Compare Cyprus holidays

The best beaches in Cyprus

Cyprus has a superb coastline and some of the finest beaches in Europe. From family-friendly to hedonistic hubs, this Med island ticks all beach boxes.

Nissi Beach

A short drive from Ayia Napa, Nissi Beach attracts big crowds, especially in summer. They come for the powdery white sands and a shallow turquoise sea and stay for the lively beach parties that go on all night.

Finikoudes Beach

Finikoudes Beach in the heart of Larnaca is always popular, with rows of sunbeds, parasols, palm trees and restaurants giving it that classic beach holiday vibe. It’s also the closest beach to the Zenobia shipwreck if you’ve come for scuba diving.

Mackenzie Beach

A Blue Flag beach also in Larnaca, Mackenzie is a popular spot for families. It took its name from a Scottish restaurant owner who set up shop just after WWII. He clearly had the right idea – there are now several welcoming bars, coffee shops and restaurants along the beach.

Fig Tree Bay

Perfect for young families, Fig Tree Bay in Protaras has clear waters for snorkelling and handy facilities, such as sunbeds, changing rooms and cafés. You’ll often see its name on many ‘best beaches in Europe lists’, so it’s definitely worth a visit.

Aphrodite’s Beach

A sand and pebble beach, in between Paphos and Pissouri, sunbed-free Aphrodite’s Beach is the place to go for a little mythology with your beach holiday. It takes its name from Aphrodite’s Rock, a towering sea stack said to be the birthplace of the Greek goddess.

Things to do in Cyprus

Sun, sand and sea play a big part in any trip to Cyprus, but there’s lots more to do beyond its beaches. Visit ancient archaeological sites, go hiking in the mountains, and fill your plate with a meze feast.

History and culture

Cyprus may be small, but it packs a massive historical punch. Don’t miss the Nea Paphos Archaeological Park, where immaculate Roman mosaics illustrate ancient Greek myths. Ancient Kourion is another must-see. A vast city of ruins, the complex dates back to the 12th century BC.

The island’s interior is celebrated by UNESCO World Heritage for its Byzantine churches and monasteries – Archangelos Michail is a highlight – with brightly painted frescoes.

Nicosia, the divided capital, has excellent art galleries, such as the AG Leventis Gallery, and the Cyprus Museum, with its extensive archaeological collection.

Food and drink

Sharing a table of meze platters with family and friends is a wonderful way to make memories on your Cyprus holiday. Influenced by Turkish, Greek and Middle Eastern culture, each meze dish takes you on a journey, from freshly grilled halloumi to pork belly and potatoes.

Pair your food with local wines from Cyprus’ vineyards and finish with a strong Greek or Turkish coffee.

Diving and windsurfing

Cyprus’ shores ripple with every kind of watersport imaginable. You’ll find the usual holiday favourites – think banana boats, rings, and jet-skis – at most big resorts. For something a little more challenging, head to Larnaca for windsurfing and wind-foiling.

If diving is your thing, you’re on the right island. Iconic shipwreck Zenobia, off the coast of Larnaca, draws divers from all over the world. The Amphorae Caves of Paphos are similarly epic.

National parks and mountains

Temperatures are milder in Cyprus' mountains, making them superb for walking, climbing and cycling. Head to Troodos National Forest Park for incredible mountain views and dazzling displays of wildflowers in spring.

Over on the east coast, just south of Protaras, Cape Greco National Forest Park is also great for hiking and cycling. Plus, you can kayak and swim off the rocky coastline.

When to go to Cyprus

Summer in Cyprus runs from June to September. This is peak season when temperatures reach highs of around 31C in August and holiday prices soar; to stand the best chance of finding a summer bargain, compare holidays well in advance.

For a cooler climate and cheaper package holidays, visit in April when the mountains are covered in a blanket of wildflowers, and average temperatures sit in the low 20s – perfect for making the most of the national parks.

Greek Easter is a colourful time, with lively events in the towns and villages, and May is when turtles start arriving to lay their eggs along the shore. Many hotels and attractions close in winter, from November to March, but there are opportunities to ski in the mountains.

When is the cheapest time to visit Cyprus?

You’re more likely to find cheap holidays to Cyprus in spring (March, April and May, excluding Easter) when temperatures hover around the low 20s. Other good options are September and October – the sea is at its warmest and the weather can get up to 28C.

When should I go for the best weather?

Blue skies are a regular sight from April to October. July and August are sweltering, and spring has the best weather for walking and cycling. Although the odd wet, overcast day is common in April, the weather is still pleasant enough for a beach break (if you don't mind cold water).