Map Of Cyprus In English
If you’re planning a trip to Cyprus, you’ll want to make the most of your time there. Cyprus is a beautiful island with plenty to see and do, and a rich history and culture to explore. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from top attractions to hidden gems, food, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Cyprus has a lot to offer visitors, with many top attractions that are worth checking out. These include:
- The ancient city of Kourion, with its stunning amphitheater and mosaics
- The Tombs of the Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- The Kyrenia Castle, a stunning fortress overlooking the sea
- The Troodos Mountains, with their beautiful scenery and hiking trails
- The Ayia Napa Sea Caves, a natural wonder that’s perfect for swimming and exploring
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are certainly worth a visit, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover on Cyprus. These include:
- The village of Lefkara, known for its lace-making and silverwork
- The abandoned village of Varosha, which has been frozen in time since the Turkish invasion of 1974
- The Akamas Peninsula, a beautiful and untouched area of natural beauty
- The Cape Greco Sea Caves, another natural wonder that’s perfect for swimming and exploring
- The village of Bellapais, with its stunning abbey and beautiful views
Food Scene
Cyprus is known for its delicious food, which includes a mix of Greek and Turkish influences. Some top dishes to try include:
- Moussaka, a baked dish with layers of eggplant, meat, and potatoes
- Souvlaki, grilled meat skewers that are a popular street food
- Halloumi, a salty cheese that’s often grilled or fried
- Kleftiko, a slow-cooked lamb dish that’s full of flavor
- Meze, a selection of small dishes that’s perfect for sharing
Budget-Friendly Tips
While Cyprus can be a bit expensive, there are plenty of ways to save money and stick to a budget. Some tips include:
- Visit in the off-season, when prices are lower
- Eat at local tavernas instead of touristy restaurants
- Stay in self-catering accommodation and cook your own meals
- Use public transportation instead of renting a car
- Take advantage of free activities, such as hiking or visiting museums on certain days
Outdoor Adventures
Cyprus is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of activities to choose from. Some popular options include:
- Hiking in the Troodos Mountains
- Swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters
- Cycling through the countryside or along the coast
- Kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding
- Rock climbing or bouldering
Historical Landmarks
Cyprus has a rich history that’s reflected in its many historical landmarks. Some must-see sites include:
- The ancient city of Kourion
- The Tombs of the Kings
- The Kyrenia Castle
- The Bellapais Abbey
- The ancient city of Salamis
Family-Friendly Activities
Cyprus is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that kids (and parents) will love. Some top options include:
- Visiting the waterpark in Ayia Napa
- Exploring the Akamas Peninsula
- Taking a boat trip to see the sea caves
- Visiting the Cyprus Donkey Sanctuary
- Going on a turtle-watching tour
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a bit different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had on Cyprus. Some options include:
- Exploring the abandoned village of Varosha
- Taking a wine-tasting tour of the vineyards
- Visiting the abandoned village of Agios Sozomenos
- Going on a ghost town tour
- Visiting the salt lake in Larnaca, which is home to thousands of pink flamingos
Natural Wonders
Cyprus is home to some truly stunning natural wonders, from beautiful beaches to rugged mountains. Some top spots include:
- The Ayia Napa Sea Caves
- The Cape Greco Sea Caves
- The Troodos Mountains
- The Akamas Peninsula
- The Avakas Gorge
Vibrant Nightlife
Cyprus is known for its lively nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Some top spots include:
- Ayia Napa, which is known for its party scene
- Limassol, which has a more sophisticated nightlife
- Paphos, which has a mix of bars, clubs, and restaurants
- Nicosia, which has a growing bar and club scene
- Larnaca, which has a more laid-back nightlife scene
Local Markets
If you want to get a taste of local life, be sure to check out some of the markets on Cyprus. Some top options include:
- The Central Market in Nicosia, which has a wide range of goods
- The Municipal Market in Limassol, which sells fresh produce and seafood
- The Old Market in Larnaca, which has a mix of shops and restaurants
- The Paphos Market, which sells everything from spices to souvenirs
- The Famagusta Market, which is known for its textiles and clothing
Beaches and Mountains
Cyprus is known for its beautiful beaches and rugged mountains, which make it a great destination for both sun-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Some top spots include:
- Nissi Beach, which is known for its crystal-clear waters
- Coral Bay, which is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing
- Troodos Mountains, which offer stunning views and great hiking trails
- Kyrenia Mountains, which are home to quaint villages and beautiful scenery
- Fig Tree Bay, which is a peaceful and beautiful beach
Cultural Immersion
If you want to immerse yourself in Cyprus’ rich culture, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. Some options include:
- Visiting the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia, which has a wide range of artifacts
- Attending a traditional Cypriot wedding or festival
- Taking a cooking class to learn how to make local dishes
- Visiting a local winery to learn about the island’s wine-making traditions
- Taking a language course to learn some Greek or Turkish
Art and Music Scene
Cyprus has a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries, concerts, and festivals to choose from. Some top options include:
- The Cyprus Museum of Modern Art in Nicosia
- The Limassol Sculpture Park
- The Pafos Aphrodite Festival, which features operas and concerts
- The Kypria International Festival, which features a wide range of performances
- The Cyprus Jazz Festival, which takes place in multiple locations around the island
Walking Tours