Considering Cyprus for your next escape? With its winning mix of UNESCO-rated sights, charming history, traditional food and a whole portfolio of beaches, it’s one of the best places to visit in the med. Now all that’s left to do is decide whether you’re team Paphos or team Larnaca… Of course, there’s no bad option here, but let’s take a look at the highlights ready for your next getaway.
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Wander around World Heritage Sites
Cyprus and World Heritage Sites go together like halloumi and tzatziki (that’s very well indeed). Thanks to its rich history, Cyprus has more than just a few top-rated sights to tempt you away from the infinity pool or those All Inclusive cocktails.
In Paphos, you can spend the day exploring sights like Aphrodite’s Rock – AKA the birthplace of the goddess of love – and the Tomb of The Kings. These underground tombs date back as far as the 4th century, and they come with frescoed walls and impressive Doric columns. Although the name might suggest otherwise, no kings were actually buried here. The tombs, which were carved straight into the rock, were reserved for ancient aristocrats.
Larnaca certainly isn’t short of impressive historical sights, either. Topping the list is the 9th-century Church of Saint Lazarus. It’s one of the most important Byzantine monuments in Cyprus and was built to house the tomb of Agios Lazaros. This place is considered the most photographed attraction on the island, thanks to its beautiful, honey-coloured stonework. One for the Insta feed.
Experience Ayia Napa’s legendary nightlife
Whether you’re after casual cocktails or all-night party vibes, you can count on both sides of Cyprus to pull out all the stops. Some of Paphos’ most sought-after pubs and bars are in Ayiou Antoniou, which is a 10-minute taxi ride away from the old town. You’ll find a mixture of Cypriot tavernas and trendy bars, where local DJs take to the decks in flower-covered courtyards until the early hours.
While Larnaca is most famous for its gorgeous strips of sand and laidback atmosphere, its party animal neighbour, Ayia Napa, is just 40 minutes’ drive away. In fact, its huge selection of up-all-night clubs rivals the White Isle of Ibiza. Go for a drink or two at the main square, where lively bars and those all-important 2-4-1 cocktails are part of the deal. Then, wander over to the nightclubs, where garage, dance, and R&B music are all on the agenda.
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Take a dip in bath-warm waters
Thanks to Cyprus’ gorgeous scenery, excellent weather and prime position in the eastern Mediterranean, it’s the perfect place to unwind outside. Heading to Paphos mean you’ll have easy access to Coral Bay, which is just a 30-minute bus ride away from the old town. Here, the main Blue Flag beach is fringed by limestone cliffs and has a couple of bars and tavernas that’ll keep you fuelled. When it comes to activities, you can sign up for watersports like windsurfing, catamaran trips and scuba diving. Or seek out some peace and quiet on Corallia Beach, which is just a few minutes’ walk away. This place is well known for shallow, bath-warm waters that are perfect for little ones.
Over in Larnaca, everyone’s raving about secluded Konnos Bay. This stretch of sand is the perfect place to relax if you’re looking for solitude as it’s a bit of a hidden gem. Also, because it’s backed by steep hills, it’s really well sheltered, so the water is practically wave-free. Don’t be surprised if you spot starfish in the sea – they’re a frequent visitor in this neck of the woods.
Explore Cyprus’ wilderness
At first glance, Cyprus’ calling card may look like its picture-perfect beaches, but there’s so much exploring to be done away from the coastline. We’re talking mountainous national parks and wildlife-filled forests, to name a few. In Paphos you can swap days by the pool for exploring the Akamas peninsula. This nature reserve is covered in a blanket of citrus orchards and bright-green forests, so you’ll have no problems keeping cool in the day – when temperatures can reach up to 33 degrees.
It wouldn’t be a holiday to Larnaca if you didn’t visit the Troodos Mountains, which are set in Troodos National Forest Park. It’s the largest – and, in our opinion, the most beautiful – mountain range in Cyprus, and aside from jaw-dropping views, you’ll also have access to pine forests and tiny hidden villages. Why not head out on a 4×4 safari through the park’s bumpy terrains with an experience? You’ll be glad you got off the beaten track in Cyprus.
Ready to decide? Check out our trips to Paphos or Larnaca.
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Authors: Olivia Hunt and Becky Wells
Last updated: 30/01/ 2024
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