The Magic of Cyprus
What makes Cyprus special isn’t just the sheer age of everything — it’s the way all the layers of history are still visible. Neolithic, Roman, Byzantine, crusader, Venetian, Ottoman… they all sit together, sometimes literally on top of one another.
It’s the kind of place where you feel history under your feet, all around you, and in the stories locals still tell.
Plan well, pace yourself, and get ready to explore one of the most extraordinary historical landscapes in the Mediterranean.
Choose the Right Base
For archaeology lovers: Paphos
For variety: Limassol
For quieter, older sites: Larnaca
For Byzantine art lovers: Troodos villages
If you want a bit of all of these then Cyprus is a great place for a Roadtrip – Paphos to Limassol is an hour, Larnaca is another 45 minutes away and Nicosia is only and hour from Limassol.
Top Pick Sites To Visit
- Kato Paphos Archaeological Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring extensive ruins, including the House of Dionysus with its well-preserved mosaics.
- Tombs of the Kings: A large necropolis dating to the 4th century BCE, featuring underground tombs carved into the rock, once used for high-ranking officials.
- Sanctuary of Aphrodite at Palaipafos, Kouklia: The remains of a major ancient sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite.
- Paphos Castle: A Byzantine-era fortress that has been rebuilt, located by the Paphos harbor which is a great place to explore.
- Ancient Kourion, Limassol: a picturesque hill-top location with views to the Mediterranean Sea, consists of ruins from Hellenistic, Roman and early Christian era ruins.
- Kolossi Castle: A 13th-century Crusader castle located near Limassol, with a history tied to the Knights of St. John and the Knights Templar.
- Venetian Walls of Nicosia: A 16th-century fortification built by the Venetians to defend the city against the Ottoman army.
- Cyprus Museum, Nicosia: the big one.
- Byzantine Museum, Nicosia: icons and mosaics galore.
- THALASSA Museum, Ayia Napa: maritime history and ship replicas.
Must-Do Practical Tips
• Visit early or late — midday heat in summer is no joke.
• Wear proper shoes — ruins involve hills, rocks, sand, and steps.
• Wear respectful clothing —many sites insist on covered shoulders and knees.
• Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat — trust me.
• Rent a car — public transport won’t get you to most sites.
• Download site apps — Kato Paphos has one of the best.
• Carry a bit of cash — not every church or small site accepts cards.
Timing Your Visits
• Check opening days and times before a visit - these can change throughout the year!
• 2-3 hours for major sites like Kourion or Kato Paphos.
• 30–45 minutes for smaller ruins.
• Painted churches: short visits, but long drives — pick a cluster. • Always build in stops for food and drink - particularly in summer heat.Photo Tips
• Do not Photograph other people - at least make sure they are not identifiable
• Respect the Venue —what are the rules about photos and flash photography?
• Do Not touch — never climb on, move or disturb items for your photo
• Be quiet and discreet — sites may hold religious meaning or be the site of burials.
• Visit at the right time of day — early morning or just before sunset are when the light is best and also when there will be less tourists.
