Top 10 Things to do on Holiday in Cyprus

Great Reasons to Visit Aphrodite's Island in the Eastern Med

Nov 16, 2009

From following in the steps of Aphrodite to spotting endangered turtles, there is much more to Cyprus than sun, sea and sand - although there is plenty of that too.

There are lots of reasons why visitors keep coming back to Cyprus and why first timers are attracted to the island too. Here are some of the best.

This culinary feast of 20 to 30 dishes just keeps on coming. Tzatsiki, olives, dolmades, hummus, tahini and other Greek delights are followed by an avalanche of fish - prawns, octopus, calamari – or meat - kleftiko, mousaka and barbecued kebabs. It’s great for those with a big appetite!

Chat to Friendly Locals Who Adore Children

Want pitta bread? The taverna owner will fetch some from next door – piping hot! The Cypriots love children and welcome them wherever you go. The majority of people speak English, and they drive on the left – yet the island retains its Greek culture and atmosphere.

Archaeology Abounds All Over the Island

With more than 10,000 years of history, there is plenty to see: the UNESCO Paphos Archaeological Park housing amazing Roman third-century mosaic floors in the Houses of Dionysus, Theseus and Aion; the impressive Tombs of the Kings - a complex of 4th burial chambers and the ancient sites of Amathus and Curium, home to the Crusaders.

Follow the goddess of love on a self-drive tour of Kition, Amathounda and Kouklia. Stop off at Aphrodite’s Rock for a swim, or visit the Baths of Aphrodite where the goddess seduced her lovers. A booklet outlining the route is available from local tourist offices.

Swim in the Blue Lagoon

These crystal clear turquoise waters are great for swimming and snorkelling. Only accessible by boat, jeep or on foot, hire a self-drive boat from Latchi harbour and cruise along the rugged coastline, or take an afternoon cruise – ideal for those who want to laze on deck.

Spot Green and Loggerhead Turtles

This is one of the last remaining turtle hatching areas in the Mediterranean and a wonderful beauty spot. Green and loggerhead turtles return to this spectacular sandy beach each year to lay their eggs. Tourists are allowed onto the beach during the day but are advised to tread carefully.

Laze on Golden Sandy Beaches

The best golden sandy beaches are to be found on the east coast at Protaras and Ayia Napa. Nissi Beach and Fig Tree Bay are the most stunning and their gently shelving sands are safe for children.

Visit Nicosia for Ancient Wonders

The only remaining divided capital city in the world, following the invasion by the Turks in 1974, Nicosia is a treasure trove. Surrounded by 16th century Venetian fortifications, it contains ancient churches, medieval buildings and museums - Archaeological and Byzantine Art museums. Wander around the narrow streets of the old town of Laiki Yitonia, stopping off at a taverna or shop selling lace and leather.

Enjoy Walking and Bird Watching in the Troodos Mountains

The mountains are a haven for nature lovers, birdwatchers and walkers. Around 350 bird species stop off here on their migration south. The rarest are the griffon vulture, raven and Bonelli’s eagle but there are also eagles, kites, and falcons. The Kaledonia walking trail finishes at the spectacular Kaledonia Falls.

Drink Coffee in a Traditional Village

Play backgammon or drink coffee with the locals or watch Haloumi cheese made by hand. Omodhos, at the foothills of Troodos, is one of the most picturesque with its traditional ring-shaped arketana bread, narrow streets and Stavros Monastery.

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