With a rich history and many local handicrafts still practised as a speciality in individual villages and regions, you can pick up an authentic piece of the island’s heritage, from intricate lace tablecloths to rustic pottery. And the art of handmade or authentic continues with food and drink, such as painstakingly prepared sweets and delicacies and bottles of olive oil, or the world’s most historic wine.

The island is also popular for its custom-made jewellery and clothing, including gold, leather and tailoring, making it easy and cost-effective to have a one-off created specially to your specifications, taste and personality.

So, whether as a souvenir, a gift for loved ones, or just to treat yourself, there are a multitude of wonderful items you can purchase to take home… the only problem will be deciding what to buy, and how to fit it all in your suitcase!

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Jewellery: The quality of gold and silver in Cyprus is very high, as well as competitively priced. Aside from classic pieces, many jewellers also create seasonal collections relating to the history and customs of the island, including pomegranates, ancient idols, evil eyes (to ward off bad spirits) and sea-themed pieces. Having a custom-made piece of jewellery designed and created to your specifications is also great value, and will leave you with a one-of-a-kind heirloom.

Leather: Leather goods – including bags, wallets, belts, waistcoats, jackets, trousers and skirts – are both high quality and competitively priced on the island. Whilst there are many pieces ready to buy off-the-peg at the island’s dedicated leather shops, visitors can also have something custom-made for an original and distinctive item that is not only tailored to specific requirements, but offers fantastic value.

Tailoring: Many locals have occasion wear tailored for big events – such as weddings and christenings – and as such, seamstresses and tailors have a large selection of fabrics and designs available. Custom-made shirts, three-piece suits, ball gowns and wedding dresses are very competitively priced compared to other countries, and can be made-to-order in a reasonably quick time frame after choosing your fabric and being measured.

Beauty Products: A range of beauty products are made with a number of traditional Cypriot ‘ingredients’ from nature, including donkey milk, olive oil, rose and herbs. Olive oil soap is the most widely available product, whilst other products are more specialised.

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Pafos was originally the island’s capital some centuries ago, but can now instead call itself the capital of culture, thanks to its significant historical sites and monuments – many of which are linked to the Ancient Greek Goddess of Love and Beauty – Aphrodite. It is no wonder then that due to its sheer wealth of ancient remnants, Katos Pafos as a whole has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Pafos is comprised of its old and new towns, with its harbour and Medieval Castle forming the focal point. The region also has quaint resorts further afield, including that of Polis Chrysochou and its fishing port of Latchi, and is home to areas of stunning natural splendour, including the Akamas Peninsula and its Avakas Gorge, Lara beach (where Green Turtles nest), and Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock/birthplace).

Although small in size, Pafos is big on the experiences it offers; a fascinating tapestry of modern tourist accommodation, shopping options and entertainment, woven with aspects that are immersed in antiquity and myth… which is why it was Aphrodite’s sanctuary then, and that of visitors the world over now.

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A characteristic feature of Larnaka is that tourists will find that there is no distinction between resort and town; locals and visitors alike can enjoy the same daily experience of a charming and diverse Mediterranean city. From stretches of varied coastline, a mix of traditional and cosmopolitan establishments and fascinating monuments, Larnaka seamlessly blends its two ‘faces’.

One of its most popular spots is the bustling promenade of Foinikoudes, which is lined with mature palm trees and flanked by beach, eateries and entertainment. Its coast joins with the sea walkway of Piale Pasha – which passes by quaint old neighbourhoods and fresh fish taverns – whilst its parallel shopping centre puts everything at your fingertips, and is home to the grand cathedral church of Agios Lazaros. As the town’s Patron Saint, the story and monument of Saint Lazarus serve as an enduring symbol of Larnaka’s significant religious history.

The town is also the most centrally positioned, offering easy access to other regions, whilst its small and scenic rural villages are famous for their local handicrafts.

For the warmest welcome, and a unique local atmosphere in a progressive town… Larnaka ticks all the boxes!
 

Larnaka Virtual Museums https://larnakaregion.com/larnaka-virtual-museums

360 video guide: https://virtuallarnakaregion.com/cwalk/

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From the wedding of Richard the Lionheart and the feasts in honour of ancient deities, to today’s carnival celebrations and Wine Festival, Lemesos has always attracted visitors in their flocks for its exciting events and social revelling.

Its position between two large city-kingdoms of ancient times – Amathous and Kourion – has blessed the area with a significant archaeological status, whilst the town in between is modern and diverse with a range of coastal strips, shopping options, drinking, dining and entertainment.

And Lemesos has the added bonus of being the island’s maritime capital, thanks to its main commercial and business port, and the exclusive, modern marina where both residents and visitors alike can enjoy sea views at one of the many waterfront establishments.

As its rural areas stretch upwards to the mountains, some of the island’s main winemaking villages can be found, giving the Lemesos region its unique link with the age-old tradition of viticulture.

For a voyage of cultural discovery and celebration, combined with sand, sea and mountains, Lemesos offers an experience not to be missed.

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There is no end to the options that Lefkosia provides, blending the current with the traditional. Its retail experience ranges from town centres and malls to traditional shopping quarters of winding streets. Its leisure and nightlife is a mixture of the popular and exclusive, with trendy bars that nestle amidst old, historically rich monuments. A wealth of interesting galleries and museums mix with fun entertainment for all the family. And its selection of cuisine is equally as diverse as its overall character.

All at once, you will be transported back to Medieval times at the ancient city that is surrounded by Venetian walls and heart-shaped bastions, and yet, just a heartbeat away you are undoubtedly in a progressive, European capital.

As you leave the city and enter the rural areas of the region, a different world unfolds; tranquil and picturesque, stretching across countryside and mountain villages, and offering further pursuits such as hiking and cycling in traditional surroundings.

A city always on the go, the many layers of Lefkosia’s various attractions and features make it the island’s capital in every sense.

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Comprised of many different, traditional villages, every twist and turn of the mountain roads leads to something different. The chain of winemaking communities has practiced viticulture for centuries, whilst others are famous for their intricate handmade folk-art, from lace and silverwork to pottery and basket weaving. Agricultural villages known for their different fruit unfold towards others, where waterfalls and springs offer a cooling drink to both human and wildlife.

At its very peak – 1.952 metres above sea level – sits Mount Olympus – whose snowy mounds welcome skiers in winter. And a myriad of natural wealth awaits exploration by foot or bicycle, along paths, over rocks and into woodland, with the villages all welcoming visitors to observe their unique local customs.

Troodos is also religiously significant for its string of 10 UNESCO World Heritage Site Byzantine Churches and other monasteries and chapels. Priceless ancient frescos, fascinating stories of saints, and unique architecture showcase the island’s deep Christian roots.

Whether you want to escape the hot beaches, discover the island’s flora and fauna, or step back in time, the Troodos mountain range is beautifully ideal for a different Cyprus experience.

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Comprised of the main holiday resorts of Agia Napa and Paralimni-Protaras, the once-tiny villages have seen their popularity and boundaries expand into bustling resorts that continue to attract visitors in their droves.

The stunning coasts of the region are further enhanced by its famous, vibrant nightlife, large variety of tourist accommodation, idyllic fishing harbours, Medieval churches, and picturesque, traditional villages. Together, they offer the perfect recipe for a fantastic holiday.

One of the main attractions of the area is the Natural Forest Park of Cape Gkreko with its cliffs, caves and coves. Aside from its breathtaking views, the park is ideal for swimming, diving, boat trips, walking and cycling, all in beautiful natural surroundings.

And no doubt, you will taste the difference in the fresh produce that the ‘red soil villages’ (Kokkinochoria) of the region grow. Thanks to its unique richly-red earth, the area is famous for juicy watermelons and strawberries, and the delicious and versatile Cyprus potato, all bursting with flavour!

From sun-seeker to party-animal, foodie to explorer, everyone will fall in love with Ammochostos and its charm.

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Comprised of its old and new towns, rural villages and picturesque resorts, the region is home to some of the most stunning areas of natural beauty on the island, whilst its many archaeological sites are historically invaluable, with Katos Pafos declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site as a whole.

Centered around the quaint harbour and impressive Medieval Castle, Pafos’ environs then stretch to incorporate the tourist resort of Polis Chrysochous. The pretty and tranquil area – known simply as ‘Polis’ – has expanded to become a sub-district in its own right, and encompasses the beautiful Akamas National Park, Lara beach – which is a breeding site for turtles, and the traditional fishing shelter of Latchi.

Whilst visiting the area, pass by the Baths of Aphrodite, which is located near Polis. Greek mythology tells that the Goddess of Love and Beauty bathed here, and it is one of the enticing sites in the region that trace her story. Her connection with Cyprus begins at the landmark rock formation of Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock/birthplace), where  she rose from the waves. From there, make a pilgrimage to her sanctuary at Kouklia.

Further out, the monastery of Agios Neofytos is located in a secluded valley, and was founded by the Cypriot ascetic Saint Neofytos around 1200. The monastery of Panagia Chrysorogiatissa, next to Panagia village, is also significant for its well-preserved buildings dating back to 18th century.

Nestled within Pafos Forest is the breathtaking mountain locality of Cedar Valley. The area is crossed by a country road that unfolds into Stavros tis Psokas, an additional mountain locality that is home to the rare and shy Mouflon (Ovis gmelini ophion).

A myriad of outdoor pursuits can also be enjoyed, further enhanced by religious monuments, wineries and museums, making the Pafos region a haven of nature and culture.

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Both Christianity and Islam have important religious sites in Larnaka. The Church of Agios Lazaros, who lived in Larnaka after his resurrection, and the Mosque of Hala Sultan – built in honour of the Prophet’s Mohammed’s aunt – are two of the main attractions of the city. Other popular sights are the Medieval Castle, the palm tree-lined promenade of ‘Foinikoudes’, and Larnaka Salt Lake, which fills with flocks of vibrant pink flamingos during the winter months.

Further out, the mountainous areas of Larnaka trail up the Troodos range, which is dotted with charming villages of narrow streets, where traditions and skilled handicrafts are still practiced. Of the most famous is the handmade lace embroidery of Lefkara and its delicate filigree silver, whilst villages like Kato Drys, Vavla and Odou are also pretty and tranquil.

The region is also rich in significant archaeological sites, including ‘Choirokoitia’ – one of the best-preserved sites of a prehistoric settlement in the Eastern Mediterranean – and ‘Kalavasos Tenta’, located in the rural areas.

One of the finest examples of Byzantine art of the Justinian period – a rare 6th century mosaic of the Virgin and Child between two archangels – can be found in the region at Angeloktisti Church in Kiti village, whilst the solitary monastery of Stavrovouni, one of the oldest on the island, sits perched on a rocky peak with panoramic hillside views. In Pyrga village, the Royal Chapel – built in 1421 by the Lusignan King Janus – is  decorated with an interesting wall painting of the king and his wife, Charlotte de Bourbon.

Enjoy a melting pot of diversity and history, combined with coast and mountains in the captivating region of Larnaka!

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