Cyprus’ best towns and resorts are diverse, with a few standouts ranking among Europe’s top destinations of their kind. Around the island, you’ll find some of the best parties, family beaches, city beaches, and historically significant sites in the Mediterranean.
With so much choice, finding a suitable location to stay is even more crucial. A family searching for a tranquil getaway, for example, may prefer the next village along the coast to Ayia Napa’s hardcore party environment. Check out our guide to where to stay in Cyprus to help you make an informed decision.
1 – Paphos
Couples will enjoy this historic center
Paphos is an ideal vacation for couples since it offers breathtaking beauty, rich history, excellent shopping, delicious cuisine, and luxurious accommodations. Upper Paphos (Pano Paphos) is located on a hilltop, whereas Lower Paphos (Kato Paphos) is located near the sea.
Beachfront eateries and a romantic nightlife can be found in the town’s older, lower portion. Aside from the lovely beaches, there are Roman ruins like as Dionysus’, Orpheus’, and Aion’s mansions, as well as the majority of the town’s tourism amenities. The mood at Pano Paphos is a little more laid-back. It is worthwhile to see Old Town.
2 – Coral Bay
Beaches and history are two things that families like.
Coral Bay is technically part of Peyia, which is located north of Paphos. This area, however, is notable for its beautiful beaches and plenty of hotels. The namesake bay boasts a 600-meter crescent-shaped beach with moderate waves and Blue Flag certification, making it ideal for families.
For individuals with a feeling of adventure, Coral Bay is an excellent place to visit. The sights in and around Paphos are only 15 kilometers away, making it handy for touring neighboring historic ruins and mountain communities. Dive centers, amusement parks, go-karting, and other activities are available in Coral Bay to keep children entertained.
3 – Ayia Napa
Cyprus’s premier party destination
Ayia Napa competes with the likes of Ibiza, Magaluf, and Mykonos as one of the most popular Mediterranean party destinations. Every summer night, hundreds of partygoers go to the city’s main square and Ayias Mavris street, which are packed with bars and clubs.
The coastline is largely made up of dramatic vertical cliffs broken with some of Cyprus’ most stunning beaches, such as Nissi and Pantachou. Cape Greco, a lovely national forest area with some spectacular views, is located further east. Ayia Napa is great for younger travelers because it has a waterpark and other kid-friendly attractions.
4 – Limassol
A family vacation spot with a nightlife scene in the area
Limassol mixes local nightlife with a family-friendly environment, making it an ideal place for parents looking to unwind after the kids have gone to bed. Waterparks, restaurants, beaches, and historical monuments, including the remains of Amathus to the east, make it one of the island’s most populous communities. The eastern part of the city also has the majority of hotels and tourist attractions.
It’s advisable to visit the town on Friday or Saturday if you want to mingle with the locals. Weekend evenings are when most locals may comfortably party without worrying about working through a hangover the next morning, and most tourists take advantage of the opportunity to travel to Ayia Napa further east. The marina, which is flanked by chic stores and cafés, is the place to go for a delicious coffee the next morning.
5 – Protaras
Diverse people enjoy themselves.
Protaras, on Cyprus’ east coast, is mostly a tourist destination. Its sandy beaches, the nicest of which is Fig Tree Bay, are lined with hotels, villas, and apartments. It’s a favorite destination for families and even Cypriot tourists, particularly because the nightlife is much quieter than at Ayia Napa, about 5 km to the southwest.
Protaras lacks the history and attractions of other areas of the island, but it is a great place to learn to scuba dive for both beginners and advanced divers. Green Bay, The Blue Hole, and Malama Bay are just a few of the surrounding dive spots.
6 – Pernera
For families, Cyprus is the finest location to be.
Pernera is perhaps Cyprus’ most family-friendly destination, a bold assertion given the competition. The fact that everything is family-oriented is what makes this east-coast village stand out. Beachfront bars and restaurants, as well as eateries, include separate sections for children. At some locations, there are even bouncy castles.
Pernera is not a destination for individuals interested in Cyprus’ history and culture because there are no authentic castles to be found here. While the beaches are modest, they are pleasant and sandy, with the clear sea being calmed by the enclosed bays.
7 – Nicosia
Capital divided
Nicosia, Cyprus‘ capital, holds the distinction of being the world’s only divided capital, divided between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. Even the round Walled Old City is divided, and you’ll need your passport to get from one side to the other.
The city, also known as Lefkosia, is located far from the coast, therefore it lacks the beach vibes that other of Cyprus’ more famous attractions have. If you enjoy museums and history, though, there isn’t a better place on the island to visit. If you want to indulge in some retail therapy while you’re in town, the capital has plenty of options.
8 – Larnaca
One of the most beautiful city beaches in Europe.
Even if it’s only from the plane landing at the island’s principal airport, most visitors to Cyprus will view Larnaca. It does, however, have a lot to offer as a destination in and of itself, including Finikoudes, one of Europe’s best city beaches. A huge salt lake further inland is worth seeing both from the ground and on final approach to the airport.
The city, also known as Larnaka, is a favorite site for luxury yachts to moor. Chic cafés and elegant boutiques line the harbour’s perimeter. The Hala Sultan Tekke mosque and the Church of St Lazarus are only two of the city’s historic religious landmarks.