In 2022, I travelled to the island of Cyprus, which attracted me with its historical landmarks and beautiful beaches. Despite being one of the more popular destinations in the Mediterranean, hotel and food prices were still reasonable. I quickly fell in love with the local halloumi cheese, as well as grilled lamb skewers known as souvlaki. Of course, more prominent restaurants in the centres of larger cities tend to be more expensive, but I had no trouble finding affordable, high-quality restaurants wherever I went.
When it comes to transportation, people in Cyprus drive on the left-hand side of the road. This was the main reason why I ultimately decided not to rent a car, although I regret that decision because public bus services in Cyprus are quite unreliable. Buses are often delayed, and I frequently had to change buses along the way. For example, travelling from Paphos to Nicosia took me four hours, even though the journey by car would have taken only around one hour and 45 minutes. Taxis are another option. They are more expensive but also more convenient. There are also plenty of limousine taxis operating across the island that you can book through Bolt, which is quite an experience in itself.
I spent my first day in Paphos, where I visited the relatively small but beautiful Paphos Castle. It has a fascinating history, having been destroyed three times and rebuilt each time by a different civilisation: first the Byzantines, then the Franks, and later the Ottomans.
Paphos is also home to one of Cyprus’s most famous ancient sites, the Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos. It is renowned for its incredibly well-preserved Roman-era floor mosaics, which depict various scenes from Greek mythology. You can also find a partially reconstructed ancient theatre known as the Odeon, where theatrical performances are still held today. My favourite place in Paphos, and perhaps on the entire island, was the Tombs of the Kings, an enormous underground necropolis that captivated me with its sheer grandeur. Interestingly, despite its name, it was not actually used to bury kings, but rather high-ranking officials and aristocrats.
On the second day, I visited Limassol, the second-largest city in Cyprus. It is particularly famous for its Molos Promenade, a coastal park stretching for several kilometres, featuring palm trees, artistic sculptures, cycling paths and piers extending into the sea. From these piers, you can admire a whole row of beachfront skyscrapers, including One Limassol, the tallest building in the country.
However, Limassol is not all about beaches. The city is also home to historical landmarks, such as the Orthodox Cathedral of Ayia Napa, which is known for its magnificent marble iconostasis and rich frescoes. Limassol also has a Byzantine castle, famous for being the place where King Richard the Lionheart of England married Berengaria of Navarre.
Later that same day, I travelled to Larnaca. I visited the archaeological site of Kition, one of the most important ancient city-kingdoms in Cyprus. Unfortunately, I was not particularly impressed by it. Despite its considerable historical significance, only the most basic foundations of the ancient settlement remain. What I enjoyed much more was the Church of Saint Lazarus in the city centre, as well as Larnaca’s medieval fortress. Although relatively small, the fortress is still beautiful, and its walls offer wonderful views of the beaches.
On the third day, I visited the town of Ayia Napa, which is world-famous for having some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. I can certainly confirm that reputation, as the beaches boast lovely white sand and crystal-clear water. Prices here are naturally higher, but in my opinion, the experience is well worth the extra cost. Not far from the town lies a stunning natural rock arch known as the Bridge of Love. During the summer, you can occasionally spot seals in the area, although unfortunately, I did not get the chance to see any myself.
On the same day, I also managed to visit Cape Greco, the southeasternmost point of the island. The area is home to a national park of the same name, featuring fascinating rock formations and sea caves. Some visitors jump into the sea from the rocks, and the area is also a fantastic place to take stunning photographs at sunset.Cape Greco is also home to the Blue Lagoon. The water is so incredibly clear that boats appear to be floating in mid-air. I must also mention Kamara Tou Koraka, the largest natural rock arch in Cyprus. Unlike the previously mentioned Bridge of Love, this arch has been fenced off due to erosion and the risk of collapse, and entering it is prohibited.
I spent the following two days in Northern Cyprus, which I plan to cover in a separate post.
Eventually, I ended up in the capital, Nicosia. Besides being the largest city on the island, it is also one of the hottest places in Cyprus, with temperatures regularly reaching 40°C. For this reason, I recommend exploring the city in the early morning or later in the evening, when the weather is more bearable. Nicosia is divided into Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot sections. Unfortunately, due to a lack of time, I only managed to explore the Greek Cypriot side.
The old town of Nicosia is surrounded by Venetian walls, while its main pedestrian shopping street, Ledra Street, is lined with modern shops, cafés and restaurants. At the very end of the street, you will find a pedestrian border crossing where you can enter Northern Cyprus by presenting your passport or national identity card. Another landmark worth visiting is Famagusta Gate, the most beautiful and best-preserved of the city’s original three gates. Today, it serves as a cultural centre. Other notable sights include St John’s Cathedral and the Liberty Monument. What I particularly loved about Nicosia was the incredible mix of modernity and history that you can see at every turn. Some of the narrow streets are lined with beautiful, picturesque little houses that captivated me with their iconic Mediterranean style.
Overall, I would say that Cyprus is definitely a country worth visiting. The biggest disadvantage for tourists, in my opinion, is transportation. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to rent a car and feel comfortable driving on the left-hand side of the road, I would definitely recommend doing so.
One thing I regret is not having explored more of the island’s natural attractions, especially those located inland and in the northwest. Perhaps I will return in a few years to discover these beautiful places as well.
Pics:
1. Tombs of the Kings
2. Bridge of Love
3. Limassol Marine
4. Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos
5. Limassol Castle
6. Ayia Napa Cathedral
7. Holy Church of Saint Lazarus
8. Kamara Tou Koraka
9. Nicosia Old Town
10. St. John's Cathedral
11. Eleftheria Square
12. Venetian Walls of Nicosia
13. Cave Beach