Cyprus is the friendly island, the home of Aphrodite and whose history goes back to the birth of civilisation itself. You will immediately feel at home amongst the smiling faces and they even drive on the left!According to Greek mythology, Aphrodite the ancient goddess of beauty was brought to life through the waves in Cyprus lying in a large, beautiful shell. Since then Cyprus is considered to be the island of beauty and serenity.
The absolutely lovely climate with continuous sunshine and mild temperatures together with the clear blue sea waters is what makes Cyprus the ideal holiday destination for all year round. People are so friendly and helpful that you will once feel at home and the most intimate feature is that they also drive on the left side of the road!
Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa was once a small fishing village that is now widely popular for its vivid nightlife and its beautiful long sandy beach of Nissaki. There you can party all day in beach bars, try the traditional cuisine at a local tavern –you will find many one next to the other- and then keep on partying in one of the night clubs until early morning!
Read more about Ayia napa to our Ayia Napa travel guide
Paphos
Paphos has been chosen as World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 1980. Paphos was actually the capital of Cyprus in ancient Greek and Roman time, while now is a beautifully picturesque harbour town with many tavernas, bars and shops. Kato Paphos which is situated in the lower part of the harbour is home to the relics of the ancient city of Nea Paphos. This is now an Archaeological Park which contains among others the magnificent Roman mosaics in the Houses of Dionysos, Theseus, Orpheus and Aion all great legends of mythology. Paphos has also been awarded with Blue Flag beaches and is ideal for families and couples seeking a relaxing time in a idyllic place.
Attractions
- Coral Bay Beach and Lara Beach, the sheltered home of the Green Turtles.
- Tombs of the Kings which are impressive underground tombs dating back to the 4th century BC. They are carved out of solid rock and some are decorated with Doric Pillars.
- The Paphos Mosaics
- Paphos Medieval Fort
Read more about Paphos to our Paphos travel guide
Larnaca
Larnaca, one of the main cities of Cyprus, features a long pedestrian promenade that has a long line of palm trees in both sides and boasts most of the tavernas, bars and pubs of the place. Down the end of the promenade there is a beautiful marina filled with yachts. The salt lake that is found on the outer edge of Larnaca is home to migratory flamingos and other birds.
Read more about Larnaca to our Larnaca travel guide
Latchi
Latchi is a picturesque fishing village, situated on the border of the Akamas National Park. Due to its tranquillity and calmness is an ideal base for those who are after a relaxing holiday or want to explore the area's wilderness. Therefore you will not find a great nightlife but in its harbour you will find lots of fish tavernas one next to the other.
Limassol
Limassol, second big city of Cyprus, is a cosmopolitan and full of life resort by the beach shore. Limassol is host city to some of the island's most significant events, like the famous September Wine Festival and Spring Carnival. Having an exquisite background of Troodos Mountains, Limassol is a lively tourist centre containing all kinds of shops, bars and restaurants. The Old Town also is worthy of a visit as it includes the beautiful harbour and the castle.
Read more about Limassol to our Limassol travel guide
Attractions
- Limassol Castle where Richard the Lionheart got married
- Kolossi medieval castle – headquarters of the Knights of St John
- the ancient Curium theatre
- Cruises to Egypt and Greece
Read more about Limassol to our Limassol travel guide
Pissouri
Pissouri is a quiet resort, situated between Paphos and Limassol, and is recommended especially for those looking for a quiet holiday. Its beach is a beautiful pebbly one and there is a good selection of tavernas around. From Pissouri you can easily drive to most of the famous historical sites of Cyprus one of which is the Aphrodite Hills Golf Club, which was recently opened. Pissouri is also a good base for drives into the Troodos Mountains.
Protaras
Protaras is a popular resort, situated north of Cape Greco, with great hotels and some wonderful sandy beaches and stony caves. Fig Tree Bay is a famous beach in Protaras not only for its fantastic deep blue sea but also for a wide range of water sports that it has to offer. The resort also features a large number of tavernas and restaurants and if one is seeking to party all night, Ayia Napa is only 6miles away.
Read more about Protaras to our Protaras travel guide |