Coast, Country and Cities: Where to Stay in Cyprus for a Magical Time

As the third largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus ticks all the boxes on our island getaway requirements. Pristine beaches? Check. Captivating history? Check. Fascinating culture? Check. It’s not all just seaside towns either, as the island’s mountainous interior offers a different kind of experience. The toughest decision you’ll have to make is choosing a place to stay, but luckily, our travel experts at Plum Guide have all there is to know about where to stay in Cyprus. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed holiday, take a look at our top picks on the island.

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Looking for somewhere to stay in Cyprus with a party vibe? Ayia Napa is known for its lively nightlife, with its main square offering everything from live music venues like Square Bar to renowned clubs like Castle Club. There are also plenty of beach clubs such as Levels Beach Bar and Nissi Bay Beach Bar if you prefer to party with your toes in the sand.

But Ayia Napa isn’t all clubs and bars, with a wealth of things to keep you entertained during the day, too. Need some fresh air? Take a hike through the unspoilt landscapes of Cape Greco, or grab your snorkel and admire the colourful underwater world in the surrounding waters. If history is more your thing, while away the hours at Thalassa Museum or soak up the peaceful atmosphere at the Ayia Napa Monastery.

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One of the most popular destinations in Cyprus is Protaras. This resort on the southeastern coast of the island is suitable for solo travellers, couples and families of all ages, with a wide variety of things to do and see. Its beaches are its main appeal, from the wide sandy expanses like Fig Tree Bay to the quieter Green Bay Beach. The coastline surrounding the resort is a haven for wildlife and we highly recommend snorkelling or scuba diving to explore underwater caves, tunnels and colourful coral reefs. If you prefer to stay on dry land, why not take a walk up to the Ayios Elias Church? Set on a hilltop overlooking Protaras, this honey-hued stone church is postcard-perfect, with breathtaking views of the coastline. Another photogenic place to visit is Paralimni Lake, a natural saltwater habitat for migratory birds like pink flamingos.

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Located on the southwest coast of Cyprus, Paphos offers rich history, stunning beaches and striking landscapes. Known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, there are numerous archaeological sites to visit, such as the Temple of Apollo and the Odeon. History buffs should be sure to stay in the Old Town, where you’ll have historic buildings like St Kendeas Church, the Ottoman Baths and the Mosque of Paphos right on your doorstep. This is also where you can find the brilliant Paphos District Archaeological Museum, housing a collection of local finds dating back to the Neolithic Age. If you need a break from all that sightseeing, relax on one of the city’s many beaches, from the golden Vrisoudia Beach to the incredible Petra tou Romiou, said to be where Aphrodite came to shore.

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One of the main ports on the island, Famagusta on Cyprus’s east coast is the best place to stay for a mix of beaches and history. It dates back to ancient times when it was an important centre of trade during the Roman period, consequently falling under the rule of the Byzantine Empire when many of its landmarks were constructed. One of its most famous landmarks is the walled city of Famagusta, and its fortified medieval walls are still intact today. Within these walls, you can discover the ruins of churches, palaces and other historical buildings. Another is Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque, a former Catholic cathedral converted to a mosque by Ottoman Turks in 1571.

In between all that sightseeing, be sure to relax at Famagusta’s wonderful beaches. Golden Beach is the most popular choice, with fine golden sands and some of the bluest waters you’ve ever seen.

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When it comes to where to stay in Cyprus for first-timers, the city of Limassol is a great choice. It represents all the very best parts of the country, from its glorious beaches to its vibrant culture and history. You’ll want to spend most of your time unwinding on the popular Ladies Mile Beach and Governor’s Beach, taking leisurely strolls along the promenade, or enjoying a cold drink at the bars and restaurants fringing the marina. The Old Town is just a stone’s throw away, a charming place packed with shops and restaurants – Anexartisias Street is the main shopping street in the city and worth a stroll. At the heart of the Old Town is the medieval Limassol Castle, a lovely place to explore and see historical exhibits like tombstones, weapons and pottery.

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Also known as Lefkosia, Nicosia is Cyprus’s capital city. It’s divided into two parts by the Green Line, the UN buffer zone separating the northern and southern parts of the island. Anyone interested in history will find it a truly intriguing place to learn more about Cyprus’s political past, with plenty of unique attractions. One of them is Ledra Street, the main pedestrianised shopping area with numerous bars, restaurants and artisan shops where you can pick up local produce and crafts. Head to Shacolas Tower, which hosts a museum and observation point on the 11th floor. Catch far-reaching views across the city, including beyond the buffer zone into Turkish-held Nicosia. At the end of Ledra Street is Nicosia’s busiest pedestrian checkpoint, and you’ll need your passport if you want to pass through to the northern area of the town.

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While most visitors come for Cyprus’s sunny beaches, those seeking something different should head inland to the Troodos Mountains. Featuring magnificent landscapes of rugged peaks, lush valleys and dense forests, there are many scenic hiking trails. Our favourite is the moderately challenging Mount Olympus, which sits at 1,952 metres above sea level and is the highest peak on the island. On its slopes is the 11th-century Kykkos Monastery, a Byzantine-style building home to ornate frescoes.

Stay in the many picturesque mountain villages, each one with its own expertise. There’s Agros with its rose water and rose petal brandy, Kalopanayiotis with its fish farms, Omodos with its wine, Lefkada with its embroidery and filigree silverware, and Prodromos with its orchards and apples. You can even ski during the winter months, with several resorts, such as Troodos Ski Resort, offering a range of slopes for all abilities.

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This city on the south coast of Cyprus is best for culture vultures. It’s easy to get around on foot, so you can take all the time you want exploring landmarks like the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, the St. Lazarus Church, and the ancient Kition archaeological site. Known for its festivals and cultural events, there’s always something going on here. One of the most exciting events is the Kataklysmos – or Flood Festival – where people celebrate the summer season with music, dancing and water-based activities. Downtime is best spent on beaches like Finikoudes Beach and McKenzie Beach, where you can swim, relax on the sun loungers or ride the waves on a jet ski or SUP. After sundown, the Old Town transforms into a lively nightlife area where you can enjoy live music and delicious traditional cuisine.

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Located in the north under Turkish Cypriot control, this pretty coastal town (also called Girne) is one of the most photogenic spots on the island. One of Kyrenia’s main attractions is its quaint harbour, dotted with old buildings home to alfresco cafes, restaurants and shops. Along the waterfront is the majestic Kyrenia Castle, a well-preserved 16th-century fortification watching over the harbour. It’s well worth a visit, with the castle museum showcasing the history of the region. The harbour is the best spot to take a leisurely stroll, and you can even take a boat tour to admire the castle with the impressive Kyrenia Mountain Range in the background. Make your way to the Old Town to visit traditional buildings like the Bellapais Abbey, the best spot for stunning panoramas of the town and the surrounding countryside.

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For nature lovers, the Akamas Peninsula is made up of over 200 square kilometres of untouched natural parkland. There are some jaw-dropping landscapes to be found here, from rocky outcrops and deep gorges to dramatic cliffs and sparkling blue seas – our favourite is the heavenly Blue Lagoon. The peninsula is a haven for wildlife, with important ecosystems like forests, wetlands and coastal habitats home to a wide range of plant and animal species. The best way to get around is via the numerous hiking and cycling trails, although guided tours are available if you particularly want to see the flora and fauna. To spend more than a day here, we recommend staying in Polis, a town right on the edge of the park. In recent years, the town has become more popular with visitors who want to escape the tourist crowds and immerse themselves in nature.

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