The ‘Jewel of the Mediterranean’ has been worthy of its name for many more reasons than its stunning stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear water. The friendly locals of Cyprus will gift you with a warm welcome to the Greek island, where there is endless beauty to discover at any time of the year.
Explore the rich culture and history of the third-largest island in the Mediterranean, as well as its magnificent beaches, thrilling activities, and vibrant nightlife in Protaras and Ayia Napa. Have a look at the best things to do in the ‘island of love’ and some of the most luxurious hotels to stay at!
Things to do
Historical Landmarks
Experience everything there is to know about the history of Cyprus through the ancient monuments which paint a strong picture of the life that once lived there. According to legends, the ancient goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, is believed to have been born on the enchanting island.
Stroll through the treasures of some of the world’s best Roman ruins and archaeological sites, such as the top-rated tourist attraction of Ancient Kourion. Capture the magical views of the countryside and the ocean from the coastal cliff that the attraction perches on, before visiting the theatre and the stunning mosaics in the House of Eustolios on the site.
Explore the fascinating myths and legends in the island’s most attractive castle ruins, St. Hilarion, which you can climb to the top for phenomenal views of the coast. The island is filled with fascinating tombs, palaces, temples and churches at every turn, as well as the famous Mosaics of Paphos and the Sanctuary of Aphrodite at Palaepafos.
Discover the Old Town of the island’s capital, Nicosia, where you will find stunning mosques, palm trees and a Venetian sandstone fortress. Visit St John’s Cathedral, the island’s main church, before observing the extraordinary ancient artifacts of the Cyprus Museum.
Beaches
The beaches in Cyprus are among the best in Europe, ranging from quietly hidden treasures to glorious popular sites. Visit the iconic Petra Tou Romiou in Paphos, also known as Aphrodite’s Rock beach, as it marks the place where the goddess was believed to have been born.
Relax under the scorching sun at Makronissos Beach which has been labelled one of the most beautiful in Cyprus, with the stretch of powdered sand forming the shape of a dolphin tail when viewed from above and ancient tombs at the tip.
Strong cliffs surround the peaceful paradise of Coral Bay, protecting it from the wild waves of the Mediterranean. Visit Nissi Beach, the beach that never sleeps, the lively Fig Tree Bay and admire the beautiful sunset on a relaxing stroll along Akti Olympion.
Activities
Cyprus is the perfect place to experience a range of activities at any time of the year, from soaking in the clear water under the sun to trekking through forests or skiing on snowy mountains. Hike through the island’s variety of trails where you will come across charming waterfalls, gorgeous greenery and spectacular mountains. Immerse yourself in the exhilarating scuba diving, sea cruises, speed boat hire, motorbike tours and off-road touring!
Luxury Hotels
Four Seasons Hotel
Stay at one of the top hotels in Cyprus, the Four Seasons Hotel in Limassol which is privately situated on the seafront with excellent views. Enjoy two swimming pools, two restaurants and three exquisite, award-winning restaurants serving Mediterranean dishes.
The extravagant interior will blow your mind, as will the elegantly furnished suites and glamorous marble bathrooms set to provide you with the ultimate calming experience. Enjoy amazing views from the comfort of your own balcony before heading down to unwind at the top-class spa and experience celebrity quality treatment throughout your stay.
https://www.fourseasons.com.cy
The Amara – Sea Your Only View
The Amara is a five-star hotel in Limassol and offers a private beach area as it is situated at the seafront, panoramic views on the terrace and a range of luxurious facilities including an infinity pool and spa centre.
Relax in the spacious bedrooms with your own private balcony with a swing and take a stroll around the gorgeous resort grounds at sunset when all the lanterns are lit and the palm trees are swaying in the wind.
Columbia Beach Resort
Experience a blend of sea and nature with the Columbia Beach Resort which is based within lovely gardens at Pissouri Bay. Soak in the two swimming pools, choose from one of the four delicious restaurants and try each of the six bars in the resort.
The expansive rooms feature warm interior, making you feel right at home with a splash of luxury with the huge, flawless bathrooms and open balconies facing out to the glittering ocean.
https://www.columbiaresort.com
Elysium
Located in Paphos City, the Elysium hotel provides a glamourous experience with pristine ocean views across from the iconic Tombs of the Kings. Try a range of cuisines from Italian to Japanese in the variety of restaurants on-site, after a day of relaxing in the multi-story swimming pool and unwinding at the spa.
The royal interior and unmatched attention to detail of the resort grounds is guaranteed to impress you and provides the ultimate soothing, tropical atmosphere.
https://www.elysium-hotel.com/en
By Layla Maguire
KeiKei is a London-based award-winning journalist and videographer with a degree in Broadcast Media and Journalism from the University of the West of Scotland and an extensive reporting background in news, entertainment, travel, and lifestyle.
KeiKei has travelled the globe interviewing, reporting and reviewing. Her work has been published in worldwide media outlets including, The New York Post, The Guardian, The Mirror, The Daily Mail, National Geographic and Conde Nast publications.
