Cyprus Itinerary – A Full City by City Guide From A Local

Last Updated on March 5, 2021 by Tia

In this Cyprus Itinerary, you will find the best things to do in Cyprus by city. Beaches, restaurants, brunch options and the best things to see, all compiled by me; Cypriot blogger admittedly obsessed with my own country! Below, find the very best highlights of Cyprus. In particular, Nicosia, Ayia Napa and Protaras, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, and the Cyprus mountains and villages!

Life saving items you need in Cyprus

Portable ashtray/mini bin. With so many Blue flag beaches, Cyprus is a nature’s paradise that needs YOUR help to stay clean and pristine for generations to come. I ADORE this portable ashtray for many reasons. At the beach, Its cone shape means I can stick it in the sand all day long, and use for cigarette butts, chewing gum, and other small pieces of garbage I don’t want to litter the beach with. It is also always on the side pocket of my backpack, so I can use it when I hike, trek mountains and jungles, go camping and more! TIP: whilst driving, do NOT throw cigarette butts out the window. The intense heat can make ur butt responsible for igniting a wildfire in the Cyprus forests that can last for days!

 Activated charcoal – to save your stomach from a multitude of sins. Such as heavy eating and drinking (you will likely do both), upset stomach, mild food poisoning, IBS flare-ups, diarrhea, nausea and more

Allergy sun protection and aftersun. Everybody wants to tan beautifully. But the sun in Cyprus is incredibly low and intense, which can burn your skin in no time, and bring out all sorts of allergic sun reactions that can seriously ruin your holidays! This is the best sun allergy brand I have found – I have been using it for over 3 years now and no more sunburns and sunspots! The after-sun lotion doubles up as a tan intensifier too, winner! You cannot find the allergy range in Cyprus, so I buy mine off Amazon.

A non-Plastic bottle that keeps water cold! Whether you are sightseeing, sunbathing, or trekking the mountains, keeping hydrated is key! Make sure you drink plenty of water! The thing is though, water in Cyprus stays cold for approximately 5 minutes! Additionally, plastic bottles need to become a thing of the past. Period! So invest in a good reusable and leakproof water bottle, that keeps cold water cold for 24 glorious hours. Simple, smart, and ecofriendly. What’s not to love about that!

A light pashmina will be your best friend! You can use to to cover up to enter churches and chapels, at an evening or mountain stroll to fight a chill, as a sarong or hair wrap on the beach and more!

Cyprus Itinerary – Nisocia

As mentioned in my Cyprus travel Blog that is packed with all information on the country, Nicosia, or Lefkosia is the largest city and the capital of Cyprus. As of 2004, t is also a member of the European Union. It is also the only city on the island that is not surrounded by sea. Nicosia is the financial capital and an established international business center! What the city lacks in the seaside, it makes up for with rich diverse culture, beautiful architecture and one more unique fact. Nicosia is the last remaining divided capital city on earth. Visiting this historically divided city is a must in any Cyprus Itinerary!

Things to do in Nicosia

Museums

In Nicosia, you’ll find a plethora of museums and seasonal festivals. One of the most historic ones is The Leventis Municipal Museum, situated within the old city walls. The Museum houses an extensive collection of Cypriot works of art. Such as costumes, jewels, photographs and maps as well as archaeological artifacts, medieval pottery, engravings, and furniture. Museum and culture lovers can find more info about the city, museums, festivals, or visit the virtual tourism board website 

Indulge and Unwind in a Hamam

Nicosia holds a special secret tucked and hidden away in its walls… A beautiful Hamam. The Hamam Omeriye is incredible and provides a stellar Hamam experience well worthy of its title. Read my review here and indulge in a beautiful day of pampering and recharging in utter bliss.

Explore the Old Nicosia City

• Ledras Street: A diverse and eclectic mix of old and new…Ledras Street is as symbolic as it gets! This major shopping road links the Turkish occupied North Nicosia with the Cypriot occupied South Nicosia. The street was reopened as a crossing point between the two sides in 2008. You can visit the Green Line, and read up on its history (mentioned in more detail in my Cyprus Travel Blog article).
• Once there, stroll the streets, have a look at street art, and explore the side streets for hidden cafes and shisha bars. In the night, Ledras Street and its parallel Onasagorou street come alive. From late afternoon, delicious cocktails, and shisha cafes are plentiful and the streets get busier and busier into a steady buzzing area! Keep an eye out for announcements of events featuring the coolest DJ’s on the island.
• Faneromeni Square, In the historical Venetian walls of Nicosia, Faneromeni square is surrounded by a number of historical buildings and monuments. These include the Marble Mausoleum, Faneromeni Church and School, as well as the Faneromeni Library. Explore every nook and crony of the square, and visit the library! Then, have a moment’s peace in the church, and explore the little shops, street graffiti, and cafes.
• Laiki Geitonia. Its narrow cobbled streets are filled with everything! There are antique shops, traditional Cyprus architecture, churches, restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops. You will take great pictures there!

Best view of the city

• For a 360 view of the city, Head to ‘’Shacolas Observatory”, the highest building in the walled city. There, you’ll find touch screens showcasing the rich architecture of Nicosia and videos showcasing its complex history.
• Hours: Monday to Sunday – 10 am to 8 pm

Restaurants In Nicosia

• Meat Mezedes: Zannetos Tavern – For incredible and traditional Cypriot Meat meze
• Fish Mezedes: Paragadi Tavern – The best fish meze in town
• Burgers: Burger Guy – a really chilled environment and the juiciest burger I’ve had in Cyprus! Located in Paliometoxo, a village 10 mins outside of Nicosia
• Fine Dining: Skinny Fox – Gourmet dining at its finest
• Desserts: Giagia Victoria – Incredible and traditional Greek and Cypriot sweets and pastries
• Brunch: Silver Pot (one of the originals brunch spots in town) D.O.T (great for its extensive menu alone that also caters to vegans and vegetarians) and Nom (great breakfast, brunch and lunch at this new spot in town)

Where to stay in Nicosia

The capital hasn’t got too many great hotels but it does have some beautiful Airbnbs! Here are my two faves: This 3 bedroom flat in central Nicosia and this beautiful Studio with its own private pool!

Cyprus Itinerary – Ayia Napa/ Protaras

Ahh…Cyprus at its best and a Cyprus Itinerary MUST! Nothing beats Ayia Napa and Protaras in the summer..nothing! And contrary to popular belief, there is more to do in Napa than party and get stupid drunk! Protaras is only a 15-minute drive away (6km) and boasts the same incredible beaches, but also, refined beach bars, clubs, and nightlife!

Best Beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras

In Ayia Napa and Protaras, you’ll experience the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus and a few hidden beaches too! Crystal Clear calm waters and long stretches of gold sand. Naturally, no tourist has ever been left unimpressed with this region! So click here for the full list of The best beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras!

Restaurants in Ayia Napa and Protaras

• Asian Cuisine – Hokkkaido
• Fine Dining Glasshouse, at the top of the 5* Adams Beach hotel resort.
• Fish and Seafood Meze: Kalamies
• Meat Tavern – Mousikos, in my opinion, is the best traditional tavern in the whole of Cyprus! This tavern is actually in Sotira village, a 12-minute drive outside of Ayia Napa but easily accessible by car and too delicious not to mention! Alternatively, in Ayia Napa, you must visit En Yevo and in Protaras, Tappis Tavern.
• House style Bar and Grill Food: Hungry Horse in Ayia Napa
• Steak: The Sage restaurant offers elegance, luxury, and superb cuisine, particularly steak!
• Italian and International cuisine: Just Italian, which can be found in Paralimni, Protaras.
• Canadian, Italian, Indian and French Cusine: Casa del Gusto

Where to stay in Ayia Napa and Protaras

Ayia Napa: The 4* Napa Mermaid Hotel is an absolute favorite of mine- I have visited over 7 times! It’s heavenly! Protaras: Families or a group of friends will LOVE the Incredible Villa Oniro – a villa of 4 huge en suite bedrooms, garden swimming pool, and jacuzzi. I spent a glorious week there and I was in heaven! Alternatively, Sophia’s Seaview is a beautiful, luxe and modern flat in the center of Protaras Avenue – you wouldn’t even need to rent a car!

Tia’s Tip: Have the most fun-packed day at Waterpark Ayia Napa! A full day out with endless fun, sun and games ( bonus points for getting the tan of your life!) All this and more, at the No1 Waterpark in Cyprus. This waterpark is my favorite! It is inspired by Greek mythology and boasts over 18 fun-packed rides suitable for all ages! On top of that, there are 6 restaurants too – to cater to all tastes and needs! Make sure you indulge on the mini donuts from the carts situated all over the park, I’m obsessed! The result is a brilliant day out, therefore I highly recommend!

Cyprus Itinerary – Limassol

Limassol nowadays is the city of luxury, elegance, and excess. A city that looks and feels more like Monaco, and not like Cyprus 🙂 The hotels, restaurants, and establishments here cater to the selective traveler and certainly don’t hold back on luxury and comfort! This is the cosmopolitan hub of Cyprus, effortlessly blending sophisticated modernization with its ancient past. There are certain parts of Limassol that still hold their traditional feel and values too so in all honestly, you get two for the price of one here! Therefore, if you have a taste for the fine things in life, include this city in your Cyprus Itinerary and visit Limassol! Below I am listing the highlights of Limassol!

Restaurants and Nightlife in Limassol

• Fine dining and seafood. If you enjoy excellent dining on a special occasion, look no further than Pouestra Restaurant. This restaurant is located right on the waves.
• The best all-rounder. Columbia Beach – Combines excellence at all levels! Food, drink, pool, beach and a gorgeous crowd! Some of Limasso’s finest pool parties take place here, but please note, it all comes with a price tag!
• Traditional Cypriot food and vibes. The castle area in the old part of Limassol is great for a night stroll and some lovely food. This part of town is one of the only traditional areas still left in town!
• Clubbing: Breeze Summer Club is the best club in the city! Following closely is the indoor Seven Seas (part of the Columbia again). Another great option for Greek music lovers is the Ola Ellinika Nightclub.
• Drinks and good times. Saripolou street! If you want a taste of local Limassol, cheaper drinks and a real chilled vibe with no dress code, this is the place for you! Located next to the Old Castle area mentioned above!
• Fish Meze – Koursaros in Pareklisia (this restaurant is inland and not by the sea) is my No.1 choice for fish in Limassol. Alternatively, go to Pixida in Limassol’s Marina.
• Meat Meze. My Top choice is Agios Epiktitos, which serves incredible Cypriot meze and has the best views of all over Limassol.

Beaches in Limassol

Honestly? The choice of beaches in Limassol is endless! A simple drive along the ”paraliakos” seaside road and you’ll see more beaches, restaurants and high-end hotels that you would have time to visit! A car will get you to some other hidden gem beaches too! It is worth noting that all the beaches in Limassol have slightly darker sand. As a result, don’t expect the golden sands you will find in Ayia Napa or Protaras. Below, I am listing just a few 🙂

• Columbia – as mentioned above
• Malindi Beach – great for the active traveler! Think beach volley, tennis, watersports and more!
• Ladies Mile – caters to families and sometimes an older crowd, and people seeking peace and quiet. To get to Ladies Mile, you’ll drive on a long road that is a bit rough, so please mind your cars!
• Kourio Beach – again, caters to the quiet seekers. Lot’s of lovely fish tavernas right on the beach too! Check out the
• Acrotiri – This beach is only accessible by 4×4. The trek there is worth it though! Akrotiri is totally deserted and utterly gorgeous!

Brunch in Limassol

• Columbia Beach. Ok, I’ve mentioned this place too much! It probably sounds like im being sponsored for this.. but sadly i am not haha!
• CookHouse in the center of town
• Balcony – Next to the zoo. (Please do NOT visit the zoo!) and close to Saripolou Street.

Sightseeing in Limassol

• Ancient Kourion
• Kolossi Castle
• St Nicholas of the cat’s Monastery
• Limassol Marina – Ok this is NOT an old monument. But it is worth to visit as it is the super snazzy new marina in Limassol! Filled with yachts, restaurants, cafes and more!
• Archaeological Museum
• Cyprus wine museum

This is just a handful of whar’s available to see in Limassol! Luckily, there is a new hop on-hop off bus service that you can take that will take you to all these and more!

Where to stay in Limassol

Alasia Boutique Hotel– Luxury and elegance is great for sophisticated elegance away from the noise.

Cyprus Itinerary – Larnaca

Beaches to visit in Larnaca

• Makenzie Beach is a whole vibe that has been awarded a Blue Flag! Makenzie is a 1 km long strip with fine sand, clear and shallow water and plenty of green! Along the strip, u will find many incredible beach bars and restaurants. These restaurants. Makenzie is modern, with lifeguards, facilities, and ample parking space!
• Kastella Beach. Kastella Beach is a tiny Blue Flag winner, with calm waters and fine grey sand. The beach is only a 15-minute walk from the town center and very near to the Psarolimano Fishing Shelter.
• Finikoudes Beach. A good option for the more mature traveler. There are no beach clubs, no loud parties and nothing to disturb you! Many restaurants, cafes, shops, and well-known food chains line up parallel to the beach. From the nearby marina, you can take a boat to promenade the area!
• Alaminos Beach. Alaminos beach lies along the Larnaca-Kiti stretch of coast. It’s a fantastic off the beaten path beach, that looks and feels like paradise!

Restaurants and Nightlife in Larnaca

• Best Bruch in Cyprus. Edem’s Yard. I am utterly obsessed with Edem’s! The food and prices are second to none! The only downside is, that the place is PACKED during the weekend and they don’t accept bookings. Read my review here, and you too shall fall in love with it! Edem’s Yard is located in Finikoudes.
• Incredible streak. Hobus Steakhouse, which is also located in Finikoudes, and my personal favorite steakhouse in Cyprus! The ambiance is sophisticated and the service is second to none. The food, of course, is incredible, just the ticket for any special occasion! p.s Make sure you dress up! Alternatively, you can visit Panos Steakhouse which is located in the same area!
• Best fish tavern. Psarolimano is an incredible fish restaurant that I have personally visited dozens of times. If you are unable to get a table though, try popping next door to Zefiros, which is another great option.
• Sushi and Cocktails. One of my absolute favorites is Lush Beach Bar, located on Makenzie Beach. This bar/restaurant is right on the beach, and decorated so beautifully! The sushi is fantastic, the cocktails are great, and I’m practically in love with the seafood risotto! It is open all day, so you can lunch in your bikini, or dress up for dinner and drinks!
• Traditional Cypriot Cuisine.

Where to stay in Larnaca

If you are visiting Larnaca (popular with foreign pensioners) I would advise you to stay close to Makenzie! This area has some lively beach bars, excellent food and parties. The 4-bedroom Makenzie Sunset Apartment is a great choice! If you want a slightly more mature vibe, then choose to stay close to the Finikoudes area

Cyprus Itinerary – Paphos

According to Greek Mythology, Paphos is the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite, the goddess of Love and one of the 12 Gods of Olympus. The town of Paphos hosts so many historical attractions that definitely deserve a visit! And of course, a place in any Cyprus Itinerary! As a result, if you are interested in Greek mythology, make sure you visit the sights in Paphos. Naturally, many of them are directly linked to the 12 Gods of Olympus.

Best Sightseeing in Paphos

‘’Petra Tou Romiou’’ is otherwise known as Aphrodites Rocks. The location is actually in between Limassol and Paphos, and you will find clear signs for it on the highway. Once there, you can enjoy the incredible view from up top, then climb down to the beautiful beach. You can swim there, but please be careful of the currents because they are rather strong!

House of Dionysus. Here, you can marvel in some of the finest mosaic pavements in the Mediterranean! The mosaics of House Dionysus were discovered accidentally by a farmer plowing his fields. The fascinating part is it’s all so excellently preserved like it was kept safely hidden all those years! Various famous mosaics have found a home at the House of Dionysus.

Tombs of the Kings. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was a burial ground during the Greek and Roman periods. These impressive underground tombs, dating back to the 4th century BC, are carved out of solid rock and are well worth the trip.

Day Trips to Akamas and Latsi

Have an adventure at Akamas! Akamas is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking natural beauties in Cyprus, with its jaw-dropping scenery and views. Akamas is an adventure waiting to be experienced and marveled at, and a must in any Cyprus itinerary! In Lara Bay, which is nearby, you might get lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the nesting Caretta caretta turtles!

Tia’s Tip: Akamas is best explored with a 4×4 vehicle, as the roads are pretty rough!

Take a boat trip to Blue Lagoon! I highly recommend you to take a boat trip to Blue Lagoon! Blue Lagoon is the most popular place of Akamas and for good reason too! Blue Lagoon, boasts crystal clear water, and memorable sunsets too! You can rent a boat from the harbor and choose a half-day or full-day tour depending on how you feel. I’ve done both! The host will lazily steer you to Blue Lagoon, where you will have the chance to swim, sunbathe and explore the area! Many boats offer a lunch service option on board too!

Lat tip: Make sure you wear plenty on sunscreen and a hat on the boat!

Visit Latsi and the Baths of Aphrodite. In Latsi, the fish taverns serve the best and freshest fish on the island! This area is very popular for camping and the sea is incredible, although I am advising CAUTION. The water is shallow, then one step in, its an abyss, so please be extra careful! After a glorious swim, and an excellent meal, you can explore the Baths of Aphrodite! These baths are a natural pond where the Goddess of Love was supposedly bathing herself!

Restaurants in Paphos

• All-rounder American grill house and in house entertainment. Head to Fat mamas for a lively, fun night out with home-cooked food in this lively family-owned restaurant. The menu consists of a little bit of everything!
• Best Pizza in Paphos. La Sardegna da Gino pizzeria should be on the top of your list! I have nothing but good things to say about Da Ginos, and trust me; I know pizza!
• Italian food. Porto Bello for its consistently brilliant dishes, atmosphere, and service.
• French and Seafood. Gabor Restaurant
• Meat Cypriot Meze. Make sure you arrive hungry and with plenty of time to spare at 7 St. Georges Tavern
• Great Burgers. At Muse restaurant, you will find an extensive menu catering to all tastes, including great burgers, pancakes, omelets, salads and more.
• Relaxed Lunch with a view. Oniro by the sea is a hidden gem in Paphos, with incredible sea views, and laid back atmosphere! In the menu, you’ll find sumptuous seafood dishes, fresh salads, and sandwiches with a real twist.
• Brunch. Omikron for the Croque madame and the coffee! Another brunch favorite of mine is the Muse Kitchen Bar for their incredible omelets and pancakes!

Where to stay in Paphos

I am OBSESSED with the new and incredible 5* Amavi Hotel in Kato Paphos. This is an adults and couples only luxurious hotel! Paphos is very popular with families with small children, so the Amavi is a breath of quiet, peaceful and fresh air.

Cyprus Itinerary – Villages and Mountains

Cyprus Itinerary – Troodos Mountains

Troodos is the largest mountain in Cyprus and can be easily accessed from any city. This is because the mountains are roughly located in the center of the island!

During the winter, you can ski at Mount Olympus, which hosts ski slopes at 1,952 meters. Alternatively, you should also trek the nature trails In Troodos National Forest Park. In total there are 10 well maintained and signposted trails within the Park making up a grand total of 57.6km. One of these trails has been designed to be accessible by wheelchairs too! On your trek, you will get a chance to see many gorgeous painted old Byzantine churches too! Many of these have actually been put on UNESCO’s World Heritage List!

Kalopanayiotis, Kakopetria and Askas Villages

Olive groves…open views and little cobbled streets. This is what you will find in quaint little villages like Kalopanayiotis and Kakopetria. Clear mountain air, beautiful traditional food, rivers, flora, and fauna. Naturally, no Cyprus itinerary could be without a visit! In Kalopanayiotis Village, don’t miss the chance to spoil yourself and book a stay at the beautiful hotel and luxury spa retreat Casale Kalopanayiotis – for its fantastic spa services. Blissful! 

Lefkara Village

Lefkara is a small village that packs a serious punch! Here, you can marvel at the famous ‘’Lefkaritika’’ lace designs. These are used for decoration, and tablecloths, etc. These designs form complicated geometric patterns and shapes. It is also worth knowing, that the village is on the UNESCO Heritage List! If you wish, you can buy the designs as well as other famous pottery by Cypriot artists.

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• When to Visit Cyprus – A guide to choosing the season to visit Cyprus
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• Cyprus Travel Blog – Everything you need to know to visit Cyprus. Start with this first if you are not local!
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• Edem’s Yard – Best Brunch in Cyprus – Larnaca. The best brunch spot in Cyprus- hands down!
• Hamam Omeriye – Stunning Turkish baths in the heart of Nicosia– A Hamam Experience you are unlikely to forget!
• The best beaches in Ayia Napa and Protaras. The best blue flag beaches on the island – say hello to paradise!
• Cyprus Passport Visa Free Countries – Travel to paradise without a visa!

Beautiful Seaside Hotels in Cyprus

• Hotel Napa Suites – Gorgeous, Central, with infinity pools
• Almyra Hotel Paphos – Luxury, elegance, and class.
• King Jason Hotel Protaras – Modern, central, fun, breathtaking!
• Napa Mermaid – The most incredible hotel in Ayia Napa– Looking for a proper hotel in Napa? Say no more!
• Apartment for rent in Protaras – Sofias Seaview review. A gorgeous apartment in the heart of Protaras square!
• Protaras Villas – The Incredible Villa Oniro. A huge and luxurious villa in Protaras!
• Limassol Hotels – A Beautiful stay at The Crowne Plaza Limassol. A modest hotel in Limassol that you will highly appreciate!
• Alasia Boutique Hotel- Luxury and elegance. Elegance and understated luxury in the quiet part of Limassol