Last Updated on 16 December 2025 by Johan

Cyprus lies in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. It is south of Turkey, west of Syria and Lebanon, and north of Israel and Egypt. Greece is to the northwest across the sea. The island is known for its beaches, mountains, and cultural heritage. Its location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa has shaped its history and identity.

Explanation of the name: Cyprus

The name Cyprus has ancient roots. Early records mention Alashiya or Alasia, linked to copper production. The Latin phrase aes Cyprium means “metal of Cyprus” and later became cuprum, the origin of the word copper. Some scholars suggest the name comes from the Greek word kypros, meaning henna plant, though this theory is less accepted. Over centuries the name evolved into Cyprus, while in Greek it is Kypros. The name reflects both natural resources and mythology, as the island is considered the birthplace of Aphrodite.

History: Cyprus

Cyprus has been inhabited since the Neolithic era. Its timber and minerals attracted traders and conquerors. Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians, and Romans ruled the island. Christianity arrived through apostles Paul, Mark, and Barnabas. During the Byzantine era Cyprus became a centre of Christian culture. After the Crusades, the Lusignans and Venetians controlled the island. The Ottomans took power in 1571. Britain assumed administration in 1878 and made Cyprus a crown colony in 1925. Independence came in 1960. Political tensions between Greek and Turkish Cypriots led to division in 1974. Today the Republic of Cyprus governs the south, while the north is administered by the self‑declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognised only by Turkey. In July 2024 Cyprus reformed its local government, creating 20 municipalities to improve administration. The new municipalities are: Nicosia, Strovolos, Lakatamia, Latsia, Limassol, Kato Polemidia, Mesa Geitonia, Agios Athanasios, Paphos, Geroskipou, Larnaca, Aradippou, Ayia Napa, Paralimni, Deryneia, Famagusta, Kyrenia, Morphou, Lefkara, Athienou

Tourist information: Cyprus

Cyprus offers diverse attractions. Nicosia, the capital, is the last divided city in Europe. It has Venetian walls, museums, and lively markets. Limassol is a port city with a medieval castle and modern marina. Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage site with mosaics and the Tombs of the Kings. Larnaca has a palm‑lined promenade and the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque. Ayia Napa and Protaras are famous for beaches and nightlife. The Troodos Mountains provide hiking trails and monasteries. Villages such as Lefkara are known for lacework and silverware. Spring brings wild orchids, while summer offers coastal cycling and water sports.

Attractions sorted by distance from Nicosia

The Cyprus Museum, located at Mouseiou 1, Nicosia 1097, is the closest major site. It is the largest archaeological museum on the island and houses artefacts from prehistoric to Roman times. Its collections include pottery, sculptures, and jewellery, offering a clear view of Cyprus’s long history.

A short walk away is the Byzantine Museum, found at Πλ. Αρχιεπισκόπου Κυπριανού, Nicosia 1016. It is part of the Archbishop’s Palace complex and displays icons from the 9th to the 19th century. Many of these works were rescued from churches across the island, making the museum an important centre for religious art.

Nearby, the A. G. Leventis Gallery, at Anastasios G, 5, A.G. Leventi 1097, Nicosia, presents European and Cypriot art. It includes works by El Greco and Monet alongside Cypriot painters. The gallery is modern and interactive, appealing to both art lovers and casual visitors.

The Leventis Museum, at Hippocratous 15‑17, Nicosia 1011, is housed in restored merchant houses. It offers a historical overview of the city from ancient times to today. Exhibits include costumes, maps, and photographs, making it a valuable stop for those interested in the capital’s past.

Travelling further, the Troödosgebergte (Troodos Mountains), located at Troodos 4800, is about 71 kilometres from Nicosia. The mountains offer hiking trails, waterfalls, and Byzantine monasteries. The highest peak, Mount Olympus, rises to 1,952 metres and provides panoramic views.

Within the Troodos range lies the Kykkosklooster, at F966, Tsakistra 2865. It is the richest monastery in Cyprus and holds icons and manuscripts. The monastery is famous for its jewel‑covered icon of the Virgin Mary.

Heading south, the Kasteel Limassol, at Ankara 73, Limassol 3042, is about 83 kilometres from Nicosia. Built during the Crusader era and later rebuilt by the Ottomans, it now houses the Medieval Museum with weapons, coins, and ceramics.

Close by is The Cyprus Wine Museum, at 42 Odos Pafou, Erimi 4630. It highlights the island’s wine heritage and showcases Commandaria, one of the oldest named wines in the world. Visitors can taste local varieties and learn about the history of wine‑making.

The Archeological Site of Kourion, at Episkopi, Limassol District 4620, is another major attraction. It features a Greco‑Roman theatre overlooking the sea, still used for performances today. The site also has mosaics and baths, offering insight into ancient life.

In Larnaca, about 45 kilometres from Nicosia, lies the Zoutmeer van Larnaca (Salt Lake). It fills with water in winter and attracts flamingos. Next to it is the Hala Sultan Tekke, at Tekke Road, Larnaca 6029, one of the most important Islamic sites in Cyprus.

Nearby, the Pierides Museum, at Zinonos Kitieos 4, Larnaca 6023, is housed in a 19th‑century mansion. It displays archaeological finds from different eras, including pottery, coins, and glassware.

Further west, the Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos, at QC45+C99, Paphos 8040, is a UNESCO site. It has mosaics, villas, and theatres. The mosaics depict Greek myths and are among the best preserved in the Mediterranean.

Close to it is the Archaeological Site of the Tombs of the Kings, at Tombs of the Kings Ave 63, Chlorakas 8015. These rock‑cut tombs date to the Hellenistic period and were used by nobles.

The Ethnographic Museum, at Exo Vrisis 1, Paphos 8047, is in a traditional stone building. It preserves local traditions with household artefacts, costumes, and tools.

Nearby is the Rots van Aphrodite, in Kouklia. Myth says Aphrodite rose from the sea here. The beach is popular for photos and swimming.

On the eastern coast, the Cavo Greco National Park, at X3CC+RRV, Ayia Napa 5330, offers sea caves, cliffs, and hiking trails. It is a protected area with rich biodiversity.

The famous Nissi Beach, at Nissi Avenue 77, Ayia Napa 5340, is known for clear water and fine sand. It is popular with families and young travellers.

In Famagusta, the Famagusta Ghost Town, at 4X93+3VJ, Gazimağusa 99450, remains abandoned since 1974. Hotels and homes stand empty, showing the impact of division.

Finally, near Kyrenia, the St. Hilarion kasteelpiek, at 877H+3R5, Kyrenias 99320, is a medieval fortress with panoramic views. It inspired legends and fairy tales and is one of the most striking castles in Cyprus.

Fun things for children

Families can enjoy waterparks such as Fasouri Watermania in Limassol and Aphrodite Waterpark in Paphos. Beaches like Fig Tree Bay are safe for swimming. Interactive museums such as the Cyprus Museum of Natural History offer educational experiences. Seasonal festivals include parades and performances suitable for children.

Local events in 2026

Cyprus hosts many festivals. The Cyprus Film Days International Festival runs from 17 to 25 April 2026. The URBACT City Festival takes place in Nicosia on 31 March and 1 April 2026. The BEONIX Electronic Music Festival will be held in Limassol from 25 to 27 September 2026. Traditional events include the Rose Festival in Agros in May and the Wine Festival in Limassol in September. The Kataklysmos Festival, celebrating the biblical flood, takes place in coastal towns in June.

Culinary destinations

Cypriot cuisine blends Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern influences. Halloumi cheese is grilled or served fresh. Souvla is slow‑roasted meat cooked over charcoal. Kleftiko is lamb baked in a clay oven. Sheftalia are minced meat sausages wrapped in caul fat. Meze meals offer many small dishes including dips, salads, and seafood. Desserts include loukoumia (Cyprus delights) and honey pastries. Local wines such as Commandaria and Zivania brandy are traditional drinks. Vineyards in Limassol and Paphos offer tastings.

Cycling and walking routes

Cyprus is ideal for cycling. Routes include the Honey Villages trail, the Majestic Monasteries loop, and coastal rides near Ayia Napa. Walking trails in Troodos Mountains lead to waterfalls and Byzantine churches. The Aphrodite Trail in Akamas Peninsula offers sea views and mythological sites. Seasonal activities include skiing in Troodos during winter and diving along the coast in summer.

More information about Cyprus on our website

Fun things to do in Cyprus

Sources

• CDC - Travelers' Health: Cyprus - Health information for travel to the country from the U.S. Government Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Cypnet - North Cyprus history, geography, transportation, climate and culture. Guide for visitors, tourism, beaches, restaurants and bars.
• Cyprus Beach Guide - More than just a beach guide, this covers the main towns both sides of the green line, places of interest, a brief history, and general facts about the island.
• The Cyprus Guide - Cyprus information and places of interest. Also includes business directory.
• Cyprus Top 10 - Photo travel tour of southern Cyprus' top cities, beaches, attractions and historical sites.
• Cyprus Tourism Organization - Official site of the Cyprus Tourism Organization. A travel planner to the history, archaeology, cuisine, and cruises from Cyprus to the Mediterranean.
• Cyprus Tourist Guide - Discover the enchanting island of Aphrodite with the Contains sections on beaches, transport, main towns, culture, and places to visit.
• Cyprus Travel Guide - Old Description: Tourist and business travel information with facts on climate, visa, health, passport, currency and customs requirements
• Cyprus Travel Secrets - About the site, town guides, where to stay, what to do, newsletter, and site search function.
• Cyprus.com - Covers southern Cyprus. Contains Cyprus guide, tourist information, property guide, main towns, culture, places of interest, and forum.
• Cyprushotels.com - Offers links and information about hotels and tours. Features online form to send requests to hotels.
• iExplore - Cyprus - Adventure and experiential travel group provides a guide on the country and its history, events, places to go and activities with tours, photos and other tourist information.
• Lonely Planet - Cyprus - Comprehensive facts and advice for traveling along with background material on the culture and history of the country.
• National Geographic - Cyprus - Fast facts along with videos, music clips, photo galleries and navigable, zoomable maps.
• Trade.State.Gov - Cyprus - Offers travel information including Quick Facts, embassies and consulates, entry and exit requirements, safety and security, local laws, health, transportation and Fact Sheet. From the U.S. Department of State