Heading for Cyprus on vacation? From Nicosia to Limassol, via Larnaca and the Turkish-speaking coast, here’s where to stay in Cyprus.
Cyprus is an island and a state of the European Union (since 2004) located in the Levantine basin of the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey and west of Syria and Lebanon. The island – whose Turkish-speaking northern third has been claimed by Turkey since 1983 – has two official languages: Turkish and Greek. Sunlit 330 days a year, the island boasts a rich historical heritage, beautiful beaches, a splendid mountainous hinterland and a rich culture, and has always been coveted throughout history by Phoenicians, Persians, Egyptians, Greeks, Byzantines, Romans, Venetians, Ottomans and the British. It is the only island geographically present in Asia, and has a population of 854,802. Cyprus, a crossroads of cultures, also boasts numerous seaside resorts where you can spend an idyllic holiday.
To reach the birthplace of Aphrodite (goddess of love and beauty), there are several possible itineraries: Nicosia – the capital – and Troodos inland, Larnaca, Limassol, Protaras, Agia Napa, Akamas and Paphos on the southern coast. The north, occupied by Turkey and with a closed border, is impassable. Here’s where to stay in Cyprus.
View available accommodation in Cyprus :
Nicosia and Troodos
Photo credit: Flickr – Muffinn
In the center of the island lies Nicosia, Troodos and a mountain range, including the famous Mount Olympus, culminating at 1,952 meters. Nicosia, the capital, is considered one of the oldest cities in the world. A city of envy throughout history, staying in Nicosia for a day or two is a must. What’s there to see? Take in the panoramic view from the Ledra Museum, walk through the old center and visit the many museums in the old Venetian town: the Byzantine Museum or the Cyprus Museum. The northern, Turkish part of the city is also worth a visit. Heading south, hike in the Mount Olympus chain and visit typical villages such as Lefkara, Troodos and Agros.
Find a hotel in Nicosia
Find an Airbnb in Nicosia
Find a hotel in Troodos
Larnaca
Photo credit: Flickr – Jesus Perez
Located on the south coast – on the Greek-speaking side – accommodation in Cyprus in these two towns is an ideal starting point for sightseeing excursions in Cyprus. Larnaca has something for everyone: families, couples, friends, young and old, party-goers, nature lovers and beach paradise enthusiasts. Wander around Larnaca’s salt lake and don’t miss the Hala Sultan Tekkesi mosque for a start. Larnaca is also known for its long sandy beaches with turquoise waters. The Stavrovouni monastery, the Kamares aqueduct and the village of Kiti are among Larnaca’s must-sees.
Find a hotel in Larnaca
Find an Airbnb in Larnaca
Limassol
Photo credit: Flickr – Andreas Komodromos
With 175,000 inhabitants, Limassol is the second largest city in Cyprus. If you choose to stay in Limassol, don’t expect to find an authentic atmosphere: here, modernity and European tourism abound. On the seafront, numerous hotels, bars and restaurants line the beach – the area is very concrete, urbanized and dense. Outside the city center, however, the vegetation takes over from the concrete and the beaches become quieter. All Limassol’s charm – old houses and picturesque, colourful alleyways – is confined to the working-class districts near the castle and the great mosque. To the west, the ancient site of Kourion – with its Greco-Roman theater – is a must-see on any trip to Cyprus.
Find a hotel in Limassol
Find an Airbnb in Limassol
Paphos
Photo credit: Flickr – Hanna Jane
On the west coast of Cyprus, Paphos is one of the country’s most popular destinations. The seaside resort is divided into an old town and a modern city. On the coast, the harbor and jetty invite you to relax: the seafront is perched with boutiques, cafés, bars and restaurants. Don’t miss the castle, a Byzantine fort built in the Middle Ages to protect the port. Also worth a visit if you plan to stay in Paphos is Kato Paphos, an archaeological site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site is home to « The House of Dionysus », one of the most beautiful ancient villas in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Find a hotel in Paphos
Find an Airbnb in Paphos
Main Photo Credit: Flickr – Andreas Komodromos