The Best Places to Visit in Cyprus

The Top 10 Places to Visit in Cyprus

Cyprus is a small island nation in the Mediterranean, one of the last divided countries in the World. This country is rich in history and culture. It has divided the nation into Northern Cyprus, and Cyprus, which are Turkish-controlled and Greek Cypriots.

Cyprus is a popular beach destination in the summer for other European countries, but there is a lot more than just beaches. With stunning coastline, mountains, wineries, ancient sites, and two distinct cultures on one island, Cyprus is a perfect summer getaway.

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The Top 10 Places to Visit in Cyprus

Content and photographs provided by Yana Kogan and Timon.

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Top 10 Places to Visit in Cyprus

10. Mount Olympus and the wine region

Best Places to Visit in Cyprus: Pedoulas Church
Pedoulas Church

Mount Olympus, in the Troodos Mountains, at 6,404 feet (1,952m) is the highest point in Cyprus. Summer hiking, winter skiing, wine tasting, and visiting some of the most historic Byzantine Churches are among the many things to do in the region. We recommend visiting the village of Kakopetria as well as one of the most famous churches, the Pedoulas Church of Archangelos Michael.


9. Kyrenia old town

Most Beautiful Places in Cyprus: Kyrenia Harbour
Kyrenia Harbour

Old town Kyrenia is the main port town in Northern Cyprus. The old city has quaint cobblestone streets perfect for a sunset stroll.  Check out one of the many oceanside restaurants for a seafood fix.

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8. Lefkara village

Top Things to do in Cyprus: Lefkara Village
Lefkara Village

Visiting a traditional Cypriot village is a must and Lefkara is one of the best. Located in the countryside, only forty minutes from Larnaca. Lefkara has narrow cobblestone streets that maze throughout the village. While the village is small, Lefkara has a lot of charm.


7. Pafos

Cyprus Top Attractions: Pafos Harbour
The Pafos Harbour

Pafos (or Paphos) is a large coastal city with wonderful palm trees lining the promenade. Loaded with cafés and seafood restaurants, several famous sites with ancient ruins, and popular beaches are among the reasons to visit Pafos.

The Pafos Archeological Park (€4.50) is just beside the castle and old city. The Tombs of the Kings (€2.50) is just a few kilometers outside of town. Among the many beaches in the area, Pafos Beach and Coral Bay were our favorites.


6. Ayia Napa

Best Places to Visit in Cyprus: Natural Love Bridge
The Natural Love Bridge

Cyprus is known for stunning beaches and Ayia Napa is home to some of the best. Ayia Napa is jam-packed in the summer with excellent nightlife and several beaches to choose from. Limanaki Beach, Konnos Bay, and Nissi Beach are the best. Don’t miss the natural Love Bridge.


5. Cape Greco

Most Beautiful Places in Cyprus: Cape Greco
Cape Greco

One of the more rugged coastal areas of Cyprus, Cape Greco has many scenic overlooks as well as walking trails. Don’t miss Agioi Anargyroi, the Stone Arch, the Blue Lagoon, and the Sea Caves.

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4. Aphrodites Rock

Top Things to do in Cyprus: Aphrodite's Rock
The Aphrodites Rock

Aphrodite’s Rock, known as Petra Tou Romiou, is a sea stack located just outside of Pafos. Mythology claims this rock is the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite. The sea is rough, so swimming is not recommended. However, this beautiful spot and significance to Cypriots is a perfect stop when driving between Pafos and Limassol.


3. Kourion ruins

Cyprus Top Attractions: Kourion Ruins
Kourion Ruins

Located near Limassol, the Kourion Ruins are one of our favorite sites in Cyprus. Dating back thousands of years, the Greek and Roman structures, arches, and amphitheaters all have incredible views of the Mediterranean Sea. Entry to the ruins is E4.50 and free for students.


2. St Hilarion castle

Best Places to Visit in Cyprus: St. Hilarion Castle
St Hilarion Castle

This Byzantine castle was originally built in the 10th century as a monastery. It was later fortified to protect the mountain pass between Kyrenia and Nicosia. Located in the Kyrenia mountain range in North Cyprus, this enormous castle is very well-preserved and comes with beautiful views of the Mediterranean coastline. The cost for entry is 9 Turkish Lira (€3).


1. Nicosia / Lefkosa (North Nicosia)

Most Beautiful Places in Cyprus: Nicosia
Nicosia’s UN Buffer Zone, the “Green Line”

The largest city and capital of Cyprus, Nicosia is the last divided capital city in the world. The city has a UN Buffer Zone, aka the Green Line. The Green Line is not permitted to enter and is heavily fortified,  yet walking around the area shows an important part of Cyprus’ recent history. Ledra Street, the old town, the Buyuk Han, and the Selimiye Mosque are the top attractions while visiting Nicosia. Ledra Street is the only crossing (pedestrian only) within the city.


Important Things to Know

  • Photography of the Buffer Zone is illegal, so please do so with caution. We asked for permission on the Greek side and soldiers allowed us. However, be wary of the Turkish side taking pictures near the Buffer Zone.
  • Driving from Cyprus to North Cyprus requires a border crossing. Most rental car companies do not allow cars in North Cyprus, but we took our chances. We loved our visit to the North, a vastly different experience. The main crossing is the Metehan Gate just outside of Nicosia. The crossing requires an international passport. Vehicle insurance is mandatory to buy at the border. The cost is €20 for a three-day entry.
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That’s it – we hope you have a wonderful time in Cyprus!


Planning a trip to Cyprus? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!


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About the Author:

  • Yana and Timon

    Yana & Timon met at college in Boston, Massachusetts. After graduating, they started their professional careers. They moved to San Francisco in 2010, a city they loved living in for nearly six years.

    After working and saving up money for several years, they quit their jobs and set off on an adventure of a lifetime. They started living a nomadic lifestyle in December 2015 and have not looked back since.

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