Best things to do in Cyprus for the holidays

Cyprus is an island and a Country of the European Union (since 2004) Situated in the Levantine basin of the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey and west of Syria and Lebanon. The island whose Turkish-speaking northern third was maintained by Turkey since 1983 — has two official languages: Greek and Turkish. Illuminated by the sun 330 days annually, the island has a rich historical tradition, beautiful beaches, a splendid mountainous hinterland, a rich culture and has always been coveted throughout history from the Phoenicians, Persians, Egyptians, Greeks, Byzantines, Romans, Venetians, Ottomans and the English. It’s the only island headquartered found in Asia and has a population of 854,802 inhabitants. Cyprus, a crossroads of cultures, also has many beachfront resorts in which to invest in an idyllic stay.

There are several itineraries to explore the homeland of Aphrodite (Goddess of Love and Beauty): Nicosia — the capital — and Troodos inland, Larnaca, Limassol, Protaras, Agia Napa, Akamas, and Paphos on the southern shore. The northwest, occupied by Turkey and using a closed boundary, is impassable. This is where to stay in Cyprus.

1- Nicosia and Troodos

In the middle of the island are Nicosia, Troodos, and a mountain range, including the famous Mount Olympus, which climbs to 1,952 meters. Nicosia, the capital, is regarded as among the oldest cities on earth. City of desire throughout history, staying in Nicosia for a day or two is essential. What to see? The scenic view at the Ledra Museum, walking in the old center, visiting several museums in the old Venetian town: the Byzantine Museum or the Cyprus Museum. Notice that the northern part, Turkish, can be seen just also. Leaving towards the south, have a hike from the Mount Olympus series and see the typical villages, such as Lefkara, Troodos, Agros.

2 – Larnaca

Located on the south coast — Hellenistic side -, staying in both of these cities in Cyprus makes them perfect starting points for sightseeing trips in Cyprus. Larnaca has everything to appeal to all kinds of people: families, couples, friends, old and young, partygoers, nature lovers, or fans of heavenly beaches. Wander around Larnaca’s salt lake and do not overlook the Hala Sultan Tekkesi mosque, to begin with. Larnaca is also famous for having long sandy beaches with turquoise waters. The Stavrovouni monastery, the Kamares aqueduct, and the village of Kiti are one of the must-see areas in Larnaca.

3- Limassol

With 175,000 inhabitants, Limassol is the second-largest city in Cyprus. If you decide to remain in Limassol, do not expect to get an authentic air: here, modernity and European tourism abound. On the seafront, many hotels, restaurants, and bars line the shore — the area is extremely concrete, urbanized, and dense. But outside the city center, the plant takes over the concrete and the shores become quieter. All of the charm of Limassol — older homes and vibrant, picturesque alleyways — is restricted to the popular districts, close to the castle and the great mosque. To the west, the ancient site of Kourion — using its Greco-Roman theater — is essential on a visit to Cyprus.

4- Paphos

On the west coast of Cyprus, Paphos is among the most popular destinations in the nation. The beachfront resort is split between an old city and a modern town. On the shore, the pier and port are an invitation to laze around: the seafront is perched on the edge of shops, cafés, restaurants, and bars. You can not overlook the castle, a Byzantine fort built in the Middle Ages to guard the port. If you plan to remain in Paphos, Kato Paphos is an archaeological site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The website is home to”The House of Dionysus”, among the most beautiful classic villas in the eastern Mediterranean.

Amelia