Backpacking Cyprus Travel Guide

 

Backpacking Cyprus instantly conjures images of winding streets offset by contemporary architecture, groves of olive trees perched on steep cliffs, and beautiful crystal clear water. There is no question why Cyprus is one of the most popular vacations spots in Europe. With this backpacking Cyprus travel guide, you’ll have everything that you’ll need to experience this amazing island. You’ll know what incredible natural and historic sites to visit, where to find the most delicious Mediterranean and Aegean food, and where stay in Cyprus after reading this guide.

 

Cyprus was the first place I ever went backpacking, so my vagabond heart belongs to this island. Cyprus is quickly becoming one of the most popular hotspots for adventurous backpackers, and for good reasons. Before backpacking Cyprus, I wondered if this would mean Cyprus is too expensive, crowded, and touristy for backpackers. Fortunately, I was wrong, and it’s completely possible to avoid crowds and backpack Cyprus on a budget! There are plenty of awesome Cyprus backpacking routes and itineraries for every type of traveler. Just like in the rest of Europe, you can create your perfect trip based on your preferences and budget without any limitations.

 

Cyprus is a charming, laid-back island. Backpacking through the island has been one of my favorite travel experiences, not just for the beautiful views, but for the food, beaches, wonderful people, and plethora of history. I’ve written a detailed Cyprus Travel Guide to help you navigate this remarkably safe country, and narrow down the best things to do in Cyprus. Let’s dive right in!

Cyprus Travel Guide to Getting Around

While backpacking Cyprus, I have found budget airline flights are quite affordable. But only if you buy your plane ticket at least one month in advance. However, there are plenty of airlines that fly here from Europe including budget airlines like EasyJet and WizzAir! I flew WizzAir from Cyprus back home to Germany. There are flights to Cyprus per day from all of Europe.

 

If you are flying internationally, there two airports in Paphos and Larnaca that serves flights from pretty much all European cities. Larnaca is on the East coast of Cyprus. Paphos Airport is on the West coast. There is also Ercan airport, which is on the Turkish side. You can only fly there via Turkey as Northern Cyprus is not recognized as a country by anyone other than Turkey.

 

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These days, left-hand traffic remains the norm in Cyprus as a constant reminder of the British connection to the island. Cyprus has no operational railway network. But the country has a functional road network that makes commuting around the island fairly easy and quick.

 

Cyprus doesn’t have that diversity of transportation options that one may found in other European countries. The best way to get around in Cyprus is either by public buses which are generally very comfortable or by service taxi. Buses connect all major cities on the Greek side of the island. So if you’re not planning to head for distant mountainous regions, the bus is the cheapest, and so far the most convenient option. Buses usually cost €1,5 in a city, while intercity buses cost a few euros more.

Hitchhiking in Cyprus

Hitchhiking is a cheap way to travel in Cyprus and a lot of fun. While the longest driving distance is around 2,5 hours, it’s quite easy to find a ride, even within the city. If you hitchhike directly on the highway, the police may fine you. But there are rural areas and the Troödos Massif with little traffic where everyone stops for you, even without asking.

 

The locals wave their hands up and down or simply simply put out their hand with the palm to the ground. Putting your thumb up may identify you as someone from another country.

Entry Requirements for Cyprus

EU citizens will only need their passport to enter Cyprus. Citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, Poland, Switzerland, and the US do not need to pre-apply for a visa. Their valid passport will be stamped on arrival. Other nationalities will soon need to apply for a Schengen Visa beforehand to visit Cyprus. However, it’s still not part of the Schengen Agreement.

 

As a non-European traveler, you must apply for a short-stay visa or for a multiple entry visa if you are frequently visiting Cyprus for various purposes. The total length of stay must not exceed 3 months, starting from your first visit during each six month period.

 

The things you should know about the Schengen visa is that not all European countries are part of the Schengen Agreement. Albania, Andora, Belarus, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Croatia, Cyprus, Georgia, Ireland, Kosovo, Macedonia, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Turkey, Ukraine, The UK, and Vatican City are not part of the Schengen zone and, therefore, you are not allowed to enter these countries with a Schengen visa.

 

There are several border crossings between the Northern part and the South part that one can use to get around. When you cross the border you’ll have to fill in a piece of paper with your name and passport number. This paper is then stamped, but NOT your passport, while the details punched into a computer to record that you have crossed the border. I have to admit Cyprus authorities aren’t feeling enthusiastic about border crossings. However, I haven’t heard of any issues with crossing the border here.

 

For more information, and the official Schengen country list, check out this website.

Taxis in Cyprus

I didn’t use taxis at all on my last visit. But they are usually readily available at Paphos and Larnaca international airports. Fares are significantly more expensive than buses. However, due to limited bus service to and from the airports, a ride in a metered taxi usually costs €15-€20 from Larnaca airport and €25 from Paphos airport. Remember, after 10:30 pm prices rise by as much as 25%. Private taxis are another option for traveling within towns. These are usually cheap and passengers are to be allowed to haggle with drivers if the taxi doesn’t have a meter.

Backpacking Cyprus Budget – How Much Will it Cost?

It can be pretty tough to backpack Cyprus on €35 a day unless you’re participating in a work exchange. You can, however, backpack Cyprus for under €45 by doing the following:

 

Travel during the off-season, so April/May and October for good weather, and the best prices. This will be the cheapest way to visit Cyprus. June and September are also affordable but stay away during July and August if you are backpacking Cyprus on a shoestring budget.

 

I recommend splitting costs with friends or fellow backpackers. Renting an apartment with a few people is cheaper than separate dorm beds, and a lot of towns in the countryside don’t have a hostel scene. The best way to save money on accommodation is to stay away from the seaside towns. However, since this is often not an option at all, chances are to find a decent guesthouse, which doesn’t cost a fortune.

 

places to visit in cyprus

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Couch Surfing is the best way to meet locals and stay for free, but finding a host can be tough. If all else fails, there are camping sites by the sea and camping sites in the picturesque mountains of the island. Again, if you don’t feel like paying for camping you can go wild camping. Of course, it requires some courage and vigilance but as long as your tent is olive green, don’t leave your trash and use a camping stove to cook, you’ll be fine. In this case, you may want to rent a car though.

 

I spent an average €38 a day by splitting rental cars, apartments, and groceries with three other people. We were able to get around to all the places we wanted to visit, and even eat out occasionally. We could have traveled for less, but that could have turned a great idea into very bad memories. Renting apartments in smaller towns was affordable but if you camp or couch surf, you can get by on much less.

Backpacker Accommodation in Cyprus

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Cyprus, there is a huge variety of accommodation options, ranging from extremely expensive to very affordable. Nicosia, Larnaka, Paphos, and Limassol have a few youth hostels and I have had good experiences finding these on Agoda. Finding hostels in Cyprus is easier than it might seem because they offer the largest inventory of hostels worldwide with plenty of reviews and ratings from other travelers. So you know exactly what to expect.

 

Make sure you book well in advance if you want to stay at hostels, especially in peak season. I’m not a big fan of booking ahead but when it comes to booking cheap accommodation in Cyprus, I recommend booking a few days prior if you don’t want to be disappointed. There are a few family-run guesthouses in the countryside that are cheaper than some hostels in Cyprus.

 

If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Cyprus for couples, sometimes it’s cheaper to opt for a private room in a guest house opposed to two dorm beds. I know some backpackers who spend their days hanging out in hostels and retreat to their guesthouse at night. Bingo!

 

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If you are backpacking Cyprus, I’d definitely recommend getting an Airbnb. There are some incredible Airbnb rentals that come out to less than individual beds in the hostels. If you are traveling as a couple and need a bit of a quieter place to stay, Airbnb is a great alternative to hotels and hostels. Check out Airbnb’s listings here. Use this Airbnb coupon code for $35 off your first stay!

 

There are hundreds of hotels spread throughout Cyprus that cater to package holidaymakers and are completely chartered by travel agencies. The options for the backpackers on a budget especially in the beach resorts but you may still be able to find some basic ungraded hotel establishments that are reasonable value for money. To save money on accommodation in Cyprus consider using Cyprus agrotourism as well.

 

Of course, you can splurge on a luxurious and expensive hotel, but there’re too many cool things to do in Cyprus. Therefore, you’ll probably only need it to lay your head at the end of the day!

Food in Cyprus

Traditional Cypriot food is absolutely delicious. Typical Cypriot dishes originate or are influenced by Italian, Catalan, French and Middle Eastern cuisines. You will fall in love with the food whilst backpacking Cyprus.

 

Food is a big deal in Cyprus. Cypriots have an almost ceremonial reverence for their meals. Most dinners here include several types of cheeses, olives, soups, meat, salads, and fresh bread. If there is one word I would use to sum up Cypriot cuisine, it would be diverse! Restaurants offer a variety of dishes from soups, to seafood, vegetables, meats, and other local delicacies, not to mention the famous Cypriot desserts.

 

A trip to Cyprus wouldn’t be complete without trying Meze. As you stroll the narrow streets of Nicosia you can see locals dining out at restaurants or at their balconies eating Meze. It’s a staple here. I found Meze at a good tavern to come around €12 a person and the average entrée costing €10.

 

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For a quick brunch fix, try Greek chicken souvlaki and sheftalia with doughy pita bread and salad for €5 pretty much everywhere. Try the local dürüm (Turkish wrap) with traditionally made yogurt (ayran – a mixture of yogurt, water, and salt with mint). Sidewalk cafe restaurants are always budget traveler’s best friends. Occasional eating out and the local meals like Lamb Kleftiko, traditional Cypriot Talatouri, creamy hummus, and pita bread definitely won’t break the bank.

 

If you want to stick to your budget, try to organize your beach days. Since beach bars and touristy restaurants tend to charge much more for food and drink you may want to bring your own food. An alternative option is to stick to very low budget meals throughout the day and dine in family-owned taverns at night for around €15. Oh, one more thing! Try the dessert wine called Commandaria at least once – you won’t regret it!

Hiking in Cyprus

Cyprus offers some of the finest hiking opportunities in this part of the globe. You can go for a walk along some awesome coastal trails or through some world-class mountain landscapes. There’s a path for everyone in Cyprus.

 

Camping is mostly done in official campgrounds. Wilderness backpackers can bivvy in some places so long as they’re very respectful. Wild camping is technically illegal in Cyprus but most bystanders will look away if you do the following.

 

  1. Set up your bivvy late, break down early
  2. Stay only one night in each location
  3. Be a responsible traveler. Leave no trash behind
  4. Don’t bivvy within 50 ft of water
  5. Try to bring a tent made of dark green or olive green material to stay out of sight

 

At the end of the day, if you’re cautious and considerate, you’ll be ok while wild camping.

 

Also consider buying a sleeping mat, or ditch the tent and invest in a hammock. A lightweight backpacking stove is also a good idea for some hearty rice and beans.

 

things to do in cyprus alone

 

I always suggest getting a durable, comfortable, and compact backpack to save you some space. My first backpack was a cheap one. Though it served me well as a day pack, this backpack wasn’t so weather-resistant after all… Needless to say, it wasn’t very practical and it didn’t have many compartments.

 

Pro Tip: invest in a quality backpack. Because by the end of your trip you’ll be wearing it so much that it’ll become an extension of your own body. You want the best.

Trekking in the Troödos Mountains

The Troödos Mountains are located in the very heart of Cyprus and stretch from Pomos Point in the northwest almost to Larnaca Bay on the east. This is an incredible place to visit. Especially if you want to avoid the package tourist crush of the beach resorts. In the winter the resort boasts some good skiing. But even in the summer, there are some worthwhile sights to explore.

 

There are several of 15th-century monasteries and gorgeous Venetian bridges like Elia, Tzelefos, and Roudia. Be sure to check the Kykkos Monastery that has been extensively renovated and contains plenty of religious exhibits. The Troödos is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, which offers ideal walking and cycling opportunities. There are dozens of trails crisscrossing this region and hikers can spend weeks in the mountains here.

What to Pack for Cyprus

It gets extremely hot in the summer so pack plenty of sunscreen, swimwear, flip flops, a hat, and sunglasses. There are also a number of notable churches and monasteries in Cyprus. If you wish to visit them, ladies, I suggest bringing conservative skirts or dresses that cover your shoulders and legs, and a scarf to cover your head. Fellas bring a long pair of trousers. As you may not be able to enter some of these sights, if not dressed appropriately.

 

There is no better way to get up close and experience Cyprus and the amazing green wilderness of Troödos than by setting out on foot and discovering what some of the local hikes have to offer. Be sure to bring a good pair of shoes and some activewear too. I also suggest having a couple of layers as nights can be cooler in the low season.

Best Time to Travel to Cyprus

I visited Cyprus several times – in July, in September, and in April. No matter what season of the year, there is always a place in Cyprus that is worth exploring.

 

July and August is the peak travel season here. Mostly because everybody is heading here to enjoy their summer holidays. It’s not always the best time to visit Cyprus, however. Places like Paphos, Limassol, Ayia Napa, and Protaras are all crazy hot, unbelievably humid and often just plain uncomfortable.

 

That’s not to say that you can’t visit, just be prepared with plenty of water and make sure to book your accommodation in advance since many of the desirable budget hostels and guesthouses book up quickly during the summer months.

 

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On the other hand, traveling during the high season could be a lovely time if you want to visit Cyprus for the parties. June marks the beginning of peak season and visitors flock to the island to get a taste of the intense nightlife of Cyprus. Throughout the summer temperatures soar to a sweltering 40°C. Nightclubs, bars, and restaurants become packed with both locals and tourists enjoying the great weather and party spirit. The island hosts several beer and wine festivals in the summer.

 

Pro Tip: July and August are the best time of year for diving and snorkeling, as the sea is like a bath, reaching temperatures up to 33°C. This attracts a huge array of sea creatures, from green turtles to bluespotted stingray.

 

In my experience, the best time to visit Cyprus is during tourist shoulder season – April, September, and October. The weather is great, you can make the most of the quiet beaches, and still escape the crowds. Moreover, early spring is the best time to explore the cultural and historical aspects of the country and enjoy the landscape as the nature in its full bloom. For this purpose, you may want to visit one of the island’s National Parks. The Akamas National Park on the West Coast of Cyprus is a protected nature area and overlooks the picturesque Chrysochou Bay.

Is Cyprus Safe for Backpackers

One of the questions that many of my readers ask me is whether Cyprus is safe for backpacking and solo travel. Cyprus is a very safe country and enjoys some of the lowest crime rates in Europe. With street crime low, most independent travelers who go to Cyprus will have no problems at all. As long as you are vigilant, use your common sense and aren’t over-trusting total strangers, solo backpackers will find this sunny destination to be warm, friendly and very safe.

 

Divided into a Turkish North and a Greek South, there is still an ongoing dispute between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots. Only Turkey recognizes the northern half of the island to be the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. But the sole legitimate state is the Republic of Cyprus. So there may be tensions near the border of the Turkish and Greek side. But chances are these won’t affect your holidays to Cyprus. It’s perfectly safe to explore these parts.

 

Follow Basic Protocols When Traveling Alone in Cyprus

 

I just returned from Cyprus. As usual, I had an absolutely wonderful time. But just three days before I arrived my friend who is nowhere near a newbie made the mistake of what he had known better not to do. He strolled on the beach being drunk after sunset with an iPhone out walking from the Royal Apollonia, Limassol towards Dasoudi. Eventually, the robber took the money that he had and the cell phone.

 

He called the police and they were very concerned. I arrived home yesterday spend most nights over by Dasoudi. I was staying in a hotel next to the Royal Apollonia and we were reckless enough to search for the robber on the beach again but, of course, we failed. So here is my message: while this type of crime remains rare, be aware of your surroundings. Don’t be flashing your valuables or cash, having your cell phone out every two seconds because there’s always somebody out there watching.

 

Take my advice: keep your possessions close to you and don’t have them on display and try to be on the lookout for people that look suspicious. Most crimes occur during the summer months when Cyprus is flocked by millions of tourists and pickpockets are waiting around to take advantage of their victims.

Top Unusual Things to Do in Cyprus

While Paphos and Limassol tend to be the hotspots on the island, there are hundreds of hidden gems you can discover with completely different climates, points of interest, and awesome things to do. Moreover, you can explore beautiful landscapes, and tons of famous ancient archeological sites and places of historical significance if you venture further inland.

 

If you’re looking for places to visit in Cyprus, here’re my favorite 13 unusual things to do in Cyprus below to get your ideas flowing for your next backpacking trip!

Visit Machairas Monastery

The Machairas monastery is one of the coolest places to visit in Cyprus mountains. It sits some 40 kilometers from Nicosia and is one of the oldest Orthodox monasteries in Cyprus. With around 25 monks living in the monastery, it dates back to the 12th century. Named after the Virgin Mary Machairotissa icon it may take an entire day to explore this place. The monastery doesn’t charge for admission and has its own winery.

 

Since the monastery is nestled in the Troödos mountains you can check out a picturesque view of the main road, the temple and the vineyards. You can go for a hike along the E4 hiking trail that starts near the monastery and leads to the village of Phicardou. It takes two and a half hours to reach the village, but the hike is very rewarding! You may also consider visiting Lasanias village as well that is located not so far from the monastery.

 

Check Out the Gorgeous Troödos Waterfalls

If you really want to experience the thick of things in the rugged heart of Cyprus, there’re some magnificent waterfalls to check out! With a vertical drop of nearly 50 feet (15 meters), Millomeris Falls is the highest in Cyprus. Located on the Krios River it wasn’t easily accessible until recently.

 

Today with the path to the waterfall cleared and the footbridge over the river bed being built it offers a nice walk through the woodland, traversing the river at various points. Not far from the Pano Platres village there is a Caledonia Falls, which is also worth visiting. There are several restaurants in Pano Platres serving pan-seared trout with Greek tzatziki sauce. Mouth-watering!

 

Pedoulas Village

This tranquil village is remote hideaway far from the noise and bustle of beach life. Pedoulas, with its terraces tumbling down the hillside, is mostly famous for its whitewashed church and a huge 25 metre-high cross. Pedoulas is a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a wide range of hiking trails not only for those who love hiking but also for cyclists as well.

 

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This Cyprus cultural site has several attractions. The chapel of Archangelos Michael, which is listed in the World Heritage Monuments list, the local Byzantine museum and the Folklore Museum. As you explore, be sure to check the statue of Archbishop Makarios the Third on the main street, the large monument to Aristides Charalambous, a local man who fought for the independence, and the white Cross of Fithkia that dominates the entire area and so far my favorite!

 

Mount Olympus Cyprus

The highest point of the Troödos range and the only place in Cyprus to go skiing in winter is Mount Olympus. With a British long-range radar located at the very top, the area is stunningly beautiful and has completely different climate and environmental conditions.

 

Due to a cooler temperature and more humid air the snow usually lies thick from January to mid-March, making the mountain a nice place to spend winter skiing holidays here. Aside from a ski lift and other proper ski infrastructure, there are several trails with spectacular scenery and cooler temperatures in summer compared to the coast. The Artemis and Atalante hiking trails are great for any type of hiker.

 

Go Ghost Hunting in Fikardou Village

I love the spirit of abandoned places. When I was approaching this tiny old village I felt an extreme sense of peace and calm. There is definitely something special about Fikardou, a beautiful village that is just 40 km southwest of Nicosia. There were untold stories behind those old locked doors of abandoned houses.

 

Charming cobbled streets, dramatic views of blossoming almond trees and the scenic surroundings made me want to stay there forever. Besides a cat, a rooster and a few backpackers I met the owner of the only tavern in the village Mr. Yiannakos. He told me that the village is popular with filmmakers as a fine example of classic and ancient Cypriot village. However, it’s almost deserted and the current population of the village is around seven people. Don’t miss out on visiting the House of Katsiniorou – Fikardou Rural museum!

 

Oleastro Olive Park

If you ever wondered how they make olive oil in Cyprus then visit Oleastro Park. This educational and fun park sits conveniently halfway between Paphos and Lemesos. The museum walks you through the production secrets and the history of olive oil that dates back centuries.

 

If you visit between October and late January you can see the original ecological olive oil mill in action producing olive oil. There is also a small museum, gift shop, a tavern, an olive grove, and a petting zoo, where anyone can feed a camel or a donkey. At the entrance, you pay a one-off entry fee of €3, which covers free olive oil tasting!

 

The Ruins of Amathus

Amathus was one of the largest cities in ancient Cyprus, as well as one of the oldest cities. The ancient ruins of Amathus ruins spread over a wide area, including the hillside, seaside, and even under the sea. However, today, there are modern buildings mixed amongst many of the ancient ruins.

 

The ancient city of Amathus was largely destroyed during the Middle Ages, but it retains the spirit of an ancient Greek town. The archaeological site is broken down into smaller areas: the lower level (agora) and the upper city (Acropolis). While there is a small admission for entering agora, go up the nearest hill instead to get amazing views of the Ruins and the Limassol outskirts just for free. You can easily reach the Ruins of Amathus by Limassol city bus #30 and #31.

 

Panagia tou Sinti Monastery

Another abandoned and some kind of off-the-beaten-track place in Cyprus a few kilometers away from Pentalia Village, on the banks of Xeros river. The monastery of Panagia tou Sinti became desolate by the first quarter 20th century. But in the early 90s, the Monastery of Kykkos undertook the maintenance of the Monastery. Restoration work was completed in 1997 when it earned the Europa Nostra Award.

 

The main church building with a cobbled stoned yard and the octagonal dome was built during the Venetian occupation and make the entire site unique. This UNESCO site isn’t easily accessible or particularly popular with backpackers, which makes this complex a perfect spot for taking awesome photos!

 

Omodos Village

When it comes to visiting Omodos village, you can’t miss out on seeing the wineries, the 500-year-old wine press and tasting wine, of course! Check this village in August when the annual wine festival is in full swing. I admit it’s one of the best ways to get a real feel of everyday Cypriot village life. The Omodos village also features several sites to explore, including the Timiou Stavrou Monastery, Museum of Byzantine and the Folk Art Museum. There is also the Socrates Traditional House where you can get an in-depth look at what medieval life was really like in Cyprus.

 

Kolossi Castle

This is truly a spot for history buffs like me! Nestled some 14km west from Limassol in Kolossi village, Kolossi Castle was once a stronghold for the Crusader. The castle is the most remarkable attraction in Cyprus and a reminder of Cyprus’ importance for the Medieval kings during the Crusades in the Holy Land. The large square dungeon tower was built with large limestone blocks. It has several floors inside with an observation deck at the top.

 

The castle is also known as a birthplace of Commandaria wine. Not far from the castle there is an Akrotiri salt lake, which gives shelter for pink flamingos from November to April.

 

Explore Cape Greco National Park

Escaping the clubbing crowds is quite feasible in the buzzing southern corner of Cyprus. The Cape Greco national park is a picturesque unspoilt area with several hiking trails that start just east of the resort town of Ayia Napa. With the rugged seashore, spectacular sea caves and numerous grottoes, Cavo Greco attracts backpackers and nature enthusiasts willing to enjoy the tranquility, beauty, and drama of nature.

 

With different signposted nature trails weaving through the area, there really is no better time than spring to put your best foot forward. One of my favorite walks is named Agioi Anargyroi: Thalassines Spilies (Sea Caves). It starts off at the tiny chapel of Agioi Anargyroi and takes you all along the coast and the incredible sea caves, as you pass by the ‘Kamara tou Koraka’ natural bridge. The walk will take you about an hour and a half to complete. The short circular Aphrodite trail (about 3km long) also makes for a great walk, taking you along the breathtaking coastline.

 

Bellapais Abbey

Bellapais Abbey sits some 7km from the city of Kyrenia of Northern Cyprus. It’s the first Catholic abbey in Cyprus dates back to the 13th century. Located in the eponymous village, the Abbey boasts some exquisite architecture, which was the reason to call the entire complex Abbaie de la Pais or the Abbey of Peace.

 

Aside from the marvelous main monastery building only the refectory has survived up to the present time. The complex is in use today. Because of its amazing acoustics classical music festivals are held annually. Be sure to get to the second floor of the Abbey with its views of the remarkable landscape.

 

Bellapais is now almost equally famous for its novelist and travel writer, Lawrence Durrell. He lived here in the middle of 20th century and described rural life in Cyprus, as well as, the Abbey in his popular book Bitter Lemons.

 

Visit Nicosia Turkish Side

In Nicosia, Greek and Turkish communities share a walled city divided by the infamous Green Line (AKA the United Nations Buffer Zone in Cyprus). After the Berlin Wall fell in 1989 Nicosia became the only divided capital city in the world.

 

Erected after the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, the Green Line, a strip of land that belongs to nobody, dividing north and south, cuts a line through the historic centre. An old city enclosed by walls built by the Venetians in the 16th century.

 

On either side of the border within the old city, winding medieval streets end abruptly with barbed-wire barricades, sandbags and a couple of armed gunmen.

 

unusual things to do in cyprus

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The narrow buffer zone is inhabited only by the UN peacekeeping force. It’s completely safe to make the crossing at the immigration points and crossing the border is a relatively straightforward process. They won’t put a stamp in your passport. Instead, they will issue a stamped piece of paper with your passport details and date of entry.

 

Generally, the Greek side is popular with tourists, who come to Cyprus for sand and sea holidays. At the same time, the Turkish influences on the streets become very apparent as soon as you cross the border. You won’t find McDonalds and Starbucks in North Nicosia. But you may expect some cool attractions, cultural diversity and plenty of other things to do in North Cyprus.

 

Start your trip with visiting the Caravanserai (or the Inn) Buyuk Han that was built in the early years of Ottoman rule and used mainly by merchants. The inn slightly resembles a fortress as it was supposed to guarantee the security of the rich merchants. Buyuk Han is a great place to enjoy the architecture and take cool photos.

 

Another spot in North Nicosia to see is the former St. Sophia Cathedral, currently Selimiye Mosque. Being one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings in Cyprus it dates back to the reign of Lusignan. After the conquest of Nicosia, the Cathedral was converted into a Mosque, it gained two minarets.

 

The Turkish Bath is something that delivers great joy after a long day of walking. Buyuk Hamam, located three metres below road level, uses the basement of a 14th century Lusignan church, St George of the Latins. Scrubbing, washing and foam massage to relax and feel rejuvenated.

 

Tombs of the Kings in Paphos

The tombs were hewn out of solid rock, while some of them still have columns and fresco painting. The necropolis has gained its name due to its monumental forms and splendor decorations. Some of the tombs are more like an underground hall with columns than a tomb. The catacombs dating back to Roman times and the Hellenistic period.

 

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the northern part of the New Paphos and there is bus 615 that runs between Paphos Harbour and Coral Bay. Consider visiting the Tombs in the afternoon when the heat is not too intense.

 

Final Thoughts on Backpacking Cyprus

I hope this Cyprus travel guide has supplied you with everything you need to know to hit the road and begin backpacking Cyprus. With so many awesome things to do in Cyprus, it’s easy to understand why so many holidaymakers flock here for the choice of watersports, nightclubs, and restaurants. However, contrary to popular belief, Cyprus has something for everyone, irrespective of age, budget or preferences.

 

I had the opportunity to discover some truly amazing locations on the island, but no other country made me feel more alive and inspired than Cyprus. It has sedate quaint little villages, dazzling vistas, gloriously laid-back way of life, and beautiful beaches around every corner.

 

Depending on where you go, you can see ancient Turkish, Byzantine, and Greek history. In Cyprus, you can gaze upon Mount Olympus’s monasteries and historical sites that have stood for thousands of years. Or you can hit the beach, catch some rays and swim deep blue waters in hidden coves. You can eat fresh seafood by the Mediterranean sea, or divulge in traditional Cypriot dishes and delicacies at tavernas.

 

The choice is yours. You just got to get there!