Cyprus tourist attractions and practical information
Cyprus is a place where sun shines almost a whole year. Attractions on the island are countless. The only European country in which you can enjoy swimming even in November. Cyprus is a third largest island in Mediterranean Sea. Full of wonderful landscapes and rich history, thanks to many monuments that we can find in the island.
Sea Caves Ayia Napa
A famous poet Leonidas Malenis describes Cyprus as a “golden green leaf thrown into the sea” and “a land of hot wind”. Sunny Mediterranean climate is great to plan holiday in Cyprus regardless of the season. However, tourists most often choose summer time. Especially months such as July, August and September.
Sea Caves Ayia Napa
In peak of the season it is definitely too hot for sightseeing. From my own experience, I know that temperatures in September exceed 35° C. When heat waves comes, temperature can reach even 45° C.
Sea Caves Ayia Napa
Things to do in Cyprus – Visit Aphrodite’s Rock
Adres: Pedestrian Underpass, Kouklia, Cyprus – Free parking with underground passage to the Aphrodite Beach.
Cyprus is island of Aphrodite, Goddess of love, beauty and fertility. According to mythology, beautiful Aphrodite emerged from foam in the coast of Cyprus. Some people believe that swimming three times around Aphrodite’s Rock guarantees eternal youth. Who would not like to swim in the birthplace of the most beautiful Greek goddess?
Aphrodite’s Rock, Cyprus
Connection of Cyprus with Aphrodite lasted for many centuries. Local people worshiped the goddess of fertility by making sacrifices in the temples. The remains of the Aphrodite Sanctuary are among others in the small town of Kouklia. Despite the fact that the pagan cult in the temples was forbidden, the memory of Aphrodite is timeless.
Aphrodite’s Rock, Cyprus
Aphrodite’s Rock – Legends
The best example of this is Petra Tou Romiou or Aphrodite’s Rock. On the island, we will not find another place with such a number of legends. According to one of them, the Greek goddess of Earth Gaia tried to rebel his sons to hurt their father. The youngest of them, Kronos became the leader of rebellion. Part of the body of Uranos landed in the sea… At the same time, Aphrodite emerged from the white foam. Firstly, the sea took her to the Greek island of Kyther, and then the waves brought her to Cyprus.
Aphrodite’s Rock, Cyprus
With appropriate weather conditions, waves hitting the rocks resemble a human figure. All you need is just a bit of imagination to see Greek Goddes in Cyprus. Aphrodite’s Rock is also known as the Roman’s Rock “Petou Tou Romiou”. This name refers to the history of Basil Digenis Akritas, who tried to protect Cyprus against the invasion of Arabs. According to the legend, Basil took enormous rocks from the mountains of Troodos and threw them towards the invaders. In fact, the Aphrodite’s Rock is the result of erosion caused by the waves.
Aphrodite’s Rock, Cyprus
Things to do in North and South Cyprus – Practical information
Before we start to talk about sandy beaches and picturesque views it is worth to find out a bit more about this country. Politically, the island is divided into North Cyprus (Turkish part) and South Cyprus (Greek part). The northern part of the island is not recognized by other countries and in theory does not exist. In practice, border between the Greek and Turkish part is valid. For example, crossing it requires a purchase of additional car insurance.
Mountainous landscape, Cyprus
The southern part of the island is much more populated and more often visited by tourists. The most popular cities in Cyprus are Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca, Ayia Napa, Famagusta, Kyrenia, Protaras and the capital of Cyprus – Nicosia. It is the only capital in the world divided between two nations – Greeks and Turks. Capital of the island is not situated on the coast, which is very rare.
Orthodox Church of st. Andrew, Ayia Napa
Nevertheless, the coast abounds in coastal resorts, sandy beaches and vibrant cities. Cyprus is definitely famous for its wonderful beaches. Every second beach on the island has a Blue Flag for cleanest swimming waters in the world. The most beautiful beaches on Cyprus include Nissi Beach, Coral Bay, Blue Lagoon, Ina Beach, Makronissos Beach, Vathia Gonia, Connection Beach, Fig Tree Bay and Aphrodite Beach.
Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa
Akamas Peninsula National Park
In the north-western part of Cyprus, Akamas Peninsula was not affected by tourism as much as Paphos or Ayia Napa. Due to mountainous landscape of the National Park getting to some places can be really difficult.
Akamas Peninsula, Cyprus
When visiting Akamas Peninsula you have to be ready for a long hiking. Picturesque views in the area 230 square meters cause that many people consider this region as one of the most beautiful in Cyprus. It is a home for 168 species of birds, 20 species of reptiles, 16 species of butterflies, as well as 12 species of mammals.
Akamas Peninsula, Cyprus
Things to do in Cyprus – Akamas Peninsula
Secret Cove
Address: Parking, Rd To Fontana Amoroza, Neo Chorio, Cyprus- a 45-minute walk awaits us from the parking lot. The road leading to the Secret Cove is not the best so we do not recommend a further drive.
Secret Cove, Cyprus
Blue Lagoon and Monolis Bay
Adres: Parking, Rd To Fontana Amoroza, Neo Chorio, Cyprus – Similar as Secret Cove, a long walk awaits us to see those places. A better solution can be a cruise to Blue Lagoon.
Blue Lagoon, Cyprus
Things to do in Cyprus – Swim with turtles
In the crystal clear waters, we can see endangered Caretta Caretta turtles. Thanks to the work of nature conservators, the number of new born turtles is constantly growing. Protection areas are all over the world, among others in such places as Zanzibar and Greek island →Zakintos. However, Cyprus is one of the first countries in the Mediterranean Sea that legally began to protect the turtles in 1971.
Caretta Caretta turtle, Cyprus
Caretta Caretta turtles are swimming in the coast of Paphos and Lara beach, which is protection area of these wonderful creatures. An interesting fact is that turtles can return even after 30 years to the same place where they were born to lay their own eggs there.
Which place to choose for holiday? – Pafos, Larnaka or Ayia Napa?
Pafos – things to do in Cyprus
Address: You can get to Paphos from the airport via Arch Makariou III Avenue. In the city itself you will find a lot of parking spaces.
Paphos is most famous town among tourists. A convenient location near the airport makes it a great choice for your holiday stay. There is only a 20-minute drive from the airport to city center.
Promenade in Paphos, Cyprus
In the southwestern part of the island, town Paphos has a lot to offer. Amazing monuments such as the Archological Park or Tombs of the Kings are one of the reasons why Paphos is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In 2017 city was also called the European Capital of Culture.
Paphos Castle, Cyprus
Paphos – attractions and most beautiful beaches
Exploring Paphos in the summer can be a bit difficult due to high temperature. For example, in July, the average maximum temperature in Paphos is 36° C. In such a weather, most tourists are rather going to the beach. Fortunately, Paphos area is not lacking in beautiful beaches.
Prestos Beach, Cyprus
If you decide to take a walk along the coast of Paphos you can spot Caretta Caretta turtles. You can see them among others on the Alykes Beach. It is also worth discovering nearby beaches that really beautiful such as Aphrodite Beach or Blue Lagoon. Personally, I also recommend less popular and secret beaches like Prestos Beach.
Prestos Beach, Cyprus
When visiting western part of the island it is worth to see the Avakas Gorge and stop next to Edro III Shipwreck. The impressive ship with a length of 80 meters rests on the rocks just 15 km from Paphos. In this area there is also an interesting viewpoint of the sea caves and a Coral Bay – one of the most beautiful beaches on the west coast of Cyprus.
Edro III Shipwreck
Sea Caves Peyia and Banana plantation
Address: After 25 minutes of driving from Paphos towards the north turn to Sea Caves Ave. You will see there parking with a viewpoint of sea caves and a large banana plantation.
Most banana plantations are in the southern part of Cyprus near Paphos. It is obvious that climate on the island favors growth of bananas. People buy local bananas on the markets in Larnaca, Limassol or the capital of the island Nicosia. Bananas are also often sold on the road on the outskirts of the cities.
Banana plantation next to Sea Caves Ave
Larnaca – Things to do in Cyprus – Most beautiful beaches and where to see Flamingos
South Cyprus is famous for many attractions. In addition to beautiful beaches, we can also see Flamingos there. They mainly appear on the Limassol, Oroklini Lake and Larnaca Salt Lake. The best time for Flamingo observations in Cyprus is between November and March. Unfortunately, we could not see them in Larnaca. If you are wondering where else you can see flamingos, I highly recommend →Wyspę Holbox.
Larnaca is the third largest city in Cyprus. Its main attractions are Church of Saint Lazarus, Hall Sultan Tekke, Aqueduct Kamares and ruins of the ancient Citium. Due to the limited time, we gave up visiting Larnaca to be able to better discover the south-east coast of Cyprus.
Ayia Napa, Cypr – Most beautiful beaches and legend of Sea Monster
Sea Caves Ayia Napa
Address: Sea Caves, Agia Napa, E307, Ayia Napa, Cyprus- Road leading to the caves is not tarmac road.
Ayia Napa is famous for its party night life, sandy beaches and sea caves. The most beautiful photos of these rock formations can be taken in the south-east part of Cyprus. Sea Caves Ayia Napa are an attraction that can not be missed. They were created as a result of erosion by waves crashing on cliffs.
Sea Caves Ayia Napa
There are two ways to get to them: from sea or land. Surrounded by crystal clear water, they are an ideal place for taking beautiful photos. Many people decide to jump to water from a 10-meter cliff. Sea caves reach up to 80 meters long! You can observe there not only beautiful views, but also rich marine life. From fishermen stories, we can find out that octopuses are living in those waters.
Sea Caves Ayia Napa
According to the legend, Cyprus caves were used to store pirated treasures, as well as a great place to hide. In July, the average maximum temperature in Ayia Napa is 32 ° C, therefore they are an ideal shelter on sunny days.
Sea Caves Ayia Napa
Things to do in Cyprus – Visit Cape Greco
Southern Cyprus is mainly famous for the Cape Greco Nature Reserve. According to legend there is Ayia Napa Sea Monster. Currently, there is no evidence for its existence, just like a Scottish monster from Loch Ness. “To Filiko Teras” means a “Friendly Monster”. This is a term that local fishermen are using to describe the monster from Ayia Napa. On the other hand some people identify him with the Greek mythological monster of Scylla.
Cape Greco, Cyprus
Cape Greco is an ideal place for walking, swimming, as well as diving. We can get there easily by car. There is less than 20 minutes drive away from most popular holiday resorts in Prortas or Ayia Napa.
The most beautiful beaches
Address: Nissi Ave 81, Ayia Napa – parking next to Nissi Beach
Beautiful sandy beaches on Cyprus are primarily in the south-eastern part of the island. The breathtaking Nissi Beach is just 3.5 kilometers from the center of Ayia Napa. Nearby you will also find many other interesting beaches such as Konnos Beach, Fig Tree Bay, Makronissos Beach or Vathia Gonia.
Nissi Beach, Cyprus
Love Bridge and Kamara Tou Koraka Bridge
Address: Driving from Ayia Napa towards Cape Greko, you will see a big parking lot where you can stop to see Love Bridge.
It is worth stopping between the Glyki Nero Beach and Ammos Kambouri to see the most beautiful rock arch in Cyprus. Love Bridge is one of the most romantic places on the island. Sometimes wedding ceremonies are organised in this area. Some people say a kiss of a beloved person in the middle of Love Brige will make a wish come true.
Love Bridge, Cyprus
In Cape Greco, we can see other similar rock formation. Kamara Tou Koraka Bridge, which is also called Love Bridge can be destroyed at any time due to erosion. Walking on this bridge is impossible and according to geologists it is only a matter of time before the bridge collapses.
Kamara Tou Koraka Bridge
Ayioi Anargiroi Church and Hermit’s Cave
Address: When driving along the road Agioi Anargiroi, we can stop at parking lot near Kamara Tou Koraka Bridge and eventually reach to Ayioi Anargiroi Church.
Ayioi Anargiroi Church, Cyprus
Near the Kamara Tou Koraka Bridge we will see a beautifully located Ayioi Anargiroi Church. Many couples decide to have wedding here or baptism their children. However, this place is also ideal for diving. From the cliff where the Church was built we can go directly to the sea. There is hidden Hermit’s Cave. According to legend holy water in the cave was used by two brothers Cosmas and Damianos to heal people.
Hermit’s Cave, Cyprus
Cyprus weather
Close location to North Africa, Israel or Turkey makes that temperatures in Cyprus are one of the highest in Europe. If you dream about hot weather, Cyprus is a great choice. However, if you are not fan of it, I would recommend visiting island in October or November. These months will allow you to avoid extremely high temperatures. In November, hotel prices are lower and weather is quite pleasant. It is really worth considering visiting the island during this period.
Cape Greco, Cyprus
According to many travellers, the best time to visit Cyprus is May or June. The average temperature in Paphos in May is 24° C. There are 13 hours of sun during a day. History enthusiasts will certainly not complain about heat while visiting the ancient cities and discovering the island will turn out to be pure pleasure.
Akamas Peninsula National Park, Cyprus
One of the coldest months in Cyprus is January. During this period, it is possible that Troodos mountains can be covered with snow, which should not occur in other parts of the island. Between January and April temperatures are good for sightseeing and accommodation prices are affordable.
Agios Georgios Chapel, Ayia Napa
Cyprus accommodation
If you are looking for a beautiful hotel that is affordable and has great location, I definitely recommend →Blue Harbour Boutique, which is located in Ayia Napa Harbor. Large rooms with a marine interior design and huge terrace will make your stay memorable. Hotel is less than 15 minutes by car from the Ayia Napa Sea Caves, and you can get to Nissi Beach in less than 10 minutes.
Ayia Napa Harbor, Cyprus
Hotel is situated next to promenade where you can go for a longer walk. It is much less crowded than the promenade in Paphos. A few minutes walk divides us from the sandy beach of Limanaki or harbor, where you can see The Black Pearl Boat.
Ayia Napa Promenade, Cyprus
To sum up, Cyprus has so much to offer that we would like to come back there again. Our favourite places are Ayia Napa Sea Caves , Cape Greco and Aphrodite’s Rock. Our biggest disappointment is Salt Lake in Larnaca. Maybe if we spot Flamingos our impressions would be completely different.
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