what to do in cyprus Archives

Cyprus is an island known as the jewel of the Eastern Mediterranean. However you like to spend your time on holiday, you’ll find plenty of attractions on this beautiful isle, which boasts a colourful history, archaeological sites, outdoor activities, water parks, white sand beaches and stunning nature parks. Here’s our ultimate guide on what to do in Cyprus while on your travels.

Kykkos Monastery

As one of the island’s most intriguing buildings, Kykkos Monastery features highly detailed decorations and various antique exhibits made from precious metals that offer an insight into Cypriot history. If you want to reach this fascinating attraction, you’ll need to wear proper walking shoes and make the rewarding hike up the Xystarouda-agiasma-vasili trail once you’ve parked up. There’s also a museum found at the centre of the monastery, featuring pre-Christian manuscripts and documents. On 14^th and 15^th August, religious festivals are held at this site.

Latchi Beach

One of Cyprus’s main attractions is its beaches. When you feel like venturing a little further than your private pool in your Villa Pegasus, you’ll be spoiled for choice with 57 Blue Flag beaches on offer. We recommend Latchi beach, which boasts gentle waters for young and inexperienced swimmers and a range of cosy beach bats invite you to linger and enjoy.

Fasouri Watermania

If you have children in tow, there’s no better place to take them for plenty of fun activities and cooling down from the heat than Watermania. This is the largest water park on the island that features baby bungee swings, paddle boats, a lazy river and black hole power slides. Kids of all ages will be entertained here – including the adults! There’s also a range of facilities including a restaurant, massage parlour and temporary tattoo shop.

Tombs of the Kings

A must-see during any visit to the island and one of the most interesting things to do in Cyprus, this World Heritage Site is located around 1.25 miles north of Paphos harbour. Dating back to the 4^th century BC, step back in time as you enter this underground historical site carved out of rock, which serves as a burial ground for high officials. Marvel at the meticulous attention to detail on the tombs and the ancient stone carvings.

Kato Paphos Archaeological Park

If you want an insight into ancient Roman and Greek life, pay a visit to this amazing archaeological site, which features an old city that was inhabited right up until the Middle Ages. Wander around four villas dating back to the Roman era, all featuring intact mosaic flooring. The site is still undergoing excavation, and continues to paint a clear picture of what life was like in Cyprus during the period.

Paphos Castle

This Byzantine fort was originally constructed to protect Paphos harbour, but was destroyed in an earthquake in 1222. It was rebuilt in the 13^th century by the Lusignans, and to date is used to host cultural events and festivals – one of which is the September Aphrodite festival. There is a nominal entrance fee to enter, but once inside, a wealth of fascinating history is uncovered that represents Cypriot power at the time.

Larnaca salt lake

Nature lovers will love exploring this collection of four salt lakes, which are home to several migratory birds and flamingos. During the summer months, water in the lakes evaporates, leaving a crusty salt surface. This salt used to be harvested and exported to other countries. Nowadays, the lakes are visited by tourists who enjoy taking in their picturesque beauty.

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Discover the enchanting Akamas National Park

Located on the island’s western tip, Akamas National Park is a breathtaking 230 square kilometresof rugged natural beauty and ecological importance. Its stunning beaches, gorges, valleys and cliffs are home to over 530 indigenous plants, as well as a host of birds, reptiles, butterflies and mammals. The best time to visit is the springtime when wildflowers set the park ablaze with colour. Hire cars are banned, so explore the park on foot via the three official nature trails or set off on an adventurous 4×4 jeep safari.

Explore the famous Petra tou Romiou

One of the most famous sights in Cyprus is Petra tou Romiou in the southwestern region. The mythical birthplace of the Greek goddess Aphrodite, thousands of visitors flock here each year to marvel at these giant rock formations off the beautiful coastline of Paphos. The scenic views and beautiful sunsets make for fantastic photo opportunities, and the crystal-clear waters are popular with bathers. Legend has it that if you swim around the biggest rock three times, you’ll enjoy eternal youth and find true love!

Step back in time at Kato Paphos Archaeological Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Archaeological Park of Kato Paphos is a delight for history buffs. It contains ruins dating from the 4^th century BC to the Middle Ages, including much of the ancient Greek and Roman city. The park is still being excavated, but the biggest finds so far are four impressive Roman villas, all with exceptionally well-preserved mosaic floors. You can also discover other significant sites and monuments, like the Odeon theatre, Saranta Kolones (Forty Columns) Castle and the Tombs of the Kings.

Learn about lace at Pano Lefkara

At the foot of the Troodos Mountains, in the island’s southeast, lies the traditional village of Pano Lefkara. This picturesque settlement is renowned the world over for its lace embroidery that’s been handmade in the village for centuries. As well as watching local ladies working on their needlecraft in the pretty cobbled streets, you can visit the Folklore Museum, handicraft centre, Turkish Delight factory, and 18 ancient churches and chapels dating back to the 11^th century. Or just sit back with a coffee and watch the world go by from one of the taverns or cafes.

Get wet and wild at Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark

The biggest aqua centre in the Paphos region, Aphrodite Waterpark is a splash-tastic paradise for the whole family. Adrenalin junkies will love plummeting down the many high-speed slides, like the hair-raising 50ft “Free Fall” or fast-and-furious “Kamikaze”. Those who prefer a little less excitement will enjoy floating on a raft down the mile-long Lazy River. And little ones will have a whale of a time at the kiddies’ pool complete with pirate ship, tipping buckets and water jets!