Cyprus, the island where the goddess of love, Aphrodite, was born. Located at the easternmost edge of the Mediterranean Sea, this charming place is heavily influenced by Greek and Turkish cultures due to its proximity to these regions. But it offers much more than just its spectacular beaches and delightful cuisine.
Wineries, archaeological sites, and palace ruins can provide a perfect travel experience for those seeking a mix of history and relaxation. We began our journey in Paphos, choosing to stay in the Coral Bay area. The drive from the airport to this region takes about 30 minutes, and one of the best options for getting around the island is to rent a car right at the airport, especially for those who value comfort, convenience, and saving time.
For those who prefer public transportation, there are buses that leave the airport every half hour. Just be aware that many of the lines may not reach your accommodation, requiring you to change buses at a transfer station. The hotel network in this region is excellent, with numerous options and hotels offering private beaches, pools, and entertainment.
We opted for the Queens Bay Hotel, which is very well-located for access to public transportation, has a private beach, pool, restaurant, bar, an amazing breakfast buffet, and exceptional service from the staff.
The accommodation is realy amazing for relaxing and enjoying, but as I mentioned, Cyprus offers much more than just these beautiful beaches. One option is to explore the ancient city, considered a UNESCO World Heritage site, which holds the island’s most important archaeological sites. Ruins such as the House of Dionysus, the Temple of Aphrodite, and the Odeon Theater depict the Roman and Hellenistic periods. Additionally, the Tombs of the Kings, the Mosaic Park, the Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church, the Medieval Castle, and the Kykkos Monastery will enrich your trip with a lot of knowledge.
For those traveling with family, it’s possible to elevate the fun with horseback riding and a visit to the Aphrodite Water Park. Cyprus offers spectacular culinary options, and I must recommend the Hondros restaurant, with Greek cuisine, an incredible atmosphere, and great service. It is the oldest tavern in Paphos, built in 1953, and is well worth a visit.
Be sure to stroll along the beach promenade; it’s super relaxing, and there are many stalls selling local products.
If you love paradisiacal beaches, don’t miss visiting Ayia Napa, located on the southern coast of Cyprus. With about a 2-hour drive, renting a car is the most comfortable and easiest option, but public transport is also available. The route passes through the cities of Limassol and Larnaca. It’s worth setting aside some time to better explore these destinations or even spending a day or two to explore them at a more leisurely pace.
Limassol is the second-largest city in Cyprus, built during the Byzantine period between the ancient cities of Amathus and Kourion. The castle and archaeological museum are must-stops for history lovers. Walking along the old port and municipal gardens are great options for relaxing and enjoying nature. If you have more time at this destination, boat trips can be great choices, and during certain times of the year, you can enjoy the Wine Festival, Carnival, and other events the city offers, so it’s always worth checking the schedule for your visit.
Larnaca, one of Cyprus’s largest coastal retreats, boasts 25 km of coastline and an airport, and is an important tourist center and commercial port. In addition, it has archaeological sites, 6 museums in the city center, and numerous restaurants and bars. The Church of Saint Lazarus, which houses the tomb of Lazarus, the archaeological museum, and the Stavrovouni Monastery are must-visit options. You can also find various gastronomic tours to the mountains, villages, and wineries, with wine tastings and local products like Halloumi cheese. Cruises with diving, sport fishing, breakfast, and sunset views can make your experience incredible.
And finally, Ayia Napa, a Mediterranean tourist city well known for its beaches and vibrant nightlife. We stayed at the Tasia Maris Oasis, where the rooms are extremely comfortable, and it offers a pool, restaurant, and bar. Its location is excellent, allowing access to some beaches within walking distance, as well as the bustling area for those who enjoy nightlife.
It’s worth visiting the monastery, the Sculpture Park, an open-air sculpture museum with an incredible view, near the Sea Caves. Speaking of which, for me, this is the must-do tour in Ayia Napa, with cliffs, caves, and crystal-clear waters—a great place to enjoy nature, marvel at the beauty, and take unforgettable photos.
Then, just relax on one of the incredible beaches with white sand and warm, crystal-clear water. Some options include Makronissos, Nissi, and Konnos, but there are plenty of options since Ayia Napa offers numerous beaches, from the most secluded to those with more amenities.
Water parks and amusement parks can be great options for family trips. For a better gastronomic experience, I recommend the AVRA restaurant, with authentic Cypriot cuisine, where you can enjoy a feast of small dishes featuring the region’s typical foods. The price is fair, the service is incredible, and it offers a true journey into local culture.
And for those seeking excitement, Ayia Napa is considered one of the places with the largest and best nightclubs in the world, offering various options, themes, and music styles. You’ll also find big names like Señor Frog’s, Encore, and Pirate’s Inn. Nights filled with excitement and fun are the key to ending your trip. And even if nightlife doesn’t appeal to you, I highly recommend visiting this area, even during the day, as the structure of the nightclubs will amaze you.In conclusion, Cyprus is a destination that offers an exceptional blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the enchanting beaches of Ayia Napa to the ancient ruins of Paphos, the island provides a diverse range of experiences that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a deep dive into history, Cyprus has something to offer. The warm hospitality, delectable cuisine, and the seamless fusion of Greek and Turkish influences make Cyprus a truly unique and unforgettable travel destination.
