Cyprus is one of the summer holiday destinations closest to my heart. We often travelled to Cyprus when I was a child, and I’ve since returned several times.

Therefore, I can write this guide to Cypriot attractions based on what to do as a child and an adult.

Below, I’m sharing the best things to do, experiences and excursions in Cyprus – to make you fall in love with this holiday island just as much as I have.

Also, read my comprehensive guide to the island’s different areas: where to stay in Cyprus?

However, this article is solely about the attractions, excursions and experiences. So, let’s take a look at what you should see and do in Cyprus below.

1. Day trips in Cyprus

We’ll start with some of the things that stand out the most in my memory from my trips to Cyprus as a child: the excursions.

Cyprus is much more than just a classic Mediterranean holiday island – it’s a country with 1.2 million inhabitants and a landscape that changes dramatically depending on where on the island you find yourself.

Furthermore, Cyprus has an incredibly fascinating history, which is almost a shame not to experience when you travel there.

So, whether you’re staying in Ayia Napa and Protaras, Paphos or Limassol, I’d recommend going on at least one day trip if you’re in Cyprus for a week.

Below are two of the most popular excursions in Cyprus.

2. From Paphos: Day trip to the Akamas Peninsula and the Blue Lagoon

If you’re staying in Paphos, you almost have to take a trip north to the Akamas Peninsula.

This excursion includes pick-up from your hotel in Paphos, a visit to a vineyard, Aphrodite’s baths, and a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon, one of Cyprus’s most famous attractions.

Get more info about the tour here.

Watch a video from Akamas here:

3. From Ayia Napa and Protaras: Jeep tour to the sea caves & Cape Greko

This excursion is for those of you staying in Ayia Napa and Protaras (the towns are very close to each other).

Here, you’ll explore some corners of the Konnos National Park that you likely would need help finding if you came here on your own.

There’s an opportunity to swim and reach the top of Cape Greko, which is the southeasternmost point of Cyprus and a wonderful place that should be seen by anyone staying in Ayia Napa or Protaras.

Get more info about the tour here.

Now, let’s jump into other things to do in Cyprus.

Check out my video from Cyprus in April 2024 for a few good tips on what to do in and around Ayia Napa:

4. Famagusta – The Ghost Town in the Occupied Area

As a child, I was utterly fascinated by Famagusta.

A city that, before 1974, was a bustling tourist hub with hordes of holidaymakers, hotels, and a lovely sandy beach, but now it’s wholly abandoned and off-limits to visitors?

Now that I’m an adult, it seems even more incomprehensible…

We took a boat trip from Ayia Napa to the “border”, where there was a control tower manned by armed guards to ensure the boats didn’t cross the line…

From there, we could gaze upon the ghost town – a truly profound experience – and we couldn’t get any closer.

Things have recently opened up a bit, so you can go on a guided tour from Ayia Napa and Protaras to Famagusta.

If I’m being honest, I feel like booking my own trip to Cyprus just for this.

The excursion to Famagusta also gets excellent reviews.

Find out more about the trip to Famagusta and book with free cancellation here.

5. The Troodos Mountains

Did you know that the mountains in Cyprus are so high that they’re covered in snow in the winter, and you can even go skiing?

Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Cyprus, is a whopping 1,952 metres tall, so we’re talking about an actual mountain range here.

If you go to Cyprus and only stay on the beaches in the tourist areas, you might come home with the impression that Cyprus is a barren and rocky island.

And while it is, you can also find beautiful nature in the lush Troodos Mountain range.

Here are some of the best excursions to the Troodos Mountains.

6. Aphrodite’s Birthplace

According to legend, the Greek goddess Aphrodite was born at this rock back in the day.

Even if you’re not well-versed in Greek mythology, this is a particularly scenic attraction in Cyprus, located about halfway between Limassol and Paphos:

Find out more about the location at VisitCyprus here.

7. Nicosia – The Divided Capital

Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus, and much like Berlin before 1989, it is sadly still divided by a wall.

As we know, Turkey invaded Cyprus in 1974, and since then, Nicosia has been split.

However, you can cross The Green Line (as the border zone is called) and visit the Turkish part of the capital, but remember to bring your passport.

The area in the city centre near the border crossing is both cosy and unique as it suddenly ends at the border.

Naturally, the summer months in a modern city can be sweltering, so bear that in mind if you choose to visit Nicosia on your summer holiday.

Buses run from all tourist areas to Nicosia.

8. Nissi Beach – The Best Beach in Cyprus?

Of course, the beaches in Cyprus are one of the best reasons to visit, but there are so many beautiful beaches that I can’t mention them all.

Moreover, you’ll likely not be staying very far from a lovely sandy beach, especially if you choose one of the areas from my guide on where to stay in Cyprus

However, one beach deserves a place in this guide to Cyprus attractions: Nissi Beach.

In the western part of Ayia Napa, Nissi Beach is easily accessible whether you stay in Ayia Napa or Protaras.

Nissi Beach is known for its crystal clear water, attracting visitors from all over Cyprus.

There are several beach bars that certainly draw a lively crowd, but if you’re a family with kids, don’t let that deter you from visiting the beach.

It could be a matter of finding a sun lounger or placing your towel away from the festivities.

Nissi Beach is definitely one of the best beaches in Cyprus and well worth a visit.

9. The Salt Lake and Flamingos in Larnaca

In Larnaca, where one of the island’s two airports is also located, there’s a large salt lake.

While that might not sound exciting, you can also see pink flamingos there, but only in winter!

A fun little experience if you’re visiting Cyprus outside the high season, which more and more people are doing these days, thanks to the affordable flights available outside the summer months.

10. The Old Monastery in Ayia Napa

Many tourists in Cyprus stay in the bustling Ayia Napa or nearby, where there are countless hotels.

Ayia Napa is an excellent destination and a city with plenty of things to do (it could have a guide all to itself), so it’s a great place to book your hotel in Cyprus.

I highly recommend visiting the old monastery in the city centre in Ayia Napa. One of the trees near the monastery is said to be over 600 years old.

A fun experience for both kids and adults – in a city where history can easily be forgotten because there’s so much going on

11. The Tombs of the Kings in Paphos

The Tombs of the Kings is a captivating historical attraction that is a must-visit in Cyprus.

This impressive archaeological site, dating back to the 4th century BC, is situated near Paphos and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Despite its name, it wasn’t kings, but high-ranking officials and aristocracy, who were buried there.

The site is renowned for its imposing underground tombs, hewn directly into the rock, many adorned with Doric columns.

Wandering among these ancient graves gives a sense of stepping back in time, and for history lovers, it’s a veritable treasure trove.

Visit the Tombs of the Kings for a fascinating glimpse into the past of Cyprus.

• Remember to bring water and sunscreen, as the area can be boiling and there’s limited shade.

I hope you found this guide on things to do in Cyprus helpful and that you’re ready to experience more than just the pool and beach on your trip.

If you have any questions about attractions in Cyprus or your trip, please leave a comment below, and I’ll do my best to assist you.

FAQ:

The post 11 Best Things To Do in Cyprus – My Favourite Fun & Unusual Experiences 🇨🇾 appeared first on Destination Well Known.

This guide covers places in the Republic of Cyprus’s government-controlled areas. Match your base to your arrival airport and compare the actual beach or town-centre distance before booking; a resort carrying a town’s name may be several kilometres from its centre.

So, let’s get started with the guide to where you should stay in Cyprus.

At the bottom of the guide, I’ll share my thoughts on areas of Cyprus that are best avoided.

The Best Areas in Cyprus

• Ayia Napa – the all-round best area in Cyprus
• Protaras & Fig Tree Bay – best area for families with children
• Larnaca – best area with a combination of city and beach (near the airport)
• Paphos – best area for history enthusiasts
• Limassol – Cyprus’s second-largest city with plenty to do
• Nicosia – one of the most exciting capitals in Europe

Below, I’m going through the areas and linking to great places to stay for your trip to Cyprus.

1. Ayia Napa – Best All-Round Area

Let’s start with one of the most popular destinations in Cyprus, Ayia Napa, or Agia Napa, as it is also spelt.

Ayia Napa, especially in the past, has had a bit of a party reputation, and indeed you can still feel the presence of many young Scandinavians and Brits who enjoy the sun and lively nightlife.

However, I also visited Ayia Napa as a child and loved it. It’s all about hotel choice; you should research beforehand to ensure you don’t end up in a party hotel.

Many family-friendly hotels, beaches, and (incredibly) cosy restaurants exist in and around Ayia Napa.

Around Ayia Napa, you’ll find numerous beautiful sandy beaches and small coves where you can easily throw down your beach towel and enjoy a near-private beach experience.

Check out the best hotels in Ayia Napa here.

The area around Ayia Napa is full of beautiful natural experiences. 

Notable attractions in and around Ayia Napa includeNissi Beach, Cape Greco, the centuries-old monastery in the centre of Ayia Napa, and the city buzzes with life when you venture out after dark.

Choose Ayia Napa if you’d like to stay in a larger city close to the airport, where you’ll never be bored but can still find quiet beaches and enjoy family-friendly hotels.

Check out my video from Ayia Napa in 2024:

Places to stay in Ayia Napa

There is an abundance of excellent hotels in Ayia Napa. Here are some of my favourites.

Amarande Hotel in Ayia Napa is a true gem, combining modern luxury with Cypriot charm.

This is one of the best hotels in Ayia Napa, perfect for those who desire luxury. 

• It’s an adults-only hotel, so it’s only for those travelling to Cyprus without children.

The rooms are tastefully decorated, spacious and equipped with all modern comforts.

When you stay here, you’re just a few steps from the azure Mediterranean coast and close to Ayia Napa’s vibrant nightlife and historical sights.

Additionally, Amarande offers a range of facilities such as a spectacular swimming pool, fitness centre, spa and several exquisite restaurants.

If you’re after a unique and luxurious Cypriot experience, Amarande Hotel in Ayia Napa is the place for you.

See more photos and book online here.

The following hotel is perfect for those travelling to Cyprus with children and wanting to stay in a good hotel that doesn’t break the holiday budget.

Aktea Beach Village is a family-friendly hotel designed to make your stay as comfortable and entertaining as possible, especially when travelling with children.

The hotel is close to the beach and offers a selection of spacious apartments with private balconies and fully equipped kitchens, ideal for families.

Children will love the two swimming pools with water slides and the dedicated kids’ club.

Additionally, Aktea Beach Village is centrally located, so you can easily access local attractions like the famous Ayia Napa Monastery and the exciting Luna Park. 

Moreover, Nissi Beach, one of Cyprus’s most beautiful beaches, is just around the corner.

If the hotel has a downside, it may be worn around the edges – but it’s inexpensive.

See more photos and book online here.

Melissi Beach Hotel & Spa is the best place in Ayia Napa for those who want to stay with a pool right by the beach but within walking distance of the city centre.

This hotel is a stone’s throw from the sparkling Mediterranean, giving guests easy access to the beach’s golden sand and clear, blue water.

The hotel combines luxury and comfort with its exquisite indoor spa, modern fitness centre and delicious rooms.

With its fantastic location and top-notch facilities, Melissi Beach Hotel & Spa is a true paradise for those who want to combine sun and beach with the pulse of city life.

See more photos and book online.

2. Protaras & Fig Tree Bay – Best Area for Families with Children

A short drive east from Ayia Napa, we find another Cyprus area where things are quieter and, therefore, the perfect choice for those travelling to Cyprus with children.

For couples, Protaras, also known as Fig Tree Bay (naturally, due to its many fig trees), is also an excellent area as there are plenty of things to do.

• Check out my guide on the best things to do in Cyprus

You can enjoy a few drinks at the many cosy restaurants, bars, and pubs in the evening.

I remember watching the Euros (football/soccer for my American readers) in British pubs with my dad when I was a kid, and I loved it – even though I’m from Denmark and we never won anything

See the best hotels in Protaras here.

Protaras has a main street where “it’s happening” and where tourists often go for short strolls, choose the restaurant for the evening, and browse in souvenir shops, but of course, the beautiful sandy beach is the town’s main attraction.

Close to Protaras (and quite close to Ayia Napa), you can find the beautiful Konnos Beach, which is undoubtedly worth visiting.

Protaras is a good area choice for those who want plenty of options in a classic holiday town but may wish for a little less hustle and bustle than Ayia Napa.

Places to stay in Protaras & Fig Tree Bay

Let’s take a closer look at some of the best places to stay in Protaras and Fig Tree Bay.

Louis St Elias Resort & Waterpark in Protaras/Fig Tree Bay is an excellent choice for families seeking fun and relaxation in Cyprus.

Louis St Elias is in an elevated setting away from the beachfront. The hotel offers a scheduled free beach shuttle, which matters for families who would find the walk in the heat inconvenient. Check the timetable for your stay and the route between your room, pools and reception.

The pools and water slides are the main attractions. Check height restrictions, opening times and the facilities suitable for your children’s ages before choosing the room and board package.

From exciting water slides to child-friendly pools, there are enough water activities to keep the whole family entertained.

A great candidate for the best family-friendly hotel in Protaras.

See more photos and book online here.

Capo Bay Hotel is located in the heart of Fig Tree Bay, just a few steps from the famous, picturesque beach, which allows you to enjoy the sun and sea to the fullest.

The hotel is within walking distance of everything in Fig Tree Bay, so you can spend your entire trip to Cyprus here and enjoy total relaxation if you want to.

In addition, the hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms, a relaxing spa, and two swimming pools for when you fancy chilling at the property.

See more photos and book online here.

Evalena Beach Hotel in Fig Tree Bay is a budget-friendly beachfront hotel that offers excellent value.

The hotel is right on the beach and within walking distance of everything in Fig Tree Bay.

Despite the affordable price, the hotel offers comfortable rooms, some even with sea views.

With its perfect location and competitive prices, Evalena Beach Hotel is a good choice for budget-conscious travellers.

See more photos and book online here.

3. Larnaca – Best Area for a Combination of City & Beach

Larnaca is a larger city on the southern coast of Cyprus.

For many travellers, Larnaca Airport is where you fly if you travel to Cyprus and stay on the eastern part of the island (the other airport is in Paphos).

One advantage of Larnaca is that the airport transfer to your hotel is almost nonexistent.

Larnaca is Cyprus’s third-largest city, so it offers a different kind of local life than either Ayia Napa or Protaras, where the local focus is primarily on tourism.

See the best hotels in Larnaca here.

That’s not to say that you’ll be the only tourist in Larnaca if you stay here on your holiday – the city has two wonderful, large sandy beaches and is also a popular travel destination.

The city also has a large saltwater lake, where you can see flamingos

Therefore, Larnaca is a good choice for families with children, couples and single travellers who want to experience a little more than just a sandy beach and pool holiday – although that is very much possible here too.

Places to stay in Larnaca

Let’s take a closer look at hotels in Larnaca, where there is an incredible number to choose from.

Lebay Beach Hotel is beautifully located on the coast, so you get a unique view and easy access to a charming private beach here.

So if you’re looking for a place to stay in the Larnaca area that offers peace and relaxation by the sea, this hotel is a perfect choice.

However, it’s important to note that the hotel is a little outside Larnaca’s centre.

This provides a peaceful and secluded atmosphere, but it also takes a little longer to reach the city centre and the famous main beach.

There is about 5 km from the hotel to the centre of Larnaca, which takes about 10 minutes by car or 1 hour’s walk along the beach.

If you appreciate peace, beauty and direct beach access, and are okay with a short trip to the city centre, then Lebay Beach Hotel is the perfect place to stay in Larnaca.

See more photos and book online here.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Larnaca is a city-hotel option with sea views from some rooms. It is a different property from Radisson Beach Resort Larnaca on Dhekelia Road, so check the address carefully if a beachfront stay is your priority.

For the Radisson Blu, compare the route to Finikoudes and the places you plan to visit. I would choose it for the hotel facilities and a city base rather than assume the main beach and old-town sights are all just outside the entrance.

The hotel offers modern and comfortable rooms, many with views of the Mediterranean.

In addition, there is a fitness centre, a spa and wellness area, and several exquisite restaurants.

A good choice for those who want to combine a beach holiday with a city holiday in Larnaca.

See more photos and book online here.

4. Paphos – Best Area for History Enthusiasts

Now it’s time to take a closer look at the western part of Cyprus, which is notoriously lusher and less touristy than the eastern areas.

Paphos is an excellent suggestion for those who want to explore western Cyprus and experience an ancient city with plenty of history and soul.

See the best hotels in Paphos here.

According to legend, Paphos is the birthplace of Aphrodite, and it’s also on UNESCO’s World Heritage list, so this is truly a city where you can experience more than just the beaches Cyprus is so famous for.

In fact, Paphos is probably one of the best choices for a place to stay in Cyprus if you are travelling to the island outside the warm high season – especially if you are interested in ancient Greek history.

In summer, there is plenty of life, good sandy beaches and everything else you travel to Cyprus for.

This is also where we find Cyprus’s second airport, Paphos Airport, which you can fly to directly from various European airports.

Places to stay in Paphos

Of course, there are also plenty of great places to stay in Paphos – let’s take a closer look at a couple of my favourites.

There are some charming luxury hotels in Paphos, so we start with one of them.

The Ivi Mare (adults only) is a luxury hotel that offers an exclusive and peaceful atmosphere for those seeking an adult holiday in Cyprus.

The Ivi Mare Paphos This hotel exudes elegance and tranquillity, perfect for those who just want to relax in beautiful surroundings close to Paphos city centre.

The hotel’s first-class facilities include a heated outdoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness centre and a luxurious spa area where you can pamper yourself with various relaxing treatments.

The Ivi Mare is ideal for an exclusive adult holiday in Paphos with its luxurious accommodation, first-class facilities, and peaceful adults-only environment.

See more photos and book here.

I can also mention the hotels The King Jason and Constantinou Bros Asimina Suites Hotel in the same style.

However, there are also plenty of cheaper hotels in Paphos – let’s take a closer look at a central hotel.

Princessa Vera Hotel Apartments, centrally located in Paphos, is an excellent place to stay for families or couples seeking affordability, comfort and easy access to the city centre.

Despite its budget-friendly price tag, the hotel offers a range of facilities, including a family-friendly swimming pool, perfect for a fun and relaxing day under the sun.

Located just a few minutes walk from Lighthouse Beach, combining city life with enjoying a few hours by the sea is easy.

Furthermore, the city’s central attractions, shops and eateries are within walking distance, making it easy to explore everything Paphos has to offer.

See more photos and book here.

5. Limassol – Cyprus’ Second Largest City with Plenty to Do + Beaches

About halfway between Larnaca and Paphos, we find Limassol, with its 183,658 inhabitants, is the second largest city in Cyprus.

Limassol is located on the south coast of Cyprus, so in addition to a modern city with a waterfront, there is also a lovely sandy beach that tourists and locals flock to in the warm summer months – in fact, there are as many as 5 sandy beaches in Limassol.

See the best hotels in Limassol here.

Limassol can be compared with Barcelona, Nice, Palma de Mallorca and even Los Angeles, where we have a modern city with everything that entails, but right by the sea and with good beaches.

In Limassol, however, there are also plenty of attractions from ancient Greece (or ancient Cyprus, actually), which Barcelona or LA cannot exactly boast about

The city will also be a good base for excursions to other areas of Cyprus.

Limassol would be a good area for families with children, couples and single travellers who want to have the opportunity to experience the best of Cyprus.

Places to stay in Limassol

As Cyprus’s second largest city, there is a hotel for all tastes and budgets here. Let me show a couple of my favourites.

We start with one of the best hotels.

Amathus Beach Hotel Limassol is a five-star paradise located directly on the beautiful coastline of Cyprus.

From the moment you step into the hotel’s foyer, you will be captivated by its elegance and design.

The facilities at Amathus Beach Hotel are of the highest standard. With several pools, a state-of-the-art fitness centre and an award-winning spa, there are plenty of opportunities for activity and relaxation.

But it’s not just the hotel’s inner qualities that impress. Its prime beachfront location makes it easy to enjoy the blue Mediterranean and the warm sun on the hotel’s private beach.

If you’re looking for a combination of luxury, comfort and exceptional location, Amathus Beach Hotel Limassol is the perfect choice for your stay in Limassol.

The hotel also has family rooms, so staying here with children is possible.

See more photos and book here.

If you plan a family vacation to Limassol, GrandResort by Leonardo Hotels would be another good place to stay.

Its combination of family-friendly facilities and a relaxing atmosphere makes it a hit for children and adults.

The hotel has a dedicated children’s area, which includes a fun and safe children’s pool, a playground and a mini club with organised activities.

The rooms are spacious and comfortable, and many have a fantastic sea view. They are also designed with families in mind, with the possibility of adjoining rooms for larger families.

See more photos and book online here.

If you are looking for a more centrally located hotel in Limassol, then the Crowne Plaza Limassol is an excellent choice.

After a morning of sightseeing in Limassol’s lively city centre, you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the hotel’s private beach or dip in the heated outdoor pool.

The hotel’s location means you are within easy walking distance of some of the city’s best attractions, restaurants and shops.

Crowne Plaza Limassol is the perfect choice for those who want to combine city holidays with beach holidays and explore everything Limassol offers right from their doorstep.

See more photos and book here.

If you want to stay in the centre of Limassol, look at Alinea Suites Limassol – a small hotel with super lovely rooms and even a small rooftop pool.

6. Nicosia – One of Europe’s Most Exciting Capitals

Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus and the only city in this guide that is not located on the coast.

Given Cyprus’ high temperatures in the summer months (it can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius), it’s worth considering twice before booking a hotel in Nicosia in the middle of July.

Find the best hotels in Nicosia here.

It’s a super exciting city with a fascinating history that can still be felt.

Nicosia is still divided into a Greek and Turkish part – by a wall, where you need to show your passport to cross through.

It was an exciting experience both as a child and when I returned as an adult and understood everything better.

Whether you should stay in Nicosia or just make a day trip here, I will leave it up to you – I don’t think I would stay here in the summer months, but if you travel to Cyprus outside the peak season, it can make perfect sense.

It’s like in Crete, where I recommend Heraklion, but not in the summer months.

So you’ve been both recommended and warned against Nicosia from here

Places to stay in Nicosia

Let’s take a look at a couple of good hotels in Nicosia.

If you are planning a summer trip to Nicosia, the Hilton Nicosia is an ideal place to stay.

One of the best things about the Hilton Nicosia is its outdoor pool area.

Here, you can take a refreshing dip, sunbathe on the terrace or relax with a good book.

With the pool bar nearby, it’s easy to spend a whole day at the pool and still have everything you need within reach.

But the Hilton Nicosia isn’t just about summer life.

The hotel also has an indoor pool, perfect for swimming regardless of the weather, and a spa offering various treatments for pampering and relaxation.

See more photos and book here.

Central Park Residence is an excellent place to stay in Nicosia if you want to be in the city’s heart and have more space than a regular hotel.

With its central location, it is surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and cultural attractions.

You are literally right in the pulse of the city, but you step into stylish tranquillity and comfort when you come home to your apartment. 

Perfect for those who want to explore Nicosia on foot – perhaps outside of the summer months.

See more photos and book here.

I hope you found this guide to where to stay in Cyprus helpful and are now ready to book your hotel.

If you have any questions about the areas or Cyprus in general, please feel free to leave a comment below.

By the way, I recommend exploring more than just the city you choose to stay in, as Cyprus has a rich history and you can have some excellent day trips (I still remember my tours from when I was a child) up in the mountains, among other things.

Have a great trip to Cyprus.

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