In the eastern reaches of the balmy Mediterranean, the island of Cyprus offers an incredible blend of ancient archaeological sites, icon-filled monasteries, and historic houses of worship, all set against a backdrop of black pine forests and beach-fringed turquoise seas.
Whether you’re a beach basker, a scenery seeker, a fan of Greek mythology, or simply someone who loves learning about how people lived in ancient times, this island nation won’t disappoint. Here are twelve of the best places to visit in Cyprus.
Adonis Baths Waterfalls
Situated in the village of Kili (Koili) near Pafos, the Adonis Baths provide a lovely alternative to beachfront swimming, offering cool waters that cascade down into a large pool surrounded by forest. According to legend, Aphrodite and her consort, Adonis, spent a considerable amount of time at this bath, which some believe to be a veritable fountain of youth.
Moreover, most people come here just to cool off on sweltering summer days, and there’s a rope swing for those who want to make a dramatic entry into the waters.
Agios Neophytos Monastery
One of the best-known monasteries on the island, Agios Neophytos is a striking structure, featuring a rocky facade carved into the side of a mountain, over 500 meters above sea level. Today, the monastery offers a mix of beautiful architecture and gorgeous icons. Many of the well-preserved frescoes here were created between the 12th and 15th centuries. It’s inland from Pafos, on the edge of the Agios Neophytos Forest; on the way, you can detour to the curious, cat-filled Tala Monastery.
Agios Lazaros (The Church of Saint Lazarus)
Dating back to the 9th century, this Orthodox church in Larnaka is famous for its beautifully preserved Byzantine architecture and for housing the tomb of Saint Lazarus, renowned from biblical stories. The limestone exterior is photo-worthy all by itself, but it’s also worth exploring the interior to view the saint’s tomb and the gilded baroque iconostasis that adorns the church’s shadowy interior.
Hala Sultan Tekkesi
On the banks of the Larnaka Salt Lake, Hala Sultan Tekkesi is a striking mosque and Sufi shrine completed in 1817, constructed around the tomb of Umm Haram, an aunt and companion of the Prophet Mohammed. The complex features a series of landscaped courtyards with scenic views over the saline lake.
Today, it’s a quiet monument to Cyprus’ pre-partition past. While the architecture and peaceful ambiance are reasons enough to visit, many people come to the complex to greet the hundred-odd stray cats who call Hala Sultan Tekkesi home.
Choirokoitia
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Choirokoitia archaeological site is one of the most significant Neolithic sites in the region, providing insights into how people lived from the 7th to 4th millennia BCE.
While only a part of the site has been excavated so far, there’s still plenty for visitors to see. The most interesting feature is a collection of reconstructions of prehistoric dwellings adorned with replicas of household items used in Neolithic times.
Pafos Archaeological Site
Spread out by the sea near the center of Pafos, this spectacular complex includes some of the most impressive archaeological sites on the island. It resembles an open-air museum, showcasing highlights such as an ancient odeon (theater) that is still used for performances today.
Additionally, there are four Roman villas featuring stunning collections of beautifully preserved floor mosaics, with the House of Dionysus being the standout, adorned with intricate mosaics portraying the god of wine aboard a panther-drawn chariot.
The Painted Churches of Troodos
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed painted churches in the Troodos mountains have changed little since Byzantine times. These stone and timber chapels are filled with incredible murals of saints, archangels, and Biblical scenes created between the 11th and 16th centuries. If time is limited, make a beeline for the churches of Panagia Forviotissa (near Nikitari) and Archangelos Michail (in Pedoulas).
Kolossi Castle
West of Lemesos (Limassol), Kolossi Castle served as a stronghold during the Crusades. The castle was occupied by the enigmatic Knights Templar during their reign on the island, and it was here that they first produced a sweet, fortified wine known as Commandaria, celebrated today as the world’s oldest continuously produced named wine.
Kykkos Monastery
High up in the mountainous interior, west of Pedoulas, Kykkos Monastery is home to a museum showcasing some of the most impressive icons on the island, along with ancient reliquaries and other votive objects. Established in the 11th century, it was built after a hermit healed the daughter of the Byzantine emperor at the time, Alexios I Komnenos.
The hermit was rewarded with a sacred icon of the Virgin Mary and the resources to construct a monastery to house it. This revered icon remains at the monastery, albeit shrouded, due to the belief that gazing upon its beauty can lead to blindness.
Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou)
Located on the southern coast of Cyprus, between Lemesos and Pafos, this rock formation and beach is said to be where Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, emerged from the sea. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction. Although the beach may not compare to some of the sandier spots nearby, it’s undeniably scenic. According to legend, swimming around the rock three times will help you find your true love, but be cautious as the waters can be treacherous at times.
Tombs of the Kings
In the southwest corner of the island, on the outskirts of Paphos, the Tombs of the Kings comprises an ancient necropolis with rock-hewn tombs dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman eras. Visitors will find a sprawling array of sunken graves and underground chambers, some rudimentary and others regal and sophisticated.
Many tombs resemble ancient homes, complete with beautifully carved Doric pillars. Excavations continue, and eager adventurers can explore the tombs on foot, descending rock-hewn steps and passageways into the ancient chambers.
Ancient Kourion
Between Lemesos and Pafos, the ancient Roman and Hellenistic site of Kourion boasts one of the most breathtaking settings in the Mediterranean, perched atop a rocky ridge overlooking an undeveloped shingle beach. The site features various remains, from the foundations of an early Christian basilica to a Roman theater and bathhouse, as well as ancient villas filled with intricate mosaics and rock-cut tombs nestled at the cliffs’ base.
