Cyprus Travel Guide (Europe)

Introduction to Cyprus

Nestled in the eastern Mediterranean, Cyprus is a small island nation known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re looking for sun, sea, and sand on your next holiday, or a chance to immerse yourself in the island’s fascinating past and present, Cyprus has something for everyone.

This comprehensive tour guide will help you plan your trip to Cyprus, from the best places to visit and things to do, to where to stay and what to eat. Let’s dive in!

List of Places to Visit in Cyprus

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Despite its small size, Cyprus boasts an impressive array of museums and historical sites that offer a glimpse into the island’s rich past. Some of the top cultural attractions in Cyprus include:

Cyprus Museum: Located in the capital city of Nicosia, the Cyprus Museum is one of the oldest and most important archaeology museums in the Mediterranean. It contains a vast collection of artifacts dating back to the Neolithic period.
Kourion: This well-preserved ancient city is located on the southern coast of Cyprus and is home to impressive Roman and Byzantine ruins, including a theater, public baths, and a stunning mosaic floor.
St. Hilarion Castle: Perched atop the Kyrenia Mountains, this medieval castle is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s castle in Snow White. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms, including the royal chamber and the chapel.

Natural Attractions of Cyprus: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

In addition to its rich history, Cyprus is also known for its stunning natural beauty. The island is home to stunning beaches, rugged landscapes, and picturesque villages. Some of the top natural attractions in Cyprus include:

Troodos Mountains: This mountain range is the largest on the island and is home to several picturesque villages and hiking trails. It’s also home to several ski resorts during the winter months.
Cape Greco: Located on the southeast coast of Cyprus, this stunning nature reserve boasts breathtaking sea views, sea caves, and cliffs. Visitors can hike along the nature trails or go snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
Akamas Peninsula: This wild and rugged peninsula on the western coast of Cyprus is home to several nature trails, stunning beaches, and a diverse array of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the peninsula on foot, by jeep, or by boat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cyprus

Cyprus is a hiker’s paradise, boasting several well-marked trails that range from easy strolls along the coast to challenging treks through the mountains. Some of the top hiking and biking routes in Cyprus include:

Aphrodite Trail: This stunning coastal trail takes hikers along the Akamas Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the sea and several secluded beaches along the way.
Troodos Mountains: The Troodos Mountains are home to several picturesque villages and several challenging hiking trails. One of the most popular is the Artemis Trail, a 7-km loop that takes hikers through dense forests and past several waterfalls.
Kykko Nature Trail: Located in the Troodos Mountains, this scenic trail takes hikers through dense forests and past several historic monasteries, including the Kykkos Monastery, one of the most important religious sites in Cyprus.

Best Things to Do in Cyprus: Activities and Tours

In addition to its stunning natural beauty and rich history, Cyprus also offers a wide range of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Some of the top things to do in Cyprus include:

Wine Tasting Tour: Cyprus has a long and rich history of winemaking, and visitors can explore the island’s many wineries and vineyards on a wine tasting tour. Some of the top wineries to visit include Vouni Panayia Winery, Zambartas Wineries, and Kyperounta Winery.
Scuba Diving: Cyprus boasts some of the clearest and most pristine waters in the Mediterranean, making it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling. Some of the top dive sites in Cyprus include the Zenobia wreck, the Green Bay, and the Blue Hole.
Nicosia City Tour: The capital city of Nicosia is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and charming courtyards. A guided walking tour is the best way to explore the city’s many sights, including the Cyprus Museum, the Selimiye Mosque, and the Archbishop’s Palace.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cyprus

One week is the perfect amount of time to explore the highlights of Cyprus. Here is a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day 1: Arrival and check-in to your hotel in Nicosia. Explore the city’s historic sites, including the Cyprus Museum and the Selimiye Mosque.

Day 2-3: Head to the Troodos Mountains for some hiking and outdoor adventure. Don’t miss the Kykko Nature Trail and the stunning views from Mount Olympus.

Day 4-5: Spend a couple of days exploring the Akamas Peninsula, including a hike along the Aphrodite Trail and a boat tour of the sea caves.

Day 6-7: Finish your trip with a visit to the coastal city of Limassol. Spend a day exploring the historic old town and a day lounging on the beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Cyprus

Cyprus is a paradise for foodies, boasting a rich culinary tradition that combines influences from Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Cyprus include:

Must-Try Dishes

Halloumi: This salty, squeaky cheese is one of the most famous foods in Cyprus and is served in a wide variety of dishes, from salads to sandwiches.
Kleftiko: This hearty lamb dish is slow-cooked in a traditional clay oven, resulting in tender, fall-off-the-bone meat.
Souvlaki: These skewered meat (or vegetable) kebabs are a popular street food in Cyprus and are often served with tzatziki.

Local Beverages

Commandaria: This sweet dessert wine is one of the oldest wines in the world and is made from sun-dried grapes.
Zivania: This traditional Cypriot spirit is made from distilled grape pomace and is a popular after-dinner drink.

Where to Stay in Cyprus: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cyprus offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style of travel. Some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Cyprus include:

Anassa Hotel: This stunning five-star hotel is located on the Akamas Peninsula and boasts breathtaking sea views, a spa, and several outdoor pools.
Castle Inn: This charming guesthouse is located in the heart of the medieval walled city of Nicosia and offers cozy rooms and a rooftop terrace.
Sempati Hotel: Located on the northern coast of Cyprus, this family-run hotel offers stunning sea views, a pool, and a bar and restaurant.

What to Buy in Cyprus: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cyprus is known for its high-quality handicrafts and locally made products. Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Cyprus include:

Lace: Cyprus is famous for its intricate handmade lace, which makes for a beautiful and unique souvenir.
Olive Oil: Cyprus produces some of the highest quality olive oil in the world, and it makes for a delicious and healthy souvenir.
Copper Crafts: The island has a long tradition of copperworking, and you’ll find a wide variety of copper crafts, including plates, bowls, and sculptures.

Local Culture and Customs of Cyprus

Cyprus has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is reflected in its food, language, music, and customs. Some of the key cultural customs and traditions in Cyprus include:

Hospitality: Cypriots are known for their warm and welcoming hospitality, and visitors can expect to be treated like family during their stay.
Religion: The majority of Cypriots are Orthodox Christians, and the island is home to several beautiful churches and monasteries.
Festivals: Cyprus is known for its many festivals and religious celebrations, including the Limassol Carnival, the Ayia Napa Medieval Festival, and the Kataklysmos Festival.

Best Time to Visit Cyprus

The best time to visit Cyprus depends on your travel preferences. The spring and autumn months (April-May and September-October) are the ideal time for outdoor activities, as the weather is mild and less crowded. The summer months (June-August) are the busiest and hottest, with temperatures often reaching over 30 degrees Celsius. The winter months (November-March) can be rainy and chilly, but they’re ideal for skiing and winter sports in the Troodos Mountains.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cyprus

Do:

Do dress modestly: When visiting churches and religious sites, it’s important to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and legs.
Do sample the local cuisine: Cyprus is known for its delicious food, and it’s worth trying some of the traditional dishes and local produce.

Don’t:

Don’t litter: Cyprus is known for its natural beauty, and it’s important to help preserve it by disposing of your garbage properly.
Don’t drink and drive: Cyprus has strict laws against drunk driving, and it’s not worth risking a heavy fine or accident by getting behind the wheel after drinking.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cyprus

Cyprus is a safe and welcoming country for visitors. However, it’s always important to take common-sense precautions, such as locking your valuables in your hotel safe and avoiding walking alone in quiet areas at night.

Health in Cyprus

Cyprus has a good standard of healthcare, and visitors can receive medical attention at public and private hospitals throughout the island. It’s always a good idea to bring travel insurance that includes medical coverage in case of an emergency.

Getting to Cyprus: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cyprus

Cyprus is served by two international airports, Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport. Both airports offer regular flights to destinations throughout Europe and the Middle East.

Bus Stations Near Cyprus

Cyprus has an extensive network of buses that connect major cities and towns on the island. Some of the major bus stations include the Nicosia Bus Terminal and the Limassol Bus Station.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Cyprus via ferry from Greece or Turkey. There are regular ferries from Athens and Rhodes to Limassol and from Tasucu in Turkey to Famagusta.

How to Get Around in Cyprus

The best way to explore Cyprus is by renting a car or hiring a private driver. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive. The island also has a good network of buses that are affordable and reliable, although they may not always be convenient for travelers with tight schedules.

Where to Go Next from Cyprus: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cyprus makes an excellent base for exploring neighboring destinations in the Mediterranean. Some popular nearby destinations include:

Israel: Just a short flight from Cyprus, Israel offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, including the ancient city of Jerusalem and the stunning beaches of Tel Aviv.
Egypt: Another nearby destination, Egypt is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including the Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx.
Turkey: The historic city of Istanbul is just a short flight from Cyprus and offers a unique mix of European and Asian cultures, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for sun, sea, and sand or a chance to explore the island’s rich history and culture, Cyprus has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your trip, and don’t forget to sample the delicious local cuisine, explore the stunning natural landscapes, and soak up the warm and welcoming Cypriot hospitality. Enjoy your trip!