Paralimni Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Paralimni, Cyprus with this comprehensive travel guide. From cultural attractions to outdoor adventures, find everything you need to know about this beautiful destination.


Introduction to Paralimni

Paralimni is one of the famous tourist destinations located in the Famagusta district, south of Cyprus, in Europe. The city is popular for its pristine beaches, ancient ruins, and rich history. Paralimni offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences. In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Paralimni.

List of Places to Visit in Paralimni

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are a history buff, you must visit the historical sites and museums in Paralimni.

  • Agios Georgios Church: This is one of the most popular churches in Paralimni, constructed in the 18th century. The interior of the church is adorned with intricate frescoes and beautiful stained glass windows.
  • Folkloric Museum: This museum showcases the traditional lifestyle and culture of Cypriots, including their costumes, agricultural tools, and household items.
  • Thalassa Municipal Museum: Located in Ayia Napa, this museum displays the marine environment and biodiversity of the eastern Mediterranean.
  • Ayia Napa Monastery: This monastery is one of the oldest buildings in Ayia Napa. It was constructed in the 16th century and is famous for its stunning architecture and well-manicured gardens.

Natural Attractions of Paralimni: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Aside from historical landmarks and museums, Paralimni also boasts numerous natural attractions perfect for outdoor adventures.

  • Protaras Beaches: These stunning beaches offer crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, windsurfing, and sailing. They also offer activities such as parasailing and banana boat rides.
  • Cape Greco: An idyllic location for nature lovers, Cape Greco is home to hiking trails and boasts stunning sea views.
  • Kalamies Beach: This family-friendly beach is perfect for swimming with its shallow waters and powder-white sand.
  • Ayia Napa Sculpture Park: This park is a must-visit for art lovers, showcasing beautiful sculptures against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paralimni

Paralimni offers several hiking and biking trails where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the island. These are some routes worth exploring:

  • Cape Greco National Forest Park: This park has multiple trails varying in length and difficulty, offering stunning vistas of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Famagusta Ecotour project: This project features several nature trails lined with pine trees, wit magnificent views of Famagusta Bay and lagoons.
  • Ayia Napa Sculpture Park Trail: The trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll and discovering unique sculptures in a picturesque setting.

Best Things to Do in Paralimni: Activities and Tours

Paralimni offers a variety of activities and tours to keep everyone entertained, including:

  • Boat Tours: An opportunity to explore sea caves, limestone cliffs, and marine wildlife, while also swimming and snorkeling.
  • Water Parks: Waterworld Water Park is one of the famous parks in the region, featuring a range of thrilling slides and attractions suitable for all ages.
  • Go-Karting: Speed enthusiasts can try their hand at go-karting on two tracks located outside Paralimni.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paralimni

Day 1: Explore Ayia Napa’s picturesque harbor & Ayia Napa Monastery Day 2: Experience the water adventures around Cape Greco National Park like snorkeling, or jet skiing. Day 3: Visit the Folkloric Museum, then enjoy the relaxing water of Fig Tree Bay. Day 4: Explore the Tombs of the Kings archaeological site and the stunning Paphos Fish Tavern for lunch. Day 5: Play water sports or relax at the famous Nissi Beach, followed by a refreshing drink at the nearby cafes. Day 6: Experience tradtional Cypriot live music and dancing at a local taverna. Day 7: Spend the last day exploring the nature trails of Protaras.

Food and Drink Scene of Paralimni

Must-Try Dishes

Cypriot cuisine is diverse, but some food you have to try while visiting Paralimni:

  • Kleftiko: This is a traditional lamb dish baked in a clay oven with garlic, lemon, and potatoes.
  • Tahinopita: A sweet sesame pie that is usually served as breakfast.
  • Meze: A meal of many small dishes, usually with dips, salads, meats, and grilled vegetables.
  • Halloumi: A famous Cyprus cheese made from a blend of cow’s and sheep’s milk.

Local Beverages

Cyprus is well-known for its wines, but there are other local drinks also worth trying:

  • Zivania: This is a traditional Cypriot spirit made from grape pomace and mixed with the juice of local grapes.
  • Commandaria: This is the oldest sweet wine globally, and it is made from grapes grown in the Commandaria region of Cyprus.

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

Paralimni offers a range of accommodation options to suit your budget and preferences:

  • Grecian Sands Hotel: This is a 4-star hotel situated on the beachfront of Ayia Napa, boasts scenic sea views and a range of facilities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and restaurants.
  • Kapetanios Hotel Famagusta: This hotel offers a quiet retreat amid the hustle and bustle of Ayia Napa, with facilities such as a restaurant, a pool, and a bar.
  • Eligonia Hotel Apartments: Located within minutes of the beach, these apartment rooms are perfect for families and groups, with facilities such as air conditioning and Wi-Fi.

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

  • Lefkara Lace: This traditional lace is made in the village of Lefkara, located near Paralimni. It is handcrafted by locals using a unique technique passed down for generations.
  • Cypriot Delights: These traditional sweets are made from fruit, nut, or rose flavors and are often served with coffee or tea.
  • Olive wood products: A range of handmade olive wood products such as cutting boards, salad bowls and utensils, is available throughout Paralimni.

Local Culture and Customs of Paralimni

Cypriot culture is rich in nature, and the locals are friendly and welcoming to visitors. They speak English, and greeting people with a kiss on the cheek is common. Cypriots take pride in their heritage and are happy to share their cultural traditions with visitors.

Best Time to Visit Paralimni

The best time to visit Paralimni is between April to November when the weather is warm and sunny. July and August are the busiest months, with high temperatures and an influx of tourists.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paralimni

Do:

  • Dress respectfully when visiting religious sites.
  • Sample the local cuisine.
  • Carry cash as card payments are not widely accepted.

Don’t:

  • Litter or vandalize any public places.
  • Wear inappropriate clothing in public.
  • Photograph people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Paralimni

Cyprus is considered a safe destination, but visitors should take standard precautions such as securing their belongings in crowded places and not leaving valuable items unattended.

Health in Paralimni

The standards of healthcare in Cyprus are relatively high, and pharmacists are qualified medical professionals. However, visitors should maintain a high level of hygiene and use sunscreen to protect their skin.

Getting to Paralimni: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Paralimni

Larnaca International Airport is the nearest airport to Paralimni, located about 57 kilometers away. Paphos International Airport is the second nearest, located approximately 148 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Paralimni

Visitors can travel to Paralimni from major cities in Cyprus via intercity buses operated by Kapnos Airport Shuttle and Cyprus by Bus that go to Larnaca and Nicosia.

Other Options

Visitors can also get to Paralimni by hiring a taxi or driving to the city directly. Car rentals are also available for visitors who prefer to explore the island at their pace.

How to Get Around in Paralimni

Public transport options such as buses are available to tourists, but they can be unreliable, so hiring a car is a more practical option. Renting a bike or scooter is also a great way to explore the city and its surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Paralimni: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can continue their Cypriot adventure to other nearby destinations such as:

  • Nicosia: This is the capital city of Cyprus, famous for its Venetian walls, museums, and rich history.
  • Larnaca: Located a short distance from Paralimni, Larnaca offers picturesque beaches and historical sites.
  • Limassol: This is the second-largest city in Cyprus, offering a perfect blend of modernity and ancient history.

Conclusion

Paralimni is a beautiful destination for tourists who want to enjoy sandy beaches, stunning landscapes, rich cultural history, outdoor adventures, and exciting nightlife. Use this guide to plan your trip to Paralimni, Cyprus, and make the most of your adventure on this beautiful island.