Cyprus

What are the most recommended things to do in Cyprus?

  • Relax on the beautiful beaches, including Nissi Beach and Fig Tree Bay.
  • Explore ancient ruins and archaeological sites, such as Kourion and Paphos Archaeological Park.
  • Visit charming villages like Omodos and Lefkara for local crafts and traditional culture.
  • Hike in the Troodos Mountains and visit scenic monasteries like Kykkos Monastery.
  • Enjoy water sports such as diving, snorkeling, and sailing along the coast.
  • Tour wineries and taste local wines and Mediterranean cuisine.
  • Experience wildlife and nature reserves, including Akamas Peninsula and Cape Greco National Park.

Introducing Cyprus

Cyprus is an island nation in the eastern Mediterranean. It sits at the crossroads of maritime transport between Asia, Africa, and Europe. It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, with a coastline of 537 kilometers. Its northern part is bordered by a narrow mountain range with many hills; its southwestern part is mountainous and has higher terrain; and its central part is the fertile Mesoamerican Plain. There are no permanent rivers on the island, only a few intermittent ones.

The central part of Cyprus is the Messoa Plain, the southern part is the Troodos Mountains, the highest point is Mount Olympus, which is 1,951 meters above sea level, and the country's coastline is 782 kilometers long.

Climate and best time to travel

Cyprus has a subtropical Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, humid winters. Sunshine reaches approximately 300 days per year. The rainy season typically falls between November and March. The coldest month is January, with a low of 6°C and a high of 13°C. The hottest month is August, with a low of 21°C and a high of 36°C.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Greek goddess of beauty

The best seasons to visit Cyprus are March to May and September to October. Enjoy the sun, beaches, blue skies, and azure seas of Cyprus on this 8-day Mediterranean-themed trip to Turkey (Princes' Islands) and Cyprus. Explore the North-South Cyprus border and visit relics of the Civil War. Cyprus, the birthplace of the Greek goddess Venus.

The Greek goddess of beauty, Aphrodite, is better known by her Roman nickname, "Venus." She is the most beautiful of the goddesses and the one most frequently depicted by artists. The Romans considered Venus the goddess of love and the mother of their nation, believing that the magnificent city of Rome was founded by Aphrodite's descendants.


Island of Eros

The birthplace of Aphrodite (Venus), the goddess of love and beauty in ancient Greek mythology, is proudly called the "Island of Love". It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean - Cyprus.

Cyprus, meaning "Copper Island" in Greek, is the Republic of Cyprus. It is an island nation located at the easternmost tip of the Mediterranean Sea, sharing borders with Greece, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and Egypt. Since ancient times, it has served as a vital transportation hub connecting the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. Modern people liken it to the "unsinkable aircraft carrier of the Eastern Mediterranean." Cyprus is 241 kilometers long from east to west and 97 kilometers wide from north to south, covering an area of ​​9,251 square kilometers. (Following the 1974 split between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities, the Greeks and Turkish communities hold 60% and 37% of the territory, respectively, with the remaining 3% belonging to two sovereign British bases.) It is the third largest island in the Mediterranean and the birthplace of the goddess Venus.


The hometown of the broken-arm beauty

Cyprus is a small island steeped in history and culture, and boasts spectacular natural beauty. Located in the northeastern corner of the Mediterranean, south of the Anatolian Peninsula, it borders Turkey to the north, Syria to the east, and Egypt to the south. As the third largest island in the Mediterranean, it lies at the intersection of Eastern and Western civilizations—the "Fertile Crescent." This unique geographical location has shaped its significant role in world history. Various invasions and occupations have brought with them diverse and time-honored cultures, leaving behind a rich legacy.

Home to the mythical Venus de Milo, and boasting the ruins of a temple dedicated to the sun god Apollo, Cyprus has been called a historical museum for the entire Europe and the Middle East. A tour of the island reveals historical relics everywhere you turn: ancient villages, towns, temples, theaters, stadiums, palaces, tombs, fortresses, fortifications, columns, mosaics, and more. Cyprus itself is a historical museum for the entire Middle East and Europe. Its extant artifacts and constant stream of new archaeological discoveries fascinate scholars worldwide. Entering Cyprus is like stepping into the beautiful myths of ancient Greece.


Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum, dedicated to collecting and exhibiting archaeological finds in Cyprus, is a treasure trove of Cypriot archaeology and the largest museum in the country. Exhibits date from the Neolithic period in 7000 BC to the Byzantine period in the 7th century AD. A variety of pottery, jewelry, sculptures, coins, and handmade bronze artifacts are displayed across 14 halls, with the pottery figurines being particularly distinctive. Hall 5 features the statue of Aphrodite (Venus), a renowned Cypriot art treasure and national treasure. The exhibits at the Archaeological Museum showcase Cyprus' ancient history, diverse culture, and immense wealth.


Fashion Harbor

In Larnaca Harbour, yachts and ships from all over the world are on display, and a dazzling array of international fashions keeps shoppers coming back for more. A palm-fringed promenade leads to a 17th-century fortress, home to the Larnaca Medieval Museum.


rocky beach

In the eastern part of Ayia Naba in Cyprus, there is a rocky beach that has been eroded by the sea and cut into various shapes. Some look like arches, some look like caves, and their backs are reflected in the deep blue sea. The shapes are very beautiful. Here you can swim, dive, fish, row a boat, ride a bicycle, etc.


Ancient temple

Traveling Cyprus, you'll find wondrous monasteries and ancient churches everywhere: the 13th-century Church of St. Grimari in Famagusta, the 14th-century Church of St. Peter and Paul and Carmelite, and the Cathedral of St. Nicholas. There's also the renowned Temple of Dionysus in Paphos, Byzantine-era mausoleums, and Ottoman-era fortresses. There's also the castle in the mountainous region of Kyrenia, the frescoes of the Monastery of Tokhko, the Antiphonidis Monastery, and the mosaics of the beautiful churches of Kiti.


Most Popular FAQs for Cyprus

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Cyprus is a Mediterranean island with a rich history spanning ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman periods. It is significant for its archaeological sites, medieval castles, and its role in trade and cultural exchange across Europe and the Middle East.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Cyprus is located in the Eastern Mediterranean, south of Turkey. Major airports are in Larnaca and Paphos, with international flights. Local transport includes buses, taxis, car rentals, and walking in towns and tourist areas.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary: archaeological sites and museums usually charge €2–€10. Tickets can often be bought on-site; some sites allow online booking in advance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking in advance is recommended for popular sites and guided tours, typically 1–2 weeks ahead in peak season.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

7–10 days are recommended to explore beaches, historical sites, mountains, and villages comfortably.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Paphos Archaeological Park and Tombs of the Kings.
  • Troodos Mountains and Kykkos Monastery.
  • Akamas Peninsula and Cape Greco National Park.
  • Choirokoitia Neolithic settlement.
  • Larnaca Salt Lake and Hala Sultan Tekke mosque.
  • Famagusta and its Venetian walls (Northern Cyprus).

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are widely available in English, Greek, and Russian. Audio guides are often available at major archaeological sites and museums.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Akamas Peninsula cliffs and Lara Bay beaches.
  • Troodos Mountains panoramic viewpoints.
  • Kykkos Monastery interior and gardens.
  • Paphos Harbor and lighthouse.
  • Famagusta Venetian walls and Othello Castle.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Start in Larnaca for beaches and Hala Sultan Tekke.
  • Travel west to Limassol and ancient Kourion.
  • Explore Paphos for archaeological sites and harbor.
  • Head inland to Troodos Mountains and monasteries.
  • Finish with Akamas Peninsula or Famagusta day trips.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night tours are limited but available in some museums, archaeological sites, and city walking tours. Special boat tours or sunset excursions can be booked seasonally.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak tourist season is July–August. Spring and autumn offer fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most tourist areas and archaeological sites provide restrooms, cafes, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Remote hiking areas may have limited facilities.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Major towns, museums, and some archaeological sites are accessible. Mountain trails and beaches with cliffs may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Most places accept credit/debit cards; small villages, market stalls, and remote areas may require cash (Euro).

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Cyprus offers Mediterranean cuisine, local tavernas, seafood restaurants, and international cafes across cities and tourist areas.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available in cities. Halal options exist in larger towns like Larnaca and Limassol.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Options range from luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and guesthouses in Larnaca, Limassol, Paphos, and mountain villages.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Ayia Napa beaches, Nicosia (capital) cultural sites, and Limassol Marina are easily combined in day trips depending on location.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local wine, olive oil, pottery, lace from Lefkara, and traditional Cypriot sweets.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Flights from Larnaca or Paphos to Europe or Middle East; car rentals are recommended for internal travel between towns and attractions.