An Amateur’s Guide to Traveling Cyprus Like a Pro

When choosing a Mediterranean destination, Cyprus is often overlooked, with tourists choosing to flock to one of the more popular islands such as Santorini, Mallorca, or Malta that are better represented in the Media. Don’t let its quieter reputation fool you though- Cyprus is a beautiful country with booming tourism industry. Flying just under the radar are some of the most incredible beaches we’ve ever seen, lunar landscapes, and quaint, historic villages.

The general lack of awareness about Cyprus can make travelers wary- it’s hard to find the inspiration to travel somewhere you know next to nothing about. But fear not! We’re here to tell you just how great Cyprus is and how to travel the country like a pro.  

Getting There

Cyprus is easily accessible by air with two main airports: Larnaca International Airport and the Paphos International Airport.  Paphos International is mostly used for charter flight arrivals/departures but occasionally some commercial flights pass through. You can also get to Cyprus via European cruises, or by catching a ferry from Isreal, Lebanon, or Egypt. 

Budgeting for Cyprus

The currency used in Cyrpus is the Euro. You should budget as though you’re going to spend around €50 every day, in addition to your accommodations. While this number will change drastically based on your travel style, personal preferences, and the number of excursions you intend to take, you can certainly get away with this estimate based on the averages of past tourists. 

Climate

From April to October, you can expect temperatures ranging from the 20s°C or into the 30s°C. From November to March, expect temperatures in the mid-teens. If you’re planning your trip to Cyrpus as a designated beach holiday and know you’ll want to do some swimming along with your sunbathing, it is recommended that you travel between June and October when the water will be warmest. That said, even in the winter months it never drops below 17 degrees, so if you’re not a timid swimmer and don’t mind a little chill, you should still be fine. This conveniently overlaps with the season of lowest precipitation, which runs from May to October. Though, in typical Mediterranean fashion, this is never a major concern; rainfall is rarely heavy and doesn’t occur particularly often. No need to worry about being rained out. 

Stay:

$: Old Port Hotel

• Every room has a view with a luscious courtyard, terracotta rooftops, the sparkling seaside, and a medieval castle just outside your windows. 
• Modern luxury with a budget-friendly price tag
• Laid-back, deconstructed fine dining on-site 
• The hotel bistro turns into a trendy cocktail bar at night with good eats and live jam sessions 
• Need to check out in the early morning? Old Port will serve your breakfast to go so you can start your travel day on the right foot. 

Photo credit to https://allaboutlimassol.com/

$: S Paul Hotel

• Sea-view rooms with private balconies
• Self-described “classic Cypriot architecture”, gorgeous stone walls and modern furnishings 
• Atrium restaurant under the olive tree for casual plates and a sophisticated indoor restaurant for fancier evenings
• Guests have the choice of harder/softer mattresses and pillow menus to ensure their perfect night’s sleep. 

Photo credit to https://spaulhotel.com/

 $$: Elysium Hotel

• Modern, Victorian-inspired luxury suites perfect for couples
• Multi-level pool including a special sunken pool and a hydro-massage rotunda
• Full-Service Opium Spa rumored to be the best in all of Cyprus.
• Special holiday packages for guests on major occasions such as Christmas or Valentine’s day
• 8 onsite restaurants, bars, and cafes
• Traditional Cyprian Maisonettes for families designed with terracotta tiles and bamboo roofs
• On-site SCUBA certification programs

Photo credit to https://www.elysium-hotel.com/

$$: Apokryfo Hotel

• Boutique hotel comprised of 7 original-stone houses; Guests can choose between a single room in the main guesthouse or book an entire house to themselves
• Crystal-clear stone pool and complimentary hammam
• Guests library and board game room for quiet entertainment
• Private picnic lunches on a sailboat available through the hotel kitchen
• Candlelit dinners in the courtyard featuring local flavors and a wood-fire oven
• Wine terrace overlooking the village and local vineyards

Photo credit to https://www.apokryfo.com/

$$$: Amathus Beach Hotel

• Private beachfront (one designated as an “Adults Only” beach)  and guestrooms with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea
• 13 onsite restaurants and bars ranging from unfussy beachfront grills to exclusive fine-dining experiences
• State-of-the-art wellness center and Technogym
• Tennis courts with floodlights for nighttime sport
• All-inclusive packages available 
• Good accessibility offerings with free wheelchair service, beach wheelchair strips, and intentionally designed accessible guestrooms

$$$: Amara Hotel

• Massive marble bathtubs for soaking away a long day
• Floor-to-ceiling windows and cascading plunge pools in guest suites
• Live Jellyfish tank at one of the hotel’s most impressive restaurants
• Private cabanas and lounge areas for casual beachfront dining 
• Multi-room wine cellar 
• On-site PCR testing for safe travel

Photo credit to https://www.amarahotel.com/

Do: 

Hike the Avakas Gorge

We mentioned that Cyrpus was known for its stellar rocky landscape and the Avakas Gorge is a great way to experience that side of the nation to the fullest. It’s a relatively short and easy hike considering how impressive it is, and it’s not terribly crowded. Be sure to pack a camera to document some of the unique flora and fauna you find along the footpath. 

Sail the Blue Lagoon

Perhaps one of the prettiest places in Cyrpus, the Blue Lagoon along the Akamas Peninsula is an absolute must-see, and one of the best ways to explore it is on a sailing charter- especially if you’re on a romantic getaway with your boo. Pop some champagne and prepare to dive on in as things get heated in the afternoon sun. 

Cape Greco Sea Caves

These stunning rock formations are one of the most popular attractions in Cyprus-and for good reason.  Be sure to be mindful of the tides and perhaps even pack a picnic! The Cape Greco Sea Caves are a great place to enjoy a day by the sea without actually needing to get your feet wet. 

Have a beach day along the coast

Between the unique rocky terrain that will leave you feeling like you’ve been transported to the moon and the sparkling teal seas, the coast of Cyprus is unlike any other and you’d be reticent not to take a day or two to enjoy it. Pack a towel for an easy-paced day or sunbathing or a well-fitted suit for splashing around- no matter what your beachgoing style, there’s a perfect Cyprus beach waiting for you. 

Road trip to Odomos or Kalopanayiotis

Many of the historic stone villages throughout Cyrpus deserve a visit but Odomos and Kalopanayiotis are a couple of our favorites with cobblestone paths, sweet cafes, and friendly locals. If you’re planning to visit one (or even many) of these villages, renting a car and taking a road trip is a great way to see more of the nation. 

Aphrodite’s Rock

Another of Cyrpus’s more popular attractions, the beach at Aphrodite’s rock will likely be pretty crowded, but it’s worth the trip, especially if you visit earlier in the morning. Also known as Petra tou Romiou, Aphrodite’s rock is said to be the mythological birthplace of, you guessed it, Aphrodite (the goddess of love). 

St. Hilarion Castle

This attraction is a little more of a hidden gem when compared to the others on this list but is equally as wonderful. The castle, which was a monastery first, is located in the Kyrenia mountain range and is a great itinerary addition if you’re a history or architecture buff. It’s also a scenic tour that will promise you sweeping views of the landscape and a leisurely afternoon walk.