1. Aphrodite Baths (Λουτρά της Αφροδίτης)

Description:
Hidden within the Akamas Peninsula, the Baths of Aphrodite is a magical freshwater grotto where, according to Greek mythology, Aphrodite met her lover Adonis. The setting feels untouched, surrounded by ancient fig trees, wild vines, and birdsong.

Main Activities:

  • Walk the Aphrodite Nature Trail, a 7.5 km circular route with panoramic views.

  • Discover the Fontana Amorosa ("Fountain of Love") nearby.

  • Enjoy picnicking areas and admire the untouched nature.

Historical Background:

  • Revered since antiquity; locals believed the water had rejuvenating powers blessed by Aphrodite herself.

Cultural Tip:

  • Respect the peaceful setting; it is seen almost as a sacred site by locals.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Spring (March-May) when flowers bloom and the area is most vibrant.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Polis town

  • Akamas Blue Lagoon (accessible by boat tours)

 

2. Aphrodite Rock (Πέτρα του Ρωμιού)

Description:
A dramatic coastal rock formation on the road between Limassol and Paphos. It’s one of Cyprus’s most romantic legends — Aphrodite was born here from sea foam.

Main Activities:

  • Swimming around the rock (some legends promise eternal beauty!).

  • Picnicking on the pebble beach.

  • Sunset photography — this is one of Cyprus’s most iconic sunsets.

Historical Background:

  • "Petra tou Romiou" ("Rock of the Greek") also links to Byzantine legends where a Byzantine hero hurled a rock to fend off Arab pirates.

Cultural Tip:

  • The sea is often rough — swim carefully or enjoy from shore.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Late afternoon for cooler weather and sunset.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Kouklia Village and Sanctuary of Aphrodite (ancient UNESCO site).

3. Pafos Zoo (Peyia Zoo)

Description:
A family-friendly zoo in Peyia with one of the largest private bird collections in Europe, along with a wide variety of mammals and reptiles.

Main Activities:

  • Bird shows (especially the parrot and owl show, highly rated by visitors).

  • Explore the zoo grounds; feeding opportunities available for goats and deer.

  • Photography of exotic animals.

Historical Background:

  • Began as a personal bird collection of a Cypriot businessman and expanded into a full zoo.

Cultural Tip:

  • Buy animal feed packs at the entrance to interact more closely with the animals.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Morning to avoid heat and see active animals.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Coral Bay Beach

  • Sea Caves and Edro III Shipwreck

4. Omodos Village (Όμοδος)

Description:
A historic, picture-perfect village in the Troodos foothills famous for wine production and cobblestone charm.

Main Activities:

  • Tour the Holy Cross Monastery, one of the island’s oldest.

  • Visit local wineries (open for tastings).

  • Stroll through artisan shops selling lace, jewelry, and local sweets.

Historical Background:

  • Flourished during the Frankish (Lusignan) period (1192–1489) and has always been a wine-producing village.

Cultural Tip:

  • Try the famous “arkatena” bread and Commandaria wine.

Best Time to Visit:

  • During the August wine festival or spring for cooler weather.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Platres Village

  • Troodos Mountains

5. Kykkos Monastery (Μοναστήρι Κύκκου)

Description:
Kykkos is the wealthiest and most famous monastery of Cyprus, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, located high in the Troodos Mountains.

Main Activities:

  • Explore the ornate frescoes, mosaics, and richly decorated chapels.

  • Visit the Kykkos Museum showcasing religious relics and artifacts.

  • Light a candle and enjoy moments of spiritual reflection.

Historical Background:

  • Founded around the end of the 11th century under the rule of Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos.

  • Houses one of only three icons reputedly painted by Apostle Luke.

Cultural Tip:

  • Modesty is a must: no shorts or sleeveless tops (scarves and wraps provided).

Best Time to Visit:

  • Spring or Autumn (avoid heavy snow in winter).

Nearby Attractions:

  • Throni of Panagia (site of Archbishop Makarios III's tomb)

6. Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery (Μονή Χρυσορρογιάτισσας)

Description:
Set on a lush hilltop, Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery is a smaller, quieter alternative to Kykkos, known for its wine-making tradition and stunning tranquility.

Main Activities:

  • Attend a Mass service (especially on August 15th, Assumption Day).

  • Visit the monastery winery.

  • Admire panoramic views of surrounding vineyards.

Historical Background:

  • Founded in the 12th century by a monk who found an icon of the Virgin Mary at sea.

Cultural Tip:

  • Buy wine from the monastery’s own vineyard; it’s award-winning and rare.

Best Time to Visit:

  • August (for the Feast of Virgin Mary) but expect crowds.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Pano Panagia Village (birthplace of Archbishop Makarios III)

7. Larnaca Salt Lake (Αλυκή Λάρνακας)

Description:
An expansive salt lake complex near Larnaca Airport, shimmering with surreal beauty especially in winter, when flamingos flock to the waters.

Main Activities:

  • Flamingo and birdwatching (winter months).

  • Walk or cycle the perimeter trail.

  • Visit Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque.

Historical Background:

  • Salt was a major export from Cyprus until the 19th century.

  • Hala Sultan Tekke is an important Islamic site, housing the tomb of Prophet Muhammad's aunt.

Cultural Tip:

  • Respect the natural habitat; no motor vehicles near the lake edge.

Best Time to Visit:

  • November to March (for birdwatching).

Nearby Attractions:

  • Larnaca city center

  • Kamares Aqueduct

8. Makenzy Beach (Λάρνακα Μακένζι)

Description:
This lively beach strip offers golden sands, calm clear waters, and a vibrant day-to-night atmosphere, all minutes from Larnaca Airport.

Main Activities:

  • Swimming, sunbathing, water sports.

  • Dine at seafood taverns and beach bars.

  • Plane spotting: Watch aircraft landing almost directly overhead.

Historical Background:

  • Once a fishing village, Makenzy grew into one of Cyprus’s top beach destinations.

Cultural Tip:

  • Perfect for families during the day, but in the evenings it transforms into a party hotspot.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Summer evenings for the full experience.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Larnaca Medieval Castle

  • Finikoudes Promenade

9. Nicosia (Λευκωσία)

Description:
The world’s last divided capital city — Nicosia offers a fascinating blend of rich history, modern life, and political symbolism.

Main Activities:

  • Walk across the Ledra Street Crossing Point into North Nicosia.

  • Visit museums like the Cyprus Museum (ancient archaeology) and Leventis Municipal Museum.

  • Explore the Old City and its Venetian walls.

Historical Background:

  • Divided since 1974 into the Republic of Cyprus (south) and Turkish-occupied North Cyprus (north).

Cultural Tip:

  • Passport needed for crossing at Ledra Street.

  • Respect cultural sensitivities on both sides.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Spring or Autumn; summers are extremely hot.

Nearby Attractions:

  • Buyuk Han (Ottoman inn)

  • Arabahmet Mosque (north)

10. Agia Napa (Αγία Νάπα)

Description:
From sleepy fishing village to Cyprus’s ultimate party hub, Ayia Napa offers stunning beaches, crystal waters, wild nightlife, and hidden natural beauty.

Main Activities:

  • Spend the day at Nissi Beach or Makronissos Beach.

  • Hike or cycle Cape Greco National Park.

  • Party at Square clubs and beach bars.

  • Visit Ayia Napa Monastery and Thalassa Museum.

Historical Background:

  • Named after an ancient icon of the Virgin Mary ("Napa" meaning wooded valley in ancient Greek).

Cultural Tip:

  • Ayia Napa caters to both young partygoers and families depending on where you stay.

Best Time to Visit:

  • May-June or September-October (best weather without peak summer crowds).

Nearby Attractions:

  • Sea Caves and Lovers’ Bridge

  • Fig Tree Bay (Protaras)