Cyprus is quickly becoming a top destination for tourists searching for incredible experiences and things to do in Cyprus. Cyprus, a stunning island nation, lies in the eastern Mediterranean Sea.. It is no surprise that Cyprus is growing in popularity as a tourist destination given its fascinating history, gorgeous beaches, and delectable cuisine. But what distinguishes Cyprus as being so unique? What attractions must you not skip while visiting this idyllic island? This article will address all of these queries and more.
Everybody can find something to enjoy in Cyprus, from historic sites to charming villages. The island is home to many historic locations, including Paphos’ Roman Amphitheatre and the Tombs of the Kings. The Troodos Mountains provide breathtaking views for nature lovers, and Nissi Beach and Fig Tree Bay’s crystal-clear waters are ideal for swimming and tanning.
The delightful blend of Greek and Middle Eastern influences in the cuisine of Cyprus will please those who enjoy food. From halloumi cheese to souvlaki, Cyprus has a range of unique dishes that you must try during your visit.
So, whether you are a history buff, a beach bum, or a foodie, Cyprus has something to offer for everyone. Join us on this journey as we explore the top things to do in Cyprus and experience the magic of this beautiful island nation.
1- Discover the Natural Wonders of Cape Greco in Cyprus
The southeast corner of Cyprus is home to the breathtakingly beautiful national park known as Cape Greco. If you love the outdoors, you will undoubtedly enjoy coming here! The park provides breath-taking views of the Mediterranean Sea and breath-taking views of the rugged coastline.
Natural sea caves are one of Cape Greco‘s most well-known features. These caves, which the sea has been forming for thousands of years, provide a singular and breathtaking sight. The caves are easily accessible by boat or on foot, and they make excellent swimming and snorkeling spots. The waters surrounding the caves are incredibly clear, and you can see many different kinds of fish and sea turtles there.
Konnos Bay is another site in Cape Greco that you shouldn’t skip. You can find one of the best beaches in all of Cyprus here. The area is ideal for swimming and tanning due to its golden sand and clear waters. Additionally, there are a number of cafes and restaurants close by where you can grab a bite to eat while taking in the stunning scenery.
There are several trails at Cape Greco that provide breathtaking views of the sea and the surroundings if you enjoy hiking and exploring. The Aphrodite Trail, which starts at the Agioi Anargyroi chapel and leads you through a rugged landscape and beautiful viewpoints, is one of the most well-known trails.
2- Hang Out on Cyprus’ Incredible Beaches
When you step onto the shores of Cyprus’ incredible beaches, you’ll feel as if you have been transported to a paradise of sun, sand, and sea. The island’s coastline is dotted with some of the most picturesque and serene beaches in the world, each with its own unique charm and allure.
Nissi Beach, with its soft, golden sand and crystal-clear waters, is a must-visit for any beach lover. Take a stroll along the shore and let the warm sun caress your skin, or dive into the refreshing waters and feel the cool waves wash over you. And if you’re feeling peckish, there are plenty of cafes and restaurants just steps away, offering delicious local cuisine and refreshing drinks.
For those seeking a more secluded and peaceful experience, Konnos Bay is the perfect spot. Surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery, this hidden gem is a true oasis of calm. Listen to the sound of the waves lapping against the shore and breathe in the salty sea air as you bask in the sun. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a kayak or paddleboard out into the water and explore the bay from a different perspective.
And then there’s Fig Tree Bay, with its idyllic crescent shape and shallow, crystalline waters. This family-friendly beach is perfect for little ones to splash around in and build sandcastles while parents relax under the shade of an umbrella. And if you’re feeling active, there are plenty of water sports on offer, from jet skiing to parasailing.
As the day draws to a close, sit back and watch the sunset over the sea, casting hues of orange and pink across the sky. The beauty of Cyprus’ beaches is not just in their physical appearance, but in the way they make you feel – at peace, connected to nature, and grateful for the simple joys of life.
3- Explore the Ancient Town of Kourion in Cyprus
situated in Cyprus’s southwest. This enchanted location is a living example of the island’s rich history and culture and provides a window into a bygone era.
Strolling through the city’s ruins will take you back in time to the days of the Roman Empire. The amphitheater is a must-see attraction because of its breathtaking sea views and intricate stonework. Think of the roar of the crowds as gladiators fought for their lives, or of the spellbinding productions of Greek tragedies.
The House of Eustolios, an exquisitely preserved Roman villa with intricate mosaics and frescoes, is another highlight of Kourion. Imagine the lavish lifestyles and exquisite taste of the wealthy elite of ancient Cyprus as you step inside.
Kourion’s real beauty lies not only in its stunning architecture but also in its stories. From the busy markets to the quiet back alleys, picture the lives of the people who once walked these streets. Imagine the victories and setbacks that shaped their lives as well as the diverse array of cultures that coexisted in this formerly prosperous city.
Take a moment to pause as you stroll through the magnificent ancient town of Kourion to inhale the cleansing sea air. Allow yourself to be taken back in time to a location where the past and present collide while feeling the sun on your skin.
This amazing town is more than just a collection of decaying ruin. It serves as a living example of the Cypriot people’s tenacity and spirit. You’ll experience a sense of connection to history while exploring that is difficult to find elsewhere. The stories of those who walked these same streets centuries ago will inspire you, and you’ll marvel at the incredible achievements of the human spirit.
4- Discover the Mythical Beauty of Adonis Baths in Cyprus
Do you know about Adonis Baths? It is a natural marvel that can be found in Cyprus’ Akamas region. Surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning rock formations, the area has a number of waterfalls and pools that are simply breathtaking. It makes sense that it’s a well-liked vacation spot for outdoorsy types.
According to the legend, the location got its name from the fact that the Greek god of love and beauty, Adonis, bathed in these pools. Visitors are welcome to explore the nearby caves and caverns, where Adonis is rumored to have rested after his bath. These caves still contain some ancient carvings and symbols, which enhances the area’s appeal and cultural significance.
However, Adonis Baths is exceptional for reasons other than just its mythology and past. You won’t soon forget taking a refreshing dip in one of the natural pools, and admiring the waterfalls’ stunningly clear waters. Even better, you can take a stroll through the nearby forest, which is home to a wide variety of plants and animals.
Besides being a popular tourist destination, people believe that the Adonis Baths possess unique therapeutic properties. Even today, many visitors come looking for relief from a variety of ailments because they once held the same belief as the ancient Greeks: that the waters had healing properties.
5- Discover the Beauty of the Troodos Mountains in Cyprus
Located in the center of Cyprus, the Troodos Mountains are a magnificent natural wonder. Visitors have an unrivaled opportunity to discover Cyprus’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture thanks to this breathtaking range of mountains.
Mount Olympus, the highest peak on the island, is one of the Troodos Mountains’ most well-known attractions. With a height of 1,952 meters, this impressive mountain provides breathtaking panoramas of the surrounding area, including the glistening Mediterranean Sea.
The Troodos Mountains have a variety of hiking trails that wind through picturesque valleys, dense forests, and charming villages. With its imposing, more than a thousand-year-old cedar trees, the Cedar Valley trail is a must-see. Another well-traveled path, the Atalanti Trail, offers breathtaking views of the valleys and mountains in the area.
You can find numerous charming traditional villages with preserved local identities and cultural legacies in the Troodos Mountains. For instance, people know the village of Omodos for its long history of wine production and cobblestone streets. Visitors can savor the region’s wine and stroll through the quaint old town of the village. Another village that people like is Kakopetria, which has stunning mountain views and preserves its old town charm.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in the Troodos Mountains in addition to their stunning natural surroundings and rich cultural heritage. The Troodos Mountains have activities for everyone, including swimming and snowboarding in the winter and hiking and swimming in the summer.
Overall, a trip to the Troodos Mountains is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that perfectly captures the natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture of Cyprus. People visit the Troodos Mountains often as it offers an abundance of activities and sights to explore, which makes it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cyprus.
6- Discover the Wonders of Akamas National Park
Akamas National Park in Cyprus is a real gem for those who love nature and want to explore the island’s rich cultural history. Located at the very western tip of Cyprus, this park spans over 230 square kilometers of land, showcasing a diverse range of flora and fauna.
The park’s breathtaking coastline, which features pristine waters, secluded coves, and craggy cliffs, is without a doubt its most impressive feature. Visitors can embark on a boat tour to learn more about the area or take a leisurely stroll along the coast. There are many beaches and swimming areas to explore, such as the well-known Lara Beach, which is a sea turtle nesting area on the endangered species list, and the breathtaking Blue Lagoon, a turquoise bay ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
As you move further inland, you will come across a variety of plant life, including juniper trees, wild herbs, and orchids as well as rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and dense forests. There are many different animal species to see, including foxes, hedgehogs, and different kinds of birds.
A variety of fascinating archaeological sites are available for exploration in Akamas National Park for those with an interest in history and culture. The Baths of Aphrodite, a natural pool where the goddess of love is said to have bathed, are the most well-known. The park also contains numerous ancient tombs and ruins that offer a glimpse into Cyprus’ rich cultural past.
7- Medieval Castle of Paphos
The Medieval Castle of Paphos, situated in the city of Paphos in Cyprus, is a primeval fortress that serves as a captivating and illustrious specimen of medieval architecture. The Lusignans, a formidable dynasty that reigned over Cyprus during the medieval era, built the castle in the 13th century with the original intent of safeguarding the city against hostile invaders, hence serving as a military stronghold for centuries.
It has remained remarkably well-preserved to this day, demonstrating the extraordinary fusion of Gothic and Byzantine architectural styles that was common during the medieval era. The outer ward, a sizable courtyard that hosted a variety of events like markets and festivals, and the inner keep, also known as the donjon, are the two main structural elements of the castle. A lookout point and a defensive structure, the donjon is a massive building.
The castle’s impressive stone walls, which are made of local limestone and measure more than two meters in thickness, are among its most notable features. These walls were painstakingly built to be impregnable, with large gates that could be sealed to bar entry and narrow slits for archers to shoot through, making it an unconquerable fortress.
The Castle of Paphos has been the scene of numerous conflicts and battles over its lifetime. The Ottoman Turks took over the castle in the sixteenth century and used it as a military outpost. Later, the British asserted control over Cyprus and turned the castle into a prison for political prisoners.
The citadel, in addition to its historical import, endows its guests with unparalleled panoramas of the Mediterranean Sea and the contiguous hinterland. The pinnacle of the turret confers all-encompassing outlooks of Paphos and the adjacent coastline, tendering a stupefying involvement that is bound to carve an ineffaceable impression on sightseers.
8- Explore the Mythical Beauty of Petra tou Romiou
Petra tou Romiou, also known as Aphrodite’s Rock, is a captivating geological marvel that juts out from the coastline of Cyprus, an island nestled in the glistening eastern Mediterranean Sea. Its enigmatic allure is heightened by the rich mythological history that surrounds it, as it is said to be the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite.
According to legend, Aphrodite was born from the frothy sea foam that swirled around the base of the rock, and was brought to the shore by the gentle breeze of Zephyrus, the god of the winds. Enchanted by her beauty and grace, the Cypriots built a magnificent temple on the site to honor her, but unfortunately, an earthquake destroyed it in the 4th century AD.
Today, Petra tou Romiou stands as a popular tourist destination, beckoning visitors from all corners of the globe to marvel at its breathtaking beauty and bask in its rich cultural history. The azure waters that lap against the sandy shore are a magnet for those seeking a refreshing swim or an indulgent sunbathing session.
Despite its popularity, Petra tou Romiou retains an air of mystery and enchantment, steeped in the lore and mythology of ages past. Whether you are a history aficionado, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a serene escape from the chaos of daily life, this mesmerizing site is sure to stir your soul and leave you spellbound.
9- Discover the Ancient Wonders of Northern Cyprus
Some of the most beautiful historical ruins on the island can be found on the northern slopes and hills of the Kyrenia Mountain Range, which cuts through north Cyprus.
Even from the Republic of Cyprus, you can fit in the fairy-tale towers and ramparts of St. Hilarion Castle, the Gothic arches of Bellapais Abbey, and the high eyrie of Buffavento Castle all in one day if you set out on a road trip early.
The main attraction in northern Cyprus and the destination for busloads of tour groups is St. Hilarion Castle, so start there. You’ll be able to avoid the majority of the crowds if you arrive before 8am when the doors open.
Given that Bellapais Abbey is only 16 kilometers to the east via the shortest minor mountain road (and 25 kilometers via the main highway), it would make sense to visit it next. However, Bellapais is the second-most visited historic site in the north, so by the time you’ve finished touring St. Hilarion (allow two hours), Bellapais Abbey will likely be crowded with other tourists.
Avoid the crowds by traveling 25 winding kilometers east on the Beşparmak Pass to the ruins of Buffavento Castle, which offer expansive views of the plains below.
Retrace your steps westward from Buffavento to Bellapais to explore this hillside village in the mellow afternoon light. Explore the medieval Augustine abbey below, with its Gothic arched, 14th-century cloister, 13th-century church, and views of the Mediterranean from the roof, after taking a stroll through the winding, steep cobblestone alleys that climb the slope.
10- Get Active on the Water at Pissouri Bay
Pissouri Bay is the perfect destination for those seeking an exhilarating vacation in Cyprus. Positioned on the southern coast of the island, this bustling location is packed with an array of water-based sports and activities catering to all ages and abilities.
Jet skiing is undoubtedly the most prevalent aquatic sport in Pissouri Bay. This stimulating activity allows you to hurtle across the water on a mighty jet ski, with the wind sweeping through your tresses and the sun kissing your cheeks. One can rent a jet ski from any of the numerous service providers in the area, and enjoy a hair-raising adventure on the water.
For those seeking a more placid experience, kayaking or paddleboarding is the way to go. These activities offer an excellent opportunity to explore the coastline of Pissouri Bay at your leisure, absorbing the breathtaking scenery and basking in the warm Mediterranean sunshine. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a novice, you’re bound to have a splendid time on the water.
For the more daring individuals, water skiing and wakeboarding are available in Pissouri Bay. While these activities demand a certain degree of skill and practice, they are incredibly rewarding once mastered. The feeling of smoothly gliding across the water as the sun sets over the bay is indescribable and unforgettable.
Pissouri Bay also offers plenty of water-based activities suitable for families with kids. Children will delight in playing on the inflatable water park or taking a ride on a banana boat. These activities guarantee to provide hours of fun for the entire family.
