its cuisine.
You can have a taste of Cyprus at many restaurants around the island. There are many different types of meat dishes including lamb chops or kebabs served with rice pilaf. And if you prefer fresh seafood, you can have them in a variety of ways, including baked, grilled, or fried.
If you have a sweet tooth, try the delicious baklava pastry or honey cake which are both popular desserts. There are also some interesting drinks made from local ingredients like figs or almonds which make great accompaniments to your meal.
15. Go On An Off-Road Adventure
If you’re planning a vacation to Cyprus and want to experience the thrill of off-roading, then you should consider renting a quad bike. The island has gorgeous mountains, forests, and beaches that are perfect for quad bike rentals.
You will be able to get away from it all and enjoy nature at its finest. Also, quad bike rentals are available in many places across Cyprus and they are very affordable. You can choose from different types of bikes depending on your preferences and budget.
However, you need to be prepared since there might be requirements and rules you have to follow when riding quads. One of our pointers is to buy a face mask for protection since the trails may be too dusty. It’s a great way to avoid getting sick and cutting your vacation short.
16. Have A Wine Tasting
Wine tasting is something tourists must experience when visiting Cyprus. Wine is an integral part of Cypriot culture, and it’s not just a drink – it’s a way of life. The island has a long and rich history of winemaking and wine tasting is something that every visitor should experience at least once during their trip.
Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or just want a fun way to spend an afternoon, there are plenty of wineries around the island where you can learn about the local culture and sample some delicious beverages.
17. Explore Troodos Mountains
The Troodos Mountains is the largest mountain range on the island of Cyprus. It’s mostly covered with pine forests and is known for its rich biodiversity. It’s part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means the United Nations recognizes its cultural and natural significance.
The highest peak is Mount Olympus at 2,917 meters, and it’s the prime spot to lavish in the surrounding natural beauty. And once you’re done hiking, you can explore the Troodos villages and indulge in the monasteries and churches within, including the Kykkos Monastery.
Conclusion
Cyprus is a magical destination offering its visitors unforgettable experiences. It’s an island enveloped by natural beauty, history, and diverse culture. Once you step foot in this place, it’ll be hard to say goodbye to the fantastic views
How could you when it’s filled with golden sand beaches, crystal clear waters, ancient towns, historical artifacts, archaeological sites, and excellent cuisine?
So, how do you get to this paradise?
With itravelnet.com, planning your vacation and itinerary is made easier. From car rentals and airfares to hotel booking and tour packages, we’re ready to assist you. Contact us now to get your vacation planning started and experience the many things to do in Cyprus ASAP.
Author Bio
Steph Burton is the founder of Luxurymodo™. She loves traveling to different places and experiencing various cultures. Follow Steph on her adventures and get to know the best hotels for your next vacation at luxurymodo.com
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