Yes, there are many different things to do in Cyprus, it is a major tourist attraction — coming right after Sicily and Sardinia on the list of largest and most popular Mediterranean islands.
Cyprus is an island country in the East Mediterranean Sea, it is a member state of the European Union.
Cyprus is known for having what archaeologists believe may be the oldest water wells in the world.
It is famous for its climate too for having the warmest climate in winters.
Tourism is growing day by day in this island.
The property rental market has also grown over the years, as has the number of investors.
Greek and Turkish are the two official languages but English is also widely spoken in this country.
Cyprus is one of the top three European Union countries in terms of per capita spending on education.
The island is the home to many high-quality religious icon paintings and many painted churches.
Due to its sandy beaches, ancient sites, sleepy villages and hidden hamlets it has become a solid holiday favorite.
Here are some places you will not want to miss on your trip to Cyprus:
Why Do Tourists Go to Cyprus?
Here I will cover a few of the reasons tourists go to Cyprus, in addition I will share with you my personal experience of favorite things to do and awesome places to visit on your next holiday to Cyprus.
Rock of Aphrodite
The rock of Aphrodite is located off the coast of Paphos .
Paphos is famous for its beaches and beautiful scenery, and it is an ideal spot for exploring.
The rock of Aphrodite is also known as “Petra Tou Romiou” in Greek.
This famous natural site is actually a collection of rocks, and is associated with the goddess of love and beauty.
It is believed that goddess Aphrodite rose from the waves of this amazing part of Cyprus.
Local legend says that if a man swims around these rocks three times under a full moon, he will be fully fertile.
The view of this rock is breathtaking — in fact, you will find the whole drive along the coastline absolutely stunning.
The beach is very clean and calm, perhaps a little rocky in places.
Standing on the sea cliffs, the view of sea with its changing colors looks amazing.
People visit this rock mainly because of its romantic connotation but the view becomes even more appealing at the time of sunset.
This place is excellent for taking a long walk and having the chance to relax.
Kato Paphos Archaeological Park
Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.
It includes sites and monuments from the Middle Ages and earlier.
There are many ruins from the Roman period and some marvelous mosaic floors are among the most impressive sights.
These are some of the world’s best-preserved mosaics.
Some are even covered, to protect them from sunlight.
This park has plenty of things to enjoy.
It is also known as “Nea Pafos.”
It is advisable to take an umbrella in the summer, and don’t forget to wear comfortable walking shoes.
Cyprus is not only about sun, sea and sand — the beautiful mosaics will change your thinking about this site.
Written information is available at each and every section.
The mosaics represent the mythology of the area and knowing the stories and beliefs of the local people will be a memorable experience for you.
The park itself is very huge and can take several hours to explore, but you will be unable to stop yourself from admiring the view!
You should not miss this informational site because its every corner is related to ancient history, and there are lots of beautiful ruins to be captured in your camera.
The House of Theseus and the House of Dionysius are worth some extra time — these two areas will be especially fascinating for you.
Overall, this place is amazing.
The Monastery of Agios Neophytos
This monastery is about 6 miles northwest of Paphos.
It contains the best Byzantine frescoes from the 15th century.
You will also be impressed after visiting the restaurant nearby — don’t miss tasting the delicious cakes.
This whole site consists of the Monastery, a museum and the holy cave where Saint Neophytos used to live. This whole complex is very well maintained and toilets are spotless. You will be relaxed after enjoying the calm and peace offered by this area.
Interesting paintings and stunning icons will take most of your time, but the surrounding countryside is so amazing that it will make you feel like you are in some other world. Those people with some religious knowledge will enjoy this place the most.
If you are an art lover then the paintings will be the center of attraction for you. You will find a small shop selling the icons.
Don’t forget to buy one in order to keep the memory of this beautiful place alive — it really has a heavenly charm of its own.
The most amazing thing you will find here will be the presence of colorful cats in the cat sanctuary.
You will notice a signboard in the parking saying where you will be able to feed them.
Don’t forget to bring something with you to feed these beautiful cats!
Also, be sure to take a walk in the garden — it looks stunning with olive and lemon trees.
Fun things to do in Cyprus
Tomb of the Kings
Spread over a large area, these impressive underground tombs are carved out of solid rock.
Some of these are decorated with Doric Pillars.
As for the name, the place actually has nothing to do with the Kings: the name just comes from the tombs.
They are located on the Tombs of the King Road, which further leads to Coral Bay .
Try not to visit this place at the time of highest sun because it is exposed.
The area is quite steep so wear comfortable shoes and if you have kids, keep a careful eye on them.
Rocky and uneven steps leading down will give you the feeling of adventure in exploring this place.
Make sure to bring water or energy drinks with you in order to avoid dehydration.
If you like visiting archeological sites then you will become the fan of this place.
Take a guidebook or map with you because without knowing the history it feels like just looking at some hills.
These tombs were used to bury noblemen and their families.
The best tombs are in the middle of the site.
Some historical books say that it was the place to store wine and food by Romans.
You will salute the cleverness of the Roman people who managed the construction of these beautiful tombs out of the hills, with very limited equipment.
This place is full of photo opportunities, and you will enjoy showing your pictures from here off to your family and friends.
The entrance fee is very small.
Popular Cyprus tourist attractions
Nissi Beach
Nissi Beach is located less than 2 miles from Ayia Napa , and is one of the best beaches in Europe.
The scene here is is fully romantic and it is the ideal place for wedding photos and blissful walks with your partner.
You will usually find a number of newly -married couples here.
The water is warm and clean, and the staff carefully maintains the natural beauty of this sandy beach.
It is also the center for some water sports — and the shop nearby sells sunscreen, beach toys and delicious ice cream.
You will be able to hire lounge chairs and umbrellas easily.
There is a bar also.
This beach is a perfect destination to get tanned, and jet skiing is the most popular activity enjoyed by tourists.
However if you are not an active person, this place is still ideal to relax and enjoy time with your family.
There is shallow water, which is ideal for kids to swim, and the crystal-clear water will add to the beauty of photographs.
So, overall this beach is suitable for all people.
The beach does get very crowded at peak time in the summer.
What else to do in Cyprus ?
Fasouri Watermania Water Park
This water park is located in Limassol.
It is very clean and the selection of rides is impressive, so it is an awesome place to have a great time with kids.
The staff is very friendly and polite and guards are there to look after the children properly without spoiling the fun.
Varied rides are suitable for every age group.
There is however no proper shade as the whole area is exposed — so don’t forget to take sunscreen with you.
Should you forget, there is a shop where you will be able to buy sunscreen as well as other items. This place becomes overcrowded on weekends because of its popularity.
This water park is really expensive, and small children absolutely love the variety of slides provided by the Fasouri Watermania Water Park. You can get a food voucher good for buying burgers, salads, nuggets and drinks of your choice.
Life jackets are offered free of cost if you need them for your children. This water park is a little expensive but it is worth spending money for all the fun it provides.
Paddle Boats, Tarzan Swing, Baby Bungee Swings, Elephant Slide, Wave pool, Black Hole Slides and the Lazy River are the main attractions of this water park. So, overall it is worth spending a day with your kids and friends.
Must see places in Cyprus
Paphos Harbour Castle
Paphos Harbour Castle is very ancient and it is located at the end of the harbor overlooking the sea. This area is surrounded by a number of restaurants and bars. The view of the sea from the top of the castle is absolutely breathtaking.
It is an ideal place to have a meal in the late evening. You will be stunned to see the reflection of the castle in the water when the sea is still.
It is a very wonderful and magical scene. But at any time, this place is an ideal destination for tourists to spend some hours wandering around and looking at the amazing waves.
The whole area comes alive at night because the lights illuminating the area make it an awesome place.
If you want to capture some excellent pictures, the top of the castle is highly recommended. This castle really interests the people who have knowledge and affection for historical forts. Don’t forget to take sunscreen with you if visiting this place in summer, as it gets hot.
What else to see in Cyprus ?
Paphos Bird and Animal Park
While visiting Paphos area don’t forget to pay a visit to the famous Bird and Animal Park. It is a nice place to visit and has undergone many improvements in recent years.
There are plenty of animals and birds to see and trees provide shade everywhere. The whole area is very clean and all the animals are looked after properly.
All the pathways are flat so it is easy to walk. Children specially love this place, as it is really a perfect adventure for them.
The restaurant here provides excellent quality of food. You will be surprised by the parrot and owl show, as well as the pair of white lions that is the main attraction of this zoo.
The reptile house is also amazing. Make sure to visit this place when planning a nice day out with your family and friends. Your kids will fall in love with this place.
Popular places to visit in Cyprus
Omodos Village
This historical village is located only a few miles away from the city of Limassol on the way to Troodos.
The roads are little narrow but the village is really worth a visit. There are many small places of tourist interest and the history is amazing.
The shops for jewelry and ornaments are really good in this village, and although it is small the village even has a number of cafes and restaurants.
It is a pretty traditional village, famous for its churches and winery. The people of the village are very friendly and offer traditional wine to the tourists. There are a lot of places in this village to visit.
It is home to the traditional Timiou Stavrou Monastery also. The ancient timber buildings around the monastery are worth admiring. Various shops nearby sell traditional lace, honey, nuts and silver jewelry.
Don’t forget to try the local beer and honey-coated macadamia nuts.
It is pleasant to walk down the sloping streets and discover galleries and boutiques.
If you are a fan of real culture and ancient treasure then Omodos Villages are worth a visit.
