Agia Napa

Once sleepy fishing villages, the fabulous beaches of fine white sand of Agia Napa and Protaras, and the coastal area of Paralimni with its hundreds of windmills, nowadays buzz with life. This area is known collectively as the Kokkinochoria, “red soil villages,” because of the rich red earth in which Cyprus’ famous potatoes are grown. Culture lovers can explore the medieval churches found in villages like Sotira or go around the folk art museums displaying rural artefacts in Deryneia and Avgorou. Children will love the Marine Life museum or the new Sea Museum, “Thalassa”, in Agia Napa, which has an amazing replica of a 4th-century trading ship which sunk off the coast of Kyrenia. Or you could stop at the tiny estuary known by the locals as Potamos and watch the fishing boats haul in their catch in their multi-coloured baskets. Spend the day sunbathing at the beach, swimming in warm turquoise waters or taking a short cruise along the coast. Some of the best snorkelling and diving spots are at Cape Greco, the national forest park, with its secluded coves and rocky outcrops, impressive cliff-top views and sea caves. In the evening, dine at one of the many restaurants, especially the local ones in Paralimni, or jive to the latest sounds at one of the numerous nightclubs.

• Web:

  www.visitfamagusta.com.cy

• Address:

  Agia Napa, Cyprus

Aphrodite's Rock

Aphrodite's Rock is a captivating geological formation situated along the stunning coastline of southwest Cyprus, between Paphos and Limassol. This sea stack is not only famous for its natural beauty but also holds great mythological significance as the alleged birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty. Legend has it that Aphrodite emerged from the sea foam and was escorted to this very beach on a shell. The area is also associated with the Byzantine hero Digenis Akritas, who supposedly hurled the giant rocks into the sea to protect Cyprus from Saracen Arab invaders. This act gave the site its name Petra tou Romiou, meaning "rock of the Greek." Visitors to Aphrodite's Rock often swim around the rock, believing that doing so three times can bring blessings such as eternal youth, beauty, good luck, fertility and true love.

• Web:

  www.visitcyprus.com/index.php/en/discovercyprus/rural/sites-monuments/732-birthplace-of-aphrodite-petra-tou-romiou

• Address:

  Petra tou Romiou, Aphrodite's Beach, Kouklia, Cyprus

Archaeological Site of Nea Paphos

Delve into the captivating blend of ancient Greek and Roman history at the Paphos Archaeological Park, situated in Nea Paphos on the southwest coast of Cyprus. This extensive site, which is still under excavation, encompasses a significant part of the ancient city that dates back to prehistoric times and spans through the Middle Ages. Founded in the late 4th century BC, Nea Paphos was once encircled by formidable walls and served as the centre of political and administrative life in Cyprus. Today, the park is renowned for its enchanting collection of well-preserved mosaics that depict ancient Greek myths. These intricate and colourful masterpieces can be found in the remains of opulent Roman villas, which are among the park's most remarkable discoveries. As you wander through this UNESCO World Heritage site, immerse yourself in the rich history and culture that influenced the lives of the early inhabitants of the island. From the worship of gods to the emergence of early Christians, the ruins of Nea Paphos offer a fascinating insight into a bygone era.

• Web:

  www.visitcyprus.com/index.php/en/discovercyprus/culture/sites-monuments/239-archaeological-park-of-kato-pafos-paphos

• Address:

  Kato Pafos Archaeological Park, Paphos, Cyprus

• Phone:

  +357 26 306 217

Church of Saint Lazarus

The Church of Saint Lazarus in Larnaca is a captivating late-9th-century Orthodox church, steeped in history and showcasing remarkable Byzantine craftsmanship. Believed to be built over Saint Lazarus' tomb, the church is adorned with intricate frescoes, stained glass windows, and exquisite stone architecture. Annually, eight days before Easter, the church hosts a religious procession through Larnaca. Just an eight-minute walk away, you'll find the Byzantine Museum for further historical exploration. This architectural gem is a must-visit for history, architecture, and spirituality enthusiasts.

• Web:

  agioslazaros.org.cy

• Address:

  Plateia Agiou Lazarou, Larnaca

• Phone:

  +357 24 652498

• Opening hours:

  Summer: Mon–Fri 8am–6:30pm; Sun 6:30am–12:30pm / 3:30pm–6:30pm. Winter: Mon–Fri 8am–12:30pm / 2:30pm–5:30pm; Sun 6:30am–12:30pm / 3:30pm–5:30pm

Cyprus Classic Motorcycle Museum

Step into the fascinating world of vintage motorcycles at the Cyprus Classic Motorcycle Museum, located in the old town of Nicosia. This impressive collection, founded by Andreas Nicolaou, showcases over 150 models of motorcycles dating from 1914 to 1983. The museum is a testament to the passion and dedication of its founder, who spent years gathering some of the island's most historically significant bikes. As you explore the museum, you'll come across captivating exhibits, such as motorcycles from the Presidential Guard of Archbishop Makarios, the bike used by EOKA fighter Stylianos Lenas to transport weapons and ammunition, and the motorcycle of the first champion in Cyprus, Turkish Cypriot Zeki Isa. You'll also find military motorcycles used during World War II.

• Web:

  cyclassicmotormuseum.wixsite.com/cyclassicmotormuseum

• Address:

  Granikou 44, Nicosia, Cyprus

• Phone:

  +357 99 543 215

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri 10am–5:30pm, Sat 10am–1pm, Sun closed

Cyprus Motor Museum

The Cyprus Motor Museum, founded by Mr Dimi Mavropoulos, a veteran of international and local rally racing, offers a unique experience for classic car enthusiasts. Since its opening in February 2014, the museum remains the only automobile museum in Cyprus, boasting 3,500 square meters of excellence and a vast collection of cars, including a 1912 Ford Model T roadster and a car donated by the US government to Cyprus President Makarios III. Visitors can enjoy a variety of events throughout the year, including exhibitions, fashion shows, and photoshoots. For a truly memorable experience, rent a classic car, bus, or motorbike for your wedding, city tour, or special day photoshoot. With a well-curated collection and clear signage, the Cyprus Motor Museum is a must-visit gem for car lovers and tourists alike.

• Web:

  cyprusmotormuseum.com.cy

• Address:

  Epimitheos, Limassol

• Phone:

  +357 70 009 000

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat & Sun 10am–6pm

• More info:

  Also known as Cyprus Historic & Classic Motor Museum