Discover Cyprus: An Island of Sun, History, and Mediterranean Allure
Cyprus is an island of contrasts where ancient civilizations, sun-drenched coastlines, and vibrant modern life exist in perfect harmony. Floating in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus is divided into the Greek-speaking south and Turkish-speaking north, each offering unique experiences yet sharing the same natural beauty, warm climate, and deep-rooted hospitality. From golden beaches to mountain villages, Byzantine monasteries to buzzing harbors, Cyprus promises a journey that is both relaxing and rich in heritage.
Nicosia: The Divided Capital with a United Spirit
Nicosia, also known as Lefkosia, is the last divided capital in Europe, where the past and present are intricately intertwined. In the southern part of the city, stroll along Ledra Street, explore the Cyprus Museum with its impressive archaeological treasures, and admire Venetian walls that once fortified the city. Cross the Green Line into North Nicosia to visit Büyük Han, an Ottoman-era inn now filled with artisan shops and cafés, and the Selimiye Mosque, formerly the Gothic cathedral of St. Sophia.
Boutique hotels and traditional guesthouses in the old quarters provide atmospheric stays, while modern hotels offer business-class luxury.
Limassol: Coastal Charm and Cosmopolitan Flair
Limassol is a lively seaside city that combines history with modern living. The medieval Limassol Castle houses the Cyprus Medieval Museum, while the Old Town bursts with street art, wine bars, and meze taverns. The Limassol Marina features luxury yachts, chic restaurants, and upscale boutiques, making it a favorite among style-conscious travelers.
Nearby archaeological sites include Ancient Kourion, with its cliffside Greco-Roman theater and mosaics, and Kolossi Castle, a Crusader stronghold surrounded by vineyards. Wine routes through the Troodos foothills begin here, offering cellar tours and tastings.
Limassol is home to luxury beachfront resorts, spa hotels, and family-friendly holiday complexes.
Paphos: Mythology, Mosaics, and Romance
Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a haven for lovers of history and myth. According to legend, Aphrodite, the goddess of love, was born near the sea stack at Petra tou Romiou. Kato Paphos showcases remarkable Roman mosaics in the Houses of Dionysos and Theseus, while the Tombs of the Kings are ancient burial sites carved into the rock.
The harbor area is perfect for sunset walks, with fishing boats bobbing beside seafood restaurants. Coral Bay offers sandy beaches and calm waters ideal for families.
Paphos boasts everything from five-star resorts with infinity pools to boutique hotels housed in restored stone buildings.
Larnaca: Seaside Simplicity and Spiritual Depth
Larnaca is known for its relaxed atmosphere and cultural depth. St. Lazarus Church, a stunning Orthodox landmark, lies in the heart of the old town, while Hala Sultan Tekke is a revered Islamic shrine on the shores of the salt lake.
Finikoudes Beach, lined with palm trees and cafés, is perfect for laid-back holidays. Dive enthusiasts can explore the Zenobia wreck, one of the Mediterranean’s top diving sites.
Hotels in Larnaca cater to all tastes—from city-center accommodations near the promenade to beachfront resorts with tranquil sea views.
Ayia Napa and Protaras: Beaches, Bays, and Nightlife
Ayia Napa is Cyprus’s most famous party town, but it also offers exceptional natural beauty. Nissi Beach is a postcard-perfect stretch of white sand and turquoise waters. Cape Greco National Forest Park provides walking trails with panoramic sea views and secret swimming spots.
Protaras, nearby, is more family-oriented and ideal for peaceful beach holidays. Fig Tree Bay is a highlight, known for its clear waters and water sports.
Resorts here range from lively all-inclusive hotels with entertainment programs to quiet boutique accommodations near secluded coves.
Kyrenia (Girne): Northern Cyprus’s Gem
Kyrenia, in North Cyprus, is one of the island’s most scenic towns. Its horseshoe-shaped harbor is lined with restaurants, and its medieval castle houses a shipwreck museum with one of the world’s oldest preserved vessels. The nearby Bellapais Abbey, perched on a hill, offers sweeping views and hauntingly beautiful ruins.
Walk through narrow lanes, explore local artisan shops, and enjoy fresh seafood by the water’s edge.
Stay in converted mansions, cliffside hotels, or harbor-front boutique properties that reflect the area’s charm and history.
Famagusta (Gazimağusa): Echoes of the Past
Famagusta was once one of the richest cities in the world and still showcases its former grandeur. The walled city contains Gothic churches, now mosques, and Venetian bastions. The Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque and Othello Castle reflect the city's layered history.
Nearby is the ghost town of Varosha, once a thriving resort closed off after 1974, now partially reopened for visitors.
Famagusta’s modern side offers sandy beaches, local markets, and seaside hotels that provide a base to explore both heritage and coast.
Karpaz Peninsula: Untamed and Unforgettable
The Karpaz Peninsula is one of the most untouched areas of Cyprus. Here, golden beaches stretch for miles without a soul in sight, wild donkeys roam freely, and Byzantine monasteries like Apostolos Andreas stand in isolation.
The Blue Sea of Golden Beach is perfect for swimming and solitude. Small eco-lodges and family-run guesthouses offer rustic charm, local cuisine, and starlit nights.
Troodos Mountains: Villages, Forests, and Frescoes
The Troodos range offers a cool escape from the summer heat. Mountain villages like Omodos, Kakopetria, and Platres feature stone houses, shaded squares, and welcoming taverns. The region is dotted with UNESCO-listed painted churches, showcasing intricate Byzantine frescoes.
Hiking trails crisscross pine forests, waterfalls, and nature reserves. In winter, skiing is possible on Mount Olympus.
Stay in traditional inns, agro-tourism lodges, or stylish boutique hotels offering fireplaces, wine cellars, and local delicacies.
Polis and the Akamas Peninsula: Tranquility and Nature
Polis is a small coastal town perfect for quiet holidays. The nearby Akamas Peninsula is a protected nature area with hiking trails, sea caves, and the Baths of Aphrodite. Boat trips from Latchi reveal hidden bays and opportunities for snorkeling.
Accommodation ranges from secluded villas to eco-friendly resorts nestled in nature.
Travel Tips for Exploring Cyprus
Cyprus enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it a year-round destination. Spring and autumn are ideal for outdoor exploration, while summer is perfect for beach holidays. Car rental is recommended for reaching mountain villages and remote beaches.
Local cuisine is a highlight, with dishes like halloumi, kleftiko, souvlaki, meze spreads, and North Cyprus specialties like şeftali kebab. Cypriot wines and brandy-based cocktails such as Brandy Sour are worth sampling.
The official currencies are the Euro in the south and the Turkish Lira in the north. English is widely spoken, and the atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed throughout the island.
Cyprus is a place where history is visible in every stone, where the Mediterranean shines with exceptional clarity, and where the pace of life invites you to linger. Whether exploring Byzantine monasteries in the mountains, lounging on pristine beaches, or wandering ancient ruins, the island offers a rich and rewarding journey for every traveler.
