This guide covers the best things to do in Cyprus, from beaches and coastal viewpoints to cities, mountains and lesser known spots across the island.
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Best Things to Do in Cyprus by Area
Highlights across Cyprus:
- Aphrodite’s Rock
- Blue Lagoon, Cape Greco
- Fig Tree Bay
- Troodos Mountains
- Nicosia old town
If you are planning to see several of these in one trip, it helps to follow a structured route. This 5 day Cyprus itinerary is the most efficient way to combine them without backtracking.
Explore Paphos and the West Coast
The Paphos region combines history, coastal scenery and archaeological sites, making it one of the most varied areas to explore.
Visit Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou)
One of the most iconic spots in Cyprus, Aphrodite’s Rock is said to be the birthplace of the Greek goddess of love. Whether or not you’re interested in the mythology, it’s an impressive stretch of coastline with dramatic rock formations.
There’s a small car park and a shop with toilets nearby, and it’s best visited as a short stop rather than somewhere to spend the whole day, especially if the sea is rough.
Explore the Paphos Sea Caves
Located near Peyia, the sea caves are natural rock formations shaped by the sea over time. It’s one of the most photogenic areas in Cyprus and feels very different from the rest of the island.
There’s free parking nearby, and you can walk along the cliffs for different viewpoints.
Visit the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos
Part of the UNESCO-listed Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, the Tombs of the Kings date back to the 4th century BC. Despite the name, they were used for high-ranking officials rather than royalty.
The site is large and exposed, so it’s worth visiting earlier or later in the day to avoid the heat. Entry is inexpensive and there is free parking on site.
If you prefer to explore with a guide, you can check Paphos tours that combine the Tombs of the Kings and coastal sites into one route.
Relax in Protaras and Ayia Napa
This side of Cyprus is known for its beaches, but there’s more to it than just the party reputation.
Visit Fig Tree Bay
Fig Tree Bay is one of the most well-known beaches in Cyprus, with soft sand and clear, calm water. It’s ideal for swimming and snorkelling, and even in peak season it’s worth visiting.
For something quieter, nearby Konnos Beach offers a more secluded alternative surrounded by greenery.
Swim in the Blue Lagoon, Cape Greco
The Blue Lagoon is one of the most beautiful spots on the island, with crystal-clear water and limestone cliffs.
The easiest way to see the Blue Lagoon is by boat, especially if you want to swim and stop at multiple points along the coast. That said, you can also drive to Cape Greco and walk down if you’d rather explore it independently.
Most people visit the Blue Lagoon by boat, and you can check available boat tours here if you want a more relaxed option. I usually activate TopCashback before booking to get some money back.
These are one of the most popular activities in Cyprus, especially in summer, so it’s worth checking availability in advance.
Discover Nicosia
Nicosia offers a completely different experience from the coast, with a mix of culture, history and local life.
Cross the Border at Ledra Street
Nicosia is the only divided capital in Europe, split between the Republic of Cyprus and Northern Cyprus.
Crossing the border at Ledra Street is straightforward, and once in the north you can visit Büyük Han, a restored Ottoman inn now filled with shops and cafés.
If you want a deeper understanding of the division, guided tours of the Green Line and buffer zone give much more context than exploring alone.
Experience a Traditional Hammam
For something different, visit a traditional bathhouse like Hamam Omerye.
The experience includes time in a heated marble room, a full-body scrub and a massage. It’s more intense than a typical spa, but you leave feeling completely refreshed.
Explore the Troodos Mountains
If you want a break from the coast, the Troodos Mountains offer a completely different side of Cyprus. Cooler temperatures, pine forests and winding roads make it one of the best inland day trips on the island.
It’s worth setting aside most of a day for this region, as there are several stops you can combine into one route.
Visit Kykkos Monastery
Located high in the mountains, Kykkos Monastery is one of the most significant religious sites in Cyprus. The interior is covered in mosaics, gold detailing and religious icons, and feels very different from the coastal parts of the island.
Modest dress is required (no shorts or sleeveless tops), but coverings are provided at the entrance if needed.
Go Wine Tasting at a Local Winery
The Troodos region is also known for its wine production, including Commandaria, one of the oldest named wines still in production.
We visited Tsiakkas Winery, a second-generation family-run vineyard set across 18 hectares. Tastings start from around €7, and you can try a selection of local wines while overlooking the surrounding mountains. It was one of the highlights of the trip, and somewhere I’d definitely recommend factoring into your route.
If you don’t want to drive, full day Troodos tours that include Kykkos Monastery, Omodos village and wine tasting are one of the easiest ways to see this part of the island.
Visit Traditional Villages and Larnaca
Wander Around Lefkara Village
Lefkara is known for its lace and silverwork, with small shops and narrow streets that make it easy to explore on foot.
It’s recognised by UNESCO for its craftsmanship and offers a slower-paced contrast to the coast.
Visit Larnaca Salt Lake
Located near the airport, Larnaca Salt Lake is best known for flamingos in winter, but it’s still worth visiting in summer for the landscape.
Spend Time at Mackenzie Beach
Mackenzie Beach is one of the easiest places to relax near Larnaca. It sits right under the flight path, which makes it a surprisingly good spot for watching planes land over the sea.
It’s also a convenient final stop before heading to the airport.
Do You Need a Car in Cyprus?
For most of these places, hiring a car makes things significantly easier. It allows you to move between regions, visit more remote spots like the Troodos Mountains, and explore at your own pace.
You can compare car hire prices here before booking, which makes it much easier to plan your route and see more of the island.
Final Thoughts
Cyprus is far more diverse than it first appears, and the best way to experience it is by combining a few different regions rather than staying in one place.
If you are short on time, focus on Paphos, the east coast beaches and one inland trip to the Troodos Mountains. This gives the best balance of coastline, culture and scenery without trying to cover too much.
If you are not sure where to start, you can follow my 5 day Cyprus itinerary for a ready made route.
