10 Ultimate Cyprus Highlights For Your First Visit

Welcome to sun-kissed Cyprus, where ancient history meets stunning natural beauty. Here are the top 10 ultimate Cyprus highlights for you. Imagine exploring centuries-old ruins, lounging on pristine beaches, and hiking through lush mountains—all in one trip.

Are you a history lover? An adventurer? Or someone looking to relax by the sea? Cyprus has something special for you. Get ready to discover the best of this Mediterranean gem with our selection of the 10 must-see highlights and travel tips.

Dive into the top highlights you should not miss on your first visit.

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Ancient Ruins of Paphos

Paphos is a treasure trove for history buffs. Begin your journey at the Paphos Archaeological Park, where you will be captivated by the intricate Roman mosaics that date back to the 3rd century.

These mosaics, depicting scenes from Greek mythology, are some of the best-preserved in the world. Wander through the ruins of ancient villas, like the House of Dionysus, and marvel at the Odeon, a small amphitheater still used for performances today.

Do not miss the Tombs of the Kings, an eerie and fascinating necropolis carved out of solid rock, giving you a glimpse into the burial practices of the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The site is huge, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water.

Kyrenia Harbour

Kyrenia is the crown jewel of Northern Cyprus. Its quaint, horseshoe-shaped harbor is lined with colorful fishing boats and overlooked by the imposing Kyrenia Castle. This fortress dates back to Byzantine times.

The harbor area is a vibrant mix of history and modernity, with charming cafes and restaurants where you can sip on a coffee or enjoy fresh seafood while soaking in the view.

Inside the castle, explore the fascinating Shipwreck Museum, which houses a well-preserved ancient Greek merchant ship that sank off the coast around 300 BC.

Travel Tip: Evening is the best time to visit when the harbor comes alive with lights and music. Take a boat tour from the harbor for stunning coastline views.

Troodos Mountains

Escape the coastal heat and venture into the green heart of Cyprus. The mountains are home to traditional villages like Omodos and Kakopetria, where time seems to have stood still.

Wander the narrow, cobblestone streets, visit local wineries, and sample Cypriot delicacies like loukoumades (honey doughnuts) and halloumi cheese. A must-see is the Kykkos Monastery, the most famous monastery in Cyprus.

The surrounding Troodos National Park offers excellent hiking trails that lead you through forests, waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints.

Aphrodite’s Rock

The next destination in our selection of the 10 ultimate Cyprus highlights is Aphrodite’s Rock. Legend has it that the Greek goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, was born from the sea foam at this very spot, making Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou) a place of mythical beauty.

Located between Paphos and Limassol, this picturesque sea stack rises dramatically from the waves, creating a stunning backdrop for photographs.

According to local lore, swimming around the rock three times will bring you eternal beauty, so do not forget your swimsuit if you want to give it a try!

Travel Tip: The area around Aphrodite’s Rock is perfect for a coastal walk. Bring a picnic and enjoy it on the nearby pebbled beach while watching a spectacular sunset.

Larnaca Salt Lake

Larnaca’s Salt Lake is a natural wonder, especially during the winter months when it turns pink with the arrival of thousands of flamingos. This large, shallow lake is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Do not forget to visit the nearby Hala Sultan Tekke mosque. It is one of the most important Islamic pilgrimage sites in the world. The serene ambiance of the mosque and the beautiful setting make it a peaceful place for reflection.

Travel Tip: Visit during winter for the best chance to see flamingos.

St. Hilarion Castle

Perched high in the Kyrenia mountain range, St. Hilarion Castle is like something out of a fairytale, and it is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Snow White.  

Climbing up its steep, winding staircases, you will pass through a series of well-preserved rooms, courtyards, and battlements, each offering increasingly breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Mediterranean Sea far below.

The castle is divided into three main sections, with the topmost section, the Prince John Tower, providing the most spectacular panorama.

Nicosia’s Old Town

Nicosia (Lefkosia) is the last divided capital in Europe, a city where history and politics blend seamlessly. Start your exploration in the Old Town, surrounded by Venetian walls.

Stroll through Ledra Street, the main thoroughfare that leads to the UN Buffer Zone, where you can cross into the Turkish-controlled north. The Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, each with its own story, lined with traditional shops, cafes, and historic buildings.

Do not miss the Leventis Municipal Museum to learn about the city’s rich history, and the Selimiye Mosque (formerly St. Sophia Cathedral) in the north, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

Travel Tip: The Old Town is best explored on foot. Bring your passport if you plan to cross the border.

Akamas Peninsula

Akamas Peninsula is another mesmerizing destination on our list of the 10 ultimate Cyprus highlights. For nature lovers and adventurers, the Akamas Peninsula is a must-visit. This remote, rugged region on the western tip of Cyprus is a protected area, home to diverse flora and fauna, including endangered sea turtles.

Hike the Aphrodite and Adonis Trails for stunning views of the coastline. Or take a boat tour to the Blue Lagoon, where you can swim in some of the clearest waters on the island.

The Baths of Aphrodite, a natural grotto where the goddess is said to have bathed, is another highlight, offering a tranquil setting surrounded by lush greenery.

Travel Tip: Rent a 4×4 vehicle if you plan to explore the more rugged parts of the peninsula. If you are visiting during turtle nesting season (May to August), consider joining a guided tour to learn more about conservation efforts.

Cape Greco

On the southeastern coast of Cyprus, Cape Greco is a breathtaking natural park known for its dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and crystal-clear waters.

Cape Greco is a paradise for snorkelers, divers, and photographers. The sea caves, carved by the relentless pounding of the waves, create an otherworldly landscape that is fun to explore.

For the adventurous, there are spots where you can jump into the azure waters from the cliffs above. The area is also great for hiking, with trails that offer panoramic views of the Mediterranean.

Kourion

The last destination on the list of 10 ultimate Cyprus highlights is Kourion. It is an ancient city-state located on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The star attraction here is the Greco-Roman theater, still used for performances today, especially during the summer.

Walk through the remains of luxurious Roman houses, complete with intricate mosaics. Visit the House of Eustolios, a complex with baths and a large reception area. The site also includes the Episkopi Bay below, where you can relax on the beach after your explorations.

Travel Tip: The theater is the perfect spot for sunset, offering breathtaking views of the coastline. If you visit during the summer, check if there are any performances scheduled.