15 Best Places In

Cyprus To Visit
Being one of the larger islands in the Mediterranean, Cyprus is a pretty
diverse and gorgeous island to explore. Perched on the eastern side of
Europe (just south of Turkey), there’s a whole heap of gorgeous and best
places in Cyprus that you really shouldn’t miss. And you know what,
that’s the thing I loved about Cyprus on my last visit… it’s much more
diverse than some people think.

In some ways, I felt like Cyprus has similar vibes to the gorgeous Greek
islands, but it also has a huge amount of history that reminded me of
the cities in Croatia. That’s the thing, I suppose, about an island with
such a long history – it has a shed load of influences that have shaped it
to this day.
Now, If it’s your first time to Cyprus, don’t just think your trip needs to
be about sun, sea and sand. Yeah, these are all great (provided you slap
on that sunblock) but make sure to spend time exploring the best places
in Cyprus to experience island life, too.
This is why I wanted to share, with you, some of my favourite stops from
my trip over to Cyprus.
Take a look, below, at some of the very best places in Cyprus to visit.
Have the best trip!

1.) 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!
Once here, make sure to wander around the little cobbled streets, head to
some of the wineries and spot the 500-year-old wine press, too. If you’re
not fond of the grape varieties, head away from the wine and you explore
the Monastery of the Holy Cross. It’s is one of the islands oldest and
historically important religious sites and well worth visiting if you’ve got
time.

Oh, and if you’re visiting in Summer, try to coincide your trip with the
annual wine festival they hold each August in Omodos. Just make sure to
have a designated driver. You will be tipsy!
2.) 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.

Once you’re here, make sure to explore the relatively close, Millomeris
Waterfalls, take the Caledonia trail to Caledonia Waterfalls and finish off
with a visit to the Trooditissa monastery.

If you’re heading here for a day trip, make sure to partner it with
Omodos too. They’re both relatively close to each other and can easily be
done in a day.

3.) 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.

That being said, that’s not all that Ayia Napa is, especially in the quieter
winter months. Once here, make sure to wander around the Blue
Lagoon, chill out at Nissi Beach and find the sea caves that are all across
the coast. Just make sure to stop off at Love Bridge, too.

Oh, also, one of the best places in Cyrpus for views is from Cape Greco
National Forest Park, which has a vista all across the coastline.

For a gorgeous place to rest your head, check into the Grecian Park
Hotel near Konnos Bay Beach. Alternatively, book this Troodos jeep
safari from Ayia Napa that’s so much fun. You’ll go off-road and to some
of the small villages and mountain ranges that make this area so special.
Oh, and don’t forget to look at booking this incredible Cypriot
cruise from Larnaca, too. You’ll get to sail the shores of Cyprus, all whilst
sipping on champagne. It’s just an epic tour.

4.) 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.

Now, the ancient village of Kakopetria roughly translates to bad rock in

English, which sounds pretty macabre. Apparently, I was told, there’s a
folklore that the village took its name after a newly wedded couple was
crushed by a rolling rock.
Whether it’s true or not, Kakopetria is still a gorgeous place to visit,
that’s for sure. Make sure to explore the medieval quarter and winding
streets of the stone house. Plus, In the village square, you should try out
the traditional syrup doughnuts known locally as Loukoumades.

5.) 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.

Made up of quaint cobbled streets, Lefkara is possibly one of the prettiest

villages to see when you’re on the island. Plus, apparently, Leonardo da
Vinci actually headed to Lefkara in the 15th Century, on a mission to get
the best lace cloth for the Duomo di Milano.
Even to this day, you can still head into the local producers and grab
some cloth, too.

6.) 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.

If you can, plan to visit on the last Sunday of September when the
Palouze Festival happens. It really is a special day and the village comes
alive!

7.) Protaras
Perched in Eastern Cyprus, Protaras is one of the larger towns that has
plenty of hotels and restaurants along the coast. As I mentioned before,
it’s not too far from Ayia Napa and easy to visit if you’re in the area.

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.

Also, for some yummy Cypriot food, pop into Kafkaros Tavern for lunch.
They always have a fresh catch of the day.

Oh, and don’t forget to check out and book the tours, in and around, Ayia
Napa. There’s everything from catamaran cruises, water parks for the
family and Blue Lagoon day trips.

Just be sure to book them before you arrive in Cyprus; they can fill up
fast at peak times.

8.) Pegeia
Perched on top of the cliffs, overlooking Croal 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.

Though don’t let that put you off, if you choose your hotel wisely, you can
get some incredible views over the cliffs and Coral Bay.

Now, if you do plan to stay in Pegeia, it’s the kind of place you really do
need a car, especially if you want to explore some of the historical sites
that are less than an hour from the town. For instance, Kykkos
monastery is only about 20km away but it’s essential to have a car (or
transfer) for this.
9.) 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.

10.) Pervolia

In ancient times, the village of Pervolia was a resting place for kings and
the wealthy. Nowadays, you don’t need to be royalty to chill out here.
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.
That being said, if you want some sun, sea and sand then chillout at
Faros Beach.
11.) 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.
If you plan to visit the Turkish side of Cyprus (known as the Turkish
Republic of Northern Cyprus), then you’ll be able to make the crossing at
Ledra Palace, Ledra Street and Agios Dometios. Just remember, if you
plan to take your rental car across, rental companies don’t tend to offer
insurance cover. This will need to be picked up from another source.

Also, just a word of advice if you’re travelling from ‘North’ Cyprus to

‘South’ Cyprus, remember that it’s technically an illegal point of entry.
For instance, if you arrive at Ercan airport, it is considered by the
Government of the Republic of Cyprus (the south) to have entered
Cyprus through an illegal port. Technically, this means they can fine or
bar you from entry.

12.) 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.

13.) 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.

For a tasty bite to eat, pop into the Londos Perasma Restaurant which
serves up some of the best Greek food for miles. Plus, make sure to grab
some Halloumi whilst you’re here. After all, it’s the national cheese of
Cyprus. Yum!
If you’re fancying some family fun at Aphrodite Water Park in Paphos,
then book this ticket that’ll secure you entry on your chosen day (as it
does get busy).
Finally, be sure to book a tour from Paphos that takes in some incredible
spots in Akamas and the Blue Lagoon. It’s a day trip and so much fun.
Though, this tour does fill up fast, especially in summer.
14.) Salamis
Perched on the east coast of ‘north’ Cyprus, Salamis has a treasure trove
of historical sites that easily makes this one of the best places in Cyprus
to see. It’s about 7km north of Famagusta and really easy to see once you
cross the border (though check here on the rules for border crossings).

Once here, make sure to explore the Roman amphitheatre, too. Now, if
you don’t have a car there are day trips you can take across to Salamis
which make the journey pretty simple. This is especially good if your car
rental doesn’t insure you to cross the border.

15.) 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.
Once here, make sure to wander through the baths, see the Kourion
theatre and explore Eustolios House. They really are incredible to see.
Oh and don’t forget to see the mosaics inside Eustolios House. The only
thing to remember is that it can get busy in the summer months, so plan
your visit around the peak times when bus tours arrive.
Also, if you’ve got time, make sure to visit the Sanctuary of Apollo
Hylates, too