Famous Landmarks in Cyprus
Cyprus, officially the Republic of Cyprus, is an island nation in the Eastern Mediterranean, located south of Turkey, east of Greece, and north of Egypt. The capital city is Nicosia, which is divided into the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot sectors. Other major cities include Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. Cyprus’ economy is based on services, tourism, agriculture, and shipping. Major landmarks include the Tomb of the Kings, the Cyprus Museum, and the Troodos Mountains. Cyprus is a member of the European Union (EU), the United Nations (UN), and the Commonwealth of Nations. The country faces ongoing political division and territorial disputes with Turkey. (Source: computerdo.com)
Top 10 Landmarks in Cyprus
Cyprus is well-connected with international airports, and its efficient transportation system makes it easy for visitors to explore the island’s diverse regions. Whether you are seeking history, culture, relaxation, or adventure, Cyprus is a destination that promises a memorable experience.
Top 10 Famous Landmarks in Cyprus
1. Kourion Archaeological Site
Landmark Overview
Kourion is one of the most important archaeological sites in Cyprus, offering a glimpse into the island’s ancient past. The site is located on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and features well-preserved ruins of a Greco-Roman city. Highlights of Kourion include the magnificent Greco-Roman theater, the House of Eustolios with its intricate mosaics, and the nearby Christian basilica. The theater is still used for performances today, making it a perfect blend of ancient and modern culture.
Location
Kourion is located near the town of Episkopi, about 19 km west of Limassol.
Ticket Price
Entrance to the Kourion Archaeological Site is approximately $5 USD.
Nearby Airports
- Paphos International Airport (PFO): About 50 km from Kourion, a 40-minute drive.
- Larnaca International Airport (LCA): About 90 km, a 1-hour drive.
Railway Stations
There are no railway services in Cyprus. Visitors can access Kourion by car or bus from Limassol.
Special Attention
- The site is expansive and requires some walking. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during the hot summer months.
- The Greco-Roman theater is often used for events, so check the schedule if you want to catch a live performance.
- The views from the site are spectacular, especially at sunset, making it an ideal time for a visit.
2. Paphos Archaeological Park
Landmark Overview
Paphos Archaeological Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site that features some of the most impressive ancient ruins in Cyprus. The park includes the remains of Roman villas, theaters, fortresses, and tombs, with the most famous attractions being the beautifully preserved mosaics at the House of Dionysus. The park is located near the harbor of Paphos, making it easy to explore both the ancient and modern parts of the city.
Location
Paphos Archaeological Park is located in the city of Paphos, on the southwest coast of Cyprus.
Ticket Price
Entrance to the park is approximately $5 USD.
Nearby Airports
- Paphos International Airport (PFO): About 10 km from the park, a 15-minute drive.
Railway Stations
There are no railway services in Cyprus. The park is easily accessible by car or bus from the city center.
Special Attention
- The park is open year-round, but it can get very hot during the summer, so plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon.
- The site is large, and there are limited shaded areas, so be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen.
- The House of Dionysus mosaics are a must-see, so allocate enough time to fully explore this part of the park.
3. Tombs of the Kings
Landmark Overview
The Tombs of the Kings is an impressive necropolis located just outside Paphos. Despite its name, no kings were buried here; rather, it was the final resting place for high-ranking officials and wealthy citizens during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The underground tombs are carved out of solid rock and are architecturally inspired by Egyptian traditions. The site offers a fascinating look into the burial practices of ancient Cyprus and provides an evocative atmosphere for visitors.
Location
Tombs of the Kings is located about 2 km north of Paphos.
Ticket Price
Entrance to the Tombs of the Kings is approximately $3 USD.
Nearby Airports
- Paphos International Airport (PFO): About 12 km from the site, a 20-minute drive.
Railway Stations
There are no railway services in Cyprus. Visitors can access the site by car or bus from Paphos.
Special Attention
- The site involves some climbing and descending into tombs, so wear comfortable shoes and watch your step.
- Early morning visits are recommended to avoid the heat and crowds.
- While there are limited facilities on-site, the nearby city of Paphos offers plenty of dining and refreshment options.
4. Kykkos Monastery
Landmark Overview
Kykkos Monastery, one of the wealthiest and most significant religious sites in Cyprus, is located in the Troodos Mountains. The monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is famous for housing one of the few surviving icons painted by the Apostle Luke. The monastery is adorned with beautiful frescoes, mosaics, and icons, making it a cultural and spiritual treasure of Cyprus. The surrounding mountains offer stunning views, and the serene atmosphere makes it a popular destination for both pilgrims and tourists.
Location
Kykkos Monastery is located in the Troodos Mountains, about 20 km west of Pedoulas.
Ticket Price
Entrance to the monastery is free, but donations are appreciated. Entrance to the museum inside the monastery is about $4 USD.
Nearby Airports
- Paphos International Airport (PFO): About 75 km from the monastery, a 1.5-hour drive.
- Larnaca International Airport (LCA): About 120 km, a 2-hour drive.
Railway Stations
There are no railway services in Cyprus. Visitors can reach the monastery by car or organized tours.
Special Attention
- The monastery is an active religious site, so visitors should dress modestly (no shorts or sleeveless tops).
- Photography is not allowed inside the monastery or near religious artifacts.
- The mountain roads leading to Kykkos can be winding, so take care when driving, especially in winter.
5. St. Hilarion Castle
Landmark Overview
St. Hilarion Castle, perched high on a mountain in Northern Cyprus, is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved castles on the island. Originally a monastery, it was fortified during the Byzantine period and later expanded by the Lusignans. The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding coastline and mountains and is steeped in legends, including the tale that it inspired Walt Disney’s creation of Sleeping Beauty’s castle. The hike to the top is worth the effort for the stunning views and the chance to explore the castle’s many rooms and towers.
Location
St. Hilarion Castle is located in Northern Cyprus, about 20 km west of Kyrenia (Girne).
Ticket Price
Entrance to the castle is about $3 USD.
Nearby Airports
- Ercan International Airport (ECN): About 45 km from the castle, a 50-minute drive.
Railway Stations
There are no railway services in Cyprus. Visitors can access the castle by car or bus from Kyrenia.
Special Attention
- The hike up to the castle is steep, so wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
- The castle offers little shade, so it’s best to visit in the cooler months or early in the day during the summer.
- Parts of the castle are in ruins, so be cautious when exploring uneven paths and stairways.
6. Kolossi Castle
Landmark Overview
Kolossi Castle, located near Limassol, is a medieval fortress that played an important role in the Crusades. Originally built by the Knights of St. John in the 13th century, it later became a stronghold for the Knights Templar. The castle is known for its well-preserved architecture, including thick stone walls, a square keep, and defensive features. The surrounding area is famous for its production of Commandaria wine, one of the oldest wines in the world, which was produced by the knights during their time at Kolossi.
Location
Kolossi Castle is located about 14 km west of Limassol.
Ticket Price
Entrance to the castle is approximately $3 USD.
Nearby Airports
- Paphos International Airport (PFO): About 55 km from the castle, a 45-minute drive.
- Larnaca International Airport (LCA): About 90 km, a 1-hour drive.
Railway Stations
There are no railway services in Cyprus. The castle can be reached by car or bus from Limassol.
Special Attention
- The castle is relatively small, so visitors can explore it in about an hour.
- Climb to the top of the keep for great views of the surrounding countryside and vineyards.
- The nearby town of Kolossi has several wineries where you can sample the famous Commandaria wine.
7. Larnaca Salt Lake and Hala Sultan Tekke
Landmark Overview
Larnaca Salt Lake is one of the most unique natural landmarks in Cyprus, especially famous for the large flocks of flamingos that visit during the winter months. Next to the salt lake is the Hala Sultan Tekke, a mosque that is one of the most important Muslim pilgrimage sites in Cyprus. The serene setting of the mosque, combined with the beauty of the salt lake and its surrounding wetlands, makes this a popular spot for nature lovers and those interested in the cultural diversity of Cyprus.
Location
Larnaca Salt Lake and Hala Sultan Tekke are located just outside Larnaca, near Larnaca International Airport.
Ticket Price
There is no entrance fee to visit the salt lake or the mosque.
Nearby Airports
- Larnaca International Airport (LCA): About 4 km from the salt lake and mosque, a 10-minute drive.
Railway Stations
There are no railway services in Cyprus. The site is easily accessible by car or public transportation from Larnaca.
Special Attention
- The best time to visit the salt lake is between November and March when the flamingos are most likely to be seen.
- The mosque is an active religious site, so visitors should dress modestly and respect prayer times.
- In summer, the salt lake often dries up, leaving behind a shimmering salt crust that’s equally fascinating to see.
8. Nissi Beach
Landmark Overview
Nissi Beach, located in Ayia Napa, is one of the most famous beaches in Cyprus, known for its crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and vibrant atmosphere. The beach is a favorite destination for both locals and tourists, offering a wide range of water sports, beach bars, and activities. Its shallow waters and calm conditions make it ideal for families, while its lively beach parties attract a younger crowd. The small islet connected to the beach by a narrow sandbar adds to its scenic beauty.
Location
Nissi Beach is located in Ayia Napa, on the southeast coast of Cyprus.
Ticket Price
Nissi Beach is free to access, though there may be fees for renting sunbeds, umbrellas, and participating in water sports.
Nearby Airports
- Larnaca International Airport (LCA): About 50 km from Nissi Beach, a 40-minute drive.
Railway Stations
There are no railway services in Cyprus. The beach is easily accessible by car or bus from Ayia Napa or Larnaca.
Special Attention
- The beach can get crowded during peak season, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
- If you’re looking for a quieter experience, visit during the off-season or early in the morning.
- The beach is known for its beach parties, so check the local schedule if you want to join in or avoid the crowds.
9. Troodos Mountains and Mount Olympus
Landmark Overview
The Troodos Mountains, located in the heart of Cyprus, are a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and skiers. Mount Olympus, the highest peak in Cyprus, is part of this range and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including skiing in winter and hiking in summer. The Troodos area is also known for its picturesque villages, Byzantine monasteries, and UNESCO-listed painted churches. Visitors can explore lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and scenic trails, making the Troodos Mountains a year-round destination.
Location
The Troodos Mountains are located in central Cyprus, with Mount Olympus being about 50 km northwest of Limassol.
Ticket Price
There is no entrance fee to visit the Troodos Mountains, but certain attractions, such as monasteries and churches, may have small fees.
Nearby Airports
- Paphos International Airport (PFO): About 70 km from the Troodos Mountains, a 1.5-hour drive.
- Larnaca International Airport (LCA): About 100 km, a 2-hour drive.
Railway Stations
There are no railway services in Cyprus. The Troodos Mountains are accessible by car or organized tours.
Special Attention
- The weather in the Troodos Mountains can be significantly cooler than on the coast, especially in winter, so bring appropriate clothing.
- Winter visitors can enjoy skiing, while summer visitors can explore the many hiking trails.
- The Troodos villages are known for their local crafts and traditional Cypriot cuisine, so take time to explore the local markets.
10. Ancient Salamis
Landmark Overview
Ancient Salamis, located near Famagusta in Northern Cyprus, is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. Once a thriving city-state, Salamis features well-preserved ruins of Roman baths, a gymnasium, a theater, and various temples. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into the Roman and Byzantine history of Cyprus, with impressive mosaics, columns, and statues still standing. The nearby beach adds to the allure of this historical site, making it a popular day trip for history enthusiasts.
Location
Ancient Salamis is located about 6 km north of Famagusta, in Northern Cyprus.
Ticket Price
Entrance to the site is approximately $3 USD.
Nearby Airports
- Ercan International Airport (ECN): About 50 km from Salamis, a 45-minute drive.
Railway Stations
There are no railway services in Cyprus. Visitors can access Salamis by car or bus from Famagusta.
Special Attention
- The site is spread out over a large area, so allow at least a few hours to explore it fully.
- There is limited shade, so bring water, sunscreen, and a hat, especially during the summer.
- Ancient Salamis is located near the beach, so you can combine a historical visit with some time by the sea.
