Best Places To Visit In Cyprus
A history spanning thousands of years, Cyprus was highly sought-after by all empires rising to power across centuries. The result? A place that’s rich in history and jaw-dropping architecture.
Cyprus is sought-after today as well — not for strategical power but for its serene beauty and natural wonders.
From laid-back beaches and a perfectly pleasant climate to Byzantine churches and archaeological sites, Cyprus invites hikers, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike to explore its captivating lands.
Top 7 Best Places To Visit In Cyprus
1. Nissi Beach
The most famous beach in Cyprus, Nissi Beach is located just 3 km west of Ayia Napa. Featuring turquoise waters and sparkling white sand, Nissi holds undeniable beauty.
It’s a popular beach that’s a hub for partygoers. It always has something to offer, be it foam parties, live music events, or nightly entertainment. Given how popular it is, the beach is also very crowded, especially in summer.
During low tide, you can see a walkway unveiled that leads to the small island, offering an amazing view of the beach’s shoreline. There are bars and cafes to relax at and even watersports and boat rentals to feed your adrenaline!
2. Salamis
Salamis is one of the most visited historical sites on the island of Cyprus. Exhibiting the ruins of what was once a great city, a visit to the ancient Salamis is a must for anyone who loves to dwell in history.
It features a sprawling Roman settlement that depicts the luxurious life of the town’s ancestors. You can visit bath houses, markets, harbor walls, public latrines, and so much more. Many structures are still left intact, including a Roman amphitheater and the Byzantine water cistern, offering a nostalgic peek into the ancient culture and history.
3. Troodos Villages
In the southwest of Cyprus island lies the Troodos mountains dotted with pretty villages that are well worth a visit. The traditional villages with cobblestone valleys and stone-cut houses.
Take a stroll around cobblestone valleys and stone-cut houses in the villages and pay a visit to the Troodos churches and monasteries that date back to the medieval era, many of which are awarded World Heritage status by UNESCO.
Troodos also has trails around foothills and up the mountains along rushing waters of the Caledonia Falls where you can go for an adventurous evening hike.
4. Paphos
Also known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, Paphos is a coastal city with numerous archaeological sites and ruins.
Some of the most famous spots include the House of Dionysus, Agios Neophytos monastery, House of Theseus, tombs of the kings or the Odeon, Paphos fort, and a Greek amphitheater. The Blue Lagoon and the Aphrodite Water Park are also worth a visit.
This picturesque little city is perfect for a romantic getaway.
5. Kourion
Kourion, or Curium, is a must-visit for history buffs. It is situated just outside Limassol city and offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean as well as the countryside.
This archaeological site is huge, but some of the places that cannot be missed are the Kourion Theater, baths, House of the Gladiators, and Eustolios House — takes moment to admire the beautiful mosaics.
And if you have time, explore the Byzantine basilica and Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates as well.
6. Avakas Gorge
Avakas Gorge is a natural wonder, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Featuring beautiful rock formations and rare fauna, Avakas Gorge is a site to behold.
Only 30 mins away from Paphos, the site is home to many undisturbed natural landscapes that will leave you awestruck.
While there are many trails to explore, the best ones take you through the crevices of unique rock formations. Expect rough terrains, plenty of water, and a lot of walking, so come prepared with comfortable footwear, water, and snacks. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of some local wildlife.
7. MUSAN Museum of Underwater Sculpture Ayia Napa
MUSAN is the newest tourist attraction in Cyprus. Located at Pernera Beach, this museum invites divers and snorkelers to traverse through the otherworldly underwater realm.
This underwater museum park has 130 sculptures — all designed and put together by Jason deCaires Taylor, a reef artist — up for exhibition. These structures serve a dual function — along with being a tourist attraction, the pH-neutral cement from which these structures are made attracts coral and will thus help in building a dense forest.
Sprawled across 170 meters, the MUSAN offers a stunning sub-aquatic environment for visitors.
Conclusion
Cyprus is a beautiful island with a grand history. This little Greek-Turkish island may be small, but it is not short of places to explore.
Use this list to experience the breathtaking beauty of Cyprus. Don’t forget, there are many more places not on this list that are worth exploring as well!
