Cyprus is a destination for those who want to mix beach and culture. The exceptional historical heritage of the island, essentially ancient and medieval, can be visited between baths, a good dinner, and a nap!
Cyprus really is a land of charm between east and west where history continues to leave its mark. Greek Orthodox monasteries, ancient archaeological sites, Byzantine churches, mountain villages, coves with crystal clear water and cedar forests are some of the ingredients of a trip to Cyprus.
Not forgetting the charming population and the 340 days of sunshine a year. Cyprus, the land of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, has more than 10,000 years of history.
Getting to Cyprus
Getting Cyprus is easy and affordable, you can fly direct from several European cities like Athens, London, Milan, Vienna, Paris, Frankfurt, Munich, Sofia, Budapest and Belgrade, just to name a few. Most international slights arrive into Paphos International Airport or Larnaca International Airport. Find cheap flights with Skyscanner.
When to Go
Cyprus is one of the most popular European summer holiday destinations, with so many travel companies offering package deals from the busy May to September period. Visit outside of summer and prices for flights and accommodation will be much cheaper, the island less busy and although you aren’t guaranteed blistering heat, you can enjoy a warm climate and even beach/pool weather in Spring and Autumn.
Where to Stay
There are a range of options, from huge tourist all-inclusive tourist resorts to affordable small local guest houses. Prices depend on the time of year, with summer being the most expensive. Get the best deals on hotels on Booking.com.
Best Places to Visit in Cyprus
There are so many wonderful places to see in Cyprus that I have decided to identify three special locations that we think you should visit on your next holiday to Cyprus. Have a look at my list, and then start planning your trip.
Paphos
The ancient, sun-swept city of Paphos is one of the most popular tourism destinations in Europe with beautiful scenery and nature surrounding the island.
According to Greek mythology, Paphos is the birthplace of the goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, and under the warm glow of the Cypriot sun, this really is an enchanting part of the world.
Paphos has age-old tradition of art and culture being performed in open spaces, such as in amphitheatres, and has rich diversity and cultural tapestry that inhabits this modern city.
Paphos harbour attracts visitors all year round, who take the opportunity to walk along the quay and visit one of the many stunning fish restaurants, tavernas or cafes. One of the big draws here is the view, with numerous colourful fishing boats bobbing in the harbour.
It would be foolish to come for a visit here without checking out the castle. The castle that stands today is in fact all that remains of a much earlier castle dating back to around 1391, but this was demolished by the Venetians.
The castle was used as dungeons by the Ottoman Empire and then by the British as a warehouse for salt. Visitors can reach the castle via a small bridge over a moat, with the view from the top a great reason alone for making the trip.
Getting out on the water is an intrinsic part of any perfect holiday, with the harbour at Paphos a great starting point for a wonderful day out on the water.
There are always a wide range of events taking place across the city throughout the year, and new art, music, theatre and cinema –among a host of other initiatives are incorporated the multitude of voices and outlooks that have found their way to Paphos over the centuries.
Cedar Valley
A holiday in Cyprus is very much about getting out and seeing the countryside, making a trip to Cedar Valley an absolute must. In this secluded valley you’ll find the indigenous Cyprus cedar, but the real draw for a visit here is the peace and seclusion.
The valley can be reached by a winding unpaved road from Pano Panagia from the Paphos side of the mountains, or if you’re coming from the other side from Kykkos, you’re in luck as the road is paved. Be sure to check out the Throni tis Panayias (Throne of Panayia- as pictured above) in Kykkos whilst here.
Cedar Valley is also home to the moufflon – a species of wild sheep native to Cyprus and also the national symbol.
Ayia Napa
From peace and tranquillity to all night partying, Ayia Napa is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cyprus and a haven for package holidaymakers.
What was once a traditional village has been turned into one of the top party destinations in Europe, with a whole host of top name DJ’s spinning the wheels of steel here.
It’s not just about the partying though, as Ayia Napa is home to some of the best beaches in Europe and a wealth of water sports and activities.
Plan a Trip to Cyprus
Whether you’re looking for summer holidays or winter sun holidays, Cyprus has the advantage of being close, accessible and enjoyable.