What Are the Best Things to Do in Cyprus?

Booking your flights to Cyprus for next year’s summer holiday, or perhaps even some winter sunshine? Whether you’re planning a family break or a romantic retreat for two, this sunny island destination suits a range of holidaymakers.

What Are the Best Things to Do in Cyprus?

From active adventures to lazy days spent lounging by the pool, there are so many possibilities in Cyprus. Below, we’ve outlined just a few of the attractions, activities, and cultural experiences on offer.

About Cyprus

Named the Republic of Cyprus, this is a relatively small island country located in the Mediterranean Sea. Geographically, the island is a part of west Asia, but it’s culturally and officially European. Cyprus has an unusual and unofficial north-south divide between Turkish and Greek cultures, respectively. But all sides of the island boast beautiful scenery, friendly people, and affordable food and drink. Cyprus is an emerging hotspot for digital nomads, with a lively, youthful atmosphere in towns and cities and peaceful serenity in its traditional coastal villages.

Historical sites

Cyprus offers plenty of historical sites to explore. These include:

• Tombs of the Kings: This key archaeological site is in Paphos, a coastal city in the southwest of Cyprus. With ancient tombs and intricate carvings in centuries-old rocks, these amazing structures form part of the city’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Thought to date back to the fourth century BC, this one is worth a visit.    
• Paphos Archaeological Park: Beyond the ancient tombs, Paphos extends into well-preserved mosaics, Roman villas, theatres, and palaces. For an area that’s been inhabited since the Neolithic period, it’s exceptionally well preserved.     
• Ancient Kourion: Once one of the most important cities in Cyprus, this ancient kingdom was built on hills towering over the sea. The outstanding second-century BC Greco-Roman theatre has now been restored, offering a breathtaking venue for theatrical and musical performances.

Natural wonders

Cyprus is a beach holiday hotspot, but there’s plenty of incredible scenery, wildlife, and outdoor opportunities to discover too. A couple of wonderful destinations to explore include:

• Troodos Mountains: If you’d like to go hiking, cycling, or climbing, the Troodos Mountains are just right for adventure holidays to Cyprus. Discover picturesque trails connecting quaint villages, with authentic restaurants and local wineries to complete the experience.
• Akamas Peninsula National Park: Covering nearly 230 square kilometres, this national park is just north of Paphos. Its rugged coastline shapes a diverse landscape, renowned for breathtaking turquoise waters and winding forest trails.

Beaches

Cyprus is consistently popular for beach holidays. With soft sands and relatively gentle conditions off the shore, it makes an ideal choice for families with young children and toddlers. A few favourites include:

• Nissi Beach: This large, beautiful beach is just outside Agia Napa, Cyprus’ main party town. Offering a quiet oasis away from bustling streets, this beach provides a lively atmosphere with opportunities for water sports and more.    
• Coral Bay: On the western shores of the island Coral Bay is known for its calm waters. It’s ideal for families with young children and snorkelling enthusiasts, with an array of colourful fish to be spotted.     
• Fig Tree Bay: This pretty bay forms the heart of Protaras, an easy-going beach resort that’s popular with couples and families. Expect to see dramatic rock formations and clear waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing!

Wrap Up: The Best Things to Do in Cyprus

Ready to get going? Don’t forget to check the latest official travel advice before you set off for the holiday of a lifetime in Cyprus!

What about you, have you ever been to Cyprus? Feel free to share any tips & advice below!

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ABOUTME

We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.