An island of contrasts, Cyprus is a destination that doesn't do anything by halves. From visiting the cosmopolitan streets of Limassol and Larnaca to the family-friendly shores of Paphos and Protaras, you’ll find that this Mediterranean gem is beautifully diverse. It is a practical choice that doesn't compromise on the "wow" factor; located in the warmest corner of the Mediterranean, it offers over 3,300 hours of sunshine a year.

Whether you want to explore the island’s scenery on two wheels, dive below the surface of its turquoise waters, or simply master the art of relaxation with a view of the Troodos Mountains, a holiday in Cyprus provides exceptional value for money.

Reasons to Visit Cyprus: A Brief Overview

As the third-largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus offers a wealth of experiences that make it a compelling choice for your next escape. If you are looking for the best things to do in Cyprus, the island’s impressive variety ensures that every day of your holiday can feel entirely different:

Why Should Cyprus Be Your Next Holiday?

One of the most persuasive reasons to choose Cyprus is its effortless ability to suit every type of traveller. Whether you're a couple looking for the best place to visit in Cyprus for romance, perhaps watching the sunset at Aphrodite’s Rock or staying in a traditional stone village, or a family seeking the shallow, safe waters of Protaras, the island delivers. 

When you book a holiday to Cyprus, you're choosing a destination where the local Kopiaste philosophy ensures you feel like a welcomed guest. This balance of adventure and relaxation is exactly why it stands out as a top-tier holiday choice.

1. The Guaranteed Mediterranean Sunshine

Cyprus is blessed with a subtropical Mediterranean climate, offering a long-season appeal that makes it one of the best places to visit in Cyprus for a vitamin D boost at any time of year. Here is what you can expect:

• Guaranteed Sun: With over 320 sunny days a year, you are almost certain to have clear skies for your trip.

• Peak Summer (June – August): Expect hot, dry days with average coastal highs of 32°C and inviting sea temperatures of 27°C.

• The Shoulder Season (May & October): These months are a period for exploring, with comfortable average highs of 24°C to 26°C and significantly thinner crowds.

• Winter Sun: Even in the depths of the UK winter, Cyprus remains mild with average daily highs of 17°C to 20°C, offering a refreshing escape from the grey.

2. Award-Winning Blue Flag Beaches

If you are looking for the best beaches in Cyprus, you'll be pleased to know the island holds 76 Blue Flag awards: the highest density per capita in the world. The variety is staggering, ranging from organised resort stretches to wild, protected reserves.

• Fig Tree Bay (Protaras): Consistently ranked among the top 20 in Europe, this beach offers shallow, crystal-clear water and golden sands. It is perfect for families with young children.

• Nissi Beach (Ayia Napa): Famous for its white sands and a small islet reachable by foot at low tide, this is the hub for those seeking a vibrant, social atmosphere.

• Coral Bay (Paphos): A horseshoe-shaped cove with calm, shallow waters, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed afternoon.

• Lara Beach (Akamas Peninsula): For a more natural experience, head to this protected nesting site for Loggerhead and Green turtles. You won't find sunbeds or bars here: just pure, untouched scenery.

3. A Journey Through 10,000 Years of History

One of the most compelling reasons to visit is the sheer density of what to see in Cyprus for history enthusiasts. The island is essentially an open-air museum, with 10,000 years of civilisation visible in its architecture and ruins.

• Tombs of the Kings (Paphos): A UNESCO World Heritage site, these monumental underground tombs are carved out of solid rock. Despite the name, they were the final resting place for high-ranking officials rather than royalty.

• Kourion Amphitheatre (Limassol): Perched on a cliffside, this Greco-Roman theatre still hosts live performances. Sitting on stone benches that have been there since the 2nd century BC while overlooking the Mediterranean is a highlight for many.

• The Mosaics of Kato Paphos: Found in the ruins of four Roman villas, these are considered among the finest in the Eastern Mediterranean, depicting intricate scenes from Greek mythology in stunning detail.

4. World-Class Gastronomy and Meze Culture

Cypriot food is a feast of Mediterranean flavours, and the island’s wine heritage is one of the oldest in the world. Wine tasting in Cyprus is a must-do, particularly in the foothills of the mountains.

• The Meze Experience: A traditional meze can consist of up to 30 small plates. Expect to start with dips like tahini and houmous, move through grilled halloumi and lountza (smoked pork), and finish with kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb).

• Commandaria Wine: Known as the wine of kings, this sweet dessert wine has been produced for centuries using the same methods Richard the Lionheart once praised.

• Village Wineries: Head to villages like Omodos or Lofou. Many boutique wineries offer tastings where you can try indigenous varieties like the white Xynisteri or the robust red Maratheftiko.

5. Adventure in the Troodos Mountains

For those who want to do more than sunbathe, it is easy to find active rural tourism in Cyprus, with a cycling holiday or a hiking trip revealing a completely different side of the island.

• Cycling in Cyprus: The island is a hub for professional teams because of its varied terrain. You can enjoy flat coastal paths or challenging mountain ascents. The Cyprus Sunshine Cup attracts riders from all over the world, but beginners will find plenty of quiet, car-free roads to enjoy.

• Hiking Trails in Cyprus: There are over 150 dedicated trails. The Akamas Peninsula offers coastal routes with views over the Blue Lagoon, while the Troodos Mountains provide cooler, pine-scented trails like the Caledonia Trail, which leads to the island's highest waterfall.

Diving in Cyprus: The Zenobia shipwreck off the coast of Larnaca is rated one of the top ten wreck dives globally. The water remains balmy (around 27°C in summer), offering excellent visibility for beginners.

6. Step Into a Land of Myth and Legend

Cyprus is an island where the line between history and mythology often blurs, earning it the title of the Island of the Gods. Exploring these ancient stories provides some of the most romantic things to do in Cyprus for couples, as much of the island's folklore centres on Aphrodite.

• The Birthplace of Aphrodite: Legend has it that Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love,  rose from the sea foam at Petra tou Romiou. Beyond being a stunning photo spot, it is said that swimming around the sea stack at night brings eternal beauty: a magical experience for those on a honeymoon in Cyprus.

• The Baths of Aphrodite: Tucked away in the Akamas Peninsula, this shaded natural pool is where the goddess supposedly met her lover, Adonis. It is a tranquil spot for a walk, surrounded by lush greenery and the scent of wild jasmine.

• The Medieval Allure of St Hilarion: Perched high in the Kyrenia mountains, this castle is rumoured to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. Climbing through its jagged fortifications offers panoramic views that feel straight out of a fairy tale.

7. Exceptional Value and Family-Friendly Resorts

When considering things to do in Cyprus with family, the island’s infrastructure is designed for ease and enjoyment.

• All-Inclusive Excellence: Many resorts in Protaras and Paphos offer comprehensive packages that include kids' clubs, waterparks, and multiple dining options.

• Safe, Shallow Waters: The gentle shelving of the sea at beaches like Fig Tree Bay means parents can relax while children play safely.

• Value for Money: While Cyprus offers luxury, it remains an affordable choice compared to other Mediterranean islands. Eating out in local tavernas is surprisingly good value, with large portions designed for sharing.

8. A Growing Destination for Sustainable Tourism

If you're seeking unusual things to do in Cyprus, the island’s commitment to sustainability and eco-tourism provides unique opportunities to connect with nature.

• Turtle Conservation: Watching Green and Loggerhead turtles nest or hatch at Lara Beach (under strict supervision) is a life-affirming experience.

• Agrotourism: Staying in restored traditional housesprovides a more authentic experience of village life and helps preserve it.

• Endemic Wildlife: Keep an eye out for the Mouflon: a shy, wild sheep found only in the Paphos Forest.

9. Warm Cypriot Hospitality and Ease of Travel

The final reason is the people. Cypriot hospitality is legendary, often summed up by the word Filoxenia: love of strangers.

• No Language Barrier: English is widely spoken across the island, making everything from ordering coffee to navigating mountain roads simple.

• Familiar Driving: Like the UK, Cypriots drive on the left, making car hire a stress-free option for those who want to explore beyond their resort.

• The Kopiaste Philosophy: Don't be surprised if a local tavern owner offers you a glass of Zivania or a piece of glyko (fruit preserve) after your meal. It’s just their way of saying welcome.

Ready to Book Your Holiday in Cyprus?

So, is Cyprus the right choice for your next getaway? Whether you are a solo adventurer looking for the best hiking trails in Cyprus, a couple seeking mythic romance, or a family in search of the perfect Blue Flag beach, this island of contrasts has something for you. With its blend of reliable sun, ancient civilisation, and genuine warmth, it is a destination that delivers a high-quality experience year after year.

Ready to start planning? Explore our range of hand-picked holidays to Cyprus and let Olympic Holidays help you discover your own piece of Mediterranean paradise.

FAQs

What is the best time of year for hiking in Cyprus?

The best time to visit Cyprus for an ideal hiking trip is during the shoulder seasons. The best times are March through May and September through October. During these months, the weather is perfect for exploring, with temperatures ranging from a comfortable 18°C to 24°C. You'll also experience the island's natural beauty at its peak, either with vibrant spring blossoms or a lush, green landscape following the first autumn rainfall.

What are the must-see cultural festivals in Cyprus?

To experience true Cypriot culture, try to visit during the Limassol Carnival (held 50 days before Easter) or the Kataklysmos (Flood Festival) in early June, which celebrates the island's connection to the sea with water-based activities and music. Additionally, the Anthestiria Flower Festival in May is a beautiful showcase of the island's blooming spring flora.

Is it easy to travel between major towns in Cyprus?

Yes, Cyprus is well-connected by a reliable "Intercity Bus" network that links all major towns. These green buses are punctual and very affordable. If you prefer more flexibility, car hire is the most popular way to explore the island, as the motorway network is excellent and easy to navigate.

Where are the best beaches in Cyprus for snorkelling?

The best beaches in Cyprus for snorkelling are often the rockier coves. Cape Greco near Ayia Napa offers sea caves and clear visibility, while the Blue Lagoon in the Akamas Peninsula provides an abundance of sea life in shallow, protected waters.