Inventive architecture, a lively cultural life, a busy food scene and brilliant attractions make a city great, but for a place to top the list for genuine thrills, it has to provide a little something extra. For you to truly encounter various cities and what each of them has to offer you have to have great weather, good food, nightlife and the perfect ambiences.
Well, here are the best 5 cities that you need to put on your travel list for 2021, let’s start with Cyprus itself!
Cyprus Holidays
Move over, Greece: Cyprus is the next big under-the-radar holiday destination.
Greece might be a constant hotspot, but it’s far from the only Mediterranean jewel worth seeing. Looking to increase your travel prospects? It’s time to set your sights on Cyprus. Initially occupied by Mycenaean Greeks, the island nation provides archaeological remains, elaborate churches, and mouth-watering customary food, and add to that spectacular natural settings.
The landscapes are remarkable, and the food is so fresh, natural and filled with flavour, also, there’s a memorable distinction of blue waters on the white sand. The archaeological remains alone can devour you for weeks if that’s what you love. But what you would reminisce most warmly are the friendly faces and warm, hospitable nature of the Cypriot people.
Famous for its warm summers, mild winters, and clear skies, Cyprus gets around 300 days of sunshine yearly. Its lovely Mediterranean climate means holidaymakers can go swimming well into October and relish the great outdoors throughout the year.
The Mediterranean island of Cyprus has a culture that is a mixture of numerous cultures. The Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, the two main ethnic societies of Cyprus, share several cultural features but also have many differences. In both societies, great hospitality is extremely appreciated. Both enjoy celebrating special events with music, dance, and other performances. They also share various customary cuisines and drinks. But, the Greek and Turkish Cypriots have different religious values.
Things to do in Cyprus
Party in Ayia Napa – Eastern Cyprus dances to its own VERY diverse tune. Electro? Pop? RnB? When the sun goes down, ice cold Keo beer in hand, you’ll be listening to that bass drop on repeat! And the following morning? You’ll be lying down underneath an umbrella on one of the top beaches in the world, to not only nurse your aching head but to plan your next attack on Ayia Napa’s club scene, or that party boat bobbing in the distance.
Visit the Baths of Aphrodite – Cyprus is a country packed with Greek folklore and old legends. One is the legend of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. You could visit the natural cavern where she used to bathe and seduce her lovers. Splash your face with the water for everlasting youth.
Travel tip: There’s a tiny restaurant near the entrance to the Baths of Aphrodite. It’s worth visiting this restaurant only for the views…
Visit Vasilikon Winery – Let’s be honest, any day that comprises of a wine tasting tour is a great day. Vasilikon Winery is a tiny winery making tasty wine utilizing native grapes. They have a truly fascinating tour and a brilliant tasting session at the end.
Admire Kourion Ancient Theatre – Kourion theatre is one of the most extraordinary archaeological spots on the island and was initially constructed during the 2nd century BC! You have to visit and make a speech in the middle of the ‘stage’ to hear how your voice is projected across the theatre.
Holidays to Paphos
Paphos (Pafos) the capital of western Cyprus, is a coastal metropolis wealthy in history & culture, that is geographically situated on the south-western end of the island of Cyprus. It’s also popular for its art galleries and museums all over the world, and it’s recognized as the cultural seat of Europe. Located in the Paphos district, the city was originally separated into two portions Old Paphos and New Paphos, and it’s well-known for its white-sand beaches and numerous landmarks. Today’s occupied modern Paphos city is the New Paphos.
There is archaeological proof supporting the city’s presence from the Neolithic age, and Paphos Is also recognized as the birthplace of the Greek Goddess of love and beauty ‘Aphrodite’ and proudly possesses the ruins of villas, palaces, theatres, fortresses and tombs that belong to Classical, Hellenistic and Roman eras. Paphos is incorporated in UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites as a natural and cultural gem. It’s the location of the massive fourth-century BC Tombs of the Kings, situated high on a cliff over the glittering sea, and also an exceptional Byzantine castle and splendid mosaics. The population of 27,000 is increased by a summer arrival of beach-bound English, German and Scandinavian travellers. A stunning old harbour awaits, while current hotels and restaurants lie beside the promenade.
Paphos (or Pafos) is blessed with a perfect Mediterranean climate appropriate for sightseeing. While the summers are long and warm, winters are fairly short and not that chilly. The spring and autumn seasons rest amid the winter seasons, that’s amid December and February. Summers are extended between mid-May to mid-October. The area is typically dry with less rain and so the entire year is perfect for tourists to visit Paphos and relish their holidays. The summers in Paphos are quite hot and dry and the temperatures could go up to 40°C. But since the city is positioned beside the coast, seaside breezes make the temperature tolerable.
Heir to a cultural expansion covering around 9000 years, it’s a famous tourist destination for tens of thousands of travellers, and a living model of a multi-cultural civilization, Paphos wants to expose what it has soaked up and what it has given back. Paphos (Pafos) was once governed by dominant realms such as the Romans and the Myceneans, the ruins of which could be traced in the Cypriot Culture.
Things to do in Paphos
Explore Paphos Archaeological Park – A extensive open-air museum extending beside the seaside cliffs west of Paphos harbour, the UNESCO-recorded Paphos Archaeological Park is residence to a few of Cyprus’ most remarkable historic remains, which include monuments dating from prehistoric periods.
The Tombs of the Kings – Exploring the 100 Tombs of the Kings (an ancient graveyard) is like going back in time. The archaeological spot contains several tombs, all of the rich people who lived in the Classical Era. Though it’s titled ‘Kings,’ no one’s quite sure who is buried inside the tombs. Today, it’s likely to go into the grounds for a small price and walk about underground. Located feet away from the sea, the tombs go back to about the 4th-century BCE (though people were buried there over many centuries) and are now a portion of the chosen UNESCO world heritage site of Paphos.
Agora and Odeon – Tour the ruins of a tiny Roman theatre and a region which was the Agora, a Roman marketplace. Some rows of seating have lasted together with sections of the columns. Nearby is the contemporary Paphos lighthouse.
The Mosaics – Few of the Mediterranean’s most remarkable and best-conserved mosaics can be discovered at Kato Paphos Archaeological Park and were unintentionally found by a farmer out ploughing his fields during 1962. The marvellous mosaics display scenes of historic Greek folklore and everyday life. Close by is the House of Theseus which is worth a visit for the south wing mosaic portraying Theseus at battle with a Minotaur, it’s also recognized for its columns. The House of the Four Seasons; this house rests to the north of the House of Orpheus, it was titled after the mosaic that embodies the personification of the four seasons, which goes back to the first half of the third century A.D. Could this mosaic perhaps have been the muse for the Instagram grid?
Check out Paphos Harbour – A stroll along Paphos harbour is perhaps going to happen while you’re en-route to some of the best Paphos sights. It’s worth permitting a little time to stay. You’ll pass lots of cafes, bars and restaurants, some of which have tables right near the sea and is a nice location for a bite of native cuisine or a cold beer at sunset. There are several shops selling souvenirs and native products and handicrafts.
Climb Paphos Fort – Paphos Fort is a distinctive monument which has been demolished and reconstructed countless times before finally being renovated by the Ottomans during 1592. Constructed to safeguard the harbour it is now one of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Paphos. Walk over the bridged moat and climb the fort for sights over the Mediterranean and the harbour region. Each September the fort is the site for the Aphrodite Festival which holds an opera using the fort as a backdrop and scenery.
Visit The Rock of Aphrodite – Climbing out of the sea and seen from miles around (counting the mountains which interrupt the Cypriot landscape), the Rock of Aphrodite is difficult to miss. According to native myth and legend, this is said to have been where the goddess of love herself arose from the sea. In the town that is now identified as Kouklia, a whole cult of Aphrodite was set up, though she was of course revered across the whole of Cyprus! Now, the Sanctuary of Aphrodite provides a greater vision into the worship of the goddess over the years.
Holidays to Larnaca
Larnaca (also spelt as Larnaka) is a port city situated on the southern shore of Cyprus. It is the third biggest town after Nicosia and Limassol and home to the second biggest commercial port. The city which is constructed on the remains of historic Citium is gifted with several attractions like the Church of Saint Lazarus, Larnaca Castle, Hala Sultan Tekke etc. Larnaca’s palm-tree waterfronts, picturesque views, parks and stunning beaches with relaxation and sporting amenities improve its gorgeous coastline.
The city’s International Airport is found on the fringe of the city with simple access to and from the city centre.
The climate of Larnaca is the same as the climate all around Cyprus. The climate is usually Mediterranean and has substantial changes in the seasons. Summers are very ecstatic with warm and dry weather and the winters are rainy and mild. Tourists could relish long hot summers from mid–May to mid–October and brief dry winters from December to February, divided by short autumn and spring seasons. The beaches of Cyprus are amongst the cleanest and safest in the Mediterranean Sea with an average yearly temperature of 20°C (68°F) for the entire island.
The attractive city of Larnaca offers the ideal balance of being a contemporary metropolitan city while upholding the picturesque island life. The Cyprus city of Larnaca has a fascinating history and is enhanced with various cultures over the years. In addition to the ancient attractions and the ocean views, the splendid coastline encircled by palm trees is certain to keep you in awe.
The art and the entertainment are also other disregarded features that you cannot miss out on, during your travel to the Larnaca city. You could check out the many exhibitions shows, and even reserve a theatre drama or musical concert as per your liking.
Things to do in Larnaca
Visit The Church of Saint Lazarus – A 9th century Greek Orthodox Church that is one of the countless symbols of stunning architecture and culture on the island. Inside the church, the well-preserved interior, the complicated, gold iconostasi, the gorgeous hand-carved timber furniture, and other elegant religious images will amaze tourists. Vital to the town of Larnaca, the church holds a parade of the saint across Larnaca on St Lazarus’ day, eight days before Easter so try to plan your trip to coincide.
Explore Mackenzie Beach – Mackenzie Beach is the gem of the Larnaca coast. The sand extends, golden and spotless and the sea is perfect, deepening slowly making it perfect for families with young kids. There are several places to buy food and drinks all through the day, and also low-priced beds and umbrellas to hire for sun protection. This beach has everything you want for a day in paradise.
Walk the Larnaca Marina – This is a magnificent and tranquil site. As several natives and regular travellers can tell you, various stray cats wander freely across the island and can be discovered in this Marina particularly. However, they are not nasty animals but rather add a somewhat dreamy feature to the serene marina. The sight of the flowing water as the sun goes down makes for an ideal relaxed stroll in the warm evenings. The marina is certain to be the main location to conclude a perfect day.
See the Larnaca Medieval Castle – This historic medieval stronghold has numerous treasured and stunning antiquities from its honourable past. The castle is one of the tiniest on the island but conserves its relics exquisitely and is certain to provide you with a captivating tour of its history and also a mesmerizing stroll through the past. All ardent historians have to certainly pay this cornerstone of Cypriot legacy a visit.
Holidays to Limassol
Limassol is a city situated on the south coast of Cyprus. This is one of the largest metropolises of the island with only Nicosia larger. The location of the city and its cultural inheritance customarily entice numerous travellers from all around the world. The stunning town of Limassol is a treasure trove of thrilling encounters for travellers and natives to relish, and it guarantees countless memorable moments for any kind of holiday.
Limassol experiences long, hot, dry summers, and very gentle winters. Spring and autumn are short-lived seasons here, but the climate is naturally lovely. The lack of extreme weather conditions means that Limassol is a year-round resort, even though the frantic times of the year are the spring and summer seasons.
Lemesos, Limassol as we generally know it, is a hub of culture, delight and history, and it’s an attractive Cypriot city filled with character, culture and charisma. The city wraps Limassol castle, the unceremonious heart and chief point of the city.
The roads of the distinguished city are bordered with modern suburban apartments and traditional shuttered houses, sophisticated clothing stores and classic bazaars and energetic bars and restaurants situated next-to rustic cafés; perfectly highlighting the presence of locals and migrants of all ages inside the city.
Cyprus is often the retirement country of choice due to its casual lifestyle, lovely Cypriot cuisine, year-round sunshine, serene sandy beaches and charming landscapes. Although that seems ideal to us, unwinding in the sun or a stroll on the beach might become boring and an active life post-work might be what you are looking for… Limassol incoming!
Limassol is a customarily prosperous city with lots of festivals, activities and historical sites to occupy your days.
Things to do in Limassol
Visit the Limassol Castle – The medieval site is centrally located in the middle of the metropolis and next to the old harbour. Archaeological specialists discovered the original castle going back to Early Christian Basilica, 4-7th Century. The castle that is found today is a reconstruction that was built around 1590 under Ottoman rule after the castle was taken by the Ottomans during 1538.
See Kolossi Medieval Castle – Originally built in the 13th Century, Kolossi Castle was under the ownership of the Knights Templar, who utilized the castle as a starting point to make and export ‘vin de Commanderie,’ a sweet wine that is still recognized as one of the traditional wines to this day. You could also tie in your trip to Kolossi Medieval Castle with a trip around the ruins of a 14th-century sugar mill that is located next to the castle.
Explore the Amathus Archaeological Site – Amathus archaeological location is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Cyprus’ most important and significant ancient historical spots. Amathus was a Cypriot ancient royal metropolis till 300 BC but goes back to 1100 BC. You could walk the historical remains and riches at your leisure and embrace the historic culture.
Take Part in the Wine Festival – Limassol’s annual wine festival has played a main part in the culture of the city ever since its start in 1961. The festival happens in the Municipal Gardens from the beginning of September and goes on for twelve days. The traditionally motivated festival allows locals, migrants and holidaymakers to try the premium wines the island has to offer, together with delicious local food and sons, theatrical presentations and folkloric dancing.
Holidays to Pano Lefkara
Surrounded by the Troodos peaks and looking above the sea, Pano Lefkara is a gorgeous Cyprus settlement. Characterized by its limitless cobblestoned lanes and customary stone cottages, the village is famous for its old-fashioned embroidery practices and silversmithing.
Worldwide, the settlement is famous for its folk needlecraft. So iconic is this art that it’s now registered on the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage list. This painstaking craft has been taken on by the women of Lefkara for years and it goes a little like this: the less linen in the final product, the more time has been spent on the piece.
Should you be planning a holiday to Cyprus, you won’t want to miss out on a trip to what might well be the loveliest village in Cyprus. Lefkara in Greek quite plainly means ‘white hills’ and it could be found in the Larnaca district. Visit during the late winter/ early spring and you’ll even come across the almond trees in bloom!
With magnificent views of the encircling Cyprus landscape and down to the sea, in high season the village could be gotten to by bus from Koufino (which, in turn, can be reached by general transport from Larnaca). Best toured over a day, visit here mid-week and off-season to evade the crowds!
The Neolithic archaeological ruins discovered in the village are evidence that the area surrounding Pano Lefkara has been occupied successively for many years. The initial historical testimony of the presence of Pano Lefkara with its current-day name is located in the testament of Saint Neophytos, born during 1134 in the village of Kato Drys near Pano Lefkara when Cyprus was a section of the Byzantine Empire.
Lefkara itself is quite large as its split into two parts; there’s an upper “pano” and lower “kato” village, though the “pano” settlement is where many of the touristic pursuits and cultural appeals could be found.
Historically, the town had a diverse population, comprising of the bulk of Greek Cypriots and a minority of Turkish Cypriots. The 1946 census documented a population of 2,530 Greek Cypriots and 473 Turkish Cypriots, totalling 3,003.
Things to do in Pano Lefkara
Watch fine embroidery being created customarily – As women get together on their doorsteps and exchange stories of the day with lively banter, this is one of the few villages on the island where you could sit and watch tradition quite plainly come alive as village lace embroidery is still created the way it was years ago. Extremely proud of the village’s long lacemaking customs and the so-called ‘Lefkaritiko’ lace, the elegant embroidery is even incorporated on UNESCO’s symbolic List of Intangible Culture Heritage. And it’s alleged that Leonardo da Vinci came to the village during 1481 and bought lace here…who are we to argue with that?
Witness history as it unravels at a magnificent museum – With years-old structures splendidly ordering attention each step of the way, the Lefkara – Patsalos Museum of Traditional Embroidery & Silver is no exception. Preserved in the House of Patsalos, which was named after its owner who belonged to one of the village’s wealthiest families, the construction itself is created out of native limestone and is distinguished by a stunning courtyard. Going back to the 19th century, the mansion would transport you back to times past offering you a true sense of customary village life, particularly once you go inside the building as rustic furniture from the 19th and 20th centuries and clothing from days gone by grab attention, and also tools, silverwork and more. But it’s the lace embroideries which truly take pride of place, with a huge selection on display set to amaze any visitor.
Gaze at magnificent architecture – Famous for its flawless architecture, you’ll no doubt be eager to get your camera out to take some great pictures of houses built with native white stone and typical terracotta roofs, several calling out to greet passers-by with their distinctive bright timber doorways and shutters. That’s not to forget the ancient chapels scattered around the region. Be certain to visit the Timios Stavros Church devoted to the Holy Cross and going back to the 14th century. And when you’re there, take a good look at the elegant tiles that distinguish its entry.
Dine-in an environment nothing like the rest – Feeling hungry after all your walking and touring? Then travel to Tasties for some home-prepared meals in a gorgeously refurbished old house going back to 1850. You can look forward to decent comfort food, but it’s the décor and ambience that adds the actual ‘wow factor’ here, with diverse antique furniture (look forward to elegant Victorian and Georgian pieces in the mixture), while you can even take an old book to look through. But do remember that if you’d rather eat something more customary and some meze type food, then visit Drosia tis Marias. It’s a genuine no-frills basic type of place, but it offers up the best local cuisines. Also, keep in mind that Lefkara is well-known for its Tava (baked lamb and potatoes) and it has become a true village custom so do be sure to indulge!
Put your best foot forward and relish the sweeping views – Uncovering the wonders of Lefkara isn’t just all about being in the middle of the village. Once you have a good stroll across the paved roads and have re-energized your batteries with some great food, we propose you travel further afield, with some attractive nature paths offering you good reason to rejoice in the grandeur of the surrounding natural world. The Lefkara to Kato Drys path is mainly charming, otherwise recognized as the ‘Path of Nature’ which is 2.5km in length and could be done in about one hour.
Well, there you have it some of the top best cities in Cyprus to visit in 2021. Call us, email us and get your holiday to Cyprus planned right now by our leading travel experts, and experience Cyprus like never before.
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