Where to Visit in Cyprus in 2026: Top Cities Beyond Nicosia

Cyprus is an island that rewards exploration well beyond its capital. While Nicosia is historically fascinating, most visitors quickly discover that the island’s coastlines, mountain villages, ancient ruins, and resort towns offer far more variety and excitement. In 2026, Cyprus continues to evolve as a destination – new waterfront areas, improved hiking paths, upgraded archaeological sites, and expanded hospitality options make it an especially good year to visit.

This guide is designed to be practical, simple, and mobile-friendly. It highlights what each destination offers, who it suits best, how long to stay, and the real experiences you can expect. From ancient cities to quiet beaches, from mountain wine villages to wild peninsulas – here’s everything you need to plan your ideal Cyprus adventure.

Coastal Cities & Resorts

The coast of Cyprus is where most travelers spend the bulk of their trip. Each coastal city or resort area has its own personality, so choosing the right one can transform your experience.

Paphos

Paphos blends culture, scenery, and beach relaxation in a way few Mediterranean cities can match. Its archaeological sites are extraordinary, its coastline is beautiful, and its size makes it easy to explore without a car – though having one helps with day trips.

Why Travelers Love It

• A perfect balance between relaxation and sightseeing
• Wide range of affordable and luxury hotels
• Excellent restaurants by the harbor
• Easy access to beaches, nature, and ruins

Paphos is ideal for couples, solo travelers, and families who want a mix of culture and coastal charm.

Top Highlights

• UNESCO Archaeological Park: A must-see. The mosaic floors here are world-class, telling vivid stories from Greek mythology. The site is large but well-organized with clear paths and signs. You can comfortably explore in 2–3 hours. Visiting early morning is best to avoid the midday heat.
• Tombs of the Kings: Just north of the harbor, this open-air archaeological attraction offers an atmospheric place to wander through underground tombs carved from stone. The light at sunrise and sunset creates stunning colors on the rock walls.
• Aphrodite’s Rock: This iconic coastal landmark lies between Paphos and Limassol. The beach here is pebbly but beautiful, and the sea is incredibly clear. Locals say that swimming around the rock brings good luck – just watch for strong currents.
• Harbor & Boardwalk: The Paphos harbor area is perfect for a meal overlooking the water, especially in the evening. The long boardwalk leading from the harbor is ideal for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the sea breeze.

How Long to Stay: 3–4 nights for a balanced experience. If you want to explore the Akamas Peninsula in depth, add an extra night.

Limassol

Limassol is modern, stylish, and dynamic – the closest thing Cyprus has to a cosmopolitan city. Here you’ll find excellent restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and easy access to cultural and natural attractions.

Who It’s Perfect For

• Travelers who enjoy big-city amenities
• Food and wine lovers
• Beach club and nightlife fans
• People who want to explore many parts of the island from one base

Limassol’s energy appeals to younger travelers, digital nomads, and long-stay visitors.

Top Highlights

• Limassol Marina: Chic and modern, the marina area offers waterfront dining, boutique shops, rooftop lounges, and a long promenade great for cycling or sunset walks. It’s especially lively in the evenings.
• Kolossi Castle: Just outside the city, this compact Crusader fortress is one of the most impressive medieval structures in Cyprus. The rooftop views stretch across citrus groves and vineyards.
• Old Town: With trendy cafés, street art, local markets, and historic buildings, Limassol’s Old Town is one of the best places to enjoy modern Cypriot culture.
• Near Ancient Kourion: Staying in Limassol makes it easy to visit one of Cyprus’s most significant archaeological sites – great for those who love history.

How Long to Stay: Plan for 2–3 nights, or longer if Limassol will be your main home base.

Larnaca

Larnaca is calm, friendly, and more traditional than other big coastal cities. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a quiet break near the beach without intense nightlife or crowds.

Who It Suits Best

• Families with kids
• Retirees or older travelers
• Anyone who prefers a relaxed atmosphere
• Visitors searching for affordable accommodation

Larnaca is also a great starting point, as the island’s main international airport is here.

Top Highlights

• Finikoudes Promenade: The city’s long beachfront is lined with palm trees, cafés, soft sand, and shallow water that’s excellent for children. It’s a simple, enjoyable spot to spend a few hours.
• St. Lazarus Church: A beautifully preserved Byzantine church, believed to be built over the tomb of Lazarus. Its interior is ornate and peaceful, and the surrounding square is full of charm.
• Larnaca Salt Lake: In winter and early spring, you can spot flamingos here. Even without wildlife, it’s a peaceful place for a walk, especially at sunset.
• Old Turkish Quarter: A quieter neighborhood with narrow streets, artisan shops, pottery studios, and small cafés. For a deeper look at this coastal city, explore our full guide on a trip to Larnaca.

How Long to Stay: 1–3 nights, depending on whether it’s your base or just a stopover.

Ayia Napa & Protaras

If your perfect holiday includes clear turquoise water, white sand, lively beach bars, and plenty of sunshine, these resort towns will be your favorites. The coastline here is some of the best on the island.

Who Should Choose These Towns

• Beach-loving travelers
• Summer vacationers
• Families (Protaras is quieter and more kid-friendly)
• Groups of friends (Ayia Napa has vibrant nightlife)
• Water sports enthusiasts

Top Highlights

• Fig Tree Bay: This Protaras beach is stunning – calm water, soft sand, and excellent swimming conditions. Kids love it, snorkelers love it, and couples love it.
• Nissi Beach: Known for its shallow lagoon-like water and lively atmosphere. During the summer, it’s one of the most photographed beaches in Cyprus.
• Boat Trips: Multiple daily tours visit sea caves, lagoons, and small hidden beaches. Water clarity is outstanding.
• Waterparks: Large waterparks in Ayia Napa offer slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and kids’ zones – perfect for families.

How Long to Stay: 2–4 nights, depending on how much beach time you want.

History & Culture

Cyprus’s history spans ancient Greece, the Roman Empire, Byzantium, the Crusaders, the Venetians, the Ottomans, and the British. This blend makes the island incredibly rich in historic and cultural attractions.

Kourion

Kourion is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the Eastern Mediterranean. Its dramatic cliffside setting alone is worth the visit, and the well-preserved ruins make it unforgettable.

What You’ll See

• A stunning Greco-Roman amphitheater
• Intricate mosaic floors in ancient villas
• Baths, courtyards, and early Christian buildings

The amphitheater overlooking the sea is especially impressive – a picture-perfect combination of history and scenery.

Travel Tip: Pair Kourion with Kolossi Castle or a winery visit for a full half-day trip.

Famagusta (North Cyprus)

Crossing into Northern Cyprus gives travelers the chance to experience another side of the island culturally and architecturally. Famagusta is particularly fascinating because it mixes medieval, Venetian, and Ottoman heritage.

Top Highlights

• Salamis Ancient City: A vast site where you can wander through a gymnasium with towering columns, an amphitheater, baths, and basilicas. The scale is bigger than most archaeological sites on the island.
• Walled City: Famagusta’s medieval walls surround narrow historic streets, small shops, cafés, and the impressive former Gothic cathedral that’s now a mosque.

Travel Tip: Keep your passport or ID handy. The crossing is usually quick and straightforward.

Kykkos Monastery

Set high in the Troodos Mountains, Kykkos is the most famous and wealthiest monastery in Cyprus. Its museum, icons, frescoes, and peaceful setting make it a rewarding cultural stop.

Why Visit

• One of the island’s most important religious sites
• Surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes
• A cool escape from hot summer temperatures

Combining Kykkos with nearby villages makes a perfect full-day excursion.

Nature & Mountains

Beyond the beaches, Cyprus has rugged landscapes, thick forests, traditional villages, and beautiful hiking routes. Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy.

Troodos Mountains

The Troodos range offers cooler temperatures, charming stone villages, and exceptional views. Whether you’re driving, hiking, or wine tasting, it’s a refreshing contrast to the coast.

What to Do

• Hiking: Popular trails include:
  • Artemis Trail: Panoramic loop around Mount Olympus.
  • Caledonia Trail: Shaded forest path to a waterfall.
• Villages: Omodos is the most famous, known for its wine, monastery, and lace shops. Other pretty villages include Kakopetria, Platres, and Vouni.
• Byzantine Churches: Many of the region’s frescoed churches are UNESCO-protected. Some are hidden down narrow mountain roads, adding a sense of discovery to your visit.
• Winter Travel: Troodos can get snow in winter, creating a completely different atmosphere. A few slopes open for skiing if conditions allow. Want everything organized into a smooth travel route? See the full southern Cyprus itinerary.

Akamas Peninsula

Akamas is raw, rugged, and beautiful. This protected region is perfect for adventurers seeking quieter and more natural spaces.

Highlights

• Blue Lagoon: A top swimming spot with unbelievably clear water. Most visitors arrive by boat from the nearby town of Latchi.
• Lara Bay: A protected turtle nesting beach. Between June and August, conservation teams monitor the nests.
• Avakas Gorge: A narrow gorge carved by a stream, offering a cool, shaded hike through towering rock formations.
• Aphrodite Trail: A scenic hiking route with panoramic sea views and sections passing through fragrant forests.

Travel Tip: Do not drive standard rental cars into Akamas – the roads are rough. Choose a jeep tour or rent a 4×4.

Experience Cyprus in 2026

Cyprus is more than its beaches and ruins. The food, the way of life, the small villages, and the mix of activities make it a destination that suits almost every type of traveler.

Cuisine

Cypriot cuisine blends Greek, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean influences.

Must-Try Dishes

• Meze: A multi-course tasting experience.
• Halloumi: Grilled, fried, or fresh.
• Kleftiko: Slow-cooked lamb.
• Souvlaki: Grilled meat skewers.
• Fresh seafood: Especially octopus, sea bream, and red mullet.

Wine: Cyprus has thousands of years of winemaking history.

Major wines to try:

• Xynisteri: Crisp white wine.
• Commandaria: Sweet dessert wine with ancient origins.

Many wineries offer affordable tastings.

Activities

There is no shortage of things to do in Cyprus. Depending on your interest, you can fill your days with culture, nature, relaxation, or adventure.

Top Activities for Visitors

• Beach hopping along the East Coast
• Snorkeling and diving
• Boat trips to caves and lagoons
• Mountain hiking
• Visiting traditional villages
• Exploring ancient ruins
• Trying local wines
• Enjoying seaside tavernas

The island is small enough to explore widely but diverse enough to feel like several destinations in one, and staying connected during your Cyprus trip is easier than ever with Voye Global’s Cyprus eSIM, which lets you access fast local data the moment you land – no physical SIM swap, no roaming surprises, and no searching for mobile shops. Whether you’re navigating mountain roads, booking last-minute activities, checking beach conditions, or sharing your travel moments instantly, the eSIM keeps everything seamless. It’s a simple, affordable way to stay online across all the cities and regions mentioned in this guide.

Conclusion

Cyprus in 2026 is a destination that offers far more than sunny beaches. Beyond Nicosia, each region of the island brings its own character – coastal cities with vibrant energy, relaxed seaside towns, historic sites that span centuries, and natural landscapes that range from mountains to rugged peninsulas. Together, they create a travel experience that feels varied, balanced, and full of possibilities.

Whether you’re interested in history, food, culture, outdoor adventure, or simply unwinding by the sea, Cyprus offers something for every type of traveler. And if you’re planning a romantic escape, you can also explore the romantic destinations in Cyprus.

The island is compact and easy to explore, with warm hospitality and beautiful scenery that make every journey enjoyable. By choosing the destinations that match your interests and pace, you can shape a trip that feels personal and memorable. With ongoing improvements and new attractions, 2026 is an ideal time to experience Cyprus and discover everything waiting beyond Nicosia.