Why You Need to Visit Cyprus

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of interesting history, culture, great beaches and relaxation, then you need to visit Cyprus. From romantic harbours offering stunning coastal views to stretches of golden sandy beaches, the island is a sun-soaked haven in the Mediterranean.

What is Cyprus Famous For?

What is Cyprus known for? Beyond the beautiful beaches and quaint harbours, you’ll discover an island full of intriguing culture and steeped in myth and ancient traditions on a holiday in Cyprus. Sought after by a variety of conquerors, Cyprus has a tumultuous past which has left its mark on the island with periods spent under Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman and British rule. Today, the island is divided into two main parts: the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

What is Cyprus Like?

If you’re wondering, ‘is Cyprus worth visiting?’, either part is great to visit all year round. This is because the island is situated in one of the warmest zones in the Mediterranean, so it experiences long dry summers and short mild winters with an average of 320 sunny days per year. That means, visiting Cyprus at any time of year is definitely worth it.

Is Cyprus a Good Holiday Destination?

Yes! Cyprus is perhaps best known for its array of stunning sandy beaches with their dramatic landscapes and crystal clear blue waters. The majority of beaches in Cyprus have also been awarded the Blue Flag accolade. Northern Cyprus also offers some wonderful beaches with warm aquamarine waters, as well as panoramic views of its spectacular coastline from the Kyrenia Mountains.

Don’t forget the Cypriot cuisine either. Cypriot cuisine is largely similar to that of the Greeks, and you'll find familiar dishes such as moussaka, calamari, kebabs and stuffed vine leaves, as well as dips like hummus, tzatziki and tahini in most restaurants. The island's most famous export is Haloumi, a soft cheese made from goat or sheep milk, usually grilled.

Let's discover where you need to visit in Cyprus and Northern Cyprus. 

Where to Go in Cyprus

Limassol

Limassol is the second largest town in Cyprus and the most southern town in Europe. It will also be our base for our Cyprus tours for this part of the island. The old city of Limassol boasts many attractions including a traditional medieval fort built in the 14th century. It was here that according to tradition, Richard Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre.

Kourian is also an impressive historic site in Limassol. An ancient Greek city perched on the hillside overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, where you can visit the amphitheatre, House of Eustolios, and a Roman villa with remarkably preserved mosaics. Limassol is also the main vineyard area of the south and the centre of Cyprus’ main wine industry.

For those looking to escape from the coast and into the cool mountains, a visit to Omodos and the Troodos Mountains is a must. One of the most stunning and traditional villages of the island with its cobblestone streets, old wine press houses, 12th century monastery and a central square filled with taverns and local shops selling traditional Cypriot crafts. 

Paphos

Paphos is one of the most important archaeological regions on the island of Cyprus; in fact, the entire town of Paphos is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is said that Aphrodite, the Goddess of beauty and love, rose from the seas of Paphos – Maybe that is why it is surrounded by such beautiful coastlines today. 

A visit to "Petra tou Romiou" is included on our Cyprus tours, where according to Greek mythology, the Godess "Aphrodite" was born. When visiting Paphos, Cyprus make sure to visit Tombs of the Kings, a UNESCO World Heritage site of underground tombs dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Despite its name, the tombs were not actually reserved for kings, but rather for high-ranking officials and aristocrats.

Nicosia

Nicosia is the only and last divided capital city in the world and a melting pot of history and culture. The southern part is inhabited by Greeks and the northern part is home to Turkish Cypriots. When visiting the capital, it will seem like you have explored two countries instead of one.

Venture to the historical walled city, featuring Eleftheria Square and Liberty Monument, and wander through the narrow streets steeped in culture. Nicosia is also home to the iconic Venetian Walls which have stood the test of time for centuries and are not one to miss when you visit Cyprus.

Kyrenia

On our Northern Cyprus holidays, we'll be perfectly based in Kyrenia to see the top sights on this side of the island. The old town of Kyrenia is full of charming alleyways and narrow winding streets but is most notable for its British-built harbour and quay. This is where you’ll find Kyrenia Castle as well a great selection of cafés and restaurants along the quays.

You’ll also find the garden of north Cyprus here, filled with lush forests and citrus orchards. No matter where you’re strolling, whether it’s along the calm seafront or through green surroundings, you will appreciate the relaxing atmosphere of Kyrenia.

Salamis

Salamis is the ancient capital city of Cyprus, dating back as far as 1100BC. The many Byzantine and Roman ruins include a gymnasium pool and baths, marble columns, a restored Roman amphitheatre and intricate tile mosaics.

Visiting Cyprus with Travel Department

Cyprus as a holiday destination is a treasure trove of ancient riches just waiting to be discovered. Whichever part of the island you decide to visit you're guaranteed to receive a warm welcome as Cypriots are renowned around the world for their hospitality. Is Cyprus a good place to visit? Uncover this wonderful part of the Mediterranean for yourself on our guided holidays to Cyprus.