Best attractions in Cyprus: Top 35

Every traveler wants to visit a small island with a paradisiacal climate in the Mediterranean Sea. We are talking about Cyprus, an island full of historical and natural attractions, located in the northeastern part of the Mediterranean Sea. Wonderful nature, white sand beaches, blue waters, the most exquisite entertainment, numerous sites of Cyprus with a long history - all this and much more is packed into this mysterious island. Thanks to the fusion of Turkish and Greek cultures, the island has a mix of languages and religions, which has literally divided the state into different worlds and made the island even more attractive to its many visitors. Below is a list of the main attractions of Cyprus, so that when you travel to these picturesque places you will not have any questions about what to see in Cyprus. All you have to do is to choose the most interesting of them for your personal visit. And experienced guides in Cyprus, in their turn, will help you plan a personal itinerary full of beautiful places and extraordinary discoveries.

What to see in Cyprus first of all

Choosing excursions in Cyprus, take into account the fact that the island is divided into zones of influence of two states, so initially you need to decide on which part of the attractions you are interested in. In the descriptions you will find accurate information not only about the history, but also about the location of this or that tourist site.

1. Aphrodite’s Lido (48 km from Paphos, Chrysochou Bay)

Aphrodite's Lap, covered with myths and legends

According to ancient legends, Cyprus is the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite, which is why many memorable places on the island are associated with her name. Aphrodite’s Bath is a small cave in the rock, where, according to legend, Aphrodite and her lover, the god of fertility Adonis, had their romantic meetings. The baths look unusually picturesque:

  • The secluded body of water is surrounded on all sides by vegetation and as if sheltered by a rock of limestone.
  • The water here is cold even in the hottest days, as there are underground springs which do not let the water get warm.
  • The grotto is only half a meter deep and about 5 meters in diameter.

It is believed that a swimmer in this bathing hole will keep himself healthy and beautiful for many years. And even if there is no desire to dive into the waters of the bath, it is worth it just to observe the natural beauty and be imbued with the romanticism of these places.

Official website: http://www.visitcyprus.com



2. Tombs of the Kings in Pafos

Tomb of the Kings in Paphos

True connoisseurs of antiquity are sure to find something to see in Cyprus - undoubtedly the Tombs of the Kings in the city of Paphos in southwest Cyprus. The majestic necropolis, whose history goes back to antiquity, was the last refuge for dignitaries and members of the aristocracy of ancient times - one should only imagine that the first tombs were hewn from stone back in the 4th century B.C.

What are these grandiose creations?

  • The underground rooms are hollowed out right inside the rocks and, connected to each other by stairs and passages, form one huge complex.
  • The tombs are exact replicas of the homes of the people buried there - amazing replicas of the luxurious homes and palaces in which these nobles lived.
  • All the tombs in the necropolis are numbered to make it easy for visitors to find the right one.
  • Near each tomb can be found a clay jug, which was filled with wine, milk or honey, so that the deceased could be “satiated”. These gifts were placed in special ceremonial chambers near the tombs.

Official website: http://www.mcw.gov.cy



3. Petra tou Romiou (25th km of Paphos-Limassol road)

Aphrodite Beach

At the 25th kilometer of the road leading from Pafos to Limassol lies the legendary “Petra tou Romiou” or Aphrodite’s Beach, a place steeped in myth and legend. One of the most romantic attractions of Cyprus is a small stretch of stony beach with beautiful boulders and clear water, which enjoys special popularity among couples in love. It is believed that after a swim in these waters, lovers will stay together forever. The belief that you can find eternal beauty and youth, a good marriage and healthy children by taking a midnight swim in the Aphrodite’s Beach. It is also believed that one of the big rocky stones, the stone of Aphrodite, has a special power and you can meet a true love by performing a ritual near it.

At Petra tou Romiou beach you can not only enjoy the beauty of nature and see the famous and memorable places, but also visit the cafe located in the parking lot not far from the beach, on the opposite side of the road. Here you can also take a shower, buy local souvenirs or visit a restaurant with a stunning view of the sea, driving on the road a little further towards Limassol.

4. Akamas National Park (western Akamas Peninsula)

The pristine natural beauty of Akamas Park

About 50 km away from Paphos, the breathtaking panoramas of nature, unique landscapes with an abundance of vegetation and pristine beaches. This is another attraction of Cyprus - Akamas National Park, a reserve in which nature has been preserved in its original beauty. This is an area of pine forests, scented pebble beaches and sandy coves with crystal clear water.

It is home to a wide variety of wild plants, many of which have remained only in this limited area:

  • wild plum;
  • strawberry tree;
  • myrtle tree;
  • eastern sycamore;
  • mountain lavender;
  • cyclamen;
  • orchids;
  • pink and purple peonies, which are included in the Red Book.

The local fauna is also surprisingly rich:

  • 168 species of birds;
  • 20 species of reptiles;
  • 12 species of mammals;
  • 16 species of butterflies.

A remarkable place on the peninsula is the Avakas Gorge, located among limestone rocks up to 30 meters high and stretching for about 3 km in length. At the bottom of the gorge flows a mountain stream. This place is also worthy of a visit, because even the way to it is interesting - in order to get to the gorge itself, you should walk about 2 kilometers through a protected park, which smoothly, changing landscapes one by one, passes into a deep and narrow gorge, striking the eye with its monumentality.

5. Catacombs of St. Solomonia (Paphos)

The Catacombs of Saint Solomonia is a Christian shrine in Cyprus

Travelers wondering what to visit in Cyprus are given the opportunity to see one of the most unique Christian shrines, the Catacombs of Saint Solomonia. This is an ancient structure created partly by nature and partly by man. According to one of the legends, in ancient times lived in Paphos a certain holy Solomon, who refused to perform the Roman rituals and was forced to hide with her sons in the catacombs from the persecutors. According to one version, the pagans walled up all the passages in the catacombs, condemning the woman to a slow death, but 200 years later, when the passages in the catacombs were freed, the holy martyr emerged unharmed. According to another version, the woman’s sons were found after the escape and executed, but Solomonia herself was left alive, and the unfortunate woman spent her days and nights crying over the graves of her sons, eventually dying of grief.

The first thing that opens to visitors to the catacombs is a pistachio tree, all hung with colorful scraps of cloth. Visiting the catacombs, you can ask St. Solomon for healing from various ailments, and to make your prayers heard, you should tie a commemorative shred to the branches of the tree.

If you wish, you can walk through the catacombs and visit a small well deep in the catacombs, the water in which has healing powers - heals from eye diseases.

Be sure to watch this beautiful video about Cyprus!

6. Keo Aliki Winery (Limassol)

Cellar of Keo Aliki Winery

The city of Limassol, a major economic and cultural center of the country, is also considered the center of winemaking in Cyprus, and being here, you will not have to think about what to visit in Cyprus. After all, here you will have a unique opportunity to visit one of the largest wineries in Limassol - Keo Winery. The excursion is held in the premises of the plant as part of a promotional campaign, so visitors have a number of opportunities:

  • To observe the production of the best wines in the area;
  • Taste any product for free;
  • hear some entertaining stories about the winery and its products;
  • Buy a good wine noticeably cheaper than in stores all over Cyprus.

One of the most famous alcoholic drinks produced by Keo is the premium wine “Commandoria”, the history of its first production dates back to the 8th century and it is now considered to be one of the best wines of Cyprus. For the production of this drink, a special grape variety, Xinisteri, is used, and the wine-making process also has its own subtleties. The grapes are sun-dried so that the juice acquires sweetness, after which the juice is poured into special vessels and aged in them for several years.

7. The Dancing Fountains Show (Protaras)

The magic of fire, water and music of dancing fountains

One of the most spectacular sights in Cyprus, which strikes the imagination with its grandiosity, is located in the small resort town of Protaras. Every evening here the magical jets come to life with rhythmic music, synchronously soaring upwards and performing extraordinary pirouettes. All this is accompanied by a laser light show and all sorts of effects in the form of smoke and fire.

The show of the dancing fountains is based on the most modern and sophisticated fountain control system in the world. As many as 18,000 nozzles and lots of LED lights immersed in the water create a mesmerizing spectacle: water streams, illuminated by multicolored lights, constantly changing their movements, obeying the rhythms of music and creating a wonderful atmosphere.

The show attracts attention of adults and children alike, and you can watch this beauty from May 1 to September 30. Guests are invited to book a table in a cozy cafe directly next to the fountains or on special spectator benches.

Official website: http://www.magicdancingwaters

8. Eucalyptus grove (Limassol)

Eucalyptus Grove

Another attraction in the seaside town of Limassol is the eucalyptus grove, which stretches along the coast for about a mile and a half in length. It’s hard to pass by the intoxicating scents of the many eucalyptus trees growing right along the coastline and not enjoy this beauty. In the heat of summer, it’s a particularly good place to escape the scorching sun, and the aromatic essential vapors bring tranquility and peace. In rainy weather, the grove will also be a great place for walks, when the scents of trees mixed with fresh air, full of ozone - such a kind of “inhalation” will help to improve health and immunity.

The park also has sports fields, children’s playground. Enjoying a walk, you can visit a cafe or restaurant with a picturesque view of the sea - along the eucalyptus grove is a lot of such institutions. Guests also have the opportunity to check into one of the hotels located in the vicinity.

9. Cavo Greco National Forest Park (Cape Greco)

A beautiful view of the azure sea

The eastern part of Cape Greco, also called Ayia Napa, is home to the luxurious Kavo Greco National Forest Park, which covers an area of over 385 hectares. The initial goal of the park was to preserve the unique flora, fauna and landscape of this part of the island. Later, another important mission was added to this goal - to attract more tourists to Cyprus.

Along with the pristine nature, there are landscaped picnic areas, cycling paths and footpaths with benches to rest on, which offer superb views of the coastline and its clear sea water. By the way, the coast here is ideal for diving and fishing - in the coastal waters you can find morays, octopus, sea bass and puffer fish.

Today, the national park is inhabited by

  • About four hundred plant species, 14 of which are considered extremely rare - juniper, acacia, mastic tree, fennel, wild garlic, etc.
  • Many representatives of fauna - hedgehogs, foxes, hares, snakes, lizards and a variety of birds.

10. Finikoudes beach(Larnaca)

Cute Finikudes Beach in Larnaca

What to see in Cyprus for sunbathers? The first thing to visit, of course, is Finicudes Beach, located right next to Larnaca’s central promenade. It belongs to one of the most popular beaches of Cyprus, so here from time to time come the whole buses, bringing many tourists and just wishing to have a good rest.

The name “Finikoudes” itself means “little palm trees” - indeed, the beach is separated from the town by an alley of palm trees, which were planted here in 1922. Once small palm trees have now grown into large trees, the beauty and grandeur of which delight many visitors.

The length of the beach is about 0.5 kilometers, and the width in different places varies from 30 to 100 meters. The sand on the beach is of volcanic origin, so its color has a grayish hue. Certificate “Blue Flag”, which corresponds to Finikudes, confirms its cleanliness and safety, and service here meets the highest demands:

  • lifeguards are on duty throughout the area;
  • working rental equipment;
  • there is a sanitary area;
  • shower with fresh water;
  • the whole beach is kept ideally clean.

Attractions in Cyprus: what else to visit while in Cyprus

Guides in Cyprus, offering certain routes, focus on the most popular requests of tourists. However, at your request, the program can be revised, so carefully study the descriptions of the attractions below, so that you do not miss the opportunity to adjust the itinerary and to be fully satisfied with the tour.

11. Blue Lagoon Ayia Napa (Ayia Napa resort, Cape Greco)

Crystal clear water Blue Lagoon Ayia Napa

The island of Cyprus is world famous for its nature, amazing landscapes, pristine forests and beautiful coastline - there is something to see in Cyprus for visitors with all interests and preferences. One of the extraordinary natural attractions of Cyprus is the Blue Lagoon, located in the vicinity of the popular resort of Ayia Napa. This area of amazing beauty is a combination of monumental rocks, lush vegetation and azure coastal waters. By the way, the water here is so clear and clean that even without going into it, you can see colored fish and whole schools of bright fish, briskly scurrying along the coast.

  • Not far from the lagoon are unusual mysterious caves, partially filled with sea water, and for their visit is not necessary to have diving skills. Tanning, snorkeling and exploring the underwater world can any vacationer.
  • Boat excursions from Protaras or Ayia Napa are organized to the coast of the lagoon, and from the rocks around the lagoon you can get a wonderful view of the surrounding area.

12. The ancient city of Soli (Morfu, North Cyprus)

Antique Amphitheatre in the city of Soli

The sights of Cyprus are very diverse, and in addition to the wonderful creations of nature, here you can also see ancient man-made monuments created by man himself. One of such monuments was the ancient city of Soli, located near the capital of Cyprus, Nicosia. Today there are only ruins of its buildings, which, nevertheless, allow you to roughly form a general picture of the ancient city. All the ruins of the temples, palaces and other buildings are protected by special sheds, and the notable places are marked with signs showing the name and approximate date of construction of the building.

There are several interesting facts about the ancient city:

  • In ancient times, Soli was one of the 10 largest cities, where all the main life of the island was concentrated.
  • According to the speculations, the city was at one time captured by the Achaeans, and the inhabitants were resettled to a new place by the conquerors.
  • The name of the city Soli is in honor of the famous Greek philosopher Solon, who had given the local king Philocritus some valuable advice.

13. The old town of Limassol

The Limassol Old Town Quarter

Fans of historical sites are sure to find something to visit in Cyprus - the old town in Limassol falls exactly into this category of attractions in Cyprus. In fact the old town is the historical center of modern Limassol and this place is imbued with the spirit of provincial Greece. The small houses and narrow streets here witnessed many historical events that took place here.

The old town has no specific border - you can just say that it is located along the waterfront of the old port of Limassol. To see the local attractions, it is better to walk the entire route on foot and start with the Limassol Fortress. Moving deeper into the old quarter you will see:

  • The cathedral;
  • A number of Muslim mosques;
  • A mass of souvenir stores;
  • many cafes and bakeries.

You will come across empty houses and villas which were abandoned by their tenants mainly for political reasons back in the 1970s.

14. The Archbishop’s Palace (Nicosia)

The official residence of the Archbishop of Cyprus

In the heart of Nicosia is the most important landmark of Cyprus, the Archbishop’s Palace, built directly next to the old palace building. In spite of the fact that this structure gives the impression of an ancient construction, it was built not so long ago - in 1961. Its architecture is an imitation of the ancient Venetian style, which gives such an impression.

In 1974, during the war with Turkey, the island was attacked by the enemy, and the palace played the role of a military site. The palace was significantly damaged, but in the 80s the building was completely rebuilt and restored.

Directly in front of the Palace in 1987 a huge statue of Archbishop Makarios was erected, who had played a significant role in the history of Cyprus - to promote the integrity of the island and the independence of its people. The bedroom of the Archbishop is therefore still kept completely intact in the palace, and his heart is placed and kept in a special vessel.

15. Salt Lake and Flamingos (Larnaca)

The Salt Lake of Larnaca is a favorite flamingo resort

Most of the tourists who have been to Cyprus have driven at least once along the white shores of the Salt Lake, which is located between Larnaca and the village of Dromolaskias. In general, this lake represents several adjacent lakes, with a total area of about 2 square kilometers. The salt lake plays a crucial role in the ecosystem of the island and is therefore protected by the Ramsar Convention. It is also home to a variety of fauna. But undoubtedly, the main attraction of this region is the beautiful pink birds - flamingos, which come here for wintering. Therefore, from autumn to spring guests have a unique opportunity to admire the beauty and grace of these large birds. It is not possible to get close to flamingo - they are quite cautious, so they keep at a distance from people and quite far from the shore, and to see them in all their glory, some visitors even arm themselves with appropriate optics.

16. Aphrodite Water Park (Paphos)

Water rides at Aphrodite Water Park in Paphos

If you are interested in entertainment attractions in Cyprus, Pafos will delight you and your children with a large water amusement park Aphrodite, dedicated, like many other sites in Pafos, to the goddess of love Aphrodite. On a relatively small area of the water park of 35 thousand square meters compactly arranged speed and thematic slides, great pools and rivers, fun for the younger with animators and other exciting attractions. This diversity is surrounded by rich vegetation, flowers, real rocks, picturesque waterfalls and mysterious caves - all this gives the park some exoticism. The layout of the place is so successful that despite the variety of attractions, each of the attractions is freely accessible, and there are no queues.

Official website: https://aphroditewaterpark

17. Paphos Fortress

View of the medieval fort at the western edge of the harbor from the side of Pafos town

At its most extreme point on the west side of the town of Paphos stands the defensive fort, which has become one of the symbols of the place. The uniqueness of the medieval construction is given by the thick walls, behind which you can visit the ruins of the former fortress. The fort was built in the 13th century by the King of Cyprus - one of the Lusignan dynasty. Originally the castle consisted of two towers united by a wall, but over the centuries the structure has been repeatedly destroyed by invaders, suffered as a result of natural disasters, and then was restored by the new masters. There was a prison, a mosque and even a salt warehouse. But the appearance the fortress has today, it has found in 1592, when it was restored in the Ottoman style. Today this monument has the status of a museum - for 20 years in a row here are held concerts of opera music and festivals, among which the most famous is the festival “Aphrodite”.

18. Kolossi Castle (10 km from Limassol)

The three-story square donjon tower of the 12th century Kolossi Castle in the Limassol area

Those interested in the sights of Limassol should visit Kolossi Castle, a medieval military fortress about ten kilometers from Limassol. The structure, built in the early 13th century, was once the center of the Knights Hospitallers. Today Kolossi Castle is often referred to as a massive jagged tower, but it is only part of the architectural complex. Its walls are strikingly thick at 1.25 meters - a factor that allowed the tower to withstand earthquakes and survive to this day. The first floor of the tower is believed to have been a storeroom, where water tanks can still be seen. On the second level there are two rooms, one of which has a fireplace, most likely used as a dining room. Another of the rooms has a large fresco showing the scene of the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, the faces of the Virgin Mary and St. John. The third floor once served as the knight’s hall and the Commander’s private quarters.

19. Buffavento Castle (North Cyprus)

The ruins of the fortress walls of Buffavento Castle in the Kyrenia Mountains in northern Cyprus

Along the northern coast of the island of Cyprus stretches a mountain chain, the Kyrenia Mountains. It is there, on the very summits, at an altitude of about one kilometer, are three glorious medieval castles - St. Hilarion, Kantarou and Buffavento. As for Buffavento, this fortress was built by the Byzantines in the 7th century with the main purpose of protecting against Arab raids. The place for the construction was ideal - from this height you could see the whole island. The fortress consists of two levels: the first begins with a bastion, followed by a guardhouse in which the fireplace is still preserved. The ruins of the chapel can still be seen from here as well as breathtaking views of the Kyrenia Mountains. The castle can not be attributed to a particular period of history - judging by the way the masonry, the different levels of the castle were built starting from the 7th century and completed up to the 14th century.

20. Kyrenia Castle (North Cyprus)

The Kyrenia Castle is a 16th century castle at the eastern end of the old harbor of Kyrenia in North Cyprus

Another significant bastion in the land of Cyprus is Kyrenia Castle, towering over the old harbor of the ancient city of Kyrenia, in the very north of Cyprus. Like Buffavento, Kyrenia Castle was built in the 7th century to resist Arab invasions. The citadel has a rectangular shape with bastions located in the tops. This architectural solution was so successful that the castle was never taken by storm throughout history. The courtyard is so vast that even jousting tournaments were once held here. A visit to the interior of the castle will impress you with its history, the spirit of which is still kept within these walls to this day: the dungeons held prisoners and, according to legend, this is where the Knights Templar were executed. This place now houses a torture museum with impressive exhibits. There is also a Shipwreck Museum and a small Byzantine church of St. George on the castle grounds.

21. Church of St. Lazarus (Larnaca)

The Church of Saint Lazarus is a ninth-century Orthodox church in the city of Larnaca

Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world come to one of the most important shrines in Cyprus - St. Lazarus church, because everyone wants to touch the relics of the saint, who, according to the Gospel, was resurrected by Christ three days after his death. The priests at the time did not like the miraculous resurrection and Lazarus was forced to flee - Larnaca became his refuge. After his death, the relics of the saint were buried at the base of the church, after which the church was repeatedly rebuilt, and it was believed that the remains had been irretrievably lost. Only in the 70s of last century during the restoration, during the opening of stone tombs under the altar, the relics were found - today they are most valuable artifacts and are on display for public worship. Among the temple’s other treasures are the burnt-out wooden iconostasis with the miraculously surviving face of St Lazarus, icons of St George the Martyr and Our Lady Hodegetria.

22. Kikkos Monastery (Troodos Mountain)

The buildings of Kikkos Orthodox Monastery in the picturesque Troodos Mountains on Cyprus

By renting a car in Cyprus, you get a chance for a rich vacation, not tied to the rules of common excursions. Having a car, you can see the mountains and picturesque bays, walk in the old streets of mountain villages, see ancient monasteries. By the way, in the mountains of Troodos you can find something to see in Cyprus by car is stavropigial monastery of Our Lady of Kykk. The monastery has always had a special role in the history of Cyprus - its brethren have always sought to inspire the people in the most difficult times. The monastery also houses the miraculous icon of Our Lady of Kykkos, which according to popular belief is one of three icons painted by the Apostle and Evangelist Luke. This shrine is covered with many legends related to its miracles - the Mother of God has protected and saved many times from trouble, and since ancient times to this day the icon has been carried to Mount Troni during the most difficult trials.

23. Ayia Napa Monastery

Yard of Ayia Napa Monastery in the center of Ayia Napa youth resort
The 15th century Italian Renaissance Monastery of Our Lady of Napa in Ayia Napa

Those who are looking for beautiful sights of Cyprus, Ayia Napa will meet picturesque beaches with white sand, quaint limestone cliffs and azure sea. But not only well-developed beach infrastructure is known for a large seaside village - just off the coast is located the Monastery of Ayia Napa, and it was with him once began the history of the modest at the time of the fishing village. The monastery is very close to the coast, in the heart of the popular resort. The history of the monastery began in the 14th century - it is said that in those days there was an impenetrable forest where the inhabitants of nearby settlements hunted. One day, one of the hunters found a cave in the very woods where an ancient icon of Our Lady was kept. It was in this place that the church eventually grew up, and two centuries later the monastery. The most precious relic of the monastery is the veil given to the Savior by St. Veronica during the procession to Golgotha.

24. Selimiye Mosque in Nicosia, Northern Cyprus

View of Selimiye Mosque (formerly St. Sophia Cathedral) from the Shacolas Tower (Ledra Observatory Museum) A.Savin

Already on the approaches to Nicosia one can see the spires of Selimiye mosque, built in the 13th century, which still impress with its size and monumentality. The history of the great monument is extremely rich - the mosque was built for one and a half centuries, and this process was accompanied by numerous disasters, many times the construction was interrupted by earthquakes and raids of Egyptian mamelukes. Originally the shrine was created as a Roman Catholic temple, but in the 16th century after the conquest of Cyprus by the Turks the cathedral was converted into a grandiose mosque - the old decoration was destroyed and painted over, and to the building were added two minarets. But even today the marble tombstones of the Cypriot kings, covered with carpets, have been preserved. The majestic mosque amazes with its carved entrance arch, fanciful windows, huge columns, Gothic vaults, mosaics and bas-reliefs.

25. The ghost town of Varosha (North Cyprus)

The Varosha Quarter in Famagusta, a former tourist center in Cyprus Zairon
Abandoned hotels in Varosha ghost town in North Cyprus Zairon

To be precise, Varosha is not a city, but a district of the city of Famagusta, which today belongs to the territory of the unrecognized state of Northern Cyprus. It was once a thriving resort town with a 4-kilometer strip of beach, brand-new hotels, stores, markets, nightclubs and private villas. But in 1974, its prosperity was abruptly interrupted by a coup d’état, when the Greek part of the local people revolted, demanding the annexation of Cyprus to Greece. Turkey, in order to protect the interests of the Turkish part, introduced troops from the north and the Varosha region became the tip of this offensive. Thus, Cyprus was divided into two parts; the north remained occupied by Turkish troops and Varosha town on the border served as a buffer zone, protected by UN troops. It was abandoned by its inhabitants and to this day hundreds of UN representatives guard the empty town.

26. The ancient city of Curion (Episcopi Bay)

The ruins of the ancient city of Kourion on the shore of Episkopi Bay near Limassol Anna & Michal

Just a few kilometers from the historic center of Limassol, along the bay stretches the ancient city of Kourion. Once it was a major city-state - it was a thousand years BC. During its existence the city came under the dominion of the Byzantines, the Greeks, the Romans, but after many centuries it began to decline - the starting point of this process seems to have been the devastating earthquake of the 4th century A.D. The city was finally abandoned in the 7th century as a result of the Arab invasions. Today Kurion is a major archaeological museum with ruins from several eras - Hellenistic, Roman and early Christian. A walk through the ruins is an informative journey into the past - among the ruins you can see such objects as the house of Achilles and Eustolios, the Roman baths, the house of gladiators, the ancient theater, the ruins of the basilica, the ruins of the nymphaeum, fragments of mosaics.

27. The ancient city of Amathus (south of Cyprus)

Excavations of the ancient city of Amathus near Limassol Carole Raddato

Going to explore the sights of southern Cyprus, it is definitely worth visiting one of the ten preserved ancient cities in Cyprus. This is the ancient city of Amathus, with which mythology was closely intertwined - for example, here was an ancient sanctuary, which was one of the most important places of worship of the goddess Aphrodite, and today you can see the remains of this structure. The city was built on a convenient location on the coastal rock, on the coast of a natural harbor - this fact predetermined the rapid development of the city in the ancient period, through the local port went trade with Greece and the Levant. Over the centuries, the city was conquered by the Persians, Romans, Ptolemies, Byzantines, and at the end of its glorious history the city was destroyed by the Arab invasions. Today on the territory of the ancient city can be seen the ruins of the acropolis, the remains of the temple of Aphrodite, the marketplace with rows of marble columns and ancient tombs.

28. The Kamares Aqueduct (Larnaca)

The 18th century Kamares Aqueduct or Bechir Pasha Aqueduct on the outskirts of Larnaca, Cyprus

On the island of Cyprus the sights of Larnaca occupy a special place - it’s miles of magnificent beaches, ancient temples and fortresses, a walk through the neighborhoods of which takes away many centuries into the past. There are other valuable historical sites, such as the Camares Aqueduct. It is the prototype of a modern water supply system built in the 18th century and its purpose was to bring water to Larnaca from the spring above. For two centuries the aqueduct successfully fulfilled its important role until it was replaced by a modern water supply system in the 1930s. The Kamares was once outside the city, but over the years the city grew and developed, and now the structure is in the heart of the city. By the way, the city government appreciates this monument and has even created a special committee to protect it.

29. The Castle of the Forty Columns (Paphos)

The surviving gate of the 7th century Byzantine fortress in the Archaeological Park of Pafos Wolfgang Sauber

Not far from the town of Paphos is another of Cyprus’ many fortifications, built to protect against Arab invasions. This is the Castle of the Forty Columns, part of the archaeological complex. By the way, the existence of the castle was not known until the second half of last century, when during the processing of the land above the port, a fragment of a mosaic panel was discovered. Further excavations revealed that it was only a part of the archaeological treasure that lurked underground. It is believed that the castle was built in the 7th century by the Byzantines, and in the 13th century it underwent radical reconstruction. However, a major earthquake undermined all these efforts, destroying the fortress almost to the ground. The fortress takes its name from the granite columns which once supported its vault - they are what have survived to this day, along with the remains of the towers, gloomy dungeons and cellars.

30. Büyük Khan Caravanserai (North Cyprus)

Fountain in the center of the open courtyard of Büyük-Khan Caravanserai in Cyprus

There are interesting places in Cyprus that preserve the history of the years when Cyprus was part of the Ottoman Empire. One of them is the Büyük-Khan Caravanserai, the largest Ottoman settlement in Cyprus, located north of Nicosia. The caravanserai was built by the Turks in the 16th century just after their victory over the Venetians who had ruled the area. Previously it was the Lusignan Palace and the inn was built on its ruins. Once it was a lively place, with an inexhaustible flow of guests, ensuring prosperity to its owners. In 1878, the British gave it to the British for their prison, and after World War II it was converted into an asylum for the homeless. Today it is an art center with galleries, workshops, souvenir shops, and also hosts Shadow Theater shows.

31. Hirokitia settlement (Maroni valley)

Reconstructed circular dwellings of Hirokitia between 7000 and 5800 B.C. Ophelia2

During the Neolithic Age, the land of Cyprus was also inhabited, a fact confirmed by the most ancient settlements found on the island. How could man get to the land of the island even before the age of navigation? It is assumed that Cyprus was once part of the mainland, and only a massive earthquake turned these territories into an island. The Neolithic settlements of Cyprus include Choirokoitia, where people settled as early as 7 millennia BC. A small group of people amounted to only 300-600. They were engaged in herding, farming, hunting, fishing and built round houses of stone or clay. The remains of round-shaped houses, with burials under the floor, and defensive structures can still be seen today on the site of the ancient settlement. Some of them have been restored, and visiting the settlement today, you can look inside one of them to find out how people lived many thousands of years ago.

32. Avagas Gorge (Plateau of Laona)

The river among the picturesque rocks at Avagas Gorge on the Laona Plateau in Cyprus

A trip to Cyprus is not without beautiful nature - the island is rich in natural beauty, superb scenery and climate. So it is definitely worth visiting the natural attractions of Cyprus. The presentation of natural sites would not be complete without the Avakas Gorge, located 20 kilometers from Paphos. This creation of nature was formed more than one thousand years ago by the river that flowed here, which dried up over time - now all that remains of it is a small stream at the bottom of the canyon. Avagas is a hiker’s paradise, with spectacular views and an incredible abundance of flora, including endemic and endangered plants. As you pass through the gorge, the distance between its stone walls gradually narrows, eventually forming a narrow corridor where the stone masses hang right over your head, a frightening but fascinating sight.

33. Fig Tree Cove (Protaras)

An attractive landscape of Fig-Tree Cove in the resort town of Protaras in Cyprus dronepicr

The coastline of Protaras is dotted with small coves, but one of them stands out from the rest - it’s Fig Tree Bay, or Fig Tree Bay. Today it is a popular holiday spot, where many fig trees grow - it is said to be the only place in Cyprus with such a cluster of fig trees. Once the decoration of the bay was a giant fig tree - hence the name of the area. Fans of diving will be especially interesting to explore the coastal underwater world - it contributes to the clearest transparent water and a rich underwater world with mysterious sea caves. The beach offers a lot of entertainment - boating, water skiing, sailing, volleyball, basketball, tennis, working numerous restaurants with traditional local specialties. The bay is surrounded by a number of hotels with different level of service.

34. Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa

The famous Nissi Beach inside a cozy cove at the Ayia Napa resort in Cyprus

The Cypriot resort of Ayia Napa is famous for its beaches, among which the most popular is Nissi Beach, nestled in a beautiful Mediterranean bay. Every year it attracts an incredible number of holidaymakers, who love partying and having fun with friends. Every day this place is filled with the noise of discos, pleasing young people with a huge range of entertainment. For example, in the daytime - banana boat rides, skydiving, scuba diving, in the evenings - fiery dancing, foam parties and beach competitions. Nissi Beach is also perfectly equipped for comfortable rest - there are comfortable deck chairs, umbrellas, cabins and showers, and azure waters and soft sand are ideal for swimming. You can eat at any of the numerous cafes and restaurants.

35. Cape Greco (southeastern part of Cyprus)

Sea caves at Cape Greco in the southeastern part of Ayia Napa resort Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz

If you are looking for something to see in Cyprus in May, Cape Greco, which is considered one of the most beautiful places in Cyprus, should definitely be included in your itinerary. It is a true oasis of serenity, located in the southeast of the island. Its territory is untouched land, which changes its delightful appearance every season - it is no coincidence that in 1993 it was awarded the status of a national park. Thus, the flora of the local park includes more than four hundred species of plants, including endemics and simply rare vegetation. Flowers are especially beautiful - in April and May the whole area blooms in the most unimaginable colors, impressive brightness and beauty. In addition, at Cape Greco is completely forbidden to hunt, due to the need to protect the local fauna - along with numerous foxes, hedgehogs and hares, there are more than 80 species of birds, including migratory, as well as a huge variety of fantastic butterflies.

A trip to Cyprus can be compared to a round-the-world tour - it’s amazing how many monuments of nature, history and culture are concentrated on one small island. Holidays in Cyprus will allow not only distracting from everyday life and worries, but also plunge into another world, touching the cultures of different eras.