Cyprus sits in the eastern Mediterranean, where Greek mythology meets ancient ruins and golden beaches. The island has seen Egyptians, Romans, Venetians, and Ottomans pass through its ports. Today, you can walk through archaeological sites, swim in clear waters, and drive up mountain roads to centuries-old monasteries. There are enough things to do in Cyprus to fill weeks of exploration.
This guide covers the island’s most rewarding spots. You will find entry fees, opening hours, and tips to make your visit smooth.
1. Paphos Archaeological Park
This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds some of the finest Roman mosaics in the Mediterranean. Four ancient villas display floor artwork showing scenes from Greek mythology. The House of Dionysos alone has over 500 square meters of preserved mosaics.
Beyond the villas, you will find a restored amphitheater, fortress ruins, and a lighthouse. The park sits behind Paphos harbour, making it easy to combine with a seafront walk. Spring months bring wildflowers across the grounds.
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location: QC45+C99, Paphos 8040, Cyprus
- Timings: Daily 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Price: The entrance fee is €4.50/ INR 492; set aside 2 to 4 hours to explore the entire site
2. Tombs of the Kings
Despite the name, no royalty rests in this tomb. High-ranking officials and wealthy families were buried in these rock-cut tombs from the 4th century BC. The grand scale earned the site its title. Some chambers feature Doric columns and open courtyards that copy the homes of the living.
The necropolis stretches along the coast north of Paphos. You can explore eight well-preserved tombs, each carved from solid rock. Audio guides help explain the history. It ranks among the top things to do in Cyprus for archaeology fans.
- Google Rating: 4.4/5
- Location: Tombs of the Kings Ave 63, Chlorakas 8015, Cyprus
- Timings: Daily 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Price: €2.50/ INR 273; set aside 2 to 4 hours to explore the entire site
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3. Kykkos Monastery
Set at 1,318 meters in the Troodos Mountains, Kykkos is the wealthiest monastery on the island. Founded in the 11th century, it houses an icon believed to be painted by Saint Luke. The current buildings date to the 19th and 20th centuries, after fires destroyed earlier structures.
Golden mosaics cover the walls and ceilings. A museum displays religious artifacts and manuscripts. The mountain drive takes about 90 minutes from Limassol but rewards you with cooler air and mountain views. It remains one of the must-see places in Cyprus for spiritual travelers.
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: F966, Tsakistra 2865, Cyprus
- Timings: Daily 5:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Price: Free entry for the monastery; Museum €5/ INR 546; set aside an entire day to explore this famous tourist attraction
4. Cavo Greco National Forest Park
This 385-hectare park sits between Ayia Napa and Protaras on the island’s southeastern tip. Limestone cliffs drop into turquoise water. Sea caves carved by waves draw swimmers and photographers. The Aphrodite Nature Trail runs 2 kilometers along the coast.
A small whitewashed chapel called Agioi Anargyroi perches on the rocks with steps leading to the sea. Sunrise and sunset paint the cliffs in gold and orange. For fun things to do in Cyprus outdoors, this park delivers.
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: X3CC+RRV, E307, Ayia Napa 5330, Cyprus
- Timings: Open 24 hours; trails best during daylight
- Price: Free; set aside 3 to 4 hours to explore the entire site
5. Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou)
Legend says the goddess of love rose from the sea foam at this spot. Two large rocks stand just offshore along the Paphos coast. The beach is pebbly rather than sandy, but the views make up for it. Swimming here supposedly brings eternal youth.
Sunset draws crowds who line the roadside viewpoint. A pedestrian underpass leads to the beach itself. The site appears on most lists of things to do in Cyprus for tourists interested in mythology.
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location: Kouklia, Cyprus
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Price: Free; set aside 2 hours to explore the entire site
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6. Nissi Beach, Ayia Napa
This 500-meter stretch of white sand connects to a small islet you can walk to through shallow water. The beach draws young travelers with its bars and water sports. Jet skis, paddleboards, and parasailing keep the days busy.
Families enjoy the calm, shallow waters in the morning before the party crowd arrives. Beach beds and umbrellas are available for rent. If you want things to do in Cyprus today that involve sun and sea, Nissi fits the bill.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5
- Location: Nissi Avenue, Ayia Napa
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Price: Free; sunbed rental price varies; set aside 2 hours to explore the beach
7. Ancient Kourion
Perched on a hill above Episkopi Bay, Kourion dates back to the 13th century BC. The Greco-Roman amphitheater still hosts performances during summer. Nearby, you can explore Roman baths, a basilica, and the House of Eustolios with its floor mosaics.
The cliff-top setting offers wide views of the coastline. Morning visits avoid both heat and tour groups. For those searching for things to do in Cyprus for tourists who love ancient history, Kourion stands out.
- Google Rating: NA
- Location: 19 km west of Limassol
- Timings: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (winter); 8:30 AM – 7:30 PM (summer)
- Price: €4.50/ INR 492 for adults; set aside 2 hours to explore the ancient site
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8. Kolossi Castle
This 15th-century tower served as headquarters for the Knights of St. John. The Crusaders used the surrounding land for sugarcane and later vineyards. Commandaria wine, one of the oldest named wines, originated from grapes grown in this region.
The three-story keep remains intact. A spiral staircase leads to rooftop views of the vineyard-covered plains. The visit takes about 30 minutes. Wine lovers often combine it with tastings at nearby villages.
- Google Rating: 4.4/5
- Location: MW8M+3J4, Λεωφόρος Αρχιεπισκόπου Μακαρίου Γ, Kolossi 4632, Cyprus
- Timings: Daily 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Price: €2.50/ INR 273; an hour is more than enough to explore the area
9. Nicosia Old Town
Nicosia remains the world’s last divided capital. The Venetian walls form a distinctive star shape around the old city. Ledra Street crosses the buffer zone, letting you walk between the Greek Cypriot south and Turkish Cypriot north.
Museums, cafes, and craft shops fill the narrow lanes. The Cyprus Museum holds the island’s finest archaeological collection. Border crossing is simple with a valid passport. The contrast between both sides makes this one of the top things to do in Cyprus for curious travelers.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5
- Location: Central Cyprus
- Timings: Shops and sites vary; the border is open 24 hours
- Price: Free to walk; museum fees vary; plan to spend a couple of days here
10. St. Lazarus Church, Larnaca
According to tradition, Lazarus fled to Cyprus after his resurrection and became bishop of Kition (modern Larnaca). This 9th-century church sits over his tomb. You can descend to the underground crypt where his sarcophagus once rested.
The interior holds fine Byzantine icons and a gilded iconostasis. The church stands in the heart of Larnaca, a short walk from the seafront promenade. Entry is free, making it an easy addition to any coastal day.
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: Πλατεία, Ayiou Lazarou, Larnaca 6020, Cyprus
- Timings: Monday to Saturday, 8:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM, and on Sunday, 6:30 AM – 12:30 PM, 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
- Price: Free; set aside 3 to 4 hours to explore this church
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FAQs
What are the best things to do in Cyprus for first-time visitors?
Paphos makes an ideal starting point with its Archaeological Park and Tombs of the Kings offering a strong sense of the island’s ancient history. A beach day at Coral Bay lets you enjoy the turquoise waters, while a late afternoon drive to Aphrodite’s Rock rewards you with a stunning sunset. These experiences capture the best things to do in Cyprus for tourists on their first visit.
What shouldn’t you miss in Cyprus?
Kykkos Monastery stands apart from other attractions on the island. The mountain setting, golden mosaics, and centuries of spiritual history create something truly special. Kourion’s ancient amphitheater overlooking the sea also deserves a place on any itinerary, making both must see places in Cyprus.
What are the best things to do in Cyprus during the day?
Morning hours work well for visiting archaeological sites when temperatures remain comfortable. Midday suits beach time or air-conditioned museum visits perfectly. Late afternoon drives through Troodos villages let you catch cooler mountain air and glimpses of authentic local life.
What are the best things to do in Cyprus at night?
Ayia Napa draws party-goers with bars and clubs that run until dawn. Larnaca and Limassol offer a more relaxed pace with seafront dining and live music. Paphos harbor is filled with tavernas serving fresh fish under string lights, creating a memorable evening atmosphere.
What are the most kid-friendly activities in Cyprus?
Waterparks near Limassol and Ayia Napa keep children happily entertained for hours. Cape Greco features easy trails and sea caves that young adventurers love to visit. Nissi Beach offers shallow, calm water safe for young swimmers, making it one of the fun things to do in Cyprus for families.
What are the best cultural things to do in Cyprus?
The painted churches of Troodos carry UNESCO protection and feature stunning Byzantine frescoes worth the mountain drive. Folk museums in villages preserve traditional crafts and rural heritage. Nicosia’s border crossing lets you experience two distinct cultures in one city, ranking among the top things to do in Cyprus.
What are the top food experiences in Cyprus?
Meze deserves your attention as a spread of small dishes featuring halloumi, souvlaki, dips, and grilled meats. Tavernas in Omodos pair Commandaria wine with local cheese for a taste of tradition. Larnaca’s seafront restaurants specialize in fresh seafood caught daily from nearby waters.
What are the best shopping areas in Cyprus?
Ledra Street in Nicosia offers boutiques and souvenir shops along a lively pedestrian strip. Paphos Mall covers most everyday needs under one roof. Village markets in Omodos and Lefkara sell handmade lace, pottery, and local produce directly from artisans.
What’s the best time of year to visit Cyprus for sightseeing?
Spring and autumn bring warm weather without the extreme heat of summer months. April through June and September through October keep beaches pleasant while crowds thin out. These periods suit both outdoor sightseeing and relaxed exploration beautifully. Year-round, you will find plenty of things to do in Cyprus that match the season.
