Cyprus road trip itinerary by car

Cyprus is a Mediterranean gem that packs an incredible diversity of experiences into a compact island. Known as the birthplace of Aphrodite, it blends stunning beaches, ancient ruins, Byzantine churches, and charming mountain villages with a rich culinary scene and warm hospitality.

This 10-day Cyprus itinerary is a circular route from Larnaca that takes you on a journey through crystal-clear waters, UNESCO World Heritage sites, traditional villages, and breathtaking mountain scenery. You’ll experience both Greek and Turkish Cypriot cultures, sample local wines and cuisine, and discover why this island has captivated visitors for thousands of years.

Take your time as you drive along coastal roads and mountain passes, stopping for impromptu swims at hidden coves or to sample local delicacies at village tavernas. Cyprus is best explored at a leisurely pace, allowing time to soak in the laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere and connect with the friendly locals who are always ready to share stories of their island’s rich history and traditions.

LARNACA: Your Gateway to Cyprus

So you’ve just landed at Larnaca International Airport and you rented a car for your itinerary – great choice! Larnaca is the perfect starting point for our Cyprus adventure, and I always like to spend that first day shaking off any jet lag while getting my first taste of Cypriot culture.

Start your exploration at Finikoudes Beach, a palm-lined promenade that’s the beating heart of the city. I love grabbing a frappe (iced coffee) at one of the seaside cafés and watching the world go by. The water here is surprisingly clear for a city beach, and the shallow entry makes it perfect for that first dip in the Mediterranean.

Just a short walk from the beach, you’ll find the Church of Saint Lazarus, which is absolutely worth a visit. This 9th-century stone church is said to house the tomb of Lazarus (yes, the one Jesus raised from the dead!). The intricate iconostasis inside is stunning, and I always find the atmosphere incredibly peaceful after a long flight.

As the afternoon cools down, drive out to the Larnaca Salt Lake, which is just 5 minutes from the airport. If you’re visiting between November and March, you might catch the famous flamingos that winter here – it’s quite a sight with hundreds of pink birds against the backdrop of the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque. Speaking of which, this mosque is one of the most important Muslim pilgrimage sites and sits beautifully on the lake’s edge. The gardens are a lovely spot for a quiet moment.

I do remember like yesterday my first walk in the dry lake with my 5 years old boy, which started with so much fun but continued in an increasing level of black mud which took us a while to wash it off our bare feet!

For dinner, skip the tourist traps on the main strip and head to the streets behind Finikoudes Beach where the locals eat. My favorite spot is a small simple no-frills inexpensive taverna called Edesma, where the meze (small plates) keep coming until you beg them to stop! Try the grilled halloumi cheese and fresh octopus if they have it.

My personal tip: Larnaca’s best sunset views are from Mackenzie Beach, just a 5-minute drive from the center. Grab a drink at one of the beach bars and watch planes come in low over the Mediterranean – it’s quite the spectacle!

My suggested accommodation in Larnaca: Rise Urban Hotel

LEFKARA & AYIA NAPA: From Traditional Villages to Beach Paradise

After a relaxed breakfast in Larnaca (try the traditional Cypriot breakfast of halloumi, olives, tomatoes, and fresh bread), it’s time to hit the road! Our first stop is the picturesque village of Lefkara, about 40 minutes inland from Larnaca.

Lefkara is famous for its lace (known as “lefkaritika”) and silverwork. Legend has it that Leonardo da Vinci visited in 1481 and bought a lace altar cloth for Milan Cathedral! The narrow streets lined with limestone houses are perfect for wandering. I usually park at the village entrance and explore on foot – the village isn’t large, but the hills can be steep.

When you visit the lace shops, don’t rush. The older women who make these intricate pieces love to demonstrate their craft, and even if you don’t buy anything (though the pieces make amazing gifts), it’s a cultural experience just watching their skilled hands at work. For a coffee break, head to the central square and try a traditional Cypriot coffee – it’s similar to Greek coffee, served with a glass of cold water on the side.

On your way out of Lefkara, make a quick stop at the Kamares Aqueduct, an impressive 18th-century structure just outside Larnaca. It’s a great photo opportunity and rarely crowded.

Now it’s time to head to Ayia Napa! The drive takes you through some beautiful countryside before reaching the coast. Ayia Napa has a reputation as a party town, but don’t let that fool you – it’s also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean.

Check into your accommodation and head straight to Nissi Beach to catch the afternoon sun. The water here is so blue it almost looks AI made! The white sand beach forms a natural land bridge to a small island when the tide is low, which is fun to walk across.

For dinner, I recommend avoiding the main strip (unless you’re looking for nightlife) and instead heading to the harbor area. There are several excellent fish tavernas where the catch of the day is displayed on ice for you to choose from. My favorite is the sea bream, grilled simply with lemon, olive oil, and herbs.

Alternatively, if you walk up 10 minutes in the old town, head to the Taverna Napa est.1976. I had there some of the most amazing food in Cyprus. It’s quite busy unfortunately, so book in advance and go there on time, otherwise your table will be given away.

My personal tip: If you’re visiting between May and October, book a sunset boat trip from Ayia Napa harbor. These 2-3 hour cruises often include stops for swimming in crystal-clear coves that are inaccessible by land, and many provide drinks and snacks on board.

My suggested accommodation in Ayia Napa: Adams Beach Hotel

AYIA NAPA & PROTARAS: Coastal Wonders

Today is all about exploring the stunning coastline of eastern Cyprus, and trust me, you’re in for a treat! Start your day early with a drive to Cape Greco National Park, just 10 minutes from Ayia Napa. This protected nature park offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery on the island.

Park your car and follow the well-marked trails along the cliffs. The sea caves are particularly impressive – massive rock formations carved by centuries of waves. If you’re feeling adventurous and have packed your swimwear (always a good idea in Cyprus!), there are several spots where locals cliff-jump into the crystal-clear waters below. I’m usually content watching the daredevils while enjoying the spectacular views!

Next, drive to Blue Lagoon, one of my absolute favorite spots in Cyprus. This natural pool of intensely turquoise water is perfect for snorkeling – the visibility is incredible, and you’ll see plenty of Mediterranean fish. I always pack a picnic for this spot since there are no facilities nearby, and it makes for a perfect lunch break.

In the afternoon, head to Protaras and visit Fig Tree Bay, consistently rated as one of Europe’s top beaches. The beach gets its name from a lone fig tree that’s been there since the 17th century. The water here is shallow and calm, making it perfect for a relaxed swim after your active morning.

I was there with my little one and we had a blast. Besides, the water is so shallow that I could leave him in the water without being constantly worried.

If you’re still feeling energetic, Konnos Bay is just a short drive away and offers a more secluded experience, nestled between pine-covered hills. The contrast of the deep blue water against the white sand is simply stunning.

For dinner, head back to Ayia Napa and explore the medieval monastery in the town center before finding a restaurant. This 16th-century monastery is surprisingly peaceful given its location in the heart of the party district. The ancient sycamore tree in the courtyard is said to be over 600 years old!

My personal tip: For an unforgettable experience, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard at Konnos Bay in the late afternoon. As most tourists head back to their hotels, you’ll have the chance to paddle around the headland to discover small, hidden coves that are completely secluded. The light at this time of day makes the cliffs glow a warm gold color – perfect for photos!

My suggested accommodation in Ayia Napa: Adams Beach Hotel

FAMAGUSTA VIEWPOINT & NICOSIA: Border Experiences & Capital City

Today we’re heading to Nicosia, but with a powerful and thought-provoking stop along the way. After checking out of your Ayia Napa accommodation, drive north toward Famagusta.

Famagusta itself is in Northern Cyprus (the Turkish-controlled part of the island), and as I mentioned in my Cyprus car rental guide, you cannot take your rental car across the border. However, there’s a viewpoint near Deryneia where you can see the ghost town of Varosha.

This once-thriving resort area has been fenced off and abandoned since the Turkish invasion in 1974, with hotels and homes left exactly as they were. It’s an eerie sight – a time capsule of 1970s beach resort architecture slowly being reclaimed by nature. There’s a café at the viewpoint with binoculars available if you want a closer look.

After this sobering experience, continue your journey to Nicosia (Lefkosia), the world’s last divided capital city. The drive takes about an hour, and as you approach, you’ll notice the landscape changing from coastal to more urban.

Finding parking in Nicosia can be challenging, so I recommend heading straight to your accommodation and asking for parking advice. Many hotels offer parking or can direct you to nearby lots.

Once settled, head to the old town within the impressive Venetian walls. Your first stop should be Ledra Street, the main shopping thoroughfare that actually crosses the Green Line (UN Buffer Zone) dividing the Greek and Turkish parts of the city. Walking through the checkpoint is a straightforward process – just have your passport ready. It’s a fascinating experience to cross from one culture to another in just a few steps.

On the north side, visit Büyük Han (the Great Inn), a beautifully restored Ottoman caravanserai from the 16th century. The two-story structure now houses cafés, art galleries, and souvenir shops around a central courtyard with a mosque. I love sitting here with a Turkish coffee, soaking in the atmosphere that feels worlds away from the Greek side.

Head back across to the south and visit the impressive Cyprus Museum before dinner. It houses the island’s most important archaeological finds, including a captivating collection of Cypriot antiquities dating back to the Neolithic period.

For dinner, the narrow streets around Ledra Street are filled with excellent options. Look for Laiki Geitonia, a pedestrianized area of restored 18th-century houses, now home to some of the city’s best tavernas. Try kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb) or stifado (beef stew) for an authentic Cypriot meal.

My personal tip: For the best view of the divided city, visit the Shacolas Tower Observatory on the southern side. From the 11th floor, you can see across the entire city, including the buffer zone with its abandoned buildings. The contrast between the developed south and the more static north is striking from this vantage point.

My suggested accommodation in Nicosia: Cityscape Urban

NICOSIA: Deeper Exploration

After breakfast at your hotel or at one of Nicosia’s excellent bakeries (look for places selling “bourekia” – pastries filled with cheese, herbs, or meat), it’s time to dive deeper into this fascinating capital.

Start your day at the Venetian Walls that encircle the old city. Built in the 16th century, these impressive fortifications are shaped like a star with eleven bastions. The best-preserved section is near Famagusta Gate, which now serves as a cultural center. I always find it amazing that these massive walls, built to protect against Ottoman invasion, took only 18 months to construct.

Next, head to the Archbishop’s Palace and the adjacent Byzantine Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of Byzantine icons. Even if you’re not particularly religious, the artistry is incredible, with some pieces dating back to the 8th century.

For lunch, explore the revitalized areas around Phaneromeni Church. This district has undergone a renaissance in recent years, with hip cafés and art spaces popping up in old buildings. My favorite spot is To Anamma, a courtyard café serving creative Cypriot fusion dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour of the Green Line (available from the Cyprus Tourism Organization office). These tours provide fascinating insights into the city’s division and the ongoing peace process. Some parts of the buffer zone look frozen in time since 1974, with abandoned shops still displaying products and prices from that era.

If you’re interested in Cypriot crafts, visit the Leventis Municipal Museum, housed in a beautiful old mansion. It offers a wonderful overview of the city’s history and culture through everyday objects, costumes, and photographs.

As evening approaches, head to the Laiki Yitonia quarter for dinner. This pedestrianized area is touristy but charming, with restored 18th-century buildings housing tavernas with outdoor seating. For something more local, venture slightly off the tourist track to Zanettos Taverna, one of the oldest restaurants in Nicosia, serving traditional meze since 1938.

My personal tip: Look for the “hidden” cafés in the narrow streets between Ledra Street and Onasagorou Street. My favorite is a tiny place called Kafeneio Inomagirio, where older Cypriot men gather to play backgammon. Order a Cypriot coffee and a slice of “mahalepi” (a refreshing milk pudding topped with rose water and nuts) for an authentic local experience.

My suggested accommodation in Nicosia: Cityscape Urban

NICOSIA TO TROODOS: Mountain Villages & Monasteries

Today we’re leaving the urban landscape behind and heading for the cool pine forests and traditional villages of the Troodos Mountains. After checking out of your Nicosia accommodation, set your GPS for the village of Kakopetria, about an hour’s drive southwest.

The road climbs steadily, and you’ll notice the temperature dropping as you gain altitude – a welcome relief during the hot Cypriot summer! The landscape transforms dramatically from the flat plains around Nicosia to winding roads through pine and cedar forests.

Kakopetria is one of my favorite mountain villages, with a beautifully preserved old quarter of narrow streets and traditional houses with wooden balconies. Park at the village entrance and explore on foot. The “Linos” restaurant in the old quarter makes a perfect coffee stop, set in a restored olive mill with the original equipment still in place.

After exploring Kakopetria, it’s time to discover some of Cyprus’s incredible Byzantine heritage. The Troodos region is home to ten UNESCO-listed painted churches, scattered among the villages and forests. My top recommendation is the Agios Nikolaos tis Stegis (St. Nicholas of the Roof) church, just outside Kakopetria. Dating from the 11th century, its interior is covered with vibrant frescoes depicting biblical scenes. The name comes from its distinctive wooden roof, built to protect it from heavy snowfall.

Continue your drive deeper into the mountains, just a few minutes, stopping at the village of Galata to see more painted churches. The roads get narrower and windier, but the views are increasingly spectacular. Take your time and enjoy the journey – this is slow travel at its best.

By late afternoon, head to your accommodation in the Troodos region. I recommend staying in either Platres or near Mount Olympus itself. These mountain retreats offer a completely different atmosphere from coastal Cyprus, with cool evenings even in summer and pine-scented air.

For dinner, look for a traditional mountain taverna serving local specialties like “afelia” (pork marinated in wine and coriander) or trout from mountain streams. The food in the mountains tends to be heartier than on the coast, perfect after a day of exploration.

My personal tip: If you’re visiting between May and October, pack a swimsuit for an unexpected mountain treat. The Caledonia Trail near Platres leads to a beautiful waterfall with a natural pool at its base. The 45-minute hike follows a stream through dense forest, crossing wooden bridges along the way. The water is refreshingly cold even in summer, and taking a dip beneath the waterfall is an experience you won’t forget!

My suggested accommodation in Platres/Troodos Region: Petit Palais

TROODOS MOUNTAINS: Nature & Byzantine Heritage

Wake up to the crisp mountain air and the sound of birds – quite a change from the coastal resorts! Today is dedicated to exploring the natural beauty and rich religious heritage of the Troodos Mountains.

Start your day with a drive to Mount Olympus, the highest point in Cyprus at 1,952 meters. In winter, this is actually a ski resort (yes, you can ski in Cyprus!), but in summer, it offers hiking trails with panoramic views across the island. On clear days, you can see both the north and south coasts from here – a reminder of just how compact this diverse island is.

From Mount Olympus, follow the winding road to Kykkos Monastery, the wealthiest and most famous monastery in Cyprus. Founded in the 11th century and dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it’s an impressive complex of courtyards, museums, and a richly decorated church.

The monastery’s most prized possession is an icon of the Virgin Mary, said to have been painted by St. Luke himself. Oddly, the icon is always kept half-covered, as legend claims that anyone who looks upon the full face will be blinded. The monastery museum houses an incredible collection of religious artifacts, manuscripts, and icons.

After visiting Kykkos, enjoy lunch at the monastery’s restaurant, which serves simple but delicious Cypriot food. Try the “koupepia” (stuffed vine leaves) and “sheftalia” (herb-infused sausages) – they’re particularly good here.

In the afternoon, drive to the Caledonia Waterfall. The trail starts near Platres and follows a stream through dense forest. The 45-minute hike is moderately challenging but absolutely worth it for the 13-meter waterfall at the end. The surrounding area is lush and green, with ancient trees providing shade – perfect for a hot day.

On your way back to your accommodation, stop at some of the traditional mountain villages like Omodos or Foini. Each has its own specialty – Omodos is known for wine production, while Foini is famous for traditional pottery. The village squares, centered around churches with outdoor cafés under plane trees, are perfect places to experience local life.

For dinner, try a different mountain village taverna. Look for places serving “kleftiko,” a slow-cooked lamb dish traditionally baked in a clay oven. Paired with a glass of local Commandaria wine (one of the oldest named wines in the world), it’s the perfect end to your mountain day.

My personal tip: Near Kykkos Monastery, there’s a viewpoint called “Throni tis Panagias” (Throne of the Virgin Mary), marked by a giant metal cross. It’s where Archbishop Makarios III, the first president of Cyprus, is buried. The view from here is absolutely spectacular, stretching across forested valleys all the way to the sea. It’s rarely mentioned in guidebooks but is one of my favorite spots in all of Cyprus.

My suggested accommodation in Platres/Troodos Region: Petit Palais

TROODOS TO LIMASSOL: Wine Villages & Coastal City

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to the mountains and make our way down to the coast. But first, we’ll explore one of Cyprus’s most charming wine villages – Omodos.

The drive from the Troodos region to Omodos takes you through some of the island’s most beautiful landscapes, with vineyards terraced on steep slopes and panoramic views at every turn. The road winds downhill, and you’ll notice the temperature rising as you descend.

Omodos is built around the Monastery of the Holy Cross and has retained its traditional character despite being popular with tourists. The narrow cobblestone streets are lined with shops selling local products – be sure to try the “soutzoukos,” a traditional sweet made from grape juice and nuts. The monastery itself is worth visiting for its impressive woodcarvings and religious artifacts.

What makes Omodos special is its winemaking tradition. The village is surrounded by vineyards growing indigenous grape varieties like Xynisteri and Mavro. Stop at one of the small family-run wineries for a tasting – Linos Winery in the village center offers tours of their traditional wine press (linos) and tastings of their excellent wines. I particularly love their Commandaria, a sweet dessert wine that’s been produced in Cyprus for over 5,000 years!

After lunch in Omodos (try the traditional taverna in the main square for excellent meze), continue your journey to Limassol, about 40 minutes away. As you approach the coast, you’ll pass through more vineyards and eventually reach Kolossi Castle, a former Crusader stronghold. This compact but impressive 15th-century castle is worth a quick stop – it only takes about 30 minutes to explore.

Arriving in Limassol, you’ll immediately notice the contrast between the tranquil mountains and this vibrant coastal city. Head first to your accommodation to check in and freshen up.

In the late afternoon, explore Limassol Marina, a modern development with luxury shops, restaurants, and impressive yachts. From there, walk to the medieval castle in the heart of the old town, which houses the Cyprus Medieval Museum. According to tradition, this is where Richard the Lionheart married Berengaria of Navarre and crowned her Queen of England in 1191.

As evening falls, the area around the castle comes alive with bars and restaurants. For dinner, I recommend Karatello Tavern, housed in a converted carob mill with stone walls and a delightful courtyard. Their seafood meze is exceptional – just keep in mind that the dishes keep coming until you tell them to stop!

My personal tip: For a local experience in Limassol, visit the Municipal Market on Saripolou Square in the morning. This recently revitalized area is where locals shop for fresh produce, cheese, olives, and more. The building itself dates from British colonial times, and the atmosphere is lively and authentic. Pick up some halloumi cheese, olives, and fresh bread for a picnic lunch later in your trip.

My suggested accommodation in Limassol: Annabelle Resort

LIMASSOL TO PAPHOS: Archaeological Wonders & Coastal Beauty

After breakfast in Limassol, it’s time to continue westward along the coast to Paphos. But first, we’ll visit one of Cyprus’s most impressive archaeological sites – Kourion.

Just a 20-minute drive west of Limassol, Kourion is dramatically situated on a hillside overlooking the sea. This ancient city-kingdom dates back to the 12th century BC, but most of the visible remains are from the Roman period.

The highlight is undoubtedly the Greco-Roman theater, which has been restored and is still used for performances today. Sitting in the ancient seats with the Mediterranean as a backdrop is an unforgettable experience.

Take your time exploring the extensive site, including the House of Eustolios with its well-preserved mosaics, the early Christian basilica, and the sanctuary of Apollo Hylates. I always try to arrive early to avoid both the crowds and the midday heat.

Continuing west along the coast, you’ll soon reach Petra tou Romiou, better known as Aphrodite’s Rock. According to mythology, this is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, who emerged from the sea foam.

The combination of dramatic rocks, crystal-clear water, and mythological significance makes this a must-stop photo opportunity. If you’re feeling brave, there’s a local legend that swimming around the rock three times will bring eternal beauty!

For lunch, there’s a restaurant overlooking Aphrodite’s Rock, but I prefer to continue a bit further to Kouklia village. This small settlement was once Old Paphos, the center of Aphrodite worship in ancient times. The Sanctuary of Aphrodite here dates back to the 12th century BC, and the small museum houses interesting artifacts from the site.

The village tavernas serve excellent traditional food – try the “ofto kleftiko” (slow-roasted lamb) at Efraim Tavern.

After lunch, continue to modern Paphos and check into your accommodation. In the late afternoon, head to the Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that contains spectacular Roman villas with incredibly well-preserved mosaic floors.

The House of Dionysus has particularly impressive mosaics depicting scenes from Greek mythology. The site also includes other monuments spanning from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages.

As the sun begins to set, make your way to Paphos Harbor, dominated by the medieval castle. The harbor area is lined with restaurants and cafés, perfect for a waterfront dinner. For something special, book a table at Ocean Basket Restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the harbor.

My personal tip: About 2 km north of Paphos Harbor is the lesser-visited Tombs of the Kings, another UNESCO site. Despite the name, no kings were buried here – rather, it was the final resting place for high-ranking officials and aristocrats. What makes this site special is the architecture of the tombs, which were carved out of solid rock and designed to resemble houses for the living, with columns and frescoed walls. Visit in the late afternoon when the low sunlight creates dramatic shadows and the site is quieter.

My suggested accommodation in Paphos: Chrielka Hotel

PAPHOS TO LARNACA: Ancient History & Return

It’s the final day of our Cyprus adventure, and we’ll be making our way back to Larnaca. But first, let’s explore a bit more of the Paphos region before we leave.

Start your day with a visit to the Tombs of the Kings if you didn’t get there yesterday. This archaeological site dates back to the 4th century BC and features underground tombs carved into the native rock. The scale and design of these burial chambers is impressive – they were built to resemble houses, with columns and frescoed walls. Walking through the necropolis in the morning light is a peaceful experience.

Next, drive about 15 minutes north to the village of Empa for a coffee break with a view. The Agia Marina church has a terrace offering panoramic vistas of Paphos and the coastline – a perfect spot for that last holiday selfie!

As we begin our journey back to Larnaca (about a 2-hour drive), we’ll take the inland route to visit one more UNESCO World Heritage site – Choirokoitia. This Neolithic settlement dates back to the 7th millennium BC, making it one of the oldest civilizations in the Mediterranean.

The archaeological site features reconstructed round houses that give you a sense of what life was like 9,000 years ago. It’s mind-boggling to think about the age of this settlement as you walk through it.

For lunch, stop at the nearby village of Tochni, one of the oldest villages in Cyprus with a mixed Greek and Turkish Cypriot history. The stone houses built on the steep hillsides create a picturesque setting. Try the taverna in the village center for traditional Cypriot cuisine – their “koupepia” (stuffed vine leaves) are made according to a generations-old family recipe.

After lunch, continue to Larnaca, completing our circular tour of Cyprus. Depending on your departure time, you might have a chance for one last swim at Finikoudes Beach or some souvenir shopping along the palm-lined promenade.

Return your rental car at Larnaca Airport, hopefully with many photos, memories, and perhaps a bottle of Commandaria wine or some local olive oil in your luggage!

My personal tip: If your flight departs in the evening, consider a late lunch or early dinner at Art Café 1900, just a few minutes’ drive from the airport. This hidden gem is set in a beautifully restored traditional house with a leafy courtyard. Their menu combines Cypriot classics with creative modern touches, and it’s the perfect place to reflect on your Cyprus adventure before heading home.

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

If you have a few more days to spare, consider these worthy extensions to your Cyprus journey:

Akamas Peninsula

This untouched wilderness on the northwestern tip of Cyprus offers some of the island’s most dramatic landscapes. The area is protected and largely undeveloped, with rugged coastlines, deep gorges, and pristine beaches. Highlights include the Avakas Gorge, Blue Lagoon (accessible only by boat or a challenging hike), and Lara Beach, an important turtle nesting site. The peninsula is best explored with a 4×4 vehicle, as many roads are unpaved.

Northern Cyprus

While you can’t take your rental car across the border, it’s worth considering a guided tour or using public transportation to explore the Turkish-controlled north. Highlights include the well-preserved medieval city of Famagusta, the crusader castle of St. Hilarion, and the harbor town of Kyrenia with its horseshoe-shaped harbor and impressive castle. Remember to bring your passport for the border crossing.

Wine Route Exploration

Cyprus has one of the oldest wine-making traditions in the world, dating back over 5,000 years. The designated wine routes through the foothills of the Troodos Mountains take you to small wineries producing unique varieties like Xynisteri, Maratheftiko, and the famous Commandaria sweet wine. Many offer tours and tastings, and the scenery of terraced vineyards is spectacular, especially during harvest season (August-September).

Cyprus 10-Day Road Trip: Timeline Table