I can confidently say that there are countless incredible things to do in Cyprus. This amazing island boasts beautiful beaches, mountains, and waterfalls, along with fantastic wineries. If you choose to visit Cyprus, rest assured you won’t be at a loss for activities.
Cyprus is a paradise for food lovers, offering a delightful mix of flavors from Greece, Turkey, Lebanon, and Syria. I spent about four months on this beautiful island as a digital nomad and fell in love with its friendly and welcoming people. Despite its small size, there are a surprising number of things to see and do.
Here are my top 15 activities in Cyprus, catering to every kind of traveler. If you’re wondering what to do in Cyprus, this list will give you excellent ideas.
Firstly, Cyprus is famous for its stunning beaches. Some of the best beaches in the Mediterranean are found here, making sunbathing a must-do activity. Coral Bay near Paphos is a perfect spot for families with its expansive beaches and calm waters. On the east coast, Protaras’ Fig Tree Bay and Ayia Napa’s Nissi Beach are popular for their beautiful sand and clear water. Limassol also offers plenty of great city beaches.
The entire coastline of Cyprus is breathtaking, with crystal-clear waters. Beaches are public, making them one of the best free activities. If you head inland, you’ll find the magnificent Troodos Mountains, which provide stunning views and host charming, traditional towns and villages. A food and wine-tasting tour in the Troodos Mountains is an excellent way to experience local produce and enjoy breathtaking nature.
For history enthusiasts, Cyprus is full of fascinating ruins and archaeological sites. Paphos, home to an impressive UNESCO heritage site with artifacts from the 4th century, is a must-visit. The Tomb of Kings, a part of this park, features remarkable underground tombs carved out of rock.
If you’re visiting during the summer, cooling off at one of Cyprus’ many water parks is a great idea. Paphos Aphrodite Water Park, Fasouri Water Park in Limassol, and the Greek-themed Water World in Ayia Napa each offer a fun day out with various rides and relaxation spots.
Omodos in the Troodos Mountains is a picturesque village with cobbled streets and sand-colored houses. It’s a fantastic spot for a relaxed day out, complete with local cafes, restaurants, boutiques, wine stores, and the impressive Monastery of the Holy Cross.
Cyprus is also known for its excellent wineries in the Troodos Mountains. Booking a wine tour is a stress-free way to visit several renowned wineries, taste different grapes, and enjoy a traditional meze lunch.
Nicosia, the world’s last divided city, offers a fascinating insight into Cyprus’ history with its Green Line marking the divide between Greek and Turkish Cypriot areas. A guided tour can provide in-depth knowledge about this unique city.
For a unique experience, visit Mount Olympus in the winter months to ski. Though there are only four slopes, skiing on a Mediterranean island is a unique and enjoyable activity.
Akamas National Park offers some of the clearest waters on the island and is home to the Aphrodite and Adonis Baths. Hiking to the peak “Moutti tis Sotiras” provides incredible views and a serene atmosphere, making it one of the best hiking spots in Cyprus.
The Blue Lagoon in Akamas National Park and another in Protaras offer stunning waters for swimming and snorkeling. These lagoons are a must-see and can be visited by boat or as part of a tour.
Cyprus’ hiking spots, particularly in the Troodos Mountains, are worth exploring. The Cape Greco loop not only provides gentle hiking but also promises spectacular views and beautiful sunsets.
One of my favorite activities in Cyprus was sea kayaking. This enables you to explore remote locations, including Lover’s Bridge and the Blue Lagoon in Protaras, away from the crowded beaches.
Halloumi cheese is a Cypriot specialty, and a Halloumi-making tour lets you experience making and tasting it while exploring traditional villages in the Troodos Mountains.
In Paphos, the rocky coastline can be enjoyed by taking a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon or a yacht cruise to Coral Bay, offering opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying onboard amenities.
Finally, enjoying Cyprus’ thriving cafe culture is essential. Cypriots love their coffee, and you’ll find excellent cafes throughout the island. Limassol’s Molos or Marina, and Ledra Street in Nicosia are some of the best spots to immerse yourself in this local tradition.
For those with limited time in Cyprus:
– One day: Visit Nicosia’s Green Line tour for history and culture or relax on the beautiful beaches in Protaras, Ayia Napa, or Limassol.
– 2-3 days: Spend one day exploring Nicosia, another enjoying water activities or a yacht cruise, and the final day experiencing cafe culture.
– A week: Explore Nicosia, Akamas National Park, and villages in the Troodos Mountains. Balance between day trips and relaxation to fully soak up the Cypriot vibe.
Cyprus has two main airports, Larnaca and Paphos. Public transport is good within towns, but hiring a car is recommended for exploring further. Taxis are available, and the NextBike app allows bike rentals in Limassol.
Cyprus is known for its beautiful beaches, year-round warm weather, and delicious food. The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (April-June or September-November) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds.
Cyprus offers endless fun and adventure, and its diverse attractions ensure a memorable visit. I hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to this wonderful island!
