Cyprus Travel Guide

– A Complete Journey Through the Island of Sun, Sea, and Ancient Civilizations

Cyprus, the jewel of the Eastern Mediterranean, is a land where azure seas meet golden beaches, ancient archaeological sites stand beside modern marinas, and charming villages blend with cosmopolitan city life. Known for its mythological connection to Aphrodite—the goddess of love—Cyprus offers a harmonious combination of cultural depth, natural beauty, warm hospitality, and year-round sunshine. From the lively coastal town of Ayia Napa to the historic heart of Nicosia, from the romantic sunsets of Paphos to the mountain coolness of Troodos, Cyprus presents travellers with a rich and unforgettable journey.

This detailed and research-oriented travel guide explores the key attractions of Cyprus, distances between major regions, transportation networks, visa processes for Indian travellers, how to begin the journey from Kolkata or Delhi, accommodation styles, and the most suitable seasons to visit.

Overview of Cyprus

Cyprus is an island nation located in the Eastern Mediterranean, south of Turkey and close to Greece, Israel, and Egypt. It is geographically Asian but culturally European, and is a full member of the European Union. Known for its archaeological heritage, crystal-clear beaches, limestone cliffs, mountain trails, and picturesque villages, Cyprus is ideal for leisure seekers, couples, families, and nature lovers.

The country is divided into major regions:

• Nicosia – Capital city, cultural centre
• Limassol – Port city, nightlife, seaside promenades
• Paphos – UNESCO sites, Aphrodite’s Rock, scenic beaches
• Larnaca – Gateway to Cyprus, historic lakes and churches
• Ayia Napa & Protaras – Beaches, water sports, crystal coves
• Troodos Mountains – Nature trails, vineyards, monasteries

Major Attractions in Cyprus

Cyprus has a remarkable blend of historical landmarks, coastal beauty, natural parks, and spiritual sites. Below are its most iconic destinations.

1. Nicosia – The Divided Capital

Nicosia is the only divided capital in the world, separated into Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot zones. The Old Town, surrounded by Venetian walls, is a treasure trove of culture, architecture, and history.

Main Attractions:

• Venetian City Walls
• Cyprus Museum – showcasing ancient artefacts
• Ledra Street
• Archbishop’s Palace
• Leventis Municipal Museum

Distances:

• Nicosia to Larnaca – 46 km
• Nicosia to Limassol – 85 km
• Nicosia to Paphos – 145 km

2. Larnaca – Gateway to the Island

Larnaca is usually the entry point for international travellers and is famous for palm-lined promenades, historic religious sites, and seaside serenity.

Main Attractions:

• Finikoudes Beach
• Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque
• Larnaca Salt Lake
• Church of Saint Lazarus
• Zenobia Shipwreck – diving site

Distances:

• Larnaca to Ayia Napa – 48 km
• Larnaca to Limassol – 70 km

3. Limassol – Coastal Charm & Modern Lifestyle

Limassol is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city with a modern marina, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches. It is centrally located, making it ideal for exploring both eastern and western Cyprus.

Main Attractions:

• Limassol Marina
• Limassol Castle
• Kolossi Castle
• Kourion Archaeological Site
• Lady’s Mile Beach

Distances:

• Limassol to Paphos – 61 km
• Limassol to Troodos Mountains – 55 km

4. Paphos – UNESCO Heritage Coast

Paphos is steeped in Greek mythology and ancient history. It is believed to be the birthplace of Aphrodite. The coastline is stunning, with dramatic sea cliffs and picturesque harbours.

Main Attractions:

• Paphos Archaeological Park
• Tombs of the Kings
• Aphrodite’s Rock
• Paphos Castle
• Coral Bay Beach

Distances:

• Paphos to Polis – 37 km
• Paphos to Larnaca – 133 km

5. Ayia Napa & Protaras – Pristine Beaches & Water Sports

This region is famous for incredibly clear waters, sandy beaches, sea caves, and lively nightlife.

Main Attractions:

• Nissi Beach
• Fig Tree Bay
• Cape Greco National Park
• Sea Caves of Ayia Napa
• Makronissos Tombs

Distances:

• Ayia Napa to Larnaca – 48 km
• Ayia Napa to Protaras – 12 km

6. Troodos Mountains – Nature & Heritage

Troodos is a refreshing escape from the coastal heat, offering pine forests, waterfalls, vineyards, and UNESCO-listed Byzantine monasteries.

Main Attractions:

• Kykko Monastery
• Trodos Square & Mount Olympus
• Caledonia Waterfalls
• Wine Villages (Omodos, Platres)

Distances:

• Troodos to Nicosia – 80 km
• Troodos to Limassol – 55 km

How to Reach Cyprus from India

Cyprus is accessible through its main international airports:

• Larnaca International Airport (LCA) – Main gateway
• Paphos International Airport (PFO)

From Kolkata

• Kolkata → Delhi → Larnaca
• Kolkata → Mumbai → Larnaca
• Kolkata → Doha / Dubai / Abu Dhabi → Larnaca
• Kolkata → Istanbul → Larnaca

From Delhi

• Delhi → Dubai / Doha → Larnaca (most convenient)
• Delhi → Istanbul → Larnaca
• Delhi → Paris / Frankfurt → Larnaca

Average total travel time: 10–15 hours depending on connections.

Cyprus Visa Guide for Indian Travellers

Cyprus is not part of the Schengen Area. Indian travellers must apply for a Cyprus National Short-Stay Visa (Category C).

Documents Required

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
• Visa application form
• Two recent photographs
• Round-trip flight details
• Hotel reservations / accommodation proof
• Travel insurance (coverage as per requirement)
• Bank statements of last 6 months
• Income tax returns
• Employment / business documents
• Detailed travel itinerary

Where to Apply – Cyprus Visa Office (VFS Global)

Cyprus Visa Application Centre – New Delhi
VFS Global Cyprus Visa Centre, International Trade Tower, Nehru Place, New Delhi

Other centres include: Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Pune, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh.

Processing Time

• Standard: 10–15 working days
• Peak season: up to 30 days

Transportation in Cyprus

Cyprus has a reliable transportation system that simplifies travel across the island.

Buses

• Intercity buses connect major cities
• Local city buses for internal travel
• Affordable and convenient

Taxis & Car Rentals

• Taxis are widely available
• Car rentals are popular for exploring remote regions

No Railways

• Cyprus has no train or metro system

Accommodation Options in Cyprus

Cyprus offers a wide variety of accommodation options suited to all budget ranges. No contact numbers are included as requested.

Larnaca

• Beachfront resorts
• City hotels near Finikoudes
• Boutique heritage stays

Limassol

• Luxury seafront resorts
• Stylish marina hotels
• Midrange family-friendly properties

Paphos

• Coastal spa resorts
• Romantic boutique hotels
• Holiday villas

Ayia Napa & Protaras

• Beach resorts
• Waterfront boutique properties
• Family hotels

Troodos

• Mountain chalets
• Eco-lodges
• Vineyard guesthouses

Best Time to Visit Cyprus

1. Spring (March–May)

Ideal for sightseeing, pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, and outdoor activities.

2. Summer (June–September)

Perfect for beaches, water sports, and island activities.

3. Autumn (October–November)

Warm sea temperatures, fewer crowds, beautiful scenic drives.

4. Winter (December–February)

Ideal for exploring mountains, cultural tours, and quiet beach visits.

Suggested 9-Day Cyprus Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Larnaca – Explore City & Salt Lake
Day 2: Larnaca to Ayia Napa – Nissi Beach, Sea Caves
Day 3: Cape Greco National Park
Day 4: Travel to Limassol – Marina & Old Town
Day 5: Kourion, Kolossi Castle, Lady’s Mile Beach
Day 6: Limassol to Paphos – Tombs of the Kings
Day 7: Paphos Archaeological Park & Aphrodite’s Rock
Day 8: Explore Troodos Mountains – Kykko Monastery
Day 9: Return to Larnaca – Departure

Conclusion

Cyprus is a treasure of the Mediterranean—a harmonious blend of ancient culture, pristine beaches, warm weather, and charming villages. Whether you begin your journey from Kolkata or Delhi, the island is well connected through major international routes and offers world-class hospitality. From the historical grandeur of Paphos to the lively beaches of Ayia Napa, from the cultural richness of Nicosia to the majestic trails of Troodos, Cyprus promises an extraordinary and serene travel experience.