This is a great destination for Hiking with its unique flora and fauna.
The tiny island of Cyprus with a great history for centuries was in the possession of many great empires.
Cyprus was the coveted object of desire for many conquerors, the main prize for those who seized power in the Eastern Mediterranean. Here today still attracts hundreds of thousands of people, but for different purposes. They do not seek to seize power and glory, and just want to relax on the beautiful beaches of the island. For tourists interested in not only the sand and sun in Cyprus has many archaeological sites, Byzantine churches, monasteries and museums. This is a great destination for Hiking with its unique flora and fauna. And most importantly, the island is so small that you can stay in one of the resort towns and explore from there all the sights of Cyprus.
Paphos. In the South-Western part of Cyprus is the coastal city of Paphos, which is considered the birthplace of Aphrodite. Today Paphos is divided into two parts. The lower area is known as Kato Paphos, where many of the hotels and archaeological sites of Cyprus. Uptown shopping area with many shops and restaurants. Ruins and archaeology are the main attractions in Paphos. Among them stands out the Greek mosaic, House of Dionysus and house of Tezia, Fort of Paphos on the 16th century tombs of the kings and Odeon is a classic Greek amphitheater, where still hold games and various live performances. In the sequel, also read about the most popular sights of Greece, which is dedicated to a separate collection.
Limassol. After the capital of Cyprus, Limassol is the largest city on the island. This is the main sea port, which in recent decades could become a main tourist destination for beach lovers and sun. The old town is the best place to start the walk and see the sights of Limassol. The main attraction here is the majestic Limassol castle. The main shopping street of Limassol is the street Anexartisias and Saripolou area, which also has many entertainment options. Don’t leave town, not admiring the many luxury yachts in the Bay of Limassol and not stroll along the seafront Akti Olympion.
In Ayia NAPA. If you are interested in nightlife — feel free to choose the Cypriot resort of Ayia NAPA. All the fun begins with the sunset — opened numerous bars and clubs that stay open until early morning. Ayia NAPA is perfect for lovers of live music, excellent drinks and vibrant atmosphere of the holiday. There is also something to do during the day. Among the beautiful beaches stand out Nissi, Makronissos and Greek Bay. Among the architectural landmarks of Ayia NAPA 16th century, as well as the Thalassa Museum with a unique collection of exhibits dedicated to the key role of the sea in the development of the region.
Protaras. The resort of Protaras offers its guests the ultimate in relaxation and accessible beaches. The main beach of Protaras — Fig tree Bay (Fig Tree Bay) is equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds. Here you can dive into the fresh Mediterranean water, or simply bask on the beach with a cocktail. Nearby lie Cape Greco national Park with a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for family travel. 14-mile Hiking trail stretches along the sea throughout the city and the night life of Protaras will not let you get bored under any circumstances.
Nicosia. Nicosia — capital of Cyprus, not unlike any other capital in the world. It is divided between Turkey controlled Northern Cyprus and the Greek Republic of Cyprus in the South. Nicosia is famous for its many museums, including the Cyprus Museum, Byzantine Museum and Museum-Ledra Observatory. Here you can climb to the 11th floor and to see firsthand the national dividing line of the island (Green Line). If you wish to buy any Cypriot Souvenirs, go to the Ledra street crossing point, or a quarter the Huskies Gitonia, where tourist souvenir shops.
The Akamas Peninsula. In the Western part of Cyprus is the Akamas Peninsula, one of the least populated parts of the island. If you are ready to get off the beaten millions of travelers of the route, explore the beauty of this remote location. There really are no paved roads that should not be a hindrance for a good tour. It is best to travel the Island on foot or rent a bike. The wild nature of the Peninsula can surprise with its diversity, including marine turtles, reptiles and many rare birds. A deeper acquaintance with the history of the Peninsula you can visit Agios Andronikos, a former mosque, now a Church. It was built in the early 16th century.
Famagusta. In the East of Cyprus lies the city of Famagusta with the deepest Bay on the island. Using this gift of nature, the city hosts many cruise ships from around the world. In addition to the port, Famagusta, famous for its ancient castle, defensive walls that have survived to this day. Here a perfectly preserved two historic sites — Lala Mustafa paşa mosque and monastery of St. Barnabas. Just South is the Ghost town of Varosha, which was once a popular resort, isolated by the Turks in 1974.
Kyrenia. Among the attractions of Cyprus, special attention should be paid to Kyrenia is a pretty town in the North of the island. Its old quarter, the Bay still keeps its Ottoman character. Kyrenia castle dominates the quiet Cove on the East side, stunning views of the surrounding city. Narrow winding trails will lead you right to the coastline with its traditional wooden houses. This is a great place for walking, where you can feel the atmosphere of old times and relax in one of the many cafes overlooking the Bay. The Northern part of the island of Cyprus is under Turkish control, including the historic Bay of Kyrenia. Set against the backdrop of the peaks of Pentadaktylos, the city has preserved their architecture for over 1300 years, offering many opportunities for travel. Among the best museums in Kyrenia stands decorative arts Museum and shipwreck Museum, some artifacts which broke the barrier of 2000 years. The outstanding attraction is the Byzantine castle of Kyrenia 7th century. Here you can also observe sea turtles in their natural habitat. Golf lovers will appreciate the picturesque fields, overlooking the Mediterranean sea. Cyprus is located South of Turkey, in the Mediterranean. The island is a place of mixing cultures, geographically situated in Asia but throughout the rest of the tightly overlapped with Europe. The island is famous for its climate, best European beaches, historical settlements, ancient ruins, scenic mountains and vibrant cities.
The Nissi Beach. The charming strip of white sand stretching along the turquoise sea of Agia NAPA in the Nissi beach is one of the best beaches of Cyprus. Of course, it gets too crowded during the summer season, because the glory of Nissi beach has spread far beyond the island. But even the influx of tourists does not spoil the beauty of this amazing place. The sea here is quite shallow and almost always calm because the Bay is a great place to stay with children. Here we have created excellent infrastructure with many hotels of different class and all the necessary amenities on the beach.
The Cyprus Museum. With many archaeological sites — is not surprising that Cyprus is so rich in museums. Among them the most distinguished Museum of Cyprus in the capital Nicosia, where one can find the whole history of the island. Carefully curated, the Museum offers visitors the chance to take part in exciting adventure and immerse yourself in the history, beginning from Neolithic times to the Ottoman era. The exhibition is famous for its terracotta statues of the period of the 7th century BC, Even if you come here to relax on the beach, be sure to allocate a half day to visit the capital and the Cyprus Museum.
The House Of Dionysus. Outstanding attraction of Cyprus is Paphos. In the House of Dionysus preserved an amazing collection of colourful mosaic floors. The house is part of a massive archaeological complex with many Greco-Roman sculptures. The house of Dionysus are a good example of the sophisticated craftsmanship of the period. The monument is named in honor of the God Dionysus, who is depicted on many mosaics, along with scenes from Greek mythology.
Villages Of Troodos. The biggest mountain range of Cyprus — the Troodos massif, located in the South-West of the island. Here are popular attractions in Cyprus, the pretty villages with stone traditional houses and cobbled alleys. Here you will find the most authentic of the Church of Cyprus and monasteries with colourful centuries-old frescoes. Churches in the villages of Troodos is so historically important that nine of them received the status of monuments of cultural heritage of UNESCO. Taking a hire car you can visit all the churches in one day, but if you have time for only one, choose the Church of Archangel Michael in the village of Pedoulas.
Cape Greco. Even on the bustling South coast of Cyprus there are regions where it is possible to avoid the accumulation of tourists. Cape Greco is a wonderful coastal national Park with many Hiking routes to the East of the resort of Agia NAPA. Among the rich variety of local flora stands of the endemic Cyprus wild orchids that bloom in early spring. But even more amazing coastal scenery against the azure sea. Trails lead directly to Cape Greco, which is the most accurate South East of Cyprus. In the South-Western part of Cyprus is an outstanding natural attraction is the Troodos Mountains. Here you can dive into the cool waters of the waterfall Caledonia, through the medieval bridge of Milia, or rent a bike and conquer dozens of miles of scenic bike paths along the slopes.
The Kolossi Castle. If the lock has participated in beauty contests, Kolossi definitely took there the first place. This small but very beautiful castle was built on the outskirts of Limassol, as a small Crusader Fort. He still recalls the former importance of Cyprus during the European Crusades. Kolossi was built by the knights of St John and was used as a command post with a great location on the coastline. Nowadays, the Kolossi castle looks more like a doll house compared to other buildings in the bustling village of Kolossi.
Ancient Salamis. Ancient Salamis is an archaeological site famous for the wealth of ancient ruins. Salamis competes with the Ancient Kourion for the title of leading archaeological sites in Cyprus. Traveling along the dusty trails of Salamis, You will find many ruins from different periods, clearly telling about the different stages of the history of the island. Immediately catches the eye a huge collection of Hellenistic statues with missing heads. Head was demolished by Christians and are among the ruins of the Gymnasium. The remains of two Byzantine churches hidden among the thickets of weed and fennel, but even in this desolation can be traced to the greatness of the ancient architects who created the great ancient city. Ancient Salamis is located in the Northern part of Cyprus, which is accessible during day trips from Nicosia.
The Karpas Peninsula. The most beautiful region of Cyprus, secluded and remote Karpas Peninsula, stretching in the shape of a long finger to the North-East of the island. The Golden beaches of the Karpas abut the scenic stormy cliffs and hills. It is the least explored part of the island, where people come for the sake of unity with nature in a cosy Cypriot villages, explore the historical sights of Cyprus and Hiking on mountain trails. This is the place where you should go unexplored and unspoiled historic atmosphere of Cyprus. In this area there is no public transport, therefore have to rent a car. You can visit the village of Sipahi and admire the mosaics of Agia Triada, and then go North-East to the remote settlement Dipkarpaz with the ruins of the Church Agios Philo. After a day of tours should visit the famous Golden Beach of the Peninsula, is emphasizing the rough shape of the Karpas.
Larnaca. Larnaca is located on the South East coast of Cyprus. It is a popular resort that has retained its local history and charm. Without a doubt, this is the most relaxed place in Cyprus with an ideal infrastructure for both recreation and entertainment. However, among the attractions of Larnaca it’s worth noting the old Turkish quarter of the Rock and the Church of St. Lazarus, which give the city its historical charm. The centre of Larnaca has the atmosphere of a ordinary town, where nothing reminds of the resort. To the West of Larnaca is the salt lake with hundreds of pink flamingos, in the vicinity of which focused modest Cypriot villages. Historical evidence indicate that Larnaca is the oldest town in Cyprus whose history started over 6,000 years. Today, millions of tourists pass through Larnaca, as here is the biggest international airport on the island. But we should not pass this city by transit, as there is a concentrated number of very interesting places. History buffs like to visit the Church. Lazarus the 9th century, or the impressive Church Faneromeni. Many divers are attracted to sunken ferry Zenobia is the main landmark of Cyprus for divers.
The Castle Of St. Hilarion Some of the most beautiful castle ruins in the Mediterranean are located in Cyprus. The Castle Of St. Hilarion is an ancient Bastion of the Crusaders, shrouded in legends and myths. The most famous of them tells of a fairy who was enchanted by the local shepherds and lured them to his castle. Extensive network of ramparts and caves — a Paradise for a curious traveler. Beautiful views of the island are opened for those who dare to climb to the top.
Ancient Kourion. In Cyprus, a lot of ancient archeological monuments, but curio deserves special attention. Romantically situated on coastal cliffs, it opens vivid scenery of the surrounding countryside and the Mediterranean sea. This really is one of the magical sights of Cyprus, which is definitely worth a visit. The whole complex of Ancient Kourion is quite extensive, but the most famous section is the Theatre and the Dwelling Austalia with preserved ancient mosaics. For travelers who have time to spare, I advise you to visit the Byzantine Basilica with beautiful columns and fragments of mosaic floor.
