Cyprus Holidays

People have lived on Cyprus for more than 11,000 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited islands in the Mediterranean. Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Lusignans, Venetians and Ottomans all left their mark, shaping the island’s history through archaeological sites, churches and enduring traditions.

Cyprus’ position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and the Middle East made it a prized stronghold for centuries. Castles such as Kolossi, Limassol, Paphos, Kyrenia, Saint Hilarion and Buffavento still stand today, each revealing a different chapter of the island’s turbulent past.

Modern Cyprus has its own complex story. Since 1974, the island has remained divided between the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish-controlled north, with the United Nations maintaining a buffer zone. A walk through Nicosia offers rare insight into this continuing chapter of European history. 

Cyprus is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Paphos Archaeological Park, the Tombs of the Kings and the Painted Churches of the Troodos Mountains. Their remarkably preserved mosaics, underground tombs and Byzantine frescoes reveal thousands of years of the island’s cultural heritage. 

The Troodos Mountains are home to some of Cyprus’ finest walking trails. Paths weave through pine forests, quiet villages and hidden waterfalls, with options ranging from gentle walks to full-day hikes. In winter, Mount Olympus even becomes the island’s only skiing area. 

The Akamas Peninsula is one of the wildest parts of Cyprus, with trails such as Aphrodite, Adonis and Smigies crossing rugged cliffs, coastal hills and untouched countryside. Along the way, you will spot native plants, sweeping sea views and landscapes far removed from the busy beach resorts.

Inside the Akamas Peninsula, Avakas Gorge is one of Cyprus' most impressive natural landmarks. The walk takes you between towering limestone cliffs, through narrow rock passages and across a rugged riverbed, making it a favourite with hikers looking for something a little more adventurous.

Blue Bay, near Protaras, is one of the best places in Cyprus to try scuba diving. The clear, calm water is ideal for beginners, while certified divers can explore underwater rock formations, colourful fish and thriving marine life beneath the surface.

Near Pano Platres, the walk to Millomeris Waterfall is short, shaded and suitable for most visitors. The trail passes through cool woodland before reaching one of Cyprus’ tallest and most picturesque waterfalls, making it a welcome break from the summer heat. 

Beginning near Platres, the Caledonia Waterfall Trail follows a mountain stream through dense woodland before reaching the waterfall. It is a slightly longer walk than Millomeris but remains one of the island’s most enjoyable forest hikes. 

Jeep safaris venture deep into the Akamas Peninsula and the Troodos Mountains, reaching the places that ordinary cars often can’t. The routes pass through remote villages, coastal viewpoints, secluded beaches and rugged backroads that many visitors would otherwise miss.

The mountain villages are worth setting aside a day for. Omodos is known for its winery-lined streets and old monastery, while Lefkara is famous for intricate lace and silverwork. Between them, you will pass stone houses, shaded courtyards and cafés where life moves at its own pace.

Don’t make the mistake of ordering starters first. A meze is the meal. Plates appear one after another, including halloumi, grilled meats, seafood, stuffed vine leaves, salads, breads, dips and whatever else the kitchen is preparing that day.

If you enjoy wine, head into the Troodos foothills. Commandaria, often recognised as the world’s oldest named wine still in production, is still made here using grapes dried naturally under the sun before pressing.

Traditional kafeina are easy to spot. Small cups of strong Cypriot coffee, loud conversations and the sound of backgammon are all part of the routine. Leave the coffee grounds sitting at the bottom of the cup.

You will come across churches and monasteries almost everywhere in Cyprus. Some stand beside busy roads, others are tucked away in the mountains. Orthodox monasteries, Byzantine churches and quiet chapels still serve local communities, while many preserve remarkable frescoes and icons that have survived for hundreds of years. 

When the sun goes down, Ayia Napa takes on a completely different atmosphere. Bars, open-air clubs and beachfront venues stay busy until the early hours, especially between June and September, making it the island’s busiest nightlife hub.

If you are travelling with family or simply want a break from sightseeing, Cyprus has excellent waterparks. WaterWorld in Ayia Napa is themed around Greek mythology, while Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark offers wave pools, lazy rivers and fast slides for all ages.

One of the most popular ways to spend a day is out on the water. Cruises from Protaras, Paphos and the Akamas Peninsula visit places like the Blue Lagoon, where you can swim, snorkel and enjoy the coastline from the sea. 

Entertainment isn’t only about beaches and nightlife. Places like the Paradox Museum in Limassol, the Fairytale Museum in Nicosia and the quirky Salt & Pepper Museum in Larnaca offer something different, whether you are travelling with children or just escaping the afternoon heat.

Animal lovers can spend a day at Pafos Zoo, home to birds, giraffes, lemurs and many other species, or visit Lara Bay Turtle Conservation Station, where green and loggerhead turtles are protected during nesting season. 

Many villages and resorts host traditional Greek nights with live bouzouki music, folk dancing and generous Cypriot meze. Places such as Pissouri and Coral Bay are especially popular if you would rather spend the evening enjoying local culture than clubbing.

Every February or March, just before the Orthodox Lent, Limassol transforms into one giant celebration. Costumed parades, street parties, music and dancing fill the city for ten days, ending with the spectacular Grand Carnival Parade that attracts visitors from across the island.

Held each May, Anthesteria celebrates spring with roots in ancient Greek festivals honouring Dionysus. Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos are decorated with colourful flower displays, while parades, music and community celebrations welcome the new season. 

Celebrated every June around Orthodox Pentecost, Kataklysmos commemorates Noah’s Flood with water games, concerts and seaside fairs. Larnaca hosts the largest festivities, where the waterfront stays lively from morning until late evening.

During July and August, ancient theatres at Kourion and Paphos once again become performance stages. Classical Greek tragedies and comedies are presented in the open air, creating one of Cyprus’ most distinctive cultural events.

Every late August and early September, Limassol celebrates its long winemaking heritage with local wines, grape pressing demonstrations, folk dancing and live entertainment. The festival takes place in the city’s Municipal Gardens and remains one of Cyprus’ best-loved annual events.

Throughout July, the Finikoudes Promenade hosts concerts, theatre, dance performances and cultural shows almost every evening. The month-long programme brings together local artists and international performers in a relaxed waterfront setting.

Each September, the Square in front of Paphos Medieval Castle becomes an open-air opera venue. International companies perform against the illuminated harbour backdrop, making it one of the Mediterranean's most memorable music festivals. 

Held every September, this festival fills the square beside Ayia Napa’s medieval monastery with folk dancing, music, theatre and craft demonstrations. It offers a completely different side of town beyond its famous beaches and nightlife. 

Running from September into October, Kypria is Cyprus’ leading arts festival, featuring theatre, ballet, opera, dance, classical music and contemporary performances. Events take place in venues across several cities and attract acclaimed artists from around the world. 

Usually taking place in September, the Cyprus Rally has challenged drivers since 1970. The demanding route winds through Limassol and the Troodos Mountains, combining fast gravel stages with mountain roads that test even experienced competitors.