11 Best Things to Do in Cyprus Beyond the Beach

11 Unmissable Things to Do in Cyprus (Beyond the Beach)

Cyprus gets plenty of love for its sunshine and party scene, but this island rewards curious travellers with far more. From mountain villages and ancient tombs to turtle conservation beaches and sea caves, here’s a refreshed guide to the best things to do in Cyprus when you want more than a sunlounger.

1) Cross the Green Line in Nicosia, the World’s Only Divided Capital

Nicosia tells Cyprus’ recent history in a way few places can. Walk Ledra Street to the border checkpoint and cross into the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus for a few hours of culture, architecture and food that feel strikingly different from the south. Don’t miss the Selimiye Camii and the atmospheric Büyük Han courtyard.

Interested in the city’s modern history? Consider this buffer-zone experience: Nicosia guided tour of the buffer zone.

2) Day-Trip Into the Troodos Mountains

Trade the coast for cool pine air and long horizons. The Troodos range is Cyprus at its most dramatic: winding roads, high viewpoints and forested slopes that feel a world away from the beach. Even in summer, a drive toward Mount Olympus offers balcony-like vistas over the island.

No car? Leave the logistics to a driver on a mountain day tour with monastery stops and tastings: Troodos Mountains day trips.

3) Wander the Stone Lanes of Omodos

Omodos is a hillside village that’s just as pretty as the postcards suggest. Linger in the square over a sheftalia kebab, step into the monastery respectfully (cover shoulders and knees), and browse doorfront bottles of sweet commandaria wine. It’s popular—but still charming.

Explore Omodos and nearby villages on a guided tour.

4) Hike to Cyprus’ Waterfalls from Pano Platres

Short on time? The Millomeris falls are a quick five-minute amble from the road—perfect for a cool pause on a warm day. If you’re up for a bit more trail time, the 3km path from Platres to Caledonia Waterfalls is a scenic step up with a few steep sections.

5) Stand Where Legend Says Aphrodite Was Born

Petra tou Romiou, or Aphrodite’s Rock, is the island’s most storied shoreline. Whether mythology is your thing or not, the coastal setting is superb. The sea can be rough here, so plan on clambering and viewpoints over swimming.

6) Step Into the Tombs of the Kings, Paphos

Dating to the 4th century BC, this necropolis is a powerful window into Cyprus’ ancient past. The sunken colonnades and rock-cut chambers are striking—and conveniently close to Paphos Harbour. Expect a small entry fee.

Join a Paphos city tour with Tombs of the Kings included.

7) Sail, Hike or Jeep Through Akamas Peninsula National Park

On Cyprus’ wild west, Akamas packs in some of the best nature on the island—think the crystalline Blue Lagoon, the dramatic Avakas Gorge, and coastal trails named for Aphrodite and Adonis. Boat trips and jeep safaris make reaching the highlights straightforward.

Akamas Blue Lagoon bus and boat day tour

8) Visit Lara Bay’s Turtle Conservation Beach

Lara Bay is one of Cyprus’ most important nesting grounds for Green and Loggerhead turtles. Conservation teams protect the eggs with cages and monitoring during nesting season (roughly May–August). The dirt road is rugged—go slow, hire a 4×4, join a jeep tour, or hike from Agios Georgios.

9) Snorkel the Clear Coves of Protaras

On the eastern coast, Protaras shines for underwater explorers. Fig Tree Bay, Green Bay and Cape Greco offer glassy water, fish life and the occasional octopus or turtle. Confident swimmers can even find underwater statues offshore.

New to diving? Try a beginner-friendly session: Intro scuba experience in Blue Bay.

10) Castle-Hop Through Centuries of History

Cyprus’ position on key trade routes left a necklace of medieval fortresses worth a detour. In the south, visit Kolossi, Limassol, Larnaka Kalesi and Paphos Castle. In the north, highlights include Buffavento, Kyrenia, Saint Hilarion, Othello and Kantara.

• South: Kolossi, Limassol, Larnaka Kalesi, Paphos Castle
• North: Saint Hilarion, Kyrenia, Buffavento, Othello, Kantara

11) Reset With a Wellness or Yoga Retreat

When rest is the goal, Cyprus delivers sunshine and scenery to match. From mountain-base hikes and yoga to coastal wellness stays, these options blend activity and calm in easy reach of the island’s highlights.

• 5-Day Hiking, Yoga and Wine in the Troodos Mountains
• 8-Day Yoga Retreat in Tochni, Larnaca
• 5-Day Mindful Luxury Yoga Holiday in Protaras

Where to Stay in Cyprus

From village houses to beach hotels, here are options for different budgets.

Budget

• San Antonia Maroni – a characterful historic stay in quiet Maroni village.
• Paphos Rooms – modern, great value and well placed for island exploring.

Mid-Range

• Best Western Plus Larco Hotel – close to Larnaca’s beaches and harbour.
• Vasiliou House Krimenos – a peaceful mountain hideaway with plenty of character.

Luxury

• Leonardo Crystal Cove Hotel & Spa (Adults Only) – serene pools and a full-service spa near Protaras.
• The White H Villa – an ultra-luxe private villa with pool near Protaras.

Planning a trip to Cyprus? Which of these experiences will you add to your itinerary?