You’d be surprised to learn that this small Mediterranean island offers such a huge variety of adventures, activities and attractions all across Cyprus. Whether you are looking for adventurous family activities, satisfy your inner foodie or simply looking to relax on a beautiful sandy beach – you will not be disappointed on this beautiful island.
We have selected a few of our favourite spots, activities and sightseeing must-sees below. This is by no means a complete collection of everything this island has to offer, but it is a great starting point to begin exploring! Check out our top 10 picks of things to do in Cyprus below.
1. Petra Tou Romiou
With such a lengthy and rich history, it is no surprise that there is plenty of lore and myth that has worked its way into everyday life on the island. Petra Tou Romiou is a location rooted in such mythical history. Widely known as Aphrodite’s Rock, it is said to be the mythological birthplace of the Greek goddess of love and beauty. It was between this stunning rock formation that she first emerged from the sea.
The rock formation itself is described in the myth to be part of Uranus’ (the God of the skies) lower body, left behind after he was mutilated and overthrown by his son Cronus under the orders of his mother, Gaia (the goddess of Earth). Today it is considered by most as one of Cyprus’ top natural attractions. This site is definitely not to be missed. Aphrodite’s Rock is found about halfway between the coastal cities of Limassol and Paphos, and can be easily accessed just a short drive off from the main highway.
2. Cape Greco
Across the other side of the island, a 10-minute drive from Ayia Napa, you will find Cape Greco National Park. This is a protected area particularly noted for the rich blue clarity of its water, the mesmerising natural rock formations and winding underwater caves.
This place is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts! The wider area is a popular spot for cycling, hiking, cliff jumping, swimming and snorkelling.
3. Aphrodite’s Cultural Route
Not so much a specific attraction, but rather a careful selection of historical experiences & sites that span all across the island. Part of the World’s Heritage Journey list of significant experiences, Aphrodite’s Cultural Route connects the archaeological sites dedicated to the ancient cult of Aphrodite. You’ll need a car to visit the various spots along the route, as it guides you along ancient monasteries, historical sanctuaries, ruins and natural landmarks.
Some of the main stopping points include Petra Tou Romiou (mentioned above), the ancient city kingdom of Amathus in Limassol and Kition in the Larnaka region. Seeing the different sites allows exploring the many layers of history and mythology of Aphrodite, as well as the rituals and other elements connected with her cult.
4. Nissi Beach
If you’re looking for a little excitement and daytime fun, Nissi Beach is the place to go. Located in Ayia Napa, the beach offers a 500-meter strip of white sand accompanied by crystal clear waters, plenty of restaurants and bars, water sports and more. The water is very warm and shallow here. You’ll need to swim for a bit to get to the deep part, but like most of the Med, it’s calm and clear waters.
The beach is named for the tiny islet Nissi, which is just across the water from the coast and easily accessible on foot when tides are low. It is a popular spot for taking breathtaking photos, and the islet also features a small cliff that you can jump off into the water below.
5. Lefkara Village
If you are looking to satisfy your cultural curiosity, the historical village of Lefkara in the Larnaca district is a must-see. Tucked away between the hills, a maze of cobbled streets are lined with endless stone-built local shops filled with intricate craftsmanship, vibrant lace and embroidery. Time stands still in Lefkara, and you will get to see a more authentic version of Cyprus and dip into its traditional history.
The village offers museums, interesting architecture, delicious local sweets and local foods at any of the traditional tavernas scattered along the streets. ‘Lefkaritiko’ lace, the gorgeous embroidery local to the village is even included on UNESCO’s representative list of Intangible Culture Heritage.
6. Akamas
Sometimes the best sites are those that are the hardest to reach. Akamas is one of these. The western cape of the island, near the popular tourist town ‘Latsi’, is a mountainous region lined with beautiful sea caves and lonely beaches, including the famous Blue Lagoon.
Despite its challenging accessibility, the area has plenty of things to see and experience. The Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station is a loggerhead turtle sanctuary where you can observe, from a distance, the delicate nests where these beautiful animals lay their eggs.
You will also find Aphrodite’s Bath here, another World Heritage site hidden inside a little grotto and sheltered by an old Fig Tree. It is here that legend says Aphrodite would come to bathe.
7. Fasouri Waterpark and Ayia Napa Waterworld
There are a few waterparks to choose from across the island and they make for a great way to spend a sunny day with the family. Fasouri Watermania in Limassol and Waterworld in Ayia Napa are the biggest and most popular waterparks in Cyprus. Both are very well managed, clean, and offer plenty of rides for all ages. You will also find modern restaurants and café’s within the parks to eat and drink in-between the rides!
8. Golf Courses
Unsurprisingly due to the year-long summery conditions, Cyprus is also a major destination for golfers. Featuring numerous award-winning courses scattered all across the island, significant investment has gone into developing the sport and the courses reach a very high standard. Aphrodite Hills Golf Course is one of the stops in the famous PGA International Golf Competition.
Here is a list of some of the top golf courses in Cyprus:
- Secret Valley Golf Resort
- Aphrodite Hills Golf PGA National Cyprus
- Elea Golf Club
- Minthis Golf Club Cyprus
9. Fig Tree Bay
Once classed as the third best beach in Europe, Fig Tree Bay is another unmissable destination to visit on the island. Described as a pristine paradise, with soft white sands, clear waters and a coastline dotted with blooming fig trees – it is no wonder the beach was awarded the EU’s Blue Flag Certificate for being one of the top beaches in Europe.
During high season, the beach offers a multitude of water sports, such as parasailing, windsurfing, and waterskiing, to name a few. Whether you decide to get your heart rate up or rest under the sun on the warm sand, this is a perfect spot for a kick-back beach day.
10. Kykkos Monastery
The final spot on our list goes to the famous Kykkos Monastery. Found within the trees of the Troodos Mountain Range, this Monastery houses some pretty impressive historical artefacts and decorations. Built by the Byzantine emperor in the 11th century, the buildings themselves are not exactly ancient history as they have been reconstructed several times due to fires. However, it is the contents of the monastery that makes this place worth visiting.
Most notably, the golden mosaic icon of the Virgin Mary, which is said to carry good fortune and prosperity. Interestingly, no one is allowed to view it in its entirety as whoever looks upon will become blind, so it remains partially covered. The Kykkos Monastery features stunning decorations of gold, silver and stone and is a beautiful site to see both in its interior and exterior features.
Cyprus has plenty more to offer for those seeking adventure, family activities, sightseeing, wine tasting, history and food. Its rich history, surviving numerous empires and sampling a lasting element of each has made this island an interesting pot of culture and personality.
To learn more about the cultural & historical aspects of the island, please see our article titled “9 Cultural & Historical Sites to Visit in Limassol” here.
