A Week in Cyprus: Sun, Sand, and History

  • Day 1: Nicosia
    Estimated Time: 3 hours (40 miles) from Larnaca International Airport

    Begin your trip with a visit to the capital city of Cyprus that is divided into two parts - one controlled by the Greek Cypriots and the other by Turkish Cypriots. Visit the Famagusta Gate, an ancient gate, built by Venetians in the 16th century. Take a walking tour of the narrow streets of the old part of Nicosia where you can visit the archaeological museum or sample local delicacies at the Laiki Geitonia neighbourhood.

  • Day 2: Limassol
    Estimated Time: 1 hour (44.2 miles) from Nicosia

    See the most significant archaeological sites of Cyprus. The Limassol Castle dates back to the 14th century and occupies an area in the heart of the Old Town. Explore the Municipal Garden where you can discover ancient ruins like the mosaic floor of the House of Eustolios.

  • Day 3: Aphrodite’s Rock
    Estimated Time: 1 hour (28 miles) from Limassol

    Tour the Greek goddess of love’s mythical birthplace at the stunning Aphrodite's Rock. Besides the stunning natural scenery, you can take a dip in the waters of Petra tou Romiou Beach.

  • Day 4: Paphos
    Estimated Time: 49 minutes (28.2 miles) from Aphrodite’s Rock

    Wander the charming streets of Paphos, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Paphos Archaeological Park and see some of the best Roman mosaics in the world, depicting famous Greek myths like the death of Adonis.

  • Day 5: Tombs of the Kings
    Estimated Time: 24 minutes (9 miles) from Paphos

    Tombs of the Kings is a UNESCO World Heritage site that contains a collection of ancient rock-cut tombs built for Cyprus’s high-ranking officials and aristocracy. Take a stroll at the Kato Paphos Archaeological Site, which is home to some of the most valuable treasures of Cyprus’s Greco-Roman history, including the famous House of Dionysus.

  • Day 6: Troodos Mountains
    Estimated Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (40 miles) from Tombs of the Kings

    Escape the heat and take an adventure in the mountains – winding roads, panoramic views, and charming villages. Visit the Kykkos Monastery or take a stroll at the highest point in Cyprus, the Mount Olympus summit.

  • Day 7: Larnaca
    Estimated Time: 1 hour 54 minutes (82.4 miles) from Troodos Mountains

    End your Cyprus adventure with a relaxing time by Larnaca’s coastline. Visit the Salt Lake and the infamous Hala Sultan Tekke mosque. Take some time for souvenir shopping and stop to visit the palm-tree promenade Finikoudes Beach.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Nicosia (Half Day, Free)
  • Limassol (Half Day, Free)
  • Aphrodite's Rock (Half Day, Free)
  • Paphos (Half Day, €14 for adults at Paphos Archaeological Park)
  • Tombs of the Kings (Half Day, €2.50)
  • Troodos Mountains (Full Day, Free)
  • Larnaca (Half Day, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €16.50 per person

Transportation

Cyprus has an incredible road network that provides easy access to all corners of the island. The recommended modes of transport are car rentals, buses or taxis to cover the long distances because destinations are spread and may not have public transport yet. Costs of public transportation vary depending on the length of the journey, taxi costs tend to vary less based on the destination but are generally more expensive than taking a bus.

Car rentals can cost anywhere from €20 per day to €45 per day, depending on the type of car you choose. Gasoline is relatively cheap in Cyprus, ranging from €1.45 to €1.60 per litre, and toll roads range from €1.5 to €2.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add trips to the city of Kyrenia, visit more beaches, explore the wine region or hike the nature trails. If time is limited, you can reduce the number of archaeological sites visited or skip visiting the capital city, Nicosia.

Airports

Larnaca International Airport is the main airport of Cyprus, located in Larnaca (LCA), nearly 3 km south of the city centre. It offers domestic and international flights and is a base for airlines such as Cyprus Airways and Ryanair.

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