16 Best Things To Do In Cyprus

Cyprus is often associated with sunshine, beautiful beaches, and crystal clear water, and while that reputation is well deserved, there’s far more to this Mediterranean island than lazy days by the sea. Beyond the coastline, you’ll find ancient ruins, traditional villages, and mountain landscapes that make Cyprus surprisingly diverse for such a compact destination.

We’ve been lucky enough to call Cyprus home for many years, which has given us the chance to explore every corner of the island over time. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, historical sites, or simply slowing down in a quiet village, Cyprus offers a little bit of everything and easily fills a vacation itinerary.

From the lively streets of Nicosia to the peaceful villages and forest trails of the Troodos Mountains, this guide shares 16 of the best things to do in Cyprus, all based on places we’ve personally visited and would genuinely recommend.

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16 Best Things to Do in Cyprus – Complete Guide

1. Relax at the Beach

No list of things to do in Cyprus is complete without mentioning its stunning beaches. Whether you’re looking for party vibes or secluded spots, the island has it all, with some of the best beaches in Cyprus found along its eastern and western coast. Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa is famous for its lively atmosphere and crystal-clear waters. If you prefer a more relaxed setting, Fig Tree Bay in Protaras or Coral Bay near Paphos offer golden sands and shallow waters. For a quieter escape, Makronissos Beach and Konnos Bay, nestled in Cape Greco National Park, are perfect choices.

2. Wander through Nicosia’s Old Town

As the last divided capital in Europe, Nicosia offers a unique glimpse into the island’s complex history. Stroll along the historic Venetian Walls, which once protected the city, and explore the charming Ledra Street, where vibrant shops and cafes line the path.

Take a private walking tour with a local guide to get an insider’s perspective on the attractions and the city’s history, enhancing your visit with deeper insights. Nicosia is one of the most fascinating places to see in Cyprus, offering a mix of cultures, architecture, and lively street life.

3. Discover the Tombs of the Kings

Located in Paphos, the Tombs of the Kings is one of the top 10 Cyprus tourist attractions. This UNESCO-listed necropolis features impressive underground tombs carved into solid rock. Despite the name, no actual kings were buried here, but the grandeur of the site suggests it was reserved for high-ranking officials. This is a must-see for anyone exploring Cyprus and its ancient history.

You might also be interested in: Ultimate Paphos Itinerary

4. Day Trip to the Troodos Mountains

For a break from the coast, head to the Troodos Mountains, one of the most scenic places of interest in Cyprus. Visit Omodos, a picturesque village with cobbled streets and a historic monastery. Then, explore the lush forests and waterfalls, including the stunning Pano Platres Waterfall. Visiting the Troodos Mountains is also one of the best things to do in Cyprus in winter as you can go skiing on Mount Olympus.

Depending on where you are staying, there are several great tour options to the Troodos Mountains:

5. Visit the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park

If you’re wondering what else to see in Cyprus, the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park is one of the most significant Cyprus attractions. It is home to spectacular Roman mosaics, particularly in the House of Dionysus. Other highlights include the grand Odeon Theatre, the remains of Roman villas, and ancient temples. This UNESCO-listed site is one of the best places to visit in Cyprus for history lovers. To enhance your experience, you can join a private walking tour with a professional guide, who will provide in-depth knowledge of the site’s rich history and significance.

6. Visit Aphrodite’s Rock

One of the most legendary tourist spots in Cyprus, Aphrodite’s Rock – also known as Petra tou Romiou – is where, according to Greek mythology, the goddess of love was born. This stunning coastal landmark, located between Paphos and Limassol, offers breathtaking views and is one of the best beaches in Cyprus for a sunset visit.

Legend has it that swimming around the rock three times grants eternal beauty. Whether you believe the myth or not, it’s a must-see for anyone exploring Cyprus and its rich history. Don’t miss this iconic spot!

If you’re short on time: Combine Aphrodite’s Rock with a tour to ancient Kourion and Kolossi Castle or with a Troodos Mountain tour for an in-depth Cyprus experience.

7. Go Snorkeling

Snorkeling is one of the top activities in Cyprus, offering the chance to explore the rich marine life around the island. In Protaras, you can swim alongside sea turtles at Green Bay, a stunning location known for its crystal-clear waters. For a truly unique experience, head to MUSAN in Ayia Napa – a fascinating underwater sculpture museum.

You could also join a guided snorkelling tour above the Zenobia Wreck, a renowned dive site Whether you have plenty of experience or just started out, snorkeling is one of the best things to do in Cyprus for water sports enthusiasts.

You might also be interested in: Best Photo Spots in Cyprus

8. Explore the Akamas Peninsula National Park

For nature lovers, the Akamas Peninsula is one of the best places to go in Cyprus. This beautiful national park offers a range of the best outdoor activities in Cyprus, from hiking through Avakas Gorge, where towering limestone walls create a stunning natural canyon, to enjoying the untouched beauty of Lara Beach – a protected nesting site for sea turtles.

The park is also home to the famous Blue Lagoon, which is the perfect spot for a fun boat tour surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters. At the Akamas Peninsula, you can also find Aphrodite’s Bath, a tranquil spot where legend says the goddess of love bathed regularly.

With its diverse landscapes and rich wildlife, Akamas Peninsula is one of the must-visit places for anyone looking to explore Cyprus off the beaten path.

Depending on how adventurous you feel, there are different ways to experience the area:

You may also want to read: Renting a Car in Cyprus: All You Need to Know

9. Enjoy a Meze Feast

If you’re a foodie wondering what to do in Cyprus, trying a local Meze is essential. This traditional dining experience offers a delicious selection of small dishes, allowing you to sample a variety of Cypriot flavors in one meal. Expect everything from grilled halloumi, souvlaki, and fresh seafood to flavorful dips like tzatziki, taramasalata, and hummus, often accompanied by warm pita bread. Many tavernas also serve kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb) and sheftalia (Cypriot sausages), making it a true feast for the senses.

The best way to enjoy Meze is with friends or family at a traditional taverna, preferably with a glass of Commandaria, Cyprus’ famous sweet wine. For an authentic experience, head to a local village taverna where meals are served at a leisurely pace, allowing you to savor every bite while soaking in the warm Cypriot hospitality.

10. Visit Cape Greco National Park

One of the most stunning places to see in Cyprus, Cape Greco National Park offers dramatic cliffs, hidden caves, and scenic hiking trails. The Sea Caves of Ayia Napa are a must-see, providing breathtaking photo opportunities and even spots for cliff jumping.

A boat trip to the Blue Lagoon here is an unforgettable experience, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Whether by land or sea, this is one of the best places to visit in Cyprus for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

There are plenty of ways to explore the area:

And even if you’re staying further away, you can join a guided tour with transfers from Larnaca if you don’t fancy driving to Ayia Napa and Protaras yourself.

You may also be interested in: Complete Ayia Napa Travel Guide

11. Visit a traditional Winery

Wine lovers will enjoy visiting a traditional winery in the Troodos foothills, one of the most scenic places to visit in Cyprus. The island has a winemaking tradition dating back over 5,000 years, making it one of the oldest in the world. The most famous Cypriot wine is Commandaria, a sweet dessert wine that has been enjoyed since ancient times. You can also sample local varieties like Xynisteri, a refreshing white, and Maratheftiko, a rich red, while learning about the island’s unique grape-growing methods.

For an immersive experience, take a Troodos Mountain jeep tour with wine tasting, where you’ll visit charming mountain villages and taste local wines in a stunning natural setting.

12. Take a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon

Not to be confused with the one at Cape Greco, the Blue Lagoon near Paphos is just as breathtaking and one of the best tourist attractions in Cyprus. Nestled along the Akamas Peninsula, this secluded bay is only accessible by boat, making it a truly unspoiled paradise. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, offering incredible visibility and a beautiful underwater world.

For the ultimate experience as a tourist in Cyprus, consider renting a boat yourself (we always rent here) and exploring the lagoon at your own pace. We assure you that this will be one of the best things to do in Paphos, Cyprus. If you don’t want to rent a boat yourself but still want to experience the Blue Lagoon, you have two great options:

• Rent a private boat with a skipper and enjoy drinks on board, departing from Latchi
• Join a Blue Lagoon Boat Tour including transfers from Paphos for a stress-free and social experience

13. See the Flamingos at Larnaca Salt Lake

One of the best things to do in Larnaca, Cyprus, is visiting the breathtaking Larnaca Salt Lake. Between November and March, this vast wetland transforms into a paradise for birdwatchers, as thousands of pink flamingos migrate here, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The sight of these elegant birds wading through the reflective waters is truly unforgettable.

Even in summer, when the water evaporates and leaves behind a shimmering salt crust, the lake remains one of the best places to go in Cyprus. Nearby, the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, one of the most important Islamic pilgrimage sites, adds to the area’s cultural significance. Whether for nature or history, Larnaca Salt Lake is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring Cyprus.

You might also want to read: Perfect Larnaca Itinerary

14. Go Scuba Diving at Zenobia Wreck & Cape Greco

For adventure seekers, diving at the Zenobia Wreck is a must. Ranked among the top ten wreck dives in the world, this sunken cargo ship near Larnaca is home to abundant and fantastic marine life. Exploring the massive vessel, with its intact trucks and cargo still visible, is one of the most thrilling activities in Cyprus for experienced divers. You can either hone your technical dives skills or complete your Advanced Open Water Course at the site.

If you’re looking for more underwater adventures, Cape Greco offers incredible cave and tunnel diving, where you can navigate through rock formations and discover hidden marine life. You can also explore the underwater statues with a dive at the MUSAN Underwater Museum in Ayia Napa.

Not certified? No problem!

• Try an introductory scuba lesson to experience diving for the first time.
• Or you can even complete your PADI Open Water Certificate in Cyprus, making it a great place to start your diving journey.

15. Discover the Art of Lace Making in Lefkara Village

Nestled in the Troodos foothills, Lefkara Village is one of the most charming places to visit in Cyprus. Known for its intricate handmade lace, famously admired by Leonardo da Vinci, this picturesque village is a must for anyone interested in traditional craftsmanship.

Wander through the narrow, cobbled streets, admire the beautifully preserved stone houses, and watch local artisans create delicate lace and silverware using centuries-old techniques. To fully appreciate the history and artistry of the village, consider taking a guided walking tour through Pano Lefkara, where you’ll hear stories behind this unique craft and explore hidden corners of the village.

16. Explore Ancient Kourion

One of the most impressive ancient sites in Cyprus, Kourion is a must-see for history enthusiasts. The Roman amphitheater is particularly breathtaking, offering stunning sea views and an authentic glimpse into the past. The intricate mosaics in the House of Eustolios depict stories from Greek mythology, offering a unique insight into ancient culture. If you have more time, head to Kolossi Castle, a medieval fortress that once served as the headquarters for the Knights of St. John.

For a more immersive experience, you can visit Kourion as part of a guided tour from Paphos that includes Limassol and Kolossi Castle. Alternatively, if you’re staying in Limassol, this day tour combines Kourion with Vouni village and a wine tasting in the Troodos Mountains. Both are excellent options if you’d rather leave the driving to someone else and explore more of the region in a single day. Kourion is one of the best things to do in Limassol and is well worth adding to your Cyprus itinerary.

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We hope this guide has inspired you to explore the beauty and charm of Cyprus. Whether you’re drawn to its beauitiful beaches, tranquil villages, or stunning landscapes, the island offers something for everyone.

If you’re planning a trip to Cyprus, be sure to check out our detailed Cyprus itinerary to help you make the most of your time on the island. It brings together many of these highlights into a realistic route that’s easy to follow.

We’re confident that Cyprus will leave you with unforgettable memories and a longing to return. Enjoy your journey through this Mediterranean paradise!

Madeleine & Carsten

FAQ – Best Things to Do in Cyprus

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