Things To Do in Cyprus

In this guide, we'll take you on a journey to discover the best things to do in Cyprus, from savouring mouthwatering local dishes to basking on the island's finest beaches. Whether you're an adventurer, a foodie, or a sunseeker, Cyprus has something special in store for you.

Beaches

Cyprus is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Here are some of the best Cyprus beaches:

Alagadi Beach: Situated in Kyrenia, offers a serene natural escape with soft, pristine sands and safeguarded white blossoms, making it a haven for botany enthusiasts.

Golden Beach: Located near Dipkarpaz on the Karpass Peninsula, boasts crystal-clear waters and golden-brown sands, providing a perfect spot for sunbathing and cultural exploration.

Glapsides Beach: Near Famagusta, it is family-friendly, offering warm, transparent waters and affordable sunbed and parasol rentals. It's known for its shallow waters, making it ideal for children, and breathtaking vistas.

Escape Beach in Kyrenia: This beach promises an exciting experience with jet skiing, shallow waters, and water sports, along with ample shaded areas and a lively nightlife scene.

Silver Beach in Famagusta: This is celebrated for its crystal-clear seawater, ideal for snorkelling, and is family-friendly with reasonably priced sunbeds.

Acapulco Beach: Affiliated with a luxurious hotel and spa complex in Kyrenia, it stands out for its cleanliness and water sports.

Agios Filon Beach in Dipkarpaz: It is home to marine turtles and offers spacious sandy stretches and picturesque rocks, with Turkish cuisine nearby.

Palm Beach in Famagusta: This beach features fine golden sands, clear waters, and a glimpse into the history of Varosha.

Food

Cyprus is known for its delicious food, which is a blend of Greek and Turkish cuisine. Here are some of the must-try Cyprus food:

Halloumi: This is a traditional Cypriot cheese made from a mixture of goat's and sheep's milk. It is often grilled or fried and served as a side dish or in a salad.

Souvlaki: This is a popular Greek dish made from grilled meat, usually pork or chicken, served on a skewer with vegetables and pita bread.

Kleftiko: This is a traditional Cypriot dish made from slow-cooked lamb or goat, marinated in garlic and lemon juice, and served with potatoes and vegetables.

Meze: This is a selection of small dishes served as a meal or appetizer. It usually includes dips, salads, grilled meat, and seafood.

Moussaka: This is a savoury casserole. It consists of layered creamy béchamel sauce, minced meat, and eggplant.

Historical Sights

Cyprus has a rich history and culture, and there are many historical sights to explore. Here are some of the must-visit historical sights in Cyprus:

Salamis: Founded in the Bronze Age by Tefkros, this ancient city in North Cyprus dates back to the 11th century BC. Excavations from 1952-1974 revealed a well-preserved site, showcasing Roman-era remnants like the gymnasium, baths, forum, and agora.

Kyrenia Castle: Located near Kyrenia Harbour, this architectural marvel features a mix of styles within its Venetian walls. Explore the Church of St. George, royal apartments, Byzantine chapels, and French dungeons. Don't miss the Shipwreck Museum, housing a 2,300-year-old cargo ship that sank off Kyrenia.

Karpaz Gate Marina: North Cyprus' first modern marina, it's a luxurious destination with a 5 Gold Anchor rating, catering to superyachts. Enjoy top-tier leisure and technical facilities, along with dining options and outlets on the marina's promenade.

Bellapais Abbey: Situated at the base of the Beşparmak Mountains, this medieval wonder is famous for its Gothic architecture and picturesque setting. English author Lawrence Durrell found inspiration here while writing "Bitter Lemons."

Golden Beach: A pristine 2-kilometer stretch of Mediterranean shoreline on the Karpaz Peninsula, known for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, offering a serene escape.

Shipwreck Museum: Within Kyrenia Castle, it showcases a cargo boat from 300 BC, the oldest known shipwreck. Discovered by marine archaeologists, it provides insights into the past.

St. Hilarion Castle: Dating back to the 10th century, this castle on the Beşparmak Mountains includes a monastery and church. Legend has it that it inspired Walt Disney's "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs."

The Great Khan: An important Ottoman work in Nicosia, built between 1572 and 1579. It now serves as an entertainment and shopping centre.

Kyrenia Harbour: Often called the "Jewel of Cyprus," it features a horseshoe-shaped harbour with historical buildings, restaurants, and bars, making it a must-visit destination.

Karpaz Peninsula: A remote, untouched region known for its wild donkeys, ancient ruins, and the Apostolos Andreas Monastery dedicated to St. Andrew.

Glapsides Beach: Located in Famagusta, it offers a pristine coastline with white sands, crystal-clear waters, and various water activities, along with a lively beachfront restaurant.

Mavi Köşk (Blue Mansion): Built in 1973, this unique villa combines Greek, Italian, Turkish, and Eastern Mediterranean styles. It's known for its intriguing secrets, including hidden tunnels.

Old City of Famagusta: A picturesque Mediterranean town with a rich history, featuring historical and modern buildings. Visit the old St. Nicholas Cathedral, and Venetian walls, and explore the pedestrianized shopping street.

Kantara Castle: Positioned at 700 meters above sea level on the Girne Mountains, it offers breathtaking views, numerous rooms, and a legendary 101st room believed to lead to paradise.

St. Barnabas Monastery: Located near Tuzla Village, Famagusta, it commemorates the apostle Barnabas and houses two museums, one focused on ancient artefacts and the other showcasing icons from the region's churches, dating back to the 18th century.