Discover Cyprus Villages

Limassol with its unique fusion of influences is a fascinating and exciting destination. It is a land where the traditional and modern co-exist offering desirable contemporary facilities yet still extending the local warm hospitality which characterizes Cyprus.
Its unique identity is based on its rich history and culture, its inviting characteristics, and its convenient location, both within the island and on the map, which makes exploring easy, whether it be island-wide or nearby destinations. It is a fascinating area with a diversified character that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences: A sun-lover's haven with 100 kilometers of coastline featuring beaches for every taste, this cosmopolitan destination also boasts high quality accommodation options, countless activities and a wide array of vibrant events and festivals throughout the year. In the midst of its lively nightlife and entertainment, one can still appreciate the cultural aspect with visits to archaeological sites and colourful wine villages. The city of Limassol is situated between the ancient cities of Amathous to the east and Kourion to the west, two of the most spectacular archaeological sites on the island. A significant number of other interesting sites are also found throughout the Limassol region. A short drive out into the surrounding countryside will take you through vineyards and quaint wine producing villages. Fresh Mediterranean flavours can by enjoyed at numerous taverns and restaurants featuring both Cypriot and international cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to try the local wine. Much more than a sun and sea destination, Limassol possesses a copious range of activities and pastimes for all. From the sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, entertainment, and leisure seekers to those who would much prefer to delve into the island’s rich culture, the possibilities seem endless.

Centrally located on the island, Nicosia serves as the administrative, political, financial, and cultural capital of Cyprus. Nicosia may not have sandy beaches to offer, but its visitors are more than compensated by a wealth of cultural attractions that combine authentic Cypriot culture with modern European amenities. Nicosia is an attractive, enticing city; ideal for experiencing what modern Cyprus is all about. There are great restaurants here, from traditional taverns with bouzouki players and generous portions of meze, to ultramodern, fashionable joints, where young Cypriots dance the night away. As the Cypriot capital, Nicosia is home to some of the island's most significant museums. The Cyprus Archaeological Museum, the Archbishop Makarios III Foundation - Cultural Centre, the Ethnographic Museum, the National Struggle Museum, Leventio Museum, the Ethnological Museum, and the House of Hatzigeorgakis Kornesios that has received the Europe Nostra award in 1988. In the Old City surrounded by the Venetian Walls, one may discover the city’s historic past unfold into a magical labyrinth of museums, old churches, and medieval buildings. Do not forget to take a walk through Laiki Geitonia, where you have the opportunity to see some remarkable examples of traditional urban architecture as well as other small art workshops.

Feel the romance in the air in the land where Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty, once roamed. Swim in the sea by the rocks known as Petra tou Romiou where she was believed to have risen from the waves, make a pilgrimage to her sanctuary at Kouklia, or visit the grotto near Polis where she was supposed to have bathed. The Pafos (Paphos) region is the perfect place to celebrate a wedding or go for your honeymoon. Pafos (Paphos) town, with its pleasant harbour and medieval fort, combines a cosmopolitan holiday resort, spectacular countryside and historical sites. The region offers the possibility of combining sea and mountains as well as getting a taste of culture with its many archaeological sites. Admire the view at Maa-Paleokastro, the site on a peninsula near Coral Bay, where the Mycenaean Greeks first landed in Cyprus in the Bronze Age. Explore inland by going on a wine tour of the villages, stopping off at Chrysorrogiatissa monastery with its fine icons where you can get a taste of the locally produced vintage wine from its own winery. Or indulge in one of the many activities available, from playing a round of golf at a premier golf resort, indulging in a sea sport, such as swimming, diving or sailing, or going for the thrill of a water park or karting centre. Head for the Polis area where you can experience a back-to-basics lifestyle staying in one of the many renovated traditional houses from where you can explore the countryside. The Akamas peninsula is an area of natural wilderness with dramatic coastlines and sandy coves. Visit one of the last Mediterranean nesting grounds for the green and loggerhead turtles on the sandy beaches of Lara. Or walk along one of the many scenic nature trails spotting rare endemic plants that grow there, or watching migrating birds fly by overhead. Or take a boat trip along the spectacular coastline of what forms part of Aphrodite’s playground.

Goudi Village
Choulou Village

East meets West in Larnaka (Larnaca) as both Christianity and Islam have revered religious sites here, with the mosque of Hala Sultan, an important Moslem place of pilgrimage, and the church of St Lazarus, Jesus’ friend whom he resurrected from the dead.
The mountainous area of Larnaka (Larnaca), is dotted with charming villages and has the largest concentration of traditional houses available for rent. The listed village of Lefkara, is perhaps the most picturesque, with its narrow streets and stone houses with red-tiled roofs and central courtyards, and a history of producing wonderful handicrafts such as filigree silverware and a traditional kind of lace known the world over as “lefkaritika”. Legend has it that Leonardo da Vinci himself came here and bought an altar cloth, which he donated to Milan cathedral.
Amongst archaeological sites worth visiting, Choirokoitia is one of the best preserved sites of a prehistoric settlement brought to light in the Eastern Mediterranean, and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The church of Angeloktisti, in the village of Kiti, has one of the finest examples of Byzantine art of the Justinian period, a rare 6th century mosaic of the Virgin and Child between two archangels, while perched dramatically on a rocky peak with a panoramic view over the surrounding hillsides, sits the solitary monastery of Stavrovouni, one of the oldest monasteries in Cyprus.