DK Travel : Cyprus

Cyprus packs a remarkable array of sights and attractions into such a small space: museums and archaeological sites that span more than five millennia of history, throbbing beach resorts, medieval fortresses, age-old temples standing on empty hillsides, cool mountain forests and pretty valleys chequered with vineyards, grain fields and olive groves all complete the landscape. On an island where one can swim and ski all in the same day, this is truly a holiday paradise with something for everyone.

Bourekia

If you can find room for dessert, these tiny pastries stuffed with curd cheese and honey will fill the last corner.
Brandy

Drunk on its own or in a variety of cocktails. The brandy sour is the island’s own cocktail and very palatable.
Bubbles Cocktail Bar, Pafos

It’s always party time at this loud and lively Pafos music bar, which is famous for its strong cocktails.
Buffavento Castle

Almost 1,000 m (3,300 ft) above sea level, Buffavento’s dilapidated square tower and keep were built by the Byzantines to watch for Saracen raiders and alert the defenders of Kyrenia. Long abandoned, its windy battlements offer breathtaking views of the coast – even with no pirate sails in sight.
Byzantine Era

From AD 330 Cyprus was ruled by Constantinople. Earthquakes destroyed coastal cities in the 4th century, but otherwise it was a period of peace. From the mid-7th century the island was devastated by Arab pirates who were not defeated by Emperor Nicephoros Phocas until 965.
Byzantine Museum and Art Galleries, Nicosia

The magnificent, early Christian Kanakaria mosaics are the gem of this museum, which also has a splendid collection of more than 200 colourful icons mounted in gilt and silver. The oldest date from the 9th century AD.
Café Sedir, Nicosia

With tables beneath white umbrellas in a calm, cloistered courtyard, this is the best place in the old town for a rest and cold drink.
Café Vienna, Pafos

More sedate and stylish than most of Pafos’s bars, Café Vienna is a shady retreat serving excellent coffee, pastries and sandwiches.
Calcutta, Limassol

An odd but inspired hybrid, Calcutta serves spicy Indian dishes and fabulous meze . Good choices for vegetarians too.
Caledonia Trail

This is a fairly gentle amble in the woods, from the Presidential Forest Lodge (where Cypriot presidents come to cool off and think things over) to the famous waterfall in its wooded ravine (see Kaledonia Falls). Following the course of the aptly named Kryos Potamos (“Cold River”) which never dries up and is perfect for cooling hot feet, look out for birds, butterflies and abundant wild flowers in spring and early summer. Expect to complete the walk in less than two hours at an easy pace.

Jump to top

Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- £5–£10
- £10–£15
- £15–£20
- £20–£30
- over £30