Attractions in Cyprus

Cyprus is a true treasure trove of historical and natural attractions. This is a place where Turkish, Greek, English, and Italian cultures intersect, leaving a unique mark on the island’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Every conqueror added their touch to the distinctive look of Cyprus, creating a diversity that attracts tourists from all over the world. Below are 14 must-visit places in Cyprus.

Aphrodite’s Bath

Location: Near Paphos (48 km), near Chrysochou Bay.

According to legend, the famous goddess Aphrodite was born in Cyprus, and many historical sites are associated with her name. Aphrodite’s Bath is a grotto in the rock where the goddess used to meet her lover, the god of fertility, Adonis.

This picturesque, romantic, and cozy spot is surrounded by lush vegetation, with the entrance to the grotto covered by a limestone rock. The water in the grotto remains cold even in the hottest weather, thanks to underground springs that prevent it from warming up. The grotto is small, with a diameter of about 5 meters and a depth of 0.5 meters.

There is a belief that bathing in this grotto grants health, beauty, and longevity. Even if you don’t plan to take a dip, it’s worth visiting to enjoy the beauty, tranquility, and romance of this place.

Tombs of the Kings in Paphos

Location: Paphos.

The Tombs of the Kings are located in the southwestern part of the island. History enthusiasts should definitely visit this majestic necropolis, created in ancient times. High-ranking individuals and aristocrats from long-forgotten times rest here, with the first tombs dating back to the 4th century BC!

The tombs consist of underground chambers carved directly into the rock, connected by stairs and passages to form a large structure. The tombs are designed in the likeness of the homes of the deceased, resembling luxurious palaces and mansions that are exact replicas of the noble residences. To help visitors find specific tombs, each has its own identification number.

At each burial site, there is a small jar where milk, honey, or wine was poured to nourish the deceased. A special chamber next to the tomb was designated for these ritual offerings.

Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Beach)

Location: Road between Paphos and Limassol, 25th km.

This place is steeped in myths and legends and is also known as Aphrodite’s Beach. A very romantic spot with a rocky coastline dotted with beautiful and majestic boulders, and the sea water here is crystal clear.

There is a belief that couples who swim in these waters will never part. And if you swim at Aphrodite’s Beach at midnight, you are promised eternal beauty and youth, a successful marriage, and healthy children.

Petra tou Romiou is a great place to relax: you can swim, sunbathe, and have a snack at a local beachfront café. There is also a shower and vendors offering beautiful souvenirs. If you drive a little further towards Limassol, you’ll find a delightful seaside restaurant with incredibly tasty food.

Akamas National Park

Location: Western Akamas Peninsula, 50 km from Paphos.

This unique and picturesque place features a landscape that amazes with its beauty and diversity. In the Akamas reserve, you can see the pristine beauty of Cyprus, its beautiful wild beaches, and vibrant local vegetation. The pine forests of the peninsula fill the air with a heady scent, while the clean pebble beaches and crystal-clear waters invite you for a swim.

Here you can find plant species that are only found in this part of Cyprus, including wild plums, strawberry trees, myrtle trees, oriental plane trees, mountain lavender, cyclamens, orchids, and a pink-purple variety of peonies. The reserve is also home to many species of animals living in their natural habitat.

One of the most interesting places in the reserve is the Avakas Gorge, located in limestone cliffs that reach heights of up to 30 meters and stretch for 3 kilometers. A mountain stream flows at the bottom of the gorge. Adventurers will love this spot, as the journey involves a 2 km hike through the reserve followed by a descent into a deep and mysterious gorge with a narrow entrance. The challenging trek through the cliffs will thrill travelers!

Catacombs of Saint Solomoni

Location: Paphos.

This unique Christian shrine was created by both nature and human hands. According to legend, a righteous woman named Solomoni lived in Paphos long ago and refused to follow Roman rituals, forcing her and her sons to hide from the authorities in mountain catacombs. One version of the legend says that pagans sealed all entrances and exits, dooming her to a slow death. However, 200 years later, when the catacombs were reopened, she emerged alive and unharmed. Another version suggests that Solomoni and her sons were found, executed, and the woman was left alive to mourn her children until she died of grief.

Upon entering the catacombs, you’ll see a pistachio tree with branches adorned with fabric strips. It is believed that Solomoni can be asked for healing, and after such a prayer, a strip of cloth should be tied to a branch. Further inside, you’ll find a small well with water that is said to cure eye diseases.

Keo Aliki Winery

Location: Limassol.

Limassol is home to many wineries and is considered the center of Cypriot winemaking. If you are a wine lover, a visit to the Keo Winery is a must. Here, you can learn the secrets of producing the best wine in the region, taste various types, hear about the winery’s history and products, and purchase delicious wine at a price much lower than in any Limassol store.

At this winery, you can try and buy the famous premium wine “Commandaria.” This ancient and traditional Cypriot beverage has been produced since the 8th century and remains one of the island’s top wines thanks to the unique Xynisteri grape variety and the special process of preparing the drink: the grapes are dried under the sun to concentrate their sweetness before the juice is aged in special containers for several years. This gives “Commandaria” its rich flavor and incredible aroma!

Dancing Fountains

Location: Protaras.

This spectacular and beautiful attraction in Cyprus comes alive every evening in Protaras, with fountains moving their streams to the rhythm of popular hits. The combination of water, lighting, music, smoke, and fire effects creates a breathtaking show.

The fountains are equipped with a modern and complex control system, featuring thousands of nozzles (18,000) and LED lights submerged in water, creating a mesmerizing water dance. The unique choreography of the fountain’s streams, bright light show, and beloved music create an unforgettable and atmospheric evening for guests.

The Dancing Fountains operate from early May to late September. Nearby, there are cozy cafes where you can reserve a table and enjoy the show.

Eucalyptus Grove Dasoudi

 

Location: Limassol.

The Eucalyptus Grove stretches along the Limassol coastline for about 1.5 km. These beautiful and fragrant trees will leave no one indifferent. In the summer heat, the eucalyptus branches provide shelter from the scorching sun, offering a refreshing scent. On rainy days, the menthol aroma blends with the smell of damp earth and ozone, creating a natural inhalation that benefits the respiratory system.

You can come here for a picnic, dine among the greenery, and take stylish photos. Nearby, there are children’s and sports playgrounds, as well as a café and restaurant with a picturesque view of the coastline. Small hotels are available for those who want to spend a few days in this paradise.

A trip to the Eucalyptus Grove is a perfect family outing, offering ample opportunities to enjoy the sea, nature, and local delicacies at a café.

Cape Greco National Forest Park

Location: Cape Greco.

In the eastern part of Cape Greco (Ayia Napa) lies the majestic Kavo Greco Nature Park, covering an area of 385 hectares. It was established to preserve the unique flora, fauna, and landscape of this part of Cyprus. Later, the area became a tourist destination, and many travelers include it in their itinerary when exploring the island.

The park has well-maintained picnic areas, cycling paths, walking trails with benches to enjoy the coastal beauty and local vegetation. Here, you can find rare plant species (such as juniper, acacia, fennel) and a diverse range of wildlife.

Finikoudes Beach

Location: Larnaca.

For those who love sunbathing, Finikoudes Beach is a must-visit. It is located on the central city promenade and is the most popular beach in Larnaca.

The beach’s unique feature, reflected in its name (“little palm trees”), is the numerous palm trees planted along the promenade in 1992. Today, these palms have grown into a luxurious grove and remain a focal point for tourists.

The beach stretches for 0.5 km, with the widest point being 100 meters. The sand here has a grayish hue due to its volcanic origin. The beach has been awarded the “Blue Flag” for its cleanliness and adherence to environmental standards, so you can rest assured that it is safe.

All the necessary facilities are provided for visitors’ comfort: lifeguards constantly monitor swimmers, there are rentals for beach equipment (sunbeds, umbrellas, etc.), showers with fresh water, and cafes offering snacks and drinks.

Blue Lagoon Ayia Napa

Location: Ayia Napa, Cape Greco.

Cyprus is home to unique nature, picturesque landscapes, pristine forests, and stunning coastlines. All these island delights can be seen at the natural attraction known as the BlueLagoon. This location combines monumental cliffs, lush vegetation, and azure sea waters. Thanks to the perfect transparency of the water, you can see colorful fish swimming alone or in schools.

Here, you can explore mysterious caves, some of which are partially filled with water. The shallow depth makes it ideal for snorkeling, allowing you to study the intricate rocky seabed.

From this location, you can take a boat tour to Protaras or Ayia Napa, or enjoy the stunning sea views from the local cliffs.

Old Town of Limassol

Location: Along the promenade, near the old port of Limassol.

This area is perfect for those interested in learning more about the history of Cyprus and who enjoy the sight of old buildings. In this historic center of Limassol, you will feel the spirit of Greece, as everything around reflects the influence of this culture—from the architecture to the street names.

The Old Town has no clear boundaries and stretches along the coast. Due to its small size, it can be easily explored on foot, starting at Limassol Castle and then moving deeper into the old quarter.

As you walk through the Old Town, you can visit the cathedral, several mosques, explore souvenir shops, and enjoy the local cafes and bakeries with their delicious pastries. You will also find many abandoned houses and villas, left behind by residents in the 1970s due to political reasons.

Archbishop’s Palace

Location: Nicosia.

The Archbishop’s Palace was built relatively recently (1961), but it is beautifully styled to resemble ancient Venetian architecture. The building is grand, and its surroundings are picturesque.

During the war with Turkey, the palace suffered significant damage, but it was restored to its former glory. In 1987, a statue of Archbishop Makarios, an important figure in Cypriot history, was erected in the palace square. Makarios was a staunch advocate for the unity and independence of Cyprus. His bedroom is preserved in the palace, complete with its original furnishings, and his heart is kept in a special container there.

Salt Lake and Flamingos in Larnaca

These are interconnected lakes that together cover an area of about 2 km². This natural site is protected under the Ramsar Convention due to its importance to the island’s ecosystem and as a habitat for various species.

The main attraction here is the incredible flamingos that migrate to the lake for the winter. The period from autumn to spring is when you can marvel at the beauty and grace of these pink birds. Flamingos are very cautious, so getting close to touch them is unlikely, but you can observe them and capture them on camera.

A trip around Cyprus feels like a world tour with so much to see and with diverse landscapes and cultural heritage to explore. If you want to have an unforgettable time on the island, be sure to include a visit to one of these attractions in your beach vacation, or better yet, go on tours that combine visits to several historical and natural sites. You’ll be treated to fascinating legends, breathtaking landscapes, and an opportunity to get closer to the culture and people of Cyprus.