cyprus to greece travel

Cyprus Or Greece: The Honest Comparison [2023] You Need!

T he question for many when trying to decide between Cyprus or Greece, is what separates these Mediterranean holiday destinations from each other? After all, the beaches and crystal blue waters beckon in both.

Yet while both nations have similar climates and are fantastic coastal destinations, each has its own distinct histories, cultures, sights to visit, and cuisines that set them apart. All of which makes Cyprus and Greece very different holidays.

For example, if you’re looking for an island hopping adventure packed with culture, ancient history and breathtaking beauty, then Greece is the better choice. 

But if you’re looking for a more traditional beach resort holiday with all the main sights within driving distance, then Cyprus – with its fantastic year-round weather – could be the better choice.

Of course that’s just the start when it comes to how these two destinations differ. But luckily as we’ve visited both we’ve put together our honest comparison pitting Cyprus vs Greece below.

We compare their beaches, the excursions on offer, the food you can try, and more! We also look at what natural attractions you can see in each, as well as some amazing towns and cities you should visit.

Let’s dive in!

• A Quick Overview & Comparison
• How Do The Beaches & Landscape Compare
• How Does The Culture & Cities Compare
• How Does The Cuisine Compare
• Which Is The Better Choice

A Quick Overview & Comparison Of Cyprus vs Greece

Both nations have fantastic sun-soaked beaches, and countless ancient towns and cities that are packed with history.

But Greece has over 6000 islands, with only 227 inhabited. Subsequently, most of the islands in Greece tend to be less touristy and far less commercialized than Cyprus – which effectively packs its tourist sector onto one island.

Whilst Greece does have islands that are quite built up with many hotel complexes (Crete and Rhodes for example), you will find that most Greek islands often have a real rustic regional charm to them.

That’s a character that is not so prevalent in Cyprus, which continues to have a noticeable British influence and feel. Although that’s not to say Cyprus doesn’t have charming rustic villages and towns too.

However many of the islands in Greece have their own unique feel, different cuisines, and even mini cultures.

Therefore Greece is the better holiday choice if you’re looking for a more adventurous vacation that involves island hopping with a rustic and remote feel.

Mainland Greece is also a great hiking destination, with countless multi-day hiking routes that take you back in time and make you feel like you’re back in Ancient Greece.

Cyprus has many upsides too. For one, it tends to be a cheaper destination than Greece.

As an island nation that sits close to the Middle East and Africa, the weather is some of the best in Europe too, and often warmer and less windy than parts of Greece.

Therefore if you’re looking for a beach holiday during spring or autumn, Cyprus may be a better choice than Greece due to that favorable weather.

As a much smaller nation than Greece, Cyprus is probably the better choice for a shorter holiday as you can easily and cheaply tour the island with a rental car.

That gives you the option to enjoy the beach in the morning, drive into the mountains and visit centuries-old villages in the afternoon, then have dinner in the capital in the evening. That’s the biggest advantage to Cyprus, how easy and accessible it is to enjoy all aspects of this island.

How Do The Beaches & Landscape Compare?

Both Cyprus and Greece have some of Europe’s best beaches. But these nations also have much more to offer than just sun, sea, and sand.

Cyprus: The Beaches & Landscape

The sheer size of Cyprus gives nature lovers a lot of choice, from active breaks to tranquil beach escapes.

You will find some wonderful beaches in Cyprus – albeit arguably not as nice as some of the ones you get in Greece. Some are highly developed with beach resorts and restaurants lining the coast, but it’s still possible to find hidden gems in Cyprus if you’re willing to travel away from the resort areas.

In Limassol, explore hidden sand dunes before heading over to the Salt Lakes of Limassol and Larnaca to visit the flamingos there.

The Adonis Baths in Paphos are perfect for swimming in. At the same time, the Avakas Gorge offers unusual rock formations – a favourite with hikers. 

Between Agia Napa and Protaras is a gorgeous national park called Cape Greco . There are two natural rock bridges, caves, and excellent diving spots. 

Meanwhile, Cedar Valley is an idyllic pine forest with hiking trails where you can see Cypriot Cedar trees.

Up in the Troodos Mountains are the Millomeri Waterfalls that are really worth a visit. If you’re wanting to walk in the mountains – or elsewhere in Cyprus – this walking in Cyprus book could be a good buy.

Or if you’re craving white sandy beaches head to Nissi Beach which some believe is Europe’s best beach.

With so many islands, it will come as no surprise to hear that Greece is packed with natural wonders.

And when it comes to the beaches you can find everything possible – white sands, black volcanic sands, and even pink sand at Elafonissi Beach on the Greek island of Crete. That diversity makes Greece one of the best beach destinations in the world.

The Ionian archipelago is a popular destination for tourists, and one of the best places to see nature’s best work. Visit the Melissani Lake Cave on Kefalonia for an other-worldly experience. Situated 20 meters underground, you can explore this magical cave by rowing boat.

The island of Zakynthos has some of Greece’s best beaches, and is a popular destination because of that. Zante is also home to the Blue Caves, a series of underground waterways that wind their way into the coastline.

Named Zante , this island has a lively nightlife scene so is perfect for tourists who want to sunbathe and swim in the day, but dance and drink at night.

In fact Greece has a lively party scene popular with the under 30 crowd, especially in Zante and Mykonos , so that may be worth factoring into your holiday decision.

Of course Greece is packed with many stunning islands, and one of the best things about this country is the ability to island hop and discover your own favourite.

One of ours is Milos , which is where the Venus de Milo was found! This gorgeous little volcanic island has dozens of beaches, breathtaking turquoise waters, and a friendly local population.

Mainland Greece also has some spectacular scenery that has to be explored. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Meteora (photo below) in central Greece is well worth visiting.

The atmospheric huge rock formations jut out of the ancient landscape, and on top are centuries-old monasteries. They used to be reached by ladders, but can now be reached by foot via stairs. It’s a place which transports you back in time.

In fact mainland Greece is full of fantastic hiking trails – many long distance compared to the shorter distance ones in Cyprus – that take you between ancient villages that have existed for centuries.

One of our favourites is the Menalon Trail , a 45 mile hike in south Greece that takes you between the picturesque mountain villages of Stemnitsa and Lagkadia.

How Does The Culture & Cities Compare?

Stepping away from package holiday resorts and into the cities and towns of Greece and Cyprus will give you a richer, cultural experience.

Cyprus: The Culture & Cities

Starting near Limassol is the town of Omodos/’Ομοδος, best known for its wine production, and the Timios Stavros Monastery . Wheras in Limassol there’s an attractive marina, 16th-century castle, and an opportunity to do some boutique shopping. 

The port city of Paphos/Pafos is a tourist hotspot with lively bars and souvenir shops. But it has another side too and is full of historical gems, including medieval baths and churches.

In the north is Ktima (Upper Pafos) where you’ll find locals going about their daily business, colonial buildings, and museums. 

The capital of Nicosia/Lefkosia is a ‘divided city’. It is where you’ll find the Green Line (the UN Buffer Zone). Across the city, a labyrinth of streets, tree-lined avenues and a vibrant street life await travelers.

Finally, the city of Larnaca provides long stretches of golden sands, historic religious sites, and chic cafes.  

Greece: The Culture & Cities

Greece excels when it comes to towns and cities with the ‘wow’ factor.

One of the islands which has that in abundance is Santorini . The two biggest towns there, Fira and Oia, hang on to the cliff-face of this volcanic island, and the buildings within them – whitewashed and often with blue-domed roofs – stand strikingly against the backdrop.

It’s a must-visit place in Greece, but also one of the most popular places throughout the country being visited by around two million tourists per year!

The historic and ancient capital of Athens is well worth a night or two, and is home to iconic buildings such as the 5th century BC Acropolis and Parthenon . The museum at the Acropolis is full of artefacts from Ancient Greece and a must for any history buff.

Situated beside the Acropolis is our favorite area of Athens – Plaka . The quaint streets in this neighborhood wind their way up hilly slopes and are adorned with flower pots and tiny independent shops selling jewellery and clothes.

With family-run taverns and boutique coffee shops, this is one of the best places in Athens – and Greece – to grab a bite to eat and watch the world go by.

The title of Greece’s most picturesque town could go to Agios Nikolaos – a little port settlement on the island of Crete. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, this town has several waterfronts which have a great selection of shopping and dining opportunities.  

The infamous ‘leper island’ of Spinalonga – which was in use up to 1957 as a quarantine center – is close by and can be visited from the town.

With a capital like Athens, and stunning island towns like Fira and Oia in Santorini, the urbanscapes in Greece are – in our opinion – a class above those in Cyprus.

How Does The Cuisine Compare?

The traditional food of Cyprus and Greece is a Mediterranean cocktail of the various civilizations that have inhabited these nations. 

Cyprus: The Food

Indulge in some meze dining. From kebabs to hummus, you’ll find all kinds of tantalizing delights that are a mix of Turkish, Greek, and Middle Eastern food cultures. 

The stars of Cypriot cuisine are halloumi and the grilled sausage sheftalia kebab (şeftali kebap). 

Cyprus is also home to the sweet treat Loukoumi , and prominent flavors include rose water, pistachio, and almonds.

If you fall in love with Cypriot cuisine and want to try it at home, then check out this award-winning Cypriot recipe book!

Greece : The Food

Like many Mediterranean cuisines, Greek food involves a lot of fresh vegetables, olive oil, grains, and a good dose of wine!

One of the most famous food exports from Greece is moussaka . This mincemeat and potato or eggplant dish is served everywhere in the country. It’s almost always guaranteed to be excellent in any family-run taverna.

Greece is famous for its dips, such as tzatziki – which is made up of garlic, yoghurt and cucumber – and fava , which is made from split peas.

To wash everything down, you must try Greece’s national drink, Ouzo . This strong liquor is made from aniseed, and is usually served with cold water which turns the clear drink a cloudy white.

The unique thing about Greece is the cuisine can be quite varied from region to region and island to island. So a place like Crete has specialities you won’t find elsewhere. In that sense this destination is quite exciting for foodies, arguably more so than Cyprus.

Cyprus vs Greece: Which Is The Better Choice?

Both make fantastic holiday destinations, and if time and money were limitless we would recommend both!

However if you’re looking for an island hopping adventure packed with culture, ancient history, and breathtaking beauty, then Greece is the better choice. With over 6000 islands, Greece is an adventure lover’s paradise, and each island has its own unique feel.

Cyprus also has its charm, with a well developed coastline giving way to centuries-old villages inland. It also tends to be cheaper than Greece, and with favorable weather for most of the year, Cyprus is one of Europe’s best beach destinations.

Furthermore, Cyprus is probably the better vacation destination if you’re looking for a holiday where you can reach all the main sights and towns quickly and easily.

Whichever nation you decide on, you will be guaranteed a Mediterranean climate, handsome coastlines, delicious food, and unique cultures.

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Cyprus Or Greece? The Battle Between Mediterranean Hotspots

So, you want sun-kissed shingle beaches and waters that glow turquoise blue? You want the chance to see swimming sea turtles and smell the oleander and pine in the air? You want dinners of fried cheese and uber-fresh fish, subtle olive oils and mountain stews, all set to the lapping waves of the Aegean? There are two places that we think fit the bill perfectly: Cyprus or Greece.

Yep, both of these countries offer some seriously incredible landscapes – especially that coastline – at the far southern end of the continent. They both boast some of Europe’s very best beaches, have seaside resorts for everyone from families to honeymooners, and enthralling historical and rustic sides that reveal Orthodox shrines beneath craggy mountains . But which is better for you?

That’s what we’re here to find out. This guide will run through several key categories to show which destination is better for nightlife, where has the finest food, the better weather, and even the better sands. It’s sure to be a close-run thing, but here goes…

Table of Contents

Cyprus or Greece for ease of travel?

Cyprus is one, single, lone island out in the eastern Mediterranean. Yes, it’s chopped in two by an international border but that’s beside the point, because the main access spots remain the same. They are the two airports of Paphos and Larnaca . The latter is the largest. It serves over eight million passengers each year and has flights – both flag-carrying and low-cost – going to destinations right across Europe and even out to Middle Eastern hubs. Paphos, for its part, is mainly about budget carriers, but is a better arrival point for getting to the popular beaches of the west coast – Coral Bay among them.

Getting to Greece is a whole different story. Greece is MUCH larger than Cyprus and it’s made up of thousands of islands , over 200 of which are inhabited, 15 of which have their own airports. On top of that, you have the main international hub in Athens, plus countless ferry ports with boat links to Italy, Croatia, and even Turkey. The point here is that you’re going to have to do more planning when it comes to travel to Greece. First, choose where you want to go and then go about finding flights or boats to your destination.

Winner: Cyprus. There’s less planning to do to get here.

Cyprus or Greece for beaches

Now here’s a tricky one. But, at the risk of angering fans of Cypriot coastline everywhere, we’re going to say it: Greece has the better beaches. It’s both a question of quantity – Greece has 8,400 miles of coast to Cyprus’s 435! – and, at least in our humble opinion, quality. Some of the bays in the land of feta and moussaka are among the finest on the globe. Take Shipwreck Beach in Zante , the pink-tinted Elafonisi isle in Crete, and castle-topped Lindos in Rhodes. All are jaw droppers. But there are also undiscovered coves and charming sand stretches ad infinitum in these parts. All you need is a sense of adventure to get to them.

Cyprus’s most popular coastline runs along the south side of the island and then up the western shore. It’s certainly got some stunners. Coral Bay is usually cited as the star, offering a Blue Flag rating and proximity to rare turtle nesting grounds. Out east, the Cape Greco headland hides more wonders in the form of lovely Makronissos Beach and the twinkling turquoise waters of Nissi Beach, though they do suffer from overcrowding in the summer months.

Winner: Greece gets this one.

Cyprus or Greece for history

Experts think Cyprus has been inhabited for something like 12,000 years! However, the most iconic relics date from around the 4 th century BC and run right the way up through the Middle Ages. Chief among them has to be the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos – ancient burial grounds for high officials – and the ruined city of Kourion near Limassol – a symphony of Roman ruins. Carrying through the medieval ages, you’ll want to check out the Venetian castle in Famagusta and the old center of Nicosia, which is a maze of carevansai and markets from over 800 years back.

Greece, though, is one of the most historic lands on the planet. Just take Athens, where ancient treasures loom up from the traffic clogged lanes. That’s the home of the iconic Parthenon, the Acropolis, and some of the richest archaeology museums known to mankind. Backing that up are the moving religious sanctuaries at Delphi, at Epidaurus, at Delos near Mykonos. You also get Venetian harbors in Chania, Crete, great templar castles in Rhodes, and mystical Orthodox monasteries in Meteora and Mount Athos.

Winner: It has to be Greece.

Cyprus or Greece for food

Prep the taste buds, folks – both these destinations are doozies for foodies. Let’s start with Greece , where the iconic mezze platters start with creamy tzatziki dips and filled vine leaves and end with meaty souvlaki kebabs. This is also the country of moussaka, a rich souffle-style pie with eggplant, and gyros, a street-food pita packed with veg and ground meat. Restaurants in Greece are legendary. They’re known locally as tavernas and are real joys to eat at. Choose one somewhere by the lapping Aegean Sea and settle in for long – like, uber-long – lunches that go all afternoon.

Cyprus also has its own style of tavernas, and there are lots of similarities in the food here thanks to the influence of the Mediterranean kitchen. You still get olive-oil topped Greek salads made with tomatoes and onions. You still get souvlakia meat kebabs cooked over coals, and stifado rabbit stew. But there’s one ingredient that Cyprus can claim as its own: Haloumi . Yep, that chewy cheese is made right here on the island and tastes fantastic when fresh.

Winner: It has to be a draw. Both these places are wonderful for foodies.

Cyprus or Greece for nightlife

Nightlife chasers don’t have to worry when it comes down to Cyprus or Greece. Both these countries have somewhere for those all-night summer parties, but it does help to know where, exactly. In Cyprus, the main hedonism hub is the resort Ayia Napa out east. It’s established itself as an EDM and DJ mecca a la Ibiza. Massive mega clubs draw in big names (and relatively big entry fees) from May to August and then the crowds move to the beaches to cure the hangover by day. Paphos also has some nightlife in its Kato area thanks to a dedicated strip.

Greece has nightlife destinations scattered all over its Aegean and Ionian archipelagos, not to mention some major places on the mainland. Special mention should be made of the cities of Athens and Thessaloniki. Go to those to find locally driven, student-fueled nightlife. More classically tourist nightlife is on offer on the islands. Mykonos is known for its A-lister clubs and LGBTQ+ venues. Malia is for the 18-30s crowd. There’s Faliraki for wild summertime blowouts in Rhodes. There’s Kavos in Corfu, which is wild from spring onwards.

Winner: Greece. There are more dedicated nightlife towns to choose from.

Cyprus or Greece for climate

There’s sun by the bucket load in both these countries. Both are classified as having Mediterranean climates, which means dry, hot summers and cool, mild winters. It’s not for nothing that they are both considered among the top beach escapes in Europe. The varying geographies have a huge impact on the weather, though. There can be snow on the peaks of Crete and the Peloponnese in Greece, and on the tops of the Troodos ranges in Cyprus, even while the beaches below bake in 70-degree warmth.

Overall, Cyprus lays claim to perhaps the higher overall temperatures . There are places along the south coast here – Ayia Napa, Limassol – that routinely clock up mercury readings of over 100 F (37.7 C) in June, July, and August. What’s more, the island is generally better protected from the strong meltemi winds that come from the north in the summer. Greece is still hot, mind you, especially the southeastern islands of Rhodes and Kos. But, as it’s not quite as far south, the season doesn’t last quite as long as in nearby Cyprus.

Winner: Cyprus. It’s further south and slightly hotter with a slightly longer season.

Cyprus or Greece for price

Don’t make the cost of a holiday the deciding factor here. Why? There’s not really all that much in it when it comes to the price of a trip to either Cyprus or Greece. Travel cost collator Hiker’s Bay estimates that a week-long sojourn on the Greek islands will require spending money of around $711, while the same jaunt to Cyprus will cost about $545 in total. That’s a difference of $166 overall, but we think it’s more than offset by the fact that flights to Greece tend to be a touch cheaper than flights to Cyprus (mainly because there are more options).

The good news is that you can mitigate what you spend considerably by choosing to travel in the shoulder seasons. That goes for both destinations. Hop to either Cyprus or Greece in the spring (April and May) or the fall (September to early-November) and you can spend up to 50% less on hotels and flights but still get great weather that’s worthy of beach days.

Winner: Cyprus, but only just, especially when you factor in the price of flights.

Cyprus or Greece – our conclusion

There’s no bad option here. Seriously, both Cyprus and Greece are magnificent countries, and both should be on European bucket lists. That said, we’d plump for Greece if you have to pick one. It’s got arguably the most enthralling history sites in the world and over 8,000 miles of coastline that’s littered with spectacular beaches that are bathed in almost consistent sun throughout the summer . Cyprus is the better choice if you want really hot weather or late season trips, and is generally the simpler place to plan a vacation to since it’s not so big.

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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Greece and Cyprus

The following overview is actually a combination of two separate video chats that I conducted to highlight one of my very favorite places on this earth – actually two of my very favorite places on this earth – Greece and Cyprus.

One of those chats was with  Maria Athanasopoulou, ​founder of Respond OnDemand and Chrissa Krassa, ​ founder of Top Tourism  – whom I met through the  World Food Travel Organization.  This one touches on the more classical, traditional, historical and cultural side of Greece as well as Cyprus. The other was with my colleague  Mina Agnos, Founder and President of Travelive  which touches more on the modern – or as I like to say the more  Instagramable –  side of Greece.

This really is more of a high-level introduction to Greece as we cover a number of different islands – but certainly not all of the islands or we’d be here for hours! Think of it as all of the pieces I tend to see people looking for when they’re considering Greece as their next destination to explore.

Here I have taken both conversations and pulled out the most pertinent information and categorized it – so that you can get the best possible overview of both sides of this magnificent slice of heaven on earth. And so, to Greece – and Cyprus – we go!

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Why Greece?   For the history, for the culture, for the classical side, for the spiritual side, for the wellness, for the gastronomy, for the beaches, for the beautiful views. There are just so many different ways to experience this amazing destination! Plus, Greece has such an amazing way of living that we all want to emanate, as it is great for the mind, body, spirit and soul.

When Should I Visit?  Greece is a 365-day destination which means you can visit Greece year-round. They are most famous for their islands which are mostly seasonal but there are other things throughout the year that you can experience – including skiing. It truly is a destination that you can visit any time of the year.

How Do I Get There?  Typically, a Greek adventure will start by flying into the Athens airport which is about a nine-hour flight from the east coast. I have done it from New York – and Delta as well as some other airlines – offer direct flights. As always, I do recommend premium economy seats at the very lowest because on a longer flight such as this you are going to want that extra space. And if you can splurge then by all means go for that business class seat so that you can lay down!

I Hear There Are New Travel Trends.  Mina advised that since the pandemic came along, they have seen a shift – which she feels is most likely happening across the board. The trend is towards ways of travel that are more sustainable, safer and offer the opportunity to social distance. And she assures us that Greece has put a lot of protocols in place around the country to ensure all of this. People are not only focusing on different off the radar islands but also alternate, more private ways to travel. For instance, private yacht charters are super popular for those looking to see the islands without being on a cruise ship with thousands of other travelers. People are also booking private transfers – so instead of traveling via commercial flights and ferries that are scheduled – Mina said they’re seeing more along the lines of the private helicopters, private speedboats and private transfers to get people to and from destinations so that they’re not having to take the scheduled transportation.

As for accommodations they are also seeing more private villa stays as well as staycation’s where people work from home in villas or all-suite hotels. And finally, there is a shift to more authentic experiences – such as private cooking classes. And really all of this is a great way to travel with your crew or your bubble – so that you are all together – but separate from the masses.

And there’s definitely been a shift in terms of how much traffic there is as they don’t have the same crowds that they did – for instance cruises have not returned – and it makes these destinations available to be experienced in ways which they have not been able to in decades. So, it’s a huge opportunity for people who really want to come in and see Greece and get more of that authentic feel and miss some of the over tourism that we’ve seen in the past few years.

OK – Tell Me All About The Destinations I Should Try To Include In My Itinerary!

Cyclades:  The Cyclades – located southeast of the mainland in the Aegean Sea – are no doubt the most popular of the island groups with Mykonos and Santorini the top of the requests that Mina sees coming from the US. Mina also explained that they find no matter where people want to go in Greece when they hear from them Santorini is always on that list. In addition, there are a lot of repeat travelers now coming back to Greece. It used to be that it was just a once in a lifetime trip to Athens, Mykonos or Santorini but that’s not the case anymore and its really great to see there’s so much interest in coming back and experiencing a lot of these other less popular spots around the country.

• Classical:  Just a short ferry ride from Athens and you’re in Mykonos – a famous Greek island that Maria and Chrissa suggest visiting at the end of September as opposed to when most people go which in the heart of the summer – July or August (which also happens to be when all of the big parties happen on the island). This way, she explained, most of the crowds are gone and it is much easier to be a tourist. Mykonos is known for its great beaches and great restaurants as well as for being a gay friendly destination – although nowadays many families and singles also flock there. Fun Fact: Its nickname is the  Island of Winds  because it is very windy almost all year round .
• Modern:  When we talked with Mina it was during the cruise ship hiatus due to the pandemic and she noted that due to the absence of the cruise ships there are a lot less people on the island now, but you still have that vibrant night life. And yes, Mykonos is certainly known for the party that it is, and the beach clubs are open. She feels however that this limited capacity will probably continue well into 2021 – but it’s still definitely a happening place with people still flocking there, the yachts still docking and that amazing jet set vibe it’s famous for still there – it’s just with fewer people and less traffic.
• Modern:  I was in Santorini and I loved it – it’s very romantic with beautiful views and fabulous wines but – it’s really not a beach destination which is what I wanted to point out here.  Many people don’t realize the Mediterranean is rocky – plus Santorini is also a volcanic island so while you do have beaches it’s the black and the red sand which is typically not something that you’re expecting when you’re thinking of Greek island beaches. Plus – Santorini presents you with an opportunity to ride a donkey. And when you are in Santorini you don’t want to miss the Santorini caldera which is a large depression formed when a volcano erupts and collapses. The sunset there is worth every penny you spent to visit Greece and it’s definitely a bucket list item.
• Modern:  When I have clients looking for those untouched beaches, I mention Milos as it is great choice for pristine beaches and per Mina it’s amazing for sailing as well. Also, something to be aware of is that a lot of different points on the islands are not accessible by land, so you will definitely want to have at least a day where you either charter a private boat or do a small group catamaran cruise. This way you can really get around and see some of these places that are untouched with unique landscapes thanks to the fact that it is another volcanic island. Mina noted that Milos was starting to gain more momentum last year as one of the more off the radar islands and it continues to do so. It is certainly a place where it’s quite untouched as it doesn’t have a developed tourism industry where you’re going to have those big chain hotels. Everything is boutique and just really catering to those people who are coming to experience the island.
• Modern:  Then you have Naxos which is the largest island in the Cyclades. As a result, you have a lot of people who live and work there all year so it’s not as transient as places like Mykonos, Santorini and Paros. Due to that fact, it is a place that still maintains a really rich local culture so it’s a great place for cooking classes, for exploring and seeing how people live. One of the great things about Naxos is that because of its size it has enough agriculture production so they don’t need to import a lot – as everything can be accessed on the island. So, expect lots of wonderful cheeses, fruits and vegetables.
• Classical:  Maria and Chrissa adore this island and feel it is one of the most beautiful islands in Greece –and have been there many times. It is filled with beautiful beaches excellent local gastronomy and very friendly locals. Paros historically was known for its fine white marble which gave rise to the term Parion to describe marble or china of similar quality. Today you can find abandoned marble quarries and mines on the island, but Paros is primarily known as a popular tourist spot.
• Modern:  We talked about places where you can stay for a number of months and this is really an ideal island for that. It was just named the top island by several magazines and it’s a great place because it’s very central in the Cyclades meaning you can easily do day trips to a lot of different islands. You have a lot of infrastructure here and there’s everything that you need to live plus it has great accommodations for extended stay in terms of either hotels or villas. It’s a self-sufficient island and Mina advised that if you want to take cooking lessons this is the place to do it in a private home!

Athens:  The capital and largest city of Greece – it was once a powerful civilization and empire that was at the heart of ancient Greece.

• Classical:  Home to the famous citadel –  The Acropolis  as well as the history and the culture of Greece itself – it is all gathered here. The word acropolis is from the Greek words  akron  which means highest point and  polis  which means city – and so named because it is indeed the highest spot in the city. Maria proudly gushed that every time she goes to Athens, she visits The Acropolis – it is that special and very respected. The Acropolis is an ancient citadel located on a rocky outcrop above the city of Athens and is perhaps what most people think of first when they think of Greece as it is an extremely popular tourist attraction. It houses the remains of several ancient buildings of great architectural and historic significance -with the most famous being the  Parthenon.
• Modern:  You definitely want to stay downtown and enjoy the old-world tourist sites but then you need to take about a 30- or 40-minute ride and enjoy other parts of Athens like the  Athenian Riviera . As per Mina the Athenian Riviera is a part of Greece – particularly a part of Athens – that a lot of people are not really familiar with especially coming from the US. Athens really has been kind of a dropping off point where you might stay a day or two see The Acropolis and leave. However, tourism is picking up there now and they are seeing a certain type of a clientele which hadn’t necessarily known that the Athenian Riviera was an area that existed. So now so there’s certainly been a lot more interest in spending time there and as a result they are seeing are longer stays now when it comes to being in Athens.

Thessaloniki:  Also Known as Salonika it is a port city on the Thermaic Gulf of the Aegean Sea.

• Classical:  This is the beautiful co – capital city of Greece – and the capital of the original Macedonia – which is known for the  White Tower   of the Thessaloniki . The White Tower is both a monument and museum that is located on the waterfront of the city. The present tower replaced an old 12th century Byzantine fortification that the Ottoman Empire constructed to fortify the city’s harbor sometime after Thessaloniki was overtaken in 1430. The tower became a notorious prison and scene of mass executions during the period of Ottoman rule. After Greece gained control of the city in 1912 the tower was remodeled and its exterior whitewashed and adopted as the symbol of the city. And you guys I have to say that what I really love about this part of Greece – and pretty much all of Greece – is this is true living history. The Ottoman Empire is something that we learn about in school and here it is – waiting for us to take it all in and live it – in person.  And we can’t forget to add that it is also a city with great food and a unique gastronomical identity and what Maria considers to be the most delicious food in all Greece.  And this beautiful city is located on the Aegean Sea so it’s a city that you can walk by the sea in and is a favorite spot of hers as well.  She added that Greeks love the sea and they love to walk by the sea and she thinks that within the next few years Thessaloniki will be one of the main destinations for people from abroad because it is a multicultural city with many things for visitors to explore.

Dodecanese Island Chain:  This is a group of over 150 Greek islands in the southeastern Aegean Sea and Eastern Mediterranean – off the coast of Turkey that belong to the wider Southern Sporades island group.

• Classical:  This heaven on earth is known worldwide as a destination for people who love rock climbing and is located between the islands of  Kos and Leros . It is also known as the “ Sponge-divers’ Island”  in addition to being popular for rock climbing. It features more than 3000 climbing routes set in the limestone rock of the island and the climate allows climbing all year round. Maria made the observation that a lot of people think Greece is only sea and sun, but it’s got so much more, and Kalymnos is an example of this.
• Modern:  There are a lot of medieval treasures in Greece for such a small country but that’s because there’s so many influences from different places through history. The Sporades Islands are located on the bottom of Greece near Turkey. and the most famous of the islands is Rhodes. Rhodes is also the largest of the Dodecanese islands. As for that medieval culture – you have a medieval village in Rhodes which is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site.  It’s a great place to combine with Turkey so we can have you do some parts of Greece – for instance start in Athens work your way into Rhodes and then into Turkey into Istanbul – the old Constantinople.

Crete:  Crete is the largest and most populous of the Greek islands and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea after Sicily, Sardinia, Cyprus and Corsica.

• Classical:  This popular destination for people from the US – it is an extremely popular holiday destination – is a big hit with Maria and Chrissa as well and they think it just may have the best gastronomy in Greece and every time they visit, they tend to eat a lot and really enjoy the food – and the wine. And let me tell you – I was in Crete and it was beautiful and I was never hungry! Its four biggest cities are  Heraklion, Agios Nikolaos, Chania and Rethymno  and some of the spots that you don’t miss when you visit a Crete are the archaeological sites of the  Minoan civilization , the Venetian old city and port of  Chania , the Venetian castle at  Rethymno , the gorge of  Samari a, and the gorgeous Palm Beach of  Vai  – which is the largest natural palm forest in Europe. And let’s not forget  Knosso s which is the largest Bronze Age archaeological site in Crete. Per Maria, Knossos was the heart of mainland civilization and a very famous ancient Greek civilization. If you want to know its entire story – its entire history – it’s not enough only to go to Knossos – you must also visit the archaeological museum that is one of the largest archaeological museums in the world. By combining the area of Knossos and the museum and you will have a complete picture of Minoan civilization. As she so poetically put – Knossos is not just a monument – it is a whole era – it’s our story – you feel that you go back in time when you are there.  And once again may I point out here that we’re really living history and one of the things I focus on with you guys all the time in terms of writing your itineraries is making sure that you have these things included because it’s not just the textbook anymore – you can stand in it – and take it all in. That being said – the ladies insist it is a minimum of 15 days to see all that Crete has to offer – yes, a minimum.
• Modern:  So, one of the things I absolutely must point out – again – is that when guys plan to go to Crete – don’t plan on just two or three days. You need to plan enough days so that you have enough time to eat your way through it because the amount of food that you’re going to find here is amazing. And the best part is that everything is farm to table or sea to table fresh. Crete is a whole flavor in itself. And Mina agrees. She noted that since it is the largest island in Greece it’s a huge destination in itself so it’s not uncommon – or not a bad idea – to spend an extended amount of time there. You can do ten days on the island and easily eat your way through, see the wineries and a host of the many other things that you can do on Crete. It’s one of the islands where you truly have everything – besides the food and the wine you’ve got hiking, biking – lots of different trails – you’ve got the channel to port and there’s plenty of family fun and all sorts of outdoor activities. Here you have everything from the sea to the mountains and it’s a place where you will pretty much find every single variation of Greece in one place. Definitely a great island to use as a home base – especially if you want to do some day trips and it speaks to you if you want to be active or if you want to be laid back and chill.

Chalkidiki:  A wide peninsula in Northern Greece, it features great beaches and is part of the Region of Central Macedonia.

• Classical:  This gorgeous area is about one hour from Thessaloniki by car. Among its towns are  Polygyros , which is located in the center of the Chalkidiki peninsula. Chalkidiki is a popular summer tourist destination – a coastal village – that is very famous for summer holidays and offers accommodations of all forms. Maria noted it is extremely popular with the residents of Thessaloniki due to its proximity to it and many have their holiday homes there. In these beautiful Mediterranean waters you will find more locals with not as many tourists as other beaches in Greece.

Chios Island:  This is the fifth largest of the Greek islands and is situated in the northern Aegean Sea.

• Classical:   Maria described this as a unique product and one of her favorite islands in Greece. It is known for its exports of mastic gum and its nickname is “ The Mastic Island. ” There are a lot of villages here that produce this product which is used for the gastronomy as well as for some medicines. Chios tourist attractions include its medieval villages and the 11th-century monastery of  Nea Moni  – a  UNESCO World Heritage Site . The gastronomy is unique – authentic gastronomy with ancient roots – and per Maria – Chrissa and her went from village to village tasting the local recipes on a fantastic gastronomy tour that they will never forget.

Ionian Islands:  This island group can be found on the west side of Greece between the Greek mainland and Italy. Due to their location they’re not easily connected with some of the Cyclades destinations, so you don’t necessarily want to do something with Mykonos and Santorini and then go to the Ionian Islands – because you’re going to have to connect in Athens and you’ll spend a lot of time traveling. That being said they are definitely gaining popularity with Americans and is a wonderful place to sail. It tends to be very flat but it’s very lush and you have a lot of greenery making it a stunning landscape. With so many of the Greek islands being very dry here you have the green mixed in with the blues so it’s something for Greeks that’s quite different. As for accommodations you’ve got everything from the very simple to the very high end here.  Porto Zante Villas and Spa  is an ideal place if you are looking for something very upscale and want your own villa with your own pool AND your own private piece of the beach. It’s somewhere you can go and have that exclusive experience with your family.

• Classical:  I love this island and I think it is one of the most beautiful of the Greek islands. Corfu has its own unique identity and very tasty local gastronomy. You will also find a lot of beaches, a lot of monuments and much history as it’s an ancient area. It also has a long history of hospitality to foreigners, residents and visitors. The northeast coast of the island has been developed by a few British holiday companies with large holiday villas that make for great accommodations.
• Classical:   Kefalonia was used as the shooting location of the Hollywood movie C aptain Corelli’s Mandolin  and is a popular spot for filming tv shows as a lot of producers choose this island as an attractive background for their stories. Once again, this island features great beaches. Most people think that only the islands of the Aegean Sea have beautiful beaches, but the Ionian islands are home to equally great beaches. A lot of people prefer Corfu and Kefalonia and both are famous abroad – along with Zakynthos – which is a popular spot for UK residents. All of the islands in the Ionian Sea have distinguished local gastronomy and Maria noted that the cuisine in Greece varies throughout each destination so everywhere you go you will find different, tasty dishes.
• Classical:  Lefkada – and its’s capital – the town of Lefkada- share the same name and can be reached by flying into the  Aktion National Airport  as it is just a 25-minute ride from there. It can also be reached via road so there is no need to take a boat to reach this island thanks to a large bridge that connects the island with the mainland. Many prefer driving there so that they don’t have to spend money on a boat. And once again there are beautiful beaches and great gastronomy!

Epirus:  A historical region in southeastern Europe, now shared between Greece and Albania and laying between the Pindus Mountains and the Ionian Sea.

• Classical:  So, we mentioned before that a lot of people think Greece is only sea and sun and beaches and summer – but it’s so much more. Zagorochoria is an example of that as it is a cluster of 46 villages located throughout the mountains. There are plenty of accommodations to choose from as well as activities and sports including trekking to diving. They too have a unique gastronomy with very tasty dishes, as well as being an area of great history and impressive ancient monuments. If you love mountains – this is something out of the box to do in Greece – spending a couple of days hiding away from everyone and taking in nature.
• Classical:  The largest city in Epirus is Ioannina City and it also happens to be its capital. Home to a great archaeological site – that contains the ancient theater of  Dodona  which is a fabulous opportunity to see an ancient theater in Greece. And do to the fact that Greece was under Ottoman rule for 400 years you will find many Ottoman monuments. A must see here is the  Ioannina Castle  a beautiful castle on the rocky peninsula of  Lake Pamvotida.  Lake Pamvotida the largest lake in Epirus and here you can take a boat to a small island in the middle of the lake for a tour of it. And while you are there be sure to try their unique small plates – called  Mezes.  Mezes is a variety of food – all small portions but a lot of quality – and per Maria it is quite common in Greece and Cyprus to start your meals with these small plates along with wine or ouzo.
• Classical:  This seaside village is known for its accommodations including villas and lovely hotels situated near the great beaches. It is actually referred to the “ Riviera of the Ionian Sea”  and is a fabulous destination for those you love sailing and of course great gastronomy too.

Peloponnese:  Peloponnese is Maria’s homeland, so naturally she was quite excited to speak about it. It is a peninsula located in southern Greece. And per Mani Peloponnese truly has everything – you’ve got the history, the culture and wellness galore. There are just many different villages and ways to experience around here but you’ll also have that that ancient Greece feeling making it a totally enriching and experiences. So, you have all of the different variations of ancient Greek culture of in one spot plus you’re really close to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Ancient Olympia’s not far away and ancient Mycenae is usually visited on the way plus you’re in the area of Sparta so there’s so many things that you can do.

• Classical : Vathia is a village on the Mani Peninsula and is characterized by its stone tower houses on a hill in the countryside. These stone houses were built during the 18th and 19th centuries and being here makes you feel like you are going back in time.  It is a place with great history and has become an extremely popular tourist attraction in the spring and summer thanks to an abundance of wildflowers that cover the nearby hills that make for incredibly scenic views. There are also great beaches here like on the Mediterranean side.
• Classical:  This beautiful area – located in the southwestern part of the Peloponnisos region consists of three peninsulas and therefor offers a lot of great beaches. Its capital is  Kalamata .
• Modern:  Wellness continues to be a big travel trend and people who were interested in doing spas are now flocking to new retreats such as  Euphoria Retreat  in Mystras that brings a completely different level of a holistic spa experience to Greece. This incredible spa resort is unlike anything they’ve had before. The concept is that you have all of these transformational experiences making it a place where your body gets to recharge. You’ve got treatments from ancient medicines, you can participate in tours to learn how to pick the local herbs and how they’re used in healing, you can do Spartan warrior training here – which is doing lot of body weight exercises and training the same way the Spartan soldiers did. (If you’re interested in getting fit what a cool way to do it!) You will also find a lot of thermal spas, incredible food, wine regions, olive oil production and you can visit beekeeping farms – so there’s a lot of different ways that you can experience how food is made and where it comes from. And you will see that it is in ways that are truly healthy and untouched while also taking care of your mind and body.
• Modern:  This is one of Mina’s favorites and while it is very difficult to get to – the experience that you’re going to have of just being able to look out into nature, star gazing – you can literally just put your blanket out anywhere. It’s a Blue Zone meaning that it is referred to as an island where people forget to die. My great grandmother died literally five years ago at the age of 102 and the way that they that she lived up until the day she died was amazing. There were always people around, so there’s a lot of movement back and forth and you see that everybody tends to stay extremely healthy. They really they take care of themselves. They visit the spa and eat very well. It’s place that is absolutely beautiful and untouched. Perfect for people who do want to get off the radar and see something unique – she highly recommends it!

Saronic Islands:  The Saronic Islands aren’t far from Athens making them ideal day trips. They’re quite easy to connect to thanks to the ferries – with it being about 30 minutes to an hour to get to Aegina and an hour and a half to Hydra. Then you have  Spetses  that is very close by as well. In reality these are ideal for those with less time who want something that’s a little bit different. They are not as well-known but they’re very accessible from Athens making it easy to visit either as day trips or as shorter stays for weekends or even island hopping via boat. I love to do island hopping and something for you guys to consider is to charter your own yacht. And I know that sounds really expensive, but it can actually be worked in within your budget thanks to our travel financial planning. Think about it – just you and your travel companions and a crew to yourselves – not a whole cruise full of people. Mina also mentioned chartering a catamaran as another, cost effective option as well.

• Modern:  One of the southernmost islands in the Saronic chain, it tends to go really well with Hydra, with Aegina and also with the Peloponnese as we can connect all of these very easily by sea.  This is an island that’s known for its spices – in fact, it’s known as  The Spice Island.  So, you are greeted by amazing aromas and great foods making it a really nice place to just get away and experience all the good things in life. Plus, it’s an island that’s not very well known by most people so here’s an opportunity for you guys to do some traveling off the beaten path. It’s an amazing island and when you tell everyone at home all about it they are going to be envious that this was your Greece experience!
• Modern:  You’ve definitely got the wellness buzz here – thanks to a variety of spas.
• Modern : Hydra is pretty amazing with one notable difference – here there are no cars – instead, donkeys are your main mode of transport! What an exciting opportunity – something that is authentically local.  And guess what – that is how you’re going to get to your hotel – they’ll put your luggage onto the donkeys, and you’ll walk – or ride – with them to get to where you need to go. It would probably be best to be a good hiker here because you’ll probably do a lot of walking on this island, but it is it’s definitely something that’s quite unique and a beautiful experience.

Life As A Living Classroom Must Be Amazing Here!  Greece is a living classroom and for those of you who are doing home schooling this is a great trip to take the kids on. Athens is written all over our textbooks – everything in Greece and civilization as we know it – and a lot of things that we do today are based off things that born in Greece. So why not take your kids and immerse them in all of this because it’s guaranteed the essays that they write will be with them forever. There is no better way to learn than by firsthand experience. You will be giving your kids something that will differentiate them for the rest of their life. In Greece you will really be able to make a lot of those lessons come alive and it’s wonderful to see it happen to your children!

Tell Me About That Greek Gastronomy.  You guys know that I always add that cultural immersion through gastronomy element to your trip. I honestly believe that breaking bread with someone, sharing a meal or learning how to cook with somebody that’s local is the best way to be in touch and find your way in their culture.  One thing I love about Greece is the fact that there are no GMO’s in their food. And what a difference that makes! It is so fresh and so much better than the food that we get here in the states and the flavors are amazing – not to mention natural and authentic. Pretty much nothing that you’re going to find anywhere else in the world – it’s mouthwatering. And it consists of everything from their world-famous feta cheese – to a lot of products from ancient years including their unique bread, honey, olive oil and seafood – and boy do they know how to cook seafood!

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The Island of Cyprus

Cyprus is one of my most favorite countries that I had the marvelous opportunity to explore just a few years ago. And to tell you the honest truth when I was there, I felt like I belonged there and that someday I am going to live there – I just don’t know it yet! Maria said that Greeks think the same about Cyprus as they do Greece – as they share the same language, the same history and the same religion – so for Greeks they are one nation – and every time she is in Cyprus, she feels like she is home.

Lefkosia (Nicosia City)

With its distinction as the only divided capital in the world, Lefkosia and the surrounding area combines the heartbeat of the islands commercial and business center with an interesting past. It also has rural areas where escape is possible in beautiful green environments. The capital itself is steeped in history and culture with a charming old city surrounded by massive Venetian walls and the island’s largest concentration of museums, art galleries and religious and historical monuments that all tell stories of the island through the ages.

I loved Paphos! For me was an area where I felt like the world was at a standstill. I was able to enjoy some beach time and to enjoy really great food – it was super relaxing. Comprised of both old and new towns, rural villages and picturesque resorts – the region is home to some of the most stunning areas of natural beauty on the island as well as many archaeological sites that are historically invaluable, with the neighborhood of  Katos Paphos  declared a  UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Limassol (Lemesos)

Lemesos is the Greek word for beautiful city and here you will find the legends of kings and kingdoms and the origins of the island’s wine making industry characterize the region. Known as the  Region of Wine , celebrations and ancient realms, Lemesos is comprised of its main city – which sits between two important archaeological sites – the ancient city-kingdom of Amathus to the east and the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion to the west – along with rural areas and charming mountainous villages, where old traditions and crafts are still practiced. I was here as well and it was absolutely awesome. I remember going into the different villages with our guide and we were wine tasting and doing the olive oil tasting and it was just amazing. We even saw some areas that that were still being excavated.

Another beautiful region – this one is mountainous. With pine-scented air that feels more invigorating the higher you climb, the Troodos mountain range is the island’s green heart, that is immersed in endless forests, valleys and orchards. Comprised of many different, traditional villages, every twist and turn of the mountain roads leads to something different. The chain of winemaking communities has practiced their art for centuries, while others are famous for their intricate handmade folk-art – from lace and silverwork to pottery and basket weaving. There are agricultural villages known for their different fruits and waterfalls and springs that offer a cooling drink to both humans and wildlife.

Ammochostos (Famagusta)

Sparkling, crystal waters and powdery, golden sands are one of the defining features of this region as well as scenic landscapes featuring quaint windmills and its mineral-rich earth growing some of the island’s tastiest, fresh produce. Comprised of the main holiday resorts of  Agia Napa  and  Paralimni-Protaras,  the once-tiny villages have seen their popularity and boundaries expand into bustling resorts that continue to attract visitors in droves.

Larnaka When I was in Cyprus this was pretty much my home base. It is an ancient district where east meets west and hundreds of years of contrasting civilizations, architecture and culture have left their mark on an authentic and diverse region. Both Christianity and Islam have important religious sites in Larnaka. Popular sights are the  Medieval Castle , the palm tree-lined promenade of  Finikoudes , and  Larnaka Salt Lake , which fills with vibrant pink flamingos during the winter months.

Beaches in Cyprus:  There are many more than just the two we talked about below – but we wanted to include an overview of some of the more popular ones.

• Pissouri Beach

Located 30km west of Lemesos – Pissouri Bay is the tourist resort of the village of Pissouri. The coast has seen its popularity soar thanks to its stunning, natural beauty and the resort facilities now found in the area. The beach has fine, golden sands, multicolored small pebbles, and its clean waters are relatively calm.

• Vathia Gonia Beach

The beach of Vathia Gonia is a beautiful coastal stretch that is located east of the more crowded Nissi Bay. As a sandy beach with a natural rocky bay, it is covered in fine, golden sands and its crystal-clear water is relatively calm as there is a complete lack of headwinds at the beach. This is the birthplace of Aphrodite which is called  Petra tou Romiou  – translated to “a Greek stone.”  Aphrodite’s mythical birthplace is an interesting geological formation of huge rocks along one of the most beautiful coastlines on the island, located on the southwest coast of Paphos. According to the legend, the Ancient Greek Goddess of Love and Beauty – Aphrodite – was born of the sea foam here. Legend tells that she rose from the waves and was escorted on a shell to this particular beach.

And How Is the Gastronomy in Cyprus?  The ritual of sharing good, fresh local cuisine is an important part of the island’s culture and is intrinsically linked with every social event, from family gatherings and special occasions to religious festivals with each being marked with its own distinct delicacies and recipes. From hearty meat dishes and specialty cheeses to unique desserts of carob and grape, the Cypriot cuisine is an exotic blend of Greek and Middle Eastern cultures, sprinkled with remnants of ancient civilizations. And it is no secret that the  Mediterranean diet  is considered to be of the healthiest, thanks an abundance of heart-healthy olive oil, lean meat, local herbs and freshly grown fruits and vegetables. Add to this the favorable climate that gives the produce its intense flavor – and a celebration around every corner – you will find a big gastronomic adventure awaits on this tiny island! And as per Maria don’t forget to get some  Halloumi  while you are there – it is a famous Cyprian white cheese that you don’t want to miss! ​ Updated COVID-19 Information : As of this writing the CDC recommends travelers avoid all nonessential international travel to  Greece and Cyprus .

For the CDC’s most up to date information on COVID-19 in Greece  click here  and in Cyprus  click here .  And for the most up to date entry requirements Greece  click here  and in Cyprus  click here .

Oh gosh – there you have it – Greece and Cyprus – literally in a nutshell! There is so much more we can talk about but since time is limited, I think this give you a darn good idea what they are all about! Now, let’s get you to this amazing destination to experience it firsthand!

For more details on things to see and do  in Greece and Cyprus , where to stay, it’s price  points  and more – contact your Travel Guru! Oh, and if you need a payment plan to fund your travel adventure – we got those too!

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Home > Greece Or Cyprus? How You Choose Between Cyprus Vs. Greece

Greece Or Cyprus? How You Choose Between Cyprus Vs. Greece

Written by our local expert Nick

Nick is is digital nomad originally from Athens, Greece. You will now find him exploring the Greek islands, Bulgaria and beyond.

Here is how to choose between Cyprus or Greece. This guide will help you navigate weighing up Greece Vs. Cyprus for your vacation. 

In a rush and just want to know how to choose between Greece or Cyprus? Here is what we think you should know:

Unless you’re blessed with the opportunity to work on the go , or you’re retired, you are probably trying to figure out which vacation spot to go to this year because you can’t see everything on your bucket list – right?

It’s a common problem.

There are endless places to visit and not enough time, but many people struggle to choose between the two countries, Greece and Cyprus.

Both are amazing in their own right and offer everything you could need for a summer break and more. But, if you are short on time, you must decide between the two.

In that case, let’s pit them against one another and see if you prefer Cyprus or Greece. 

Keep reading below for our in-depth analysis on weighing up Greece vs. Cyprus.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Greece Vs. Cyprus 

Greece is indeed one of the most popular year-round destinations, but it’s also on almost everyone’s must-visit lists during the summer. The capital city, Athens , is one of the most historic spots in the world, with the Acropolis certainly something everyone should see at least once.

But it’s not just the capital. The mainland has some fantastic places to visit , with nature, history, and extraordinary beaches . The beaches are jaw-dropping, and because there are so many islands to choose from (7000 in total, but only 227 are inhabited), there will always be somewhere that suits your needs. However, the islands are definitely what most people think about when they consider a summer holiday.

Each island in Greece has little culture, food, and a sight to see. Choosing a Greek island is almost like choosing a tiny country to visit. The other plus point is that you can island hop via ferry , so you’re never stuck in one particular destination.

We’ve found so many fun things to do on the Greek islands – here are just a few guides to get you started, but definitely browse the blog, as we’ve got so many more!

Reasons To Visit Greece

• Greece is a huge country with plenty of choices. You can easily visit the capital, the mainland, or one of the many islands
• You can island hop and even hop from the mainland over to different islands
• Each island is individual and shows you a different side of Greek life
• There are more beaches in Greece than there are numbers, so you’re sure to find a spot with fewer crowds
• Athens is the center of t he Ancient Greek civilization and is a number one spot for history buffs
• Athens is also a busy metropolis which gives you a great city break option with modern-day fun and history to boot
• Lots of options for exploring, so you’re unlikely to get bored
• Greek food! Need we say more?
• Diving around the Greek Islands is fantastic , with a wide range of marine life – including turtles!
• Plenty of low-cost flights during the summer months, and you can usually shop for deals
• Some islands , such as Mykonos and Zante, are fantastic for nightlife, while others are known for being quieter and more low-key
• What To Know When Planning A Trip To Greece

Reasons Not To Visit Greece

• You might be unable to choose where to go because it’s so big
• Greece can be an expensive country to visit. Here are our budget tips for Greece
• During the summer months, there are crowds EVERYWHERE
• Athens is always busy, regardless of the month, and visiting the Acropolis can be extremely hot and stressful during the summer. Maybe choose a hotel with an Acropolis view
• Winter weather in Greece can be very changeable and often be rainy, snowy, and cold

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Cyprus vs. greece.

Cyprus is much smaller than Greece, but that’s not necessarily bad! Nestled in the Eastern Mediterranean, close to the Middle East, Cyprus is blessed with beautiful and mild weather all year around. While there can be an odd storm during the winter months, on the whole, it’s mild and less rainy than in Greece during this time of year.

Because Cyprus is tiny, you can get around and see a lot on your own steam. You don’t have to use ferries to see different places; you can use taxis, buses or hire a car and drive. Cyprus is often a cheaper holiday experience than Greece, especially if you visit during the shoulder season months.

Nicosia is a charming capital city that offers modern entertainment and all the big city fun you could wish for, but it’s much less bustling and overwhelming than Athens can be. There are also many stunning beaches within easy reach of the capital and beyond.

Reasons To Visit Cyprus

So, is Cyprus worth visiting – yes, here is why;

• Thanks to its eastern location, wonderful weather all year around, and often less windy than Greece
• Plenty of low-cost flights head to Cyprus in the summer months, and it tends to be a cheaper holiday than Greece
• Because Cyprus is smaller, it’s an excellent choice for a shorter holiday, and you won’t feel like you’re missing out on anything
• Beautiful beaches, including Nissi Beach, which is often considered one of the best in Europe
• Fantastic diving opportunities
• Cyprus offers many natural spots to visit, such as the hidden sand dunes in Limassol or the flamingos in Larnaca. Avakas Gorge is also a must-visit for keen hikers
• Everything is within easy reach, so there is no need to travel too far

Reasons Not To Visit Cyprus

• Cyprus is entirely commercialized during the summer, as it has to pack all its tourist bang into a small area
• You’ll find that Cyprus, in general, is less rustic than Greece
• Many people feel that Cyprus has quite a British vibe, which may or may not be an issue for you
• There is less “history” than in Greece
• It’s bustling during the summer months, and you’ll notice the crowds because of its smaller size

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So, Which Is Best – Greece Or Cyprus?

In all honesty, both Greece and Cyprus are perfect choices. Neither is better or worse than the other; it depends on what you want and enjoy.

If your final choice is between Greece or Cyprus, you truly won’t miss out!

• Ferry From Greece To Cyprus Or Fly?
• Famous Landmarks In Greece Not To Miss
• Island Hopping In Greece
• Secluded Islands To Visit In Greece
• What To Eat In Greece For Breakfast
• Aegina Or Agistri – Which To Pick

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Orthodoxou Aviation taking Cyprus-Greece ferry bookings

Orthodoxou Aviation Ltd is pleased to announce ferry ticket reservations for the Cyprus-Greece sea route, aboard the DALEELA .

The ship will depart from the port of Limassol, sailing to Piraeus, and return from Piraeus back to Limassol, over May 29-September 3, 2024.

As of April 17, 2024, Orthodoxou Aviation Ltd staff are ready to serve you, Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm.

For reservations or other clarifications regarding the ferry, as well as itineraries:

• Visit: orthodoxouaviation.com ,
• Call a company service officer: at +357 24 841 051
• Email: [email protected]
• Contact Orthodoxou Aviation via your travel agent

The Ultimate 7-Day Cyprus Itinerary

Last Updated on January 10, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Are you wondering where to go in Cyprus? Well, follow this detailed Cyprus itinerary to ensure that you plan the perfect trip and get the most out of this fascinating island nation.

This Mediterranean country has so much to offer visitors and it is very much worth exploring. From historic and divided cities to ancient archaeological sites to beautiful beaches and charming mountain villages, Cyprus may just have it all.

Combine all of this with some of the best year-round weather in Europe and incredibly hospitable people and Cyprus may just be the ideal place to visit if you’re after a Mediterranean adventure.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Cyprus

Located in the southeastern Mediterranean and blessed with over 300 days of sunshine every year, it can seem like there may not ever be a bad time to visit Cyprus.

Its perennially warm and sunny climate is certainly attractive to those looking to escape the dreary winter months on mainland Europe and its endless sandy coastline is great for those looking to work on their tans no matter what time of year it is.

Though the nation rarely sees cold and rainy weather, many would-be visitors planning a trip to Cyprus still want to know when is the best time of year to travel to this country.

It’s true that temperatures in Cyprus — especially in the more popular tourist areas — will rarely dip below 17 or 18°C (62-64°F), meaning that there isn’t really a bad time to visit, especially if you’re planning your trip to Cyprus outside of the hot summer months. However, there are still some times of year that are arguably better to visit than others.

The summer months of June-August is the most popular time of year to visit Cyprus. This is also the time of year that experiences the highest temperatures.

If you like hot weather and don’t mind fighting your way through tourist crowds, then this might be a good time of year to visit. You can, however, expect temperatures to reach well over 30°C (86°F) every single day, with the capital city of Nicosia and the central part of Cyprus experiencing an average high temperature of 38°C (100°F).

While most places are air-conditioned inside, visiting Cyprus in the height of summer may not be the best idea if you’re sensitive to the heat.

A far better solution for those looking for some warmth and sunshine without increasing their risk of heatstroke is to visit in the shoulder season months of March-May and September-November.

These months are still very warm and sunny but tend not to see as high of temperatures as the summer months. Crowds also tend to be fewer during the shoulder season, meaning that you will likely find more accommodation availability and allow for a bit more flexibility in your trip.

The average high temperature in March-May is about 22°C (72°F), making it perfect for spending some lazy days outside and enjoying the beautiful scenery. It is worth noting that water temperatures can still be a bit chilly, however, so this may not be the best time of year to visit if you want to do a lot of swimming.

Conversely, the average high temperature in the months of September-November tends to be a bit warmer, clocking in at 25°C (77°F). Sea temperatures are at their warmest all year, as well, meaning that it is incredibly comfortable to go for a swim in the Mediterranean.

The autumn also sees fewer average days of rain than the spring, meaning that this is likely the ideal time to visit Cyprus.

How Many Days in Cyprus?

Despite its apparent small size, there are a surprising amount of things to see and do on this island nation and if you want to fully enjoy it, you’re going to need to devote a proper amount of time to exploring Cyprus.

That is why I would say to plan to spend at least one week in Cyprus in order to enjoy both the seaside and the history of this lovely and complex nation.

Planning for a full 7 days in Cyprus will allow you to get to all of the main sites and explore a few of its dynamic cities, while also allowing you ample time to lounge on the beach and catch some rays.

If you don’t have as long as a week in Cyprus, it is possible to get a lot of out of the nation in just about 5 days, however, you will need to make some sacrifices depending on your holiday priorities.

If you have more time, I would say that 10 days in Cyprus might be the ideal amount of time to spend, however, it is a long stint and you can still get just as much out of the country in a week.

While you will certainly be able to occupy yourself no matter how many days you spend in Cyprus, really the ideal amount of time to spend here is one week. As mentioned earlier, this will allow you to get the most out of this island nation while still giving you time to chill out and enjoy the seaside vibes.

Getting Around Cyprus

Unfortunately for those who like to like to forgo the car rental and rely on public transit when travelling, Cyprus isn’t the most friendly of destinations for those who don’t want to drive.

There is a bus system that will connect the biggest cities and can effectively get you from Larnaca to Nicosia or from Paphos to Limassol , however, this is pretty much the extent of it.

If you want to venture out and explore some of the most interesting and cultural places on the island of Cyprus independently, it is incredibly difficult and sometimes impossible to do this while relying on public transit. Therefore, if you are an independent traveller planning a Cyprus itinerary, it is more or less necessary to hire a car while visiting the island nation.

Road quality is good and driving in Cyprus is relatively easy , however, there are some unpaved roads that lead to some popular attractions like the Adonis Baths and Lara Beach. While you could drive on these with a normal car (we did), it might make you more comfortable to rent a car with 4WD. Keep in mind that they drive on the left-hand side in Cyprus.

If you want to cut down on your overall Cyprus trip cost , however, this isn’t altogether necessary. We, for instance, had no problem driving all over Cyprus in just a simple economy rental.

If you plan to rent a car in Cyprus, you can browse options here to compare prices across many different car hire companies. Alternatively, you can browse Localrent to rent from smaller companies or private individuals.

It can also be a good idea to take out an excess insurance policy with iCarHireInsurance in order to save on any high deductibles the rental company might charge should any damage happen to your car.

Finally, have you considered taking out travel insurance for your trip to Cyprus?  World Nomads   offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.

7 Days in Cyprus Itinerary

Now that I’ve covered all of the essential information that you need to know before planning your itinerary, it’s time to finally discuss where to go in Cyprus.

This is written as a Cyprus road trip itinerary and it would be fairly difficult to do and see everything that you could without having your own car. Though the itinerary begins in Nicosia, you could easily begin it in any of the cities mentioned depending on where it is you fly into.

Day 1 – Nicosia

Whether you arrive in Cyprus via Larnaca or Paphos airport, we recommend properly beginning your route in the underappreciated capital, Nicosia.

Though its located in the centre of the island and there is a distinct lack of coastline, Nicosia is an absolutely fascinating and dynamic city that is 100% worth visiting, especially if you want to gain a better understanding the history and culture of Cyprus.

Nicosia is the last divided capital in Europe and there are two distinct sides to this historic. Like the rest of this itinerary, the majority of your time will be spent in the southern part of the city, which is officially part of the internationally recognised and EU member state the Republic of Cyprus.

The northern part of the city, located on the other side of the Green Line, is considered the capital of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which is only recognised as its own country by Turkey.

Though Nicosia is the largest city and the capital of Cyprus, you can see a lot of what it has to offer in just one or two days. Spend your time exploring the historic sights and venturing into its many museums.

Spend your first day simply wandering around the Greek side of Nicosia and taking in all of the fantastic sites to see. Wander along Ledra Street, visit the Levatis Museum, see some of the historic sites, enjoy some delicious Cypriot cuisine and simply enjoy the energy of this bustling city.

Where to Stay in Nicosia

Asty Hotel – This centrally located hotel is situated within easy walking distance of all the top attractions in Nicosia’s old town. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available — all equipped with air conditioning to help you escape from the heat!

MAP Boutique Hotel  – This locally-run boutique is another great option if you’re looking for a chic place to stay in the Cypriot capital. Conveniently located within walking distance of all main attractions, there are numerous comfortable rooms available and breakfast is included in the nightly rate.

Nex Hostel  – If you’re a solo or budget traveller, then this hostel is a great choice for you! They are centrally located close to everything that Nicosia has to offer, they have great common areas making it easy to connect with other travellers, and they have a range of both private and dorm rooms available.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse more Nicosia hotels!

Day 2 – Nicosia

We also recommend spending at least part of your time in Nicosia in the Turkish side of the city.

You can easily walk across the border and explore the historic sites of North Nicosia in a few hours — just keep in mind that you will need to bring your passport with you (you will not, however, get a stamp) and that they use the Turkish Lira as currency rather than the Euro.

Plan to spend a good portion of your second day in Nicosia exploring the northern part of the city – there is a lot to see over here and it’s well worth exploring.

It’s also an excellent idea to walk along the Green Line in the southern part of the city afterwards – both of these activities can really solidify how divided Nicosia really is.

End your day cooling off with a local craft beer – Pivo Microbrewery is and excellent option in the city!

There are numerous cool and interesting things to do in Nicosia and the city sees a fraction of the tourists that the coastal cities of Cyprus do. If you want to enjoy the dynamic energy of the Cypriot capital while getting a bit further off the beaten path, then no itinerary is complete without a bit of time spent in Nicosia.

Day 3 – Paphos

After spending the first part of your itinerary in the capital of Nicosia, it’s time to head to the coast with a few days in the historic city of Paphos.

Located in the southwest of the island, Paphos is known as the historic birthplace of the Greek goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite (though the Greek island of Kythira also claims this), and is blessed with both a beautiful coastline and numerous fascinating historic sites.

There are so many things to do in Paphos that you could easily occupy your entire time in Cyprus, however, three days should be sufficient to both see a lot of cool things while also allowing you plenty of time to relax by the Mediterranean.

It takes about 2 hours to drive from Nicosia to Paphos, but consider taking the route through the Troodos Mountains and visiting some of the villages, wineries and monasteries along the way. For instance, the Kykkos Monastery is well worth visiting and it’s never a bad idea to explore the village of Omodos.

This is the most convenient way to explore the surroundings of Paphos before seeing the sites that the city itself has to offer.

Where to Stay in Paphos

Casa Mespilea – Centrally located and locally run, this small hotel is a great option for travellers who are keeping an eye on their budget while visiting Cyprus. They have many comfortable and clean rooms available (equipped with air conditioning!) and a hearty buffet breakfast is included in the room rate.

Pyramos Hotel – This boutique hotel is the perfect place if you’re looking for a romantic getaway in Paphos. They have several comfortable rooms available, an inviting lounge, and it is located within the centre of old Paphos. Breakfast is also included in the nightly rate.

Anemi Hotel & Suites – This is a great option if you’re after a luxury hotel during your time in Paphos. They are located on the sea within spitting distance of the beach, they also have numerous other amenities like a swimming pool, spa, and fitness centre.

Private Rental – A private rental is a great option in Paphos — and elsewhere in Cyprus — if you would rather have your own space such as this ground floor apartment.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Paphos hotels!

Day 4 – Paphos

Plan to spend your first full day in Paphos exploring both the old town of Paphos and some of the nearby ancient ruins.

Some of the must-see historic sites include the incredible Tombs of the Kings and the stunning Hellenistic mosaics and monuments at the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park. The entire town of Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the history to explore here is incredibly rich and fascinating.

Both the Tombs of the Kings and the Archaeological Park take several hours to explore on their own, so this is a great activity to devote to your second day here.

Day 5 – Paphos

Spend your final day in Paphos enjoying the gorgeous seaside of the city and its surrounding area.

If you’re more interested in natural scenery, then make sure to drive up to the Akamas Peninsula where you can go for a hike along the coast and cliffs, have a swim at a secluded beach or take a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon.

Just a bit south lies Lara Beach, where you can sometimes spot baby sea turtles depending on the season.

One of the most beautiful natural and historical sites near Paphos is Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou), said to be the place where the eponymous goddess was born from the sea foam. You can have a swim in the beautiful location free of charge, as well. Paphos leans hard into being the birthplace of Aphrodite and it’s a great pace to visit.

Day 6 – Larnaca

The final stop on this 7-day Cyprus itinerary is in the third-largest city of Larnaca. This is a logical last stop on your route as Larnaca is home to the largest airport on the island.

Larnaca is a pretty small city and most of the sites and attractions can be seen in one day, however, we recommend spending one of the two days mentioned here enjoying all of the cool attractions that are located on the drive from Paphos to Larnaca. Stopping by places like the Kourion Archaeological Site, Kolossi Castle, Kalymnos Beach, and many others.

Once in Larnaca, you can occupy yourself by wandering through the picturesque old town and taking in the Church of St Lazarus and the energy of the beach promenade.

You can also venture a bit from the city centre to see the Larnaca Salt Lake (which is home to migratory flamingoes in the winter months!) and the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque.

Where to Stay in Larnaca

Mikes Kanarium City Hotel – This mid-range hotel is an excellent option for those on a middle-of-the-road budget. Centrally located close to both the beach and the city centre, they have a range of clean and comfortable rooms available and a great breakfast included in the nightly rate.

Les Palmiers Beach Boutique Hotel – This boutique hotel is a great base if you’re looking for a chic and romantic accommodation option in Larnaca. They have an array of plush and comfortable rooms available, great amenities, and a great breakfast included in the room rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to find other hotels in Larnaca

Day 7 – Larnaca

If you want to see some more of the incredible natural scenery that Cyprus has to offer, drive north to Ayia Napa (about 45 minutes from central Larnaca) and visit the stunning sea caves and marvel at the crystal clear waters.

Ayia Napa is a very popular resort area in Cyprus, but it is worth visiting as a day out from Larnaca due to the beautiful natural scenery you can explore.

For instance, along with the sea caves, take the time to visit Cape Greco National Park which is home to the Kamara Tou Koraka arch, a gorgeous arch in the Mediterranean.

End your time in Cyprus back in Larnaca, having one last delicious Cypriot meal or enjoying a seaside cocktail if you wish.

Have 10 Days in Cyprus?

If you have 10 days in Cyprus or just longer than a week, then you could easily extend your time in Paphos to see more of what the country has to offer.

If you’re interested in exploring more of the mountain village life, you could also spend a night or two in a family-run bed and breakfast in the Troodos Mountains.

While it isn’t recommended to drive there in a car rented in southern Cyprus, you could also elect to visit more of the northern part of the island. The ruins of Kyrenia and the seaside city of Famagusta are both popular tourist attractions, as are the many sandy beaches.

Regardless of how long you plan to spend in Cyprus, you are sure not to get bored!

Planning an independent Cyprus itinerary doesn’t have to be a difficult task. There are so many interesting places to see and fun things to do on the island that there is absolutely no need to spend all of your time in an all-inclusive resort!

Are you wondering where to go in Cyprus? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Any advice for those of us who are not used to driving on the left hand side and prefer not to start now? Any chauffeur services? How are taxis, Lyft or Uber in the cities?

We have a guide to driving in Cyprus that you can find here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/driving-in-cyprus/ Uber and Lyft don’t operate in Cyprus, however, you can use the Bolt app in the cities for ride-hailing.

Do you recommend going to Israel from Cyprus for one or two days

Hi Diane, I think that you would need more than one or two days in Israel to do it justice so I would necessarily recommend this 🙂

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The best places to visit in Cyprus: from Aphrodite's rock to Adonis' bath

Nov 5, 2021 • 6 min read

How the ancients lived after death in the Tombs of the Kings © Hans-Peter Merten / Getty Images

In the eastern reaches of the balmy Mediterranean, the island of Cyprus offers an incredible blend of ancient archeological sites, icon-filled monasteries and historic houses of worship, all set against a backdrop of black pine forest and beach-fringed turquoise seas.

Whether you’re a beach basker, a scenery seeker, a fan of Greek mythology or just 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, and some believe it to be a veritable fountain of youth.

However, 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, and 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 curious, cat-filled Tala Monastery .

Agios Lazaros (The Church of Saint Lazarus)

Dating back to the 9th century, this Orthodox church in Larnaka is known both for its beautifully preserved Byzantine architecture and for housing the tomb of Saint Lazarus, of Bible fame. The limestone exterior is photo-worthy all by itself, but it's worth spending time exploring the interior, not only to view the risen saint's tomb, but also to check out 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 that was built over the centuries and finally completed in 1817. It was constructed around the tomb of Umm Haram, an aunt and companion of the Prophet Mohammed. Along with a mosque and shrine, the complex features a series of landscaped courtyards with views out over the saline lake.

Today, it's a quiet monument to Cyprus' pre-partition past. While the architecture and peaceful ambiance are reason enough to visit, many people just come to the complex to say hello to the hundred-odd stray cats who call the Hala Sultan Tekkesi home.

Choirokoitia

The Unesco World Heritage-listed Choirokoitia archaeological site is one of the most significant Neolithic sites in the region, and digs here have helped archaeologists get a better grasp on how people lived in the 7th to 4th millennia BCE.

While only part of the site has been excavated so far, there's still plenty for visitors to see and experience. The most interesting feature is a collection of reconstructions of prehistoric dwellings that have been decked out with replicas of household items that were 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's like an open-air museum, with plenty of best-on-the-island highlights, including an ancient odeon (theater) that is used for performances to this day.

There are also four Roman villas that house a stunning collection of beautifully preserved floor mosaics. The most impressive is the House of Dionysus, whose ornate mosaic floors portray Dionysus, the god of wine, aboard a panther-drawn chariot.

The Painted Churches of Troödos

The Unesco World Heritage-listed painted churches of the Troödos mountains have hardly changed since Byzantine times. These crude stone and timber chapels were filled with amazing murals of saints, archangels and Bible scenes between the 11th and 16th centuries, and the colors shine as brightly today as they did when they were painted. If time is short, make a beeline for the churches of Panagia Forviotissa (near Nikitari) and Archangelos Michail (in Pedoulas).  

Kolossi Castle

West of Lemesos (Limassol), close to the southern coast of Cyprus, stocky Kolossi Castle was used as a stronghold during the Crusades. The castle was occupied by the mysterious Knights Templar during their reign on the island, and it was here that they first produced a type of sweet, fortified wine known as Commandaria, now celebrated as the world's oldest continually 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, alongside ancient reliquaries and other votive objects. Kykkos was established in the 11th century 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 funds to build a monastery to enshrine it. The icon is kept at the monastery to this day, albeit shrouded, as it's believed that anyone who looks upon its beauty will go blind.

Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou)

Situated on the southern coast of Cyprus, between Lemesos and Pafos, this rock formation and beach is believed to be where Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, emerged from the sea. Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction, and while the beach pales in comparison to the sandier spots in nearby Pafos, it's an undeniably scenic spot. According to legend, if you swim around the rock three times, you'll find your true love – just be careful as the sea here can be rough at times.

Tombs of the Kings

In the southwest corner of the island, on the outskirts of Paphos, the Tombs of the Kings is an ancient necropolis comprising rock-hewn tombs dating back to the Hellenistic and Roman eras. Here you’ll find a sprawl of sunken graves and underground chambers, some crude and some regal and refined. 

Many of the tombs resemble ancient homes, complete with beautifully carved Doric pillars. Although excavation is still in progress, visitors are welcome to explore the tombs on foot, descending rock-hewn steps and passageways into the ancient chambers below.

Ancient Kourion

Between Lemesos and Pafos, the ancient Roman and Hellenistic site of Kourion has one of the most impressive settings in the Mediterranean, perched atop a rocky hillside above an undeveloped shingle beach. The site has everything from the ruins of an early Christian basilica and a Roman theater and bathhouse to ancient villas full of mosaics and crude, rock-cut tombs at the base of the cliffs. 

You may also like: The 8 most beautiful beaches in Cyprus for wildlife, swimming, and partying Off the beaten track in northern Cyprus A legendary Greek road trip through the stunning Peloponnese

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The Perfect Cyprus Travel Itinerary: One week to Two Weeks

• Last Updated On: December 24, 2023

Cyprus is one of the last countries in Europe for me to visit. Located just south of Turkey and just off the coast of Lebanon , Cyprus has long been a mysterious country on my list. Having traveled all over the Cyclades islands , the Ionian Islands , and Athens , I knew that at some point I had to visit the island nation of Cyprus.

Cyprus is a unique country that’s divided into two parts, the Republic of Cyprus in the south and the Turkish Republic of Cyprus in the north. The cause of division is long and complicated and I go into detail about this later. Historically, Cyprus has changed hands through countless different empires that came through the lands given its strategic location at the crossroads between East and West. Just understand that Cyprus is by all intents and purposes a Greek island but with plenty of Middle Eastern and Turkish influences.

I spent almost two weeks traveling through Cyprus which I think is plenty of time to see this beautiful country. This itinerary will primarily focus on the Republic of Cyprus (the southern half) as visiting the Northern part is difficult with a rental car.

Where I went in Cyprus

In total, I spent 12 days traveling through Cyprus. I don’t think you’ll need this much time to see the island but I spent a lot of time relaxing in the cities and working as a digital nomad.

Some of the highlights of my Cyprus trip include the following

• Cape Greco National Park
• Nicosia, Cyprus and North Cyprus sides
• Kourion Architectural Site
• Troodoo Mountains

Aphrodite’s Rock

• Akamas National Park

If these places ring a bell and sound like the places you want to visit, this is the perfect itinerary for you!

Best time of year to visit Cyprus

Cyprus is one of the sunniest places in Europe enjoying over 300 days of a sun a year. It’s no wonder that Cyprus has become such a popular tourist, digital nomad, and retirement destination over the years.

While Cyprus enjoys warm and comfortable temperatures all year round, there are definitely certain times of the year that are better than others. It’s important to understand what you’re getting yourself into so you can plan accordingly (or not plan!)

The most popular times of the year to visit Cyprus are June to August. This is Europe’s high travel season and you’ll see the huge swarms of tourists all over the island. The temperatures during these months can be extremely hot and unbearable. 30 degrees is the average and there will be plenty of days where the temperatures can reach 40 degrees which becomes uncomfortable in my opinion. During these months, you can also expect the cost of accommodations to be much more expensive especially at the big resorts.

Conversely, the winter months of Cyprus (Dec to Feb) will see temperatures dip in to the upper teens. 18-20 degrees is common in the winter time which is still quite pleasant for me but might be too cold for others. You will also experience the most rain and wind during these months. Nevertheless, it’s still a great option for those looking to escape the European winters.

The best time of the year to visit Cyprus in my opinion are during the shoulder seasons. Mid Sep to end of November is a fantastic time to visit the island. Temperatures are a much more reasonable 25 to 30 degrees during the day and the sea is warm from the hot summer. Night time temperatures can dip to 15-20 degrees but still very pleasant. March to May will see similar temperatures but the sea will be much colder. Just keep in mind that during this time of year, there is a higher chance of storms that could last a few days at a time.

In the end, there is no bad time to visit Cyprus especially if you’re looking to escape the cold of the European winter (or even fall).

Cyprus vs Greece

My first question before coming to Cyprus was just how it compared to Greece , which is perhaps my favorite country in Europe.. It turns out, Cyprus and Greece are very similar. For starters, they both speak the Greek language and the cuisine is pretty much the same (good for me as I love Greek food).

To understand the differences and similarities between Cyprus and Greece, we must understand the history because everything always stems from history.

Cyprus was for all intents and purpose a Greek island even from ancient times. Greek settlers came here from 2000 BCE and called it home for the next few thousands of years. It changed hands under the different empires of history including Macedonian, Roman, Byzantine, and more. After the whole region was conquered by the Ottomans in the 1500s, Turkish settled on the island and comingled with the Greek people already on the island. Islam and Orthodox Christianity coexisted on the island and life persisted.

After the fall of the Ottoman empire in the early 1990s, Cyprus became a colony of the British Empire. Cyprus achieved independence in 1960 and the Greek majority actually wanted to reunite with Greece at this point. However, due to the large Turkish minority on the island, this would have caused huge problems and conflicts with Turkey, whom already had lots of disagreements with Greece. Finally, in 1974, the island split into two sections: The Republic of Cyprus in the south, and the Turkish republic of North Cyprus in the north.

North Cyprus is not recognized as a country by any country except Turkey and is nowadays still a de facto state. The South eventually joined the EU and has become the tourist and tax haven hotspot that it’s known for today. However, by all intents and purposes, Cyprus is Greek. The locals all speak Greek and view themselves as ethnically Greek. I suspect if it wasn’t for the Turkish population, the island would have definitely reunited with Greece. This whole situation reminds me of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. One island separated by religion and colonists from a larger empire.

Middle Eastern Influence

Given Cyprus’ proximity, there is a definitive Middle Eastern influence to the island that you don’t find in other parts of Greece. There is a large exodus of Lebanese that migrated to Cyprus during the civil war as well as recently due to the economic collapse of the country.

You can even see it with the food in Cyprus. Halloumi cheese is widely available in all tavernas, and the Arabic pita is used with gyros as much as the Greek pita. In fact, some of the best restaurants on the island were Lebanese restaurants which really made me want to hop on the 40 Euro flight to Beirut , one of my favorite cities in the world! Hummus is widely consumed in Cyprus where it is hard to find in Greece. Shisha is also everywhere in Cyprus!

How to travel through Cyprus?

Cyprus is a large island, easily one of the largest in the Mediterranean. While not as large as neighboring Crete , the island is much larger than islands in the Cyclades or the Islands of the Ionian sea.

From the Eastern tip of Cape Greco to the western part of the island past Paphos, it is only a 2 hour drive. However, there are a ton of sights to see inland where you will need a car to travel.

Car rentals from Larnaca airport or in the city center are quite affordable. There are numerous companies that will drop your car off at the airport. I was able to get a car rental for €20 a day which included insurance. Gas on Cyprus is cheaper than in mainland Europe, and especially cheaper than Greece.

Buses in Cyprus

There is a somewhat comprehensive bus system in Cyprus. You can take the buses in the main cities of Larnaca, Paphos, and Limassol as a way to get around. There are also inter city buses connecting Larnaca to Paphos and Limassol that run multiple times a day. As well, there are buses from these three cities to the capital in Nicosia.

Similarly, there is a bus from Larnaca airport that travels directly to Limassol or Paphos. This is perfect if you can find a cheap flight on Ryanair or Easyjet from your city to Paphos or Larnaca and want to visit the other cities.

If you’re budget strapped, traveling by bus is definitely possible to see the main cities of Cyprus. However, the beauty of Cyprus is certainly not in the main cities and you’ll need a car to see the ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, mountains etc.

Cyprus is a strange place

There is no character to the cities.

The cities of Cyprus have no character at all. For example, the city of Larnaca is industrial and overbuilt with ugly midrise buildings and condos. There is no old town in the city with the famous cobblestone streets, traditional houses, or the famous bougainvillea trees that Greece is known for.

I thought Cyprus would have some resemblance to Crete as they are similar in size and in their proximity away from the Greek mainland. I was wrong.

Similarly, Paphos has a bit more charm than Larnaca but the Kato Paphos area on the beach is mostly just Irish pubs overflowing with drunk Brits, touristy restaurants, and ugly condo buildings.

Accommodation options are terrible

I don’t know what it is about Cyprus but the accommodation options are just terrible. They are really abysmal. I’m not even a picky traveler by any means but the options in all three of the main cities in Cyprus are just awful.

Your choices are being all inclusive style resorts with 200 rooms that look terribly outdated, or 1980s style apartments that are neither comfortable or cute. Perhaps I’ve just become too used to the level of accommodations I’ve found in other parts of Greece. I know Cyprus is not a Cycladic island so you don’t expect beautiful views like this.

However, I just expected more from Cyprus because even the typical Airbnb accommodation options were mediocre at best.

Full Cyprus Itinerary

This itinerary starts in Larnaca, Cyprus third largest city. Larnaca was simply the starting point because of their airport. Flights from abroad primarily fly into Paphos and Larnaca. Larnaca is not a beautiful city and most people spend 1-2 days as a jumping off point to other areas in Cyprus. I spent a few days in Larnaca to just relax and unwind from a long flight.

I went to the capital city of Nicosia and crossed over to the Turkish side which was the perfect day trip. I also visited Cape Greco and the natural wonders to the East of Larnaca.

From Larnaca, I traveled by rental car to the second largest city of Limassol. Limassol is much more developed and a prettier city than Larnaca. It’s also the most expensive city in Cyprus with plenty of digital nomads and expats calling it home. From Limassol, there are various Roman ruins and beaches to visit. From Larnaca, I then went to Paphos for a few nights which included exploring the ruins and sights in the area.

Finally, from Paphos, I circled back towards Larnaca making a stop in the Troodos mountains, home to the famous Mount Olympus. Finally, I drove back to Larnaca and flew home.

Day 1-4: Larnaca

The itinerary starts in Larnaca, Cyprus’ third largest city. The main reason my trip started here is simply because the flight to Larnaca was cheapest and most convenient.

Most people spend a day or two in Larnaca before traveling to the other areas of Cyprus. Truth be told, there is not that much to do or see in Larnaca so you don’t need to spend more than 1-2 days. Larnaca is a great place to base yourself to explore the surrounding sights like the Cape Greco National park in the eastern coast with its famous sea caves.

Larnaca has a beach promenade equipped with sun beds and various restaurants. Many of these restaurants are big chain brands which you should avoid at all costs (eg: TGI Fridays, KFC, Burger King, etc.).

Instead, visit the tiny old town plaza where you can find the beautiful Church of St. Lazarus and the fantastic tavernas, cafes, and cocktail bars in the city center.

Restaurants and cafes in Larnaca

As unappealing as Larnaca looks, there’s a great collection of restaurants and cafes in the city to keep you occupied for a few days.

• Paul’s Cafe: Great cafe for coffee to lounge and get work done
• Edem’s Yard: Best brunch in town by far
• Ithaki Taverna: Great Greek food in a beautiful garden vibe
• Mingle Cafe: Great brunch and breakfast cafe
• Beirut Cafe: Delicious Lebanese style food in the city center
• Elia’s Backyard: Delicious Greek food in with an eclectic vibe
• Souvlaki.Gr : Best place for grilled meats, souvlaki, pitas etc.
• Makou Beach bar: Beautiful cafe on the beach. This was my favorite place to grab a coffee and get work done as it’s a huge space with unobstructed beach views.
• Duende Cocktail: Trendy and a great vibe for a cocktail + shisha bar

Diving the Zenobia Wreck

Without a doubt, one of the biggest highlights of my trip to Cyprus was diving at the Zenobia Wreck . This shipwreck located right in front of Larnaca is consistently rated as one of the best dives in all of Europe. The Zenobia was a cargo ship from Sweden that sunk in front of Larnaca in the 1980s. It is a whopping 160m which makes it even bigger than the SS Thistlegorn battle ship in Egypt .

This wreck is not to be missed if you’re a diver and you could easily spend a week just diving in and out of the wreck.

I did a two dive day trip with Dive-In Larnaca which was spectacular. The first dive was diving around the wreck itself exploring the exterior, mast, chambers, and even fish species that have grown around the ship.

The second dive was penetrating the wreck traveling through the cafeteria, various chambers, and more. This was an absolute joy penetrating a wreck this large. There are many more dives that you can do including visiting the engine room, cargo deck, and more. The wreck goes all the way down to 42m so Cyprus has also become a hotspot among the tech diving community that want to explore the deeper parts of the boat.

All in all, if you’re a diver and are visiting Cyprus, absolutely secure a trip to visit the Zenobia wreck!

Visit Cape Greco and the beautiful sea caves

One of the must visit sights in Cyprus is to visit the beautiful Cape Greco national park east of Larnaca. Located just 30 minutes by car from Larnaca, this is a beautiful half day trip.

The main sights you want to visit here are the following:

• Bridge of Lovers
• Blue Lagoon at Ayia Napa

The Sea Caves are especially beautiful especially for those that want to watch the sunset. As Larnaca faces mostly east, there is no sunset. Therefore, if you are already in this area, stay and watch the sunset from these beautiful caves. Unfortunately, they are an incredibly popular attraction and will be packed with tourists.

Day 3: Day trip to Nicosia and North Cyprus

Nicosia, also known as Lefkosia by the locals is the capital city of Cyprus. It’s not as visited or as well known as their seaside towns of Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos. However, it is certainly worth a visit for the historical relevance.

I visited Nicosia as a day trip from Larnaca which is more than enough. It’s not that charming of a city so I don’t recommend spending more than one night in this town.

Nicosia, the last divided capital in the world

Nicosia is located in the center of the island and is the last divided capital city in the world. The city is literally split into two by a makeshift border. This has been the case since the 1974 during the formation of the Republic of Cyprus.

The southern half of Nicosia belongs to the Republic of Cyprus while the northern half belongs to the Turkish republic of North Cyprus which is a country that is only recognized by Turkey. The rest of this world sees this as an autonomous region that is occupied.

Crossing the border from Cyprus to North Cyprus

Make your way to the northern border of Nicosia within the old town and you will find the border control between the two parts of Nicosia.

You can absolutely visit the Turkish part of Cyprus with simply your passport. Pretty much all passports are accepted without the need of applying for visas or paying any sort of visa fee.

Northern Cyprus is not Turkey and while you can fly to Turkey from Northern Cyprus, you will need to go through immigration again. Conversely, when you enter Northern Cyprus, you are not exiting the EU as your passport is neither scanned or stamped.

At the immigration, you will go through Cyprus immigration and walk 50 meters to the North Cyprus immigration where they simply look at your passport without stamping before waiving you in. It didn’t seem like contested border by any means, even less so than when I visited the autonomous region of Transinistria in Moldova .

Nicosia of Northern Cyprus

As soon as you cross the border, you’ll officially be in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus! You’ll be greeted with Turkish restaurants, baklava, an outdoor bazaar, mosques, and other shops. The official currency of North Cyprus is the Turkish Lira but Euros are widely accepted given that many of the tourists that visit are coming from Cyprus.

I found the Northern Cyprus Nicosia to be much more interesting than the southern side. The Turkish side appeared to have more character, and slightly more charm. Of course, neither side of Nicosia are especially beautiful by any means so don’t get your hopes up.

Visit the Caravan House

The main highlight of Nicosia in Northern Cyprus is the Büyük Han cavaran house. It is the largest caravansarai on the island of Cyprus and is considered to be one of the finest buildings on the island.

It was built in 1572 as a way to celebrate the Turkish conquest of the island from the Venetians. The local Greek population actually welcomed the Ottomans as life under Venetian rule was especially difficult.

Nowadays, the caravan is home to restaurants, various shops, and just beautifully preserved traditional architecture. Look at these photos if you don’t believe me!

Day 4-6: Paphos and the surrounding area

From Limassol, the next stop is Paphos, the western most city in Cyprus. Located in the southwest of the island, Paphos is known as the historic birthplace of the Greek goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite, and is blessed with both a beautiful coastline and numerous fascinating historic sites.

Paphos town itself is much more picturesque than say Larnaca or Nicosia. The old town located up on the hill has beautiful views of the ocean. The new part of town, Kato Paphos is home to numerous resorts, cafes, bars, and a beautiful promenade.

I preferred staying in the old Paphos because there was just much more character to the area than the overly developed part of Kato Paphos. While not as picturesque as other Greek towns, Paphos is a solid compromise in Cyprus which really doesn’t have much traditional Greek charm.

Where to eat and drink in Paphos

Paphos has a ton of amazing restaurants, bars, and cafes. I think the old town of Paphos has the better options for dining and cafes than the Kato Paphos.

There are also a ton of Indian restaurants that are actually very good. This is of course to serve the huge British population that live and visit Cyprus. As well, there are a few Georgian restaurants which was even more random but this is probably to serve the large Russian community here.

• Elia Taverna
• Agora Taverna
• Grafica Cafe
• Beanhaus Cafe
• Pietra Lounge
• Omikron Brunch
• Beeroom Craft Pub

Tomb Of Kings

The Tomb of Kings is one of the most important archeological sights of Cyprus. This UNESCO World Heritage site is located in Kato Paphos and is a must visit while visiting Paphos.

The monumental underground tombs are carved out of solid rock and date back to the Hellenistic and Roman periods. These tombs were the resting places of high ranking officials and aristocracy buy due to the size and splendor of the tombs, the name “Tomb of Kings” was given.

The Tombs are spread out in this archeological site but it’s located right next to the Mediterranean so you’re sure to enjoy the walk no matter what. Make sure to visit the center tomb home to beautiful rock pillars.

Located 25 minutes outside of Paphos is the famous Petra Tou Romiou. This beach is the mythical birthplace of the Goddess Aphrodite. While she was born here, she spent most of her time living in the island of Milos . The big rock pillar in the sea is dubbed Aphrodite’s rock and is a beautiful sight. The cliffs surrounding the beach are also breathtaking making this one of the must visit sights in the country.

Plenty of people also sunbathe at this beach which has no sunbeds or development (yay). The water is rough though so swim at your own discretion.

Shipwreck beach

Located 20 minutes north of Paphos is the famous Edro III shipwreck. The Sierra Leone-flagged EDRO III ran aground off Pegeia on 8 September 2011 in heavy seas, during a voyage to Rhodes, from Limassol. This shipwreck is docked just a few meters in front of the beach for everyone to see.

It reminds me of the shipwreck in the island of Amorgos that is also located just off the main shoreline. This shipwreck is a great place to take photos and there was even a film crew set up there on the day I visited. There’s also an amazing restaurant located next to it with great views of the ocean.

Akamas Peninsula and the beautiful Blue Lagoon

Finally, perhaps the most beautiful place I visited in Cyprus was on the island’s far west side. The Akamas peninsula is adorned with big cliffs leading up to an absolutely breathtaking lagoon with the most turquoise water. The Blue Lagoon is a very popular trip by boat that you can book from Paphos.

The park is a 30 minute drive from Paphos and makes for a perfect day trip. To get to the blue lagoon, you will have to park near the Baths of Aphrodite (itself worth visiting) and take a 4×4 to the Blue Lagoon.

The roads leading up to the Blue Lagoon are terrible so it’s absolutely not possible to drive with a normal car. There is however a shuttle service that will drive you from the park entrance to the Blue Lagoon at various times of the day. Alternatively, you can rent a quad bike or dune buggy from the numerous shops nearby for about 50 euros for a day (very expensive).

Finally, if you don’t want to pay anything, you can simply hike to the Blue Lagoon. This 5km hike will take you just over 1 hour and comes with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The hike isn’t that difficult without much incline or decline. However, once you’ve spent the day at the Blue Lagoon, you might be too tired to walk all the way back.

Day 6-9: Limassol

The next stop on the trip is to the beachside town of Limassol. Limassol or Lemesos in Greek, is Cyprus’ 2nd largest city behind Nicosia and it’s most cosmopolitan. Limassol is a beautiful city with a huge beach promenade stretching for many kilometers. It’s also home to the most restaurants, cafes, and bars compared to the other cities.

Limassol is also where all the high end hotels and resorts are. The Four Seasons is located outside of the city center and is by far the most expensive and fancy hotel on the island. Prices are slightly higher in Limassol than other cities as it attracts the wealthier expats and digital nomads.

Limassol also has a beautiful mosque, castle and harbor front with perhaps the most picturesque street of the major cities. You’ll find plenty of trendy restaurants, cocktail bars, cafes, bakeries, and more. It’s still a far cry from neighborhoods in Athens but it’s the best I could find in Cyprus. Just look at these beautiful photos!

Kourion Archaeological Site

The Kourion Archaeological site, located just 20 minutes west of Limassol is one of the main highlights of the island. It was once a major ancient city of the Kingdom of Cyprus over two thousand years ago.

The site is home to the famous Kourion amphitheater which is one of the more picturesque theaters I’ve seen in my travels through Greece. The theater has magnificent views of the Mediterranean as it is located high up on the hills.

If you don’t have a car, you can take the Bus #16 from Limassol which runs multiple times a day.

Kalymnos Beach

Kalymnos beach is located just west of Limassol and is probably one of the better beaches in Cyprus. I wasn’t overly impressed with the beaches in Cyprus and I certainly wouldn’t come back for the beaches but this is one of the better options you’ll find in the island.

Best restaurants and bars to visit in Limassol

Limassol is probably the most cosmopolitan of the major cities in Cyprus and therefore there is a plethora of bars and restaurants. Here is a small list of my favorite spots:

• The Melting Pot – The best cafe in Cyprus and perfect place for a digital nomad
• Sami Manoushe – The best Lebanese food in Cyprus without a doubt. They also have a full baklava bar as well as fantastic shisha on offer. Highly recommended
• Draught Microbrewery – Perfect bar for craft beers
• 22B Rooftop Bar
• Gin Garden / Library Bar – My favorite cocktail bar
• Meze Taverna Restaurant – Amazing Greek meze restaurant

Day 9: Troodos Mountain and Lofou Village

From Limassol, it’s an easy day trip to the Troodoo mountains just north of the city. These mountains offer stunning views of Cyprus from high above – you can see all the way to the Mediterranean. The mountains also receive a fair amount of snow and becomes a ski resort in the winter (which is wild). Just take a look at this photo:

It’s not every day you can ski down the mountain and have a video of the Mediterranean. Sadly, in October, there is no snow so I wasn’t able to see this.

Nevertheless, there are numerous hiking trails in the Troodoo mountains including trails that venture through the famous Mount Olympos.

Lofou Village

Lofou Village is a must visit village when you’re visiting the Troodoo mountains. It’s located just 40 minutes from Limassol and is a popular getaway for locals there.

Lofou village is a small town with some of the most picturesque villages you will find in Cyprus. There aren’t many of these traditional looking villages in Cyprus so it was nice to finally stumble upon one.

There isn’t much to do in this village besides walk through the streets, eat at the local taverna, and visit the little microbrewery in the town.

Day by Day breakdown of my Cyprus Itinerary

Here is a day by day breakdown of the Cyprus island itinerary. It’s pretty involved each day so absolutely feel free to spread it out over more days if you have the time! I had almost two weeks to explore Cyprus which I think is too much. However, I have laid out how I would plan a trip to Cyprus based on how much time you have.

One week in Cyprus itinerary

Day 1: Land in Larnaca. Explore the East side of Cyprus Day 2: Full day in Nicosia visiting Cyprus and Northern Cyprus sides Day 3: Drive to Limassol and explore the city Day 4: Full day to explore the Troodos Mountains and Lefkara Village Day 5: Drive to Paphos while visiting Aphrodite’s Rock and Kourion Archeological sight Day 6: Full day in Paphos Day 7: Explore the Blue Lagoon Day 8: Drive back to Larnaca and fly home.

10 day Cyprus itinerary

Day 1: Land in Larnaca. Explore the East side of Cyprus Day 2: Full day in Nicosia visiting Cyprus and Northern Cyprus sides Day 3: Drive to Limassol and explore the city Day 4: Full day to explore the Troodos Mountains and Lefkara Village Day 5: Full day in Limassol Day 6: Drive to Paphos while visiting Aphrodite’s Rock and Kourion Archeological sight Day 7: Explore the Blue Lagoon and Akamas Peninsula Day 8: Explore the sights of Paphos Day 9:  Full day in Paphos Day 10: Drive back to Larnaca and fly home

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Best of Greece & Cyprus Vacation

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Perfection and luxury will define your custom-tailored 10-day best of Greece and Cypress tour. The grand colors of the Mediterranean Sea will lure you into relaxation. Greek antiquity will whisper of epic legends. You will follow in the footsteps of kings and explorers while indulging in opulent views of Grecian temples and pristine coastline. Whether on marbled streets or sampling fresh seafood, you will embrace Greece and Cyprus’s lavish charms.

Customizable Itinerary

Cyprus - standing on a jewel.

Arrive on the Jewel of the Mediterranean, Cyprus, and be met at the airport with a private transfer to your luxurious accommodation. The gorgeous aroma of the rocky coves and the sweet sea wraps around the island. You can almost catch the perfume of the pine forests in the distance as the breeze rushes in. History and luxury abounds, where empires from Assyria to Persia, Franks to the Ottomans have made their mark on the island. The old city looks like you have stepped onto a Parisian avenue, with buildings crafted from stone and decorated with large arched windows that watch over the street. The gentle sea laps at the rock outcrop of the city where palm trees linger and sway. Let the jewel-like island sparkle in the afternoon sun and in the wake of your arrival.

What's Included:

Cyprus - Soaking in the Sand

The sun rises over the water and draws a glimmering line along the transparent sea. The day is yours to spend as you wish among the beauties of Cyprus. The sand along the beach is golden and warm. It looks like it could encompass the edges of the entire island making every step beside the water as lovely as the last. The water is crystal clear as it laps at the shore. Dip your toes into the wake. The water gently coaxes you farther from the beach, but the water doesn’t get deeper. You can see the sea floor, glassy and wavy beneath the surface. The cool temperature of the water is refreshing on your warm skin. The perfume of the sea rises around you as you leave the beach. Take a seat along the seaside and sip a glass of famous Cypriot wine, one of the oldest winemaking techniques in the world. The xinisteri from Hadjiantonas Vineyard is an indigenous grape variety with a strong aroma of citrus fruit and a lingering crispness to help settle you into the luxuries of Cyprus.

Cyprus - Beyond Medieval Cyprus

The city of Lemesos and the island of Cyprus is yours to explore, with the never-ending Cypriot splendor all around you. Whether you prefer a walking tour of the Lemesos or another day amongst the soft, hot sand; you could even do both if you wish it. Kolossi Castle is close to Lemesos, a square tower built in the 15th century rising over 60 feet tall. The solid stone structure encompasses three floors, the highest of which belonged to the commander. Once inside the castle, you will notice the distinct scent of history which emanates from the stone.  You can look down over the ruins of the outer walls of the castle, the arches thin and bare, the paths wide and sturdy. Stepping into medieval history can be exhilarating, where each stone and window reflects a deeper moment in the path of time.

Cyprus - A Brief History of Time on Cyprus

Today you will venture out of Lemesos for a tour of the spectacular archaeological museum in Lefkosia. The city is an eclectic blend of the island’s famous occupiers. The St. Sophia Selimiye Mosque towers over the city, its minarets beautifully pointed into the sky. The walking streets are paved with cobblestone and lined with cafes and trees, giving you shade and the rich scent of coffee and pastries. Within the city is the Archaeological Museum of Cyprus, where the artifacts of the island are kept secure. Within the cool air of the museum you can see the evolution of the Egyptian and Assyrian influences carved in local limestone to the Greeks that used imported marble. Witness the incredible expanse of jewelry, sculpture, and coins from the Neolithic period to the Bronze Age. History on the island stretches through the museum and along the streets of the city, giving you a sense of the island’s rich and undulating past, along with its diverse present.

Athens - Beachside to Hillside

The history and magnificence of Cyprus remains but today you will depart the beaches of the island and replace them with the sensational Acropolis of Athens. Arrive in the city that inspired Western Civilization. The pillars of the Acropolis stand proud over the city, overlooking the expansive metropolis from its perch as it has for millennia. Stroll along the Plaka, one of the oldest streets in Athens continuously inhabited by restaurateurs, vendors, and families. The faint musk of history runs along the cobblestones and marble walls. The rich aroma of feta and creamy olive oil rises through the streets. As the sun begins to drift beyond the pillars, the soft glow of the dusk brushes over the grandeur of the ages.

Athens - Marbled Heights

Let the morning rise high as you step out into the stunning streets of the ancient city of Athens. Embark on a tour of the city where you will reach into the depths of Athenian and Greek history, from modern to ancient, imbibing the incredible perseverance of the city’s wonder. The Panathenaic Stadium touches the modern streets of the city but reaches back into contemporary history where the first modern Olympic games were held in 1896. The rigid stone complex ascends over the long field where runners flew and wrestlers grappled. The flag of the games swell in the breeze and in commemoration.

It is easy to believe that if you haven’t seen the Acropolis, you haven’t seen Greece. Although some may disagree, you don’t have to worry because the grandeur of the most iconic temple in Western Civilization is within your reach. The marble steps climb up Acropolis Hill beneath the powerful pillars of the Propylaea, the entry gate. The temple of Nike Athena stands above you on the right, your first greeting of the temples to come. Step through the entryway; the plateau opens before you. On the left you can see the replicas of the Caryatids within the “porch of the maidens,” six draped female figures that support a corner of the temple. On the right you will see the breathtaking Parthenon. The architect succeeded in making the structure look proportionally perfect from every angle as it watched over the entire city of Athens. The porticos slope over six columns giving a towering stature and gracefulness to one of the most famous temples in the world.

Mykonos - When the Shoreline Calls

Today you will leave the pristine columns of Athens behind as you board a cruise and finally step onto the ornate shores of Mykonos. The island is known for its cosmopolitan feel within the classic Cycladic architecture of white walls that radiate in the sunlight. Spend the day along the warm golden sand of Paradise Beach, where the shore seems almost endless, the lounge shades you comfortably, and the gentle swell of the water could soothe a tempestuous sky. The warm aroma of the sweet sea surrounds you. The gentle crunch of sand rolls beneath your feet. You can understand why the beaches of Mykonos are so coveted.

Kusadasi - Where History Breathes Deep

On the shores of the Turkish island of Kusadasi you can delight within the charm of the town or within the marvel of the ancient city of Ephessus. The city was once a prosperous port city along the Mediterranean waters displaying its prowess within the Wonder of the World, the Temple of Artemis. Although the temple no longer stands, the ruins of the city offer a deeper look at the life and times of ancient times. On a hill opposite the remains of Hadrian Temple are the Houses of the Rich, where the walls and arches of homes during the Roman period continue offering their stunning stature. The marble columns give a lavish contrast against the brick archways. Interior courtyards decorate the center of the homes with open ceilings. Clay pipes beneath the floor and walls carried hot air through the homes, also allowing for cold and hot water. The luxuries of the past help connect us to the indulgences of the present.

Along the shores of Patmos you will find the opportunity to explore the island where St. John the Divine was said to have written the Book of Revelations. Whether exploring the caves beneath the monastery that looms over the town of Patmos, or strolling through the charming streets of the city, you can leisure away as you please. The Monastery of St. John the Divine crowns the hill and looks like a Byzantine castle, built like a fortress. The main courtyard is paved with pebbles and stones, giving the area a quaintness that lets you forget about the harsh exterior. Wall paintings from the 1600s to the 1800s display the different miracles of St. John the Divine. Eventually you will descend from the sky fortress and return to the coast.

Crete - Portside to Cliffside

The final day of your cruise brings you to the Venetian port waters of Heraklion, Crete. The capital of the island looks commanding with the remnants of a Venetian castle guarding the harbor. Whether strolling through the narrow and café clad streets of the city or wishing to witness the labyrinth of the great Minotaur, there is always an exceptional site to see just around the corner. Within the ruins of the Knossos Minoan Palace the myth of the Minotaur continues. The large stones of the palace remains are only dwarfed by the gargantuan size of the jars, some lining the walkways. The halls may no longer be covered but the walkways and staircases continue to show the prominent path through the ruins. The frescos have been restored giving you a hint of the palace’s lavish past. Regal griffins decorate the queen’s chambers. If you search for the Minotaur, although you may not find him, you will find a large fresco within pillars of its own; a red bull charges through the hills of Crete with the shores of the island in the background.

The cruise continues to Santorini, the picturesque island that shows you how perfect white walls and blue roofs can be. Stand atop the crescent cliffs of the city and look down onto the caldera below. The water rushes against the cliff, spraying mist into the air. The breeze brushes against your cheeks. Sailboats drift through the turquoise water. Spend the day enjoying the island at your own pace, exploring the capital streets of Fira or walking along the marble paths of Oia. The beauty of Santorini is non-stop and echoes through the sky at dusk. The sun begins to set and you can watch the orange glow overtake the sky until it sinks behind the horizon.

Athens - Depart to Home

Today you will sail along the Mediterranean one last time. The sensational water mists against the boat. The wind rushes through your hair as small islands pass in the distance. Once in Athens you will have a private transfer that will take you to the airport for your journey home. Your time along the Grecian waters took you from Cyprus to Mykonos, Athens to Rhodes, where the majesty of the Mediterranean wasn’t just dreamed about, or captured within a photo, but touched with your very own hands.

Trip Highlights

• Press your toes into the gilded sands of Cyprus beaches
• See the sensational history that has swept across Cyprus for millennia.
• Stand with history on a tour of ancient Athens, including the Acropolis
• Experience the fabulous cosmopolitan beaches of Mykonos
• Explore the fantastic ruins of Ephesus on the island of Kusadasi
• Visit the incredible monastery that towers over the town of Patmos where St. John the Divine wrote the Book of Revelations
• Discover the unparalleled awe of the island of Santorini

Starting Price

$3,405  per person (excluding international flights)

What's Included

• Accommodations
• In-country transportation
• Some or all activities and tours
• Expert trip planning
• 24x7 support during your trip

Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.

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Update April 12, 2024

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Cyprus Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, cyprus - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise normal precautions in Cyprus. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Country Summary: Do not attempt to enter the United Nations buffer zone at any place other than a designated crossing point. Police and UN forces strictly enforce this restriction.

Read the  country information page for additional information on travel to Cyprus.

If you decide to travel to Cyprus:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Cyprus.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

UN Buffer Zone:  Since 1974, the southern part of Cyprus has been under the control of the government of the Republic of Cyprus. The northern part of Cyprus, administered by Turkish Cypriots, proclaimed itself the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (“TRNC”) in 1983. The United States does not recognize the “TRNC,” nor does any country other than Turkey. A buffer zone patrolled by the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, separates the two sides. For U.S. citizen travelers:

• Enter and exit the Republic of Cyprus ONLY  at Larnaca and Paphos airports and at the seaports of Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. The Republic of Cyprus  does not consider  entry at Ercan Airport in the north to be a “legal” entrance into Cyprus.
• You  cannot receive a residency permit  from the Republic of Cyprus to reside in the area north of the UN buffer zone.

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Greeks in Cyprus warned to only vote once for MEP elections

Greek nationals living in Cyprus were warned to only vote once in June’s European elections by the Greek Embassy in Nicosia on Thursday.

The embassy moved to make it clear that Greek nationals living on the island, as well as dual citizens of Cyprus and Greece, must choose to either vote for European parliament candidates standing in Greece or for candidates in Cyprus, and that it is illegal to do both.

European Union citizens are allowed by law to either vote for European parliament candidates in the country of their nationality or the country in which they live if they live in another EU member state.

However, EU law is clear that individuals are only able to vote once . Voting multiple times in multiple member states is a crime under the law of all 27 member states.

For this reason, the embassy said, “it should be noted that in the event of a violation of the relevant ban on multiple voting, there will be legal consequences under national ane EU law.”

Greece will elect its MEPs on June 9, with a total of 21 Greek MEPs to be sent to the European Parliament .

Cyprus travel agents pleased with tourist arrivals so far

Tom Cleaver

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