Things to Do in Cyprus

A sprawling archeological site spread along the southwestern coast of Cyprus, the Tombs of the Kings are one of the principal attractions of the Paphos UNESCO World Heritage site. A series of eight excavated tombs make up the site, which dates back to the 3rd century BC, and around 100 Ptolemaic aristocrats are estimated to have been buried there, along with a substantial trove of jewels and personal effects, long since pillaged by grave robbers.

Despite their name, the Tombs of the Kings boast no royal connections, instead earning their moniker thanks to their grand appearance, carved into the natural rock and adorned with elaborate frescos and fluted Doric Pillars. Today, the well-preserved necropolis remains impressive, with steps leading down into the sunken graves and the underground chambers pocked with niches, although only minimal traces of the original stuccos and colorful frescos remain. Exploring the numbered tombs also hints at the later use of the site, with one of the tombs converted into a chapel during early Christian occupation and evidence of pottery work indicating that the catacombs were later used as dwellings or workplaces during the Middle Ages.

All too often overlooked in favor of the beachfront coastal resorts, the Cypriot capital offers an intriguing glimpse into modern-day island life. Nicosia’s (Lefkoşa) most unique claim to fame is its status as the world's last divided capital and the imposing ‘Green Line’ provides a visual marker between the Turkish-ruled Northern Cyprus and the southern Republic of Cyprus.

South of the border, Nicosia’s top attractions include the grand Presidential Palace and the main tourist quarter of Laiki Yitoniak, which lies within the 15th-century Venetian-built City Walls that still encircle the center. Today, much of the colonial architecture has been spruced up with modern shop fronts and terraced cafés, but there are still some historic gems to be found. Be sure to check out the 18th-century St John’s Cathedral, once an Orthodox monastery, and the 15th-century House of the Dragoman; uncover the capital’s long history at the Leventis Municipal Museum of Nicosia; and take in the views from the Ledra Observatory in the Shakolas Tower.

From ancient Greek ruins to Byzantine monasteries, Cyprus has an incredible variety of historical sites, and the Kolossi Castle is one of the most striking remnants of the island’s medieval era. Built in the 13th century by the Knights of St. John and later restored in the 15th century, the castle has changed hands several times throughout its long history, but remarkably, remains beautifully preserved.

Appearing more like a stone-brick tower than a fortress, the imposing square keep rises 21 meters tall and taking in the views from the rooftop is a popular pastime for visitors. The dramatic landscape of vineyards surrounding the castle is also significant, as it was here that the Knights of St John first began producing wine and processing sugar cane, leading to the birth of ‘Commandaria’ – the sweet dessert wine, renowned as the world’s oldest named wine still in production. Explore the ruins of the castle chambers and you’ll find further evidence of the historic sugar production, including the millstone used to crush the canes and the aqueduct which once brought water to the mill.

Soaring almost 2,000 meters above sea level and covering much of southern Cyprus, the Troodos mountains range is one of the island’s most idyllic spots and, thanks to the its cooler climate, a hotspot for outdoor activities. A network of hiking, cycling and climbing trails crisscross the mountains, set against a photogenic backdrop of pine forests and lush alpine landscapes, blooming with wildflowers throughout the summer months. Climbing the 1,950-meter summit of Mount Olympus, Cyprus’ highest peak is another popular pastime and it’s even possible to ski in the mountains during January and February.

The Troodos Mountains region is also famous for its traditional villages and the historic old town of Kakopetria, the wine-making villages of Platres and Omodos and the charming village of Pedhoulas, renowned for its cherries and exquisite Church of Archangel Michael, are all worth exploring. Additional highlights of the area include the sacred 12th century Monastery of Kykkos, perched on a mountaintop near the Marathasa valley, and the UNESCO-listed Painted Churches of Troodos, a collection of 10 richly decorated churches and monasteries dating back to the Byzantine era.

Set high on a cliff top overlooking Cyprus’ south coast, the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion was once one of the island’s most prominent cities, with its roots dating back to as early as 1200 B.C. Although the ancient city was almost completely destroyed by an earthquake in the 4th century AD, the site was later used as a Christian settlement, before being abandoned in the 7th century. Today, the extensive Roman and Byzantine ruins discovered at the Kourion archaeological site continue to impress, making it one of Cyprus’ most visited historic attractions.

The still-ongoing excavations have unveiled a startling array of Roman ruins including a Forum, a series of public baths, an elegant Nymphaeum and the stately House of Achilles and House of the Gladiators. Most remarkable is the Greek Roman amphitheater, which is now fully restored and even hosts occasional classical concerts and Shakespearean plays. Other fascinating discoveries include the Villa of Eustolios, with its exquisite mosaic floors that date back to the 5th century AD; an early Christian Basilica dating from the same period and the nearby ruins of a Roman stadium.