Exploring Cyprus by Car: A 7-Day Itinerary for the Greek Side

Maximize your week-long car rental in Cyprus with this comprehensive guide to the best locations on the Greek side. Discover ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and charming mountain villages.

Day 1 Attractions

Larnaca Salt Lake:

 

Larnaca Salt Lake is a complex network of four interconnected salt lakes located west of Larnaca city. Covering an area of 2.2 km², it's the second-largest salt lake in Cyprus and a significant wetland habitat.

 

The lake is renowned for its rich biodiversity, hosting over 85 species of water birds, including up to 12,000 flamingos during winter months.

 

Designated as a Ramsar site and Natura 2000 area, it's a popular spot for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts. The lake's picturesque beauty is enhanced by the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque on its bank, creating a stunning visual contrast.

Church of Saint Lazarus:

 

The Church of Saint Lazarus is a late 9th-century Greek Orthodox church in Larnaca, built over the reputed second tomb of Lazarus of Bethany. According to tradition, Lazarus fled to Cyprus after his resurrection and became the first Bishop of Kition (modern-day Larnaca).

 

The church's architecture reflects various historical influences, featuring three domes and a blend of Byzantine and Gothic elements. In 1972, human remains believed to be part of Lazarus' relics were discovered under the altar during renovations. The church is not only a significant religious site but also an important historical landmark in Larnaca.

Larnaca Castle:

 

Larnaca Castle, located on the southern coast of Cyprus, is a fortress with a rich history dating back to the Byzantine era. Originally built in the late 12th century, it was significantly expanded in the late 14th century under Lusignan rule.

 

The castle has served various purposes throughout its history, including as a defense fortification, an artillery station, and a prison during British colonial rule. Today, it functions as a museum, showcasing artifacts from early Christian, Byzantine, and post-Byzantine Cyprus.

 

The castle's courtyard has been converted into an open-air theater, making it a center for both historical education and cultural events in Larnaca.

Day 2 Attractions

Nissi Beach:

Nissi Beach is one of the most famous and picturesque beaches in Cyprus, located about 3 km west of Ayia Napa. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and fine, golden sand, it's a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

 

The beach gets its name from the small islet (nissi in Greek) located close to the coast, which can be reached on foot during low tide. Nissi Beach offers a wide range of water sports activities and is renowned for its lively atmosphere, beach parties, and music events, especially during the summer months. With its shallow waters and family-friendly facilities, it caters to visitors of all ages, making it a must-visit spot in Ayia Napa.

Cape Greco National Park:

Cape Greco National Park is a protected nature park located at the southeastern edge of Cyprus, between Ayia Napa and Protaras. Covering an area of 385 hectares, it's known for its stunning natural beauty, featuring dramatic sea cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters.

 

The park offers numerous hiking and cycling trails, providing breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. It's home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare orchids and migratory birds. Popular attractions within the park include the Cape Greco lighthouse, the love bridge, and several sea caves. The area is also a favorite spot for snorkeling, diving, and cliff jumping, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The Sea Caves:

The Sea Caves of Ayia Napa are a series of impressive rock formations carved by the sea over thousands of years. Located along the coastline between Ayia Napa and Cape Greco, these natural wonders showcase the raw beauty of Cyprus's geological landscape. The caves feature intricate archways, tunnels, and caverns, creating a dramatic and photogenic scenery.

 

Visitors can explore the area by foot along the rocky shore or by boat for a different perspective. The Sea Caves are not only a popular spot for sightseeing but also for activities like snorkeling, diving, and fishing. During calm weather, some of the more accessible caves can be explored by swimming or kayaking, offering a unique adventure for those willing to venture off the beaten path.

Day 3-4 Attractions

Limassol Castle:

Limassol Castle, located in the heart of Limassol's historical center, is a medieval fortress with a rich history dating back to the Byzantine period. The current structure, rebuilt around 1590 during Ottoman rule, stands on the site of an earlier castle where Richard the Lionheart allegedly married Berengaria of Navarre in 1191.

 

Throughout its history, the castle served various purposes, including as a prison until 1950. Today, it houses the Cyprus Medieval Museum, showcasing a collection of artifacts that reflect the island's medieval past. With its impressive architecture blending Byzantine, Gothic, and Ottoman influences, Limassol Castle offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Cyprus's complex history.

Limassol Marina:

Limassol Marina is a modern, luxurious waterfront development that has transformed the city's coastline. Opened in 2014, it offers 650 berths for yachts up to 110 meters in length, making it one of the most significant maritime projects in the Eastern Mediterranean.

 

The marina complex includes high-end residences, shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities, creating a vibrant lifestyle destination. It provides a full range of services for yacht owners and crew, including 24-hour security, berthing assistance, and a fully equipped boatyard. The marina has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a perfect blend of nautical charm and contemporary amenities against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.

Kourion Archaeological Site:

The Kourion Archaeological Site, located about 19 km west of Limassol, is one of the most impressive ancient sites in Cyprus. This Greco-Roman city-kingdom, believed to have been founded in the 13th century BC, offers a fascinating journey through time. The site's centerpiece is a magnificent Greco-Roman theatre, originally built in the 2nd century BC and later expanded, which is still used today for cultural performances.

 

Other notable features include the 'House of Eustolios' with its well-preserved 5th-century mosaics, the Roman Agora, and an early Christian basilica. The site also boasts stunning views over the Mediterranean, adding to its appeal. Kourion provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore Cyprus's rich archaeological heritage in a picturesque setting.

Day 5 Attractions

Paphos Archaeological Park:

Paphos Archaeological Park, also known as Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, is a vast UNESCO World Heritage site located near Paphos Harbor. This expansive open-air museum showcases the rich history of Cyprus, spanning from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. The park is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved mosaic floors in four Roman villas: the Houses of Dionysus, Theseus, Aion, and Orpheus.

 

These intricate mosaics depict scenes from Greek mythology and are considered among the finest in the Eastern Mediterranean. Other significant features include the Agora, Asklepieion, Odeon, and the "Saranta Kolones" (Forty Columns) Fortress. The site offers visitors a unique opportunity to walk through centuries of history and admire the architectural and artistic achievements of ancient civilizations.

Tombs of the Kings:

 

The Tombs of the Kings is a large necropolis located about two kilometers north of Paphos harbor. Despite its name, no kings were actually buried here; instead, it was the final resting place for high-ranking officials and aristocrats of the Ptolemaic and Roman periods. Carved out of solid rock, these impressive underground tombs date back to the 4th century BC.

 

The necropolis features a unique blend of Greek and Roman architectural styles, with some tombs resembling houses with atria, columns, and frescoed walls. Many of the tombs have multiple chambers and are adorned with Doric pillars. The site's proximity to the sea and its well-preserved state make it a hauntingly beautiful and historically significant attraction, offering insights into ancient burial practices and beliefs about the afterlife.

Paphos Castle:

 

Paphos Castle, situated at the edge of Paphos harbor, is an iconic landmark of the city. Originally built as a Byzantine fort to protect the harbor, it was rebuilt by the Lusignans in the 13th century, destroyed by an earthquake, and then reconstructed by the Ottomans in the 16th century.

 

The castle's compact size belies its historical significance; it has served various purposes throughout its history, including as a fortress, prison, and even a salt warehouse during British rule. Today, the castle houses a small museum and offers panoramic views of the harbor and coastline from its roof. Its picturesque setting makes it a popular backdrop for cultural events, including the annual Paphos Aphrodite Festival, where operas are performed in the castle square.

Aphrodite's Rock:

 

Aphrodite's Rock, also known as Petra tou Romiou (Rock of the Greek), is a sea stack located off the shore along the road between Paphos and Limassol. According to Greek mythology, this is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, who is said to have emerged from the sea foam at this spot. The site consists of three main rocks, with the largest being Aphrodite's Rock itself.

 

The area is not only of mythological significance but also offers stunning natural beauty, with crystal-clear waters and a pebbly beach. Many visitors come to swim around the rock, as legend has it that doing so brings good fortune and eternal youth. The dramatic landscape, especially during sunset, makes it a popular spot for photographers and romantics alike, embodying the mythical allure of Cyprus.

Day 6 Attractions

Kykkos Monastery:
 

Kykkos Monastery, founded in the 11th century, is one of the wealthiest and most famous monasteries in Cyprus. Located in the Troodos Mountains, it's renowned for its stunning Byzantine architecture and rich historical significance. The monastery houses the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to have been painted by St. Luke the Evangelist.

 

Its interior is adorned with intricate golden mosaics, colorful frescoes, and a remarkable collection of religious artifacts. Kykkos Monastery also played a significant role in Cyprus' modern history, as it was the spiritual home of Archbishop Makarios III, the first president of Cyprus. Visitors can explore the monastery's ornate church, museum, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

Omodos Village:

 

Omodos is a picturesque village nestled in the Troodos Mountains, known for its traditional Cypriot charm and rich wine-making heritage. The village's cobblestone streets, lined with white-washed houses and colorful flower pots, create a postcard-perfect setting. At its heart lies the Timios Stavros Monastery, home to a piece of the Holy Rope allegedly used to tie Christ to the cross.

 

Omodos is famous for its wine production, with numerous local wineries offering tastings of the region's renowned Commandaria wine. Visitors can also explore traditional workshops producing lace, known as "pipilla," and enjoy local delicacies in charming tavernas. The village's warm hospitality and preservation of Cypriot traditions make it a popular destination for those seeking an authentic mountain village experience.

Mount Olympus (highest point in Cyprus):

 

Mount Olympus, standing at 1,952 meters (6,404 feet), is the highest peak in Cyprus and the central point of the Troodos Mountains. Known locally as Chionistra, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island and, on clear days, visibility stretches to the coast. The mountain is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, including the circular Artemis Trail, which loops around the peak. In winter, it transforms into Cyprus' main ski resort, surprising many with the opportunity to ski on a Mediterranean island.

 

While the actual summit is inaccessible due to a British military base and radar station, visitors can still enjoy the near-summit experience and the surrounding natural beauty. The area around Mount Olympus is rich in diverse flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and researchers alike.

Day 7 Attractions

Ledra Street (crossing point to Turkish side):

 

Ledra Street is one of the main historic shopping streets in Nicosia and home to a significant pedestrian crossing point between the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot controlled areas of the city. The street, which dates back to medieval times, was closed in 1964 due to intercommunal conflicts and became symbolic of the island's division. In 2008, after decades of separation, the Ledra Street crossing point was opened, allowing people to move between the two sides of Nicosia.

 

Today, it serves as a bustling commercial area and a poignant reminder of Cyprus's complex political history. Visitors can experience the unique atmosphere of crossing from one side to the other, observing the contrasts and similarities between the two parts of the divided capital.

Cyprus Museum:

 

The Cyprus Museum, located in central Nicosia, is the oldest and largest archaeological museum in Cyprus. Established in 1882, it houses an extensive collection of Cypriot antiquities, offering a comprehensive overview of the island's rich cultural heritage.

 

The museum's exhibits span from the Neolithic Age to the Early Byzantine period (7th century AD), showcasing pottery, jewelry, sculptures, and other artifacts discovered during various archaeological excavations across Cyprus. Notable exhibits include the famous statue of Aphrodite from Soli and the Copper Ingot from Enkomi. With its vast collection and well-curated displays, the Cyprus Museum provides visitors with an invaluable insight into the island's archaeological wealth and historical significance in the Mediterranean region.

 

Venetian Walls:

The Venetian Walls of Nicosia are a series of defensive walls that encircle the old city, forming a distinct star shape when viewed from above. Built in the 16th century by the Venetians to protect the city from Ottoman attacks, these impressive fortifications replaced the earlier medieval walls. The walls stretch for about 5 km and include eleven heart-shaped bastions named after Italian aristocrats who contributed to their construction.

 

Although they ultimately failed to prevent the Ottoman conquest in 1570, the walls remain largely intact today, serving as a prominent landmark and a reminder of Nicosia's turbulent past. Visitors can walk along sections of the walls, explore some of the bastions, and enjoy panoramic views of both the old and new parts of the city. The Famagusta Gate, one of the original entrances to the walled city, now serves as a cultural center and is a popular attraction within this historic fortification system.