Cyprus in 16 days
The perfect itinerary
Cyprus is an amazingly beautiful island with very friendly and helpful people, something I have never experienced before. I was there for 7 days and in hindsight I would have liked to stay longer. Read on to find out what I would have done differently if I were to travel there again.
Yen H.
Love to explore the world!
Hi there! I’m a 20-something girl from Germany with Vietnamese roots, balancing my ordinary office job with an extraordinary love for travel! I’ve visited 10 countries (and counting!) and share tips here on my blog for finding stunning, crowd-free, Instagrammable spots. Ready to make your travel dreams a reality? Let’s go! ✈️📸
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Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Paphos
Your adventure begins as you touch down in Paphos, the perfect gateway to Cyprus. After your flight, treat yourself to a relaxing lunch at a charming beach bar, soaking up the coastal vibes. Take a little time to explore the nearby area—think ancient ruins, scenic waterfronts, and local markets—before hitting the road to Ayia Napa for the next leg of your journey. On the way is Aphrodite’s Rock, which offers a beautiful sight at sunset.
Beach bar “Sea You”
Days 2-5: Discovering Ayia Napa
Settle into Ayia Napa for the next few days and dive into all the wonders this vibrant town has to offer. Start by visiting iconic landmarks like the stunning Sea Caves and the romantic Bridge of Love—perfect spots for breathtaking photos.
Take a hike through Cape Greco, a nature lover’s paradise with spectacular coastal views. Cool off with a swim at the many nearby beaches, each boasting crystal-clear waters and golden sands. For an unforgettable underwater experience, try sustainable snorkeling with sea turtles at the Diving Center in Pernera.
As the sun sets, Ayia Napa’s lively nightlife takes over. Dance the night away at trendy clubs or enjoy cocktails at beachside bars—there’s something for every vibe.
That’s something I would do differently: I was only there for 2 full days, but would have stayed much longer. Even though the town is quite small, it and the surrounding area offer so much and I really enjoyed strolling around Ayia Napa at night.
I originally wanted to book a snorkeling tour, but they were already fully booked and as I was only there for such a short time, I unfortunately couldn’t go on the other days. The provider also seems to have good reviews, so if I were to travel there again, I would definitely do a snorkeling tour and book it in advance, which I didn’t do back then.
At the Sea Caves
Day 6: From Ayia Napa to Nicosia
It’s time to leave the coastal charm of Ayia Napa and head to the heart of Cyprus: Nicosia, the island’s fascinating capital. Spend the day exploring the historic Old Town on foot, where narrow streets and traditional architecture tell stories of the past.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Green Line, a poignant reminder of Cyprus’s divided history, and cross over to the Turkish side of the city for a unique cultural perspective. End your day with an overnight stay in Nicosia, soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
I only stayed there for 2-3 hours and the town itself is not quite as touristy as Ayia Napa or Paphos, but I would have spent more time here to really explore the old town. I only visited Ledra Street and the Turkish side briefly before moving on.
Büyük Han on the Turkish side of Nicosia
Day 7: Into the Troodos Mountains
Bid farewell to Nicosia and set out for the serene Troodos Mountains. Your destination is the picturesque village of Pano Platres, a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle. Take some time to explore the charming streets, traditional architecture, and lush surroundings of this quaint mountain village.
After a day of relaxation and discovery, settle in for an overnight stay in Pano Platres, surrounded by the tranquility of nature.
A wonderful view from Pano Platres
Days 8-11: Adventures in the Troodos Mountains
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Troodos Mountains with scenic hiking tours through lush forests and along breathtaking trails. Discover hidden waterfalls, panoramic viewpoints, and the peaceful charm of Cyprus’s highlands.
Venture out to explore nearby mountain villages like Omodos, known for its traditional wine culture, and Kakopetria, with its cobblestone streets and historic charm. Each village offers a glimpse into the island’s rich heritage and unique local flavors.
These days in the mountains will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired, surrounded by the serenity of Cyprus’s countryside.
I would have liked to have had more time here too. I was only there for one full day and spent it on a hiking tour and a short visit to the village of Omodos. However, I would have liked to have had more time for the hiking tours, as there really is a lot of nature to discover there. But I could also have spent more time in Omodos, strolling along the many pretty alleyways. I didn’t have time to visit the other neighboring villages.
Nearby the Monastery of Omodos
Day 12: From Mountains to Mythical Shores
Leave the tranquil Troodos Mountains behind and head toward Letymvou, making a magical stop at Aphrodite’s Rock along the way. Legend has it this iconic spot is the birthplace of the goddess of love. Take a dip in the turquoise waters or enjoy a snack at the local kiosk—or opt for a relaxed meal in nearby Paphos.
After soaking in the coastal beauty, continue to the charming mountain village of Letymvou. Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner at a local taverna, savoring authentic Cypriot flavors in a cozy setting.
At Aphrodite’s Rock
Days 13-15: Exploring the Akamas Peninsula and Paphos
Spend the next few days uncovering the natural beauty of the Akamas Peninsula. Hike or drive through this pristine landscape, where rugged cliffs, turquoise bays, and unspoiled nature await. Don’t miss highlights like the Baths of Aphrodite, Avakas Gorge, and the breathtaking views from the Akamas trails—perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy shots.
Wrap up your trip with a visit to Paphos, a city steeped in history and charm. Explore its UNESCO-listed archaeological sites, stroll along the lively harbor, and indulge in fresh local cuisine. These final days in Cyprus offer a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery to end your trip on a high note.
I only stayed here for a full day, but you should actually spend a lot more time here. I didn’t have time to visit Avakas Gorge and I only visited one side of the Akamas Peninsula. But the area is bigger than that. Paphos was also only visited half-heartedly, but you could have spent a lot more time there.
The Blue Lagoon on the Akamas Peninsula
Day 16: Farewell to Cyprus
It’s time to say goodbye to the stunning landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable experiences of Cyprus. Whether you’re heading to the airport or taking one last stroll along the coast, cherish the memories you’ve made on this incredible journey. Safe travels home, and until next time! 🌍✈️
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What do you think of this perfect Cyprus itinerary? Have you been to any of these spots, or is Cyprus on your travel bucket list? I’d love to hear your thoughts, tips, or even your dream destinations! Drop a comment below and let’s swap travel stories and ideas. Can’t wait to hear from you! 💬✨