Tourism is the main source of income for the Republic of Cyprus. The warm climate and favorable conditions make the island accessible for recreation all year round. The resorts here are divided into subspecies: some imply regularity, while others are focused on active guests, there is also a golden mean. Cyprus beaches consistently receive international awards for their cleanliness. Within walking distance are entertainment venues and restaurants with cuisines from all over the world.
There are plenty of attractions on the island, and they belong to different eras and are of both cultural and historical value. Geographical proximity to several countries at once opens up additional opportunities for tourists: one can arrange one-day or longer trips to the territory of neighbors.
Major beach resorts in Cyprus
Pathos
According to legend, Paphos is the birthplace of Aphrodite. The beaches here are both sandy and stone. In some places the coast is rocky. Coral Bay is home to the Green Sea Turtle Sanctuary. Paphos hotels mainly belong to the luxury class, although there are also simpler hotels. Of the sights, the Tombs of the Kings, the archaeological park, the ancient Greek catacombs and several churches are especially famous.
Limassol
The favorable geographical location of Limassol allows you to visit several neighboring resorts during the day. The beaches of the city are clean and narrow. Most are municipalities with a well-developed infrastructure. There are restaurants and cafes nearby, local cuisine prevails. The resort is famous for thalassotherapy, spa and diving. The Kolossi castle, the ruins of Amathus and Kourion are of particular interest to tourists.
Protaras
Young resort. Its white sand beaches are both crowded and quite secluded. The village is famous for its cuisine, including the national dish meze - a series of snacks. Protaras is a great diving destination due to the clear water and good visibility at depth. Lovers of man-made beauty have something to see here: the Church of Elijah the Prophet and the singing fountains. Those who are closer to nature will love Cape Greco, part of the national park.
Ayia Napa
Ayia Napa is located near Cape Greco. The city has a whole street of clubs offering guests all kinds of nightlife. The beaches are sandy and well maintained. Various water sports and leisure activities are practiced here, from diving to water skiing. The best souvenirs are handicrafts from neighboring villages. The monastery of the same name with the city and the Museum of the Sea are the main local attractions.
Larnaca
Larnaca has a rich historical heritage. There are two important religious shrines here - the Church of St. Lazarus, where part of his relics have been preserved, and the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, the fourth most important for Muslims. Also noteworthy are the medieval castle, the archaeological museum and the excavations of the city-state of Kition. Larnaca's beaches are not as popular as the neighboring resorts. All cuisines of the world are presented in restaurants.
Nicosia
The capital of the Republic of Cyprus and Northern Cyprus is famous for its old walled city. They were built in the 16th century by the Venetians. The city amazes with an abundance of retail outlets where you can buy both practical things, famous brands or local production, and souvenirs for every taste. National dishes are the basis of most cafes and restaurants, although cuisines from other countries are also available.
Peyia
A small settlement with few attractions. But the inhabitants are colorful, including immigrants from Britain, they supplemented the local cuisine and are constantly developing a new homeland. The coast is mostly rocky and the water is clear and clean. There are hotels, but guests are more likely to settle in villas. Locals grow oranges and sell souvenirs - folk art items.
Kyrenia
A port city with a fairly dense and low buildings. The main attraction is the beaches: sand, clear water and always good weather. People come here to relax. For those who like to explore the historical beauty, there is Bellapais Abbey and Kyrenia Castle. The latter contains a ship that is more than two and a half thousand years old.
Paralimni
Paralimni itself is not particularly popular with tourists, on the other hand, lovers of quiet rest and natural beauty will find solitude here and take a break from the crowds of visitors. The first-class beaches of other towns in the community can be reached in fifteen minutes by bus. Guests often rent villas, as there are few hotels here. But there are many restaurants with local cuisine. Of the man-made sights, churches stand out.
Pissouri
The small village of Pissouri is famous for its eponymous beach. It is located in a quiet bay, not crowded, the coastal bottom is covered with fine sand mixed with pebbles. The reason for the low attendance is the not very convenient location, despite the developed local infrastructure. Even if you rent a house in a village, you will have to get to the water three kilometers, which is a decent distance by the standards of Cyprus.
Policy
The meaning of Polis for local residents and tourists is different. The former go out to sea from the local port for fishing, the latter are attracted by comfort, good beaches located close to hotels, and fresh seafood. There are few attractions, but they are varied: the Church of Agios Andronikos, the Baths of Aphrodite, located in the national park, the Marion-Arsinoe Museum and the Akamas Peninsula.
Latchi
The village of Latchi (Latchi) was founded near Polis. Here is the bathhouse of Aphrodite - the main value of a small settlement, where only about a hundred people live. This does not in any way affect the flow of tourists in a negative sense. The nearby national park and sandy beaches are a magnet for visitors from all over the world. Directly along the beach you can walk to the neighboring, more lively cities.
Famagusta
The port city of Famagusta has often changed "owners", and now its status is not fully determined. The rich cultural heritage of the territory is connected with this: each conqueror wanted to leave his mark on history. The fortress walls, the citadel, some bastions, cathedrals and monasteries have been perfectly preserved. The ancient city of Salamis is nearby. Almost all hotels in Famagusta have five stars.
Argaka
The village of Argaka is divided into upper (pano) and lower (kato). The first is located on the slope and hills, the second is closer to the coast. The main attraction is the chapel of St. Barbara. On the beach of Argaki there is a specially equipped picnic area - a whole complex for active and passive recreation. Tourists can enjoy the produce of local farmers, from citrus fruits to figs.
Oroklini
The small town of Oroklini is a sedate resting place for tourists who love peace and quiet. Beaches with dark sand of volcanic origin. They are narrow and very close to the building line. Attractions - several churches and a monastery on the Black Mountain. The highlight of the area is the lake of the same name with the town, where pink flamingos are found.