Cyprus Sightseeing
Discover the most beautiful and significant places across Cyprus, from pristine beaches to ancient cultural sites and breathtaking natural wonders.
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Petra tou Romiou
Petra tou Romiou, also known as the Rock of Aphrodite, is one of the most famous landmarks in Cyprus, located along the coastal road between Paphos and Limassol. The site is steeped in mythology, as it is believed to be the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, who rose from the sea foam at this very spot. The dramatic natural scenery, with towering sea stacks emerging from the turquoise waters and steep cliffs framing the coast, makes it one of the most photographed places on the island. The beach itself is a mix of pebbles and shingle, stretching out against the crystal-clear sea. While swimming is possible, caution is advised because of strong currents and steep drops close to shore. Many visitors come simply to walk along the beach, admire the striking rock formations, and watch the play of light at sunrise and sunset, which adds even more magic to the site. The combination of natural beauty and mythology makes Petra tou Romiou a must-see stop on any trip to Cyprus.
Pissouri Beach
Pissouri Beach is one of the most beautiful and tranquil stretches of coastline in Cyprus, located just below the traditional village of Pissouri between Limassol and Paphos. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and rolling hills, the beach offers a peaceful setting with soft pebbly sand and crystal-clear waters. Its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and long seaside walks. Unlike the busier urban beaches, Pissouri retains a calm, unspoiled charm that appeals to visitors looking for a more authentic coastal experience. The beach is spacious and well-organized, providing comfortable facilities while preserving its scenic environment. Sunbeds and umbrellas are available for rent, and lifeguards are on duty during the summer season. The water is clean, calm, and safe for families, while gentle breezes make it popular for water sports such as windsurfing and paddleboarding. Lining the shore are small restaurants and beach bars offering local dishes, fresh seafood, and refreshing drinks with stunning sea views. Pissouri Beach is a great base for exploring nearby attractions, including Aphrodite’s Rock, Kourion Archaeological Site, and several local wineries. Its combination of natural beauty, cleanliness, and hospitality has earned it the Blue Flag award for environmental quality. Whether you visit for a few hours or stay nearby, the beach captures the essence of Cyprus’s laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle.
Polyxenia Beach (Pernera Gardens Beach)
Polyxenia Beach, also known as Pernera Gardens Beach, is a beautiful sandy bay located in the Pernera area of Protaras. It is one of the quieter beaches in the region, offering soft golden sand, calm turquoise waters, and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The sea here is shallow and gentle, making it ideal for children and less experienced swimmers, while the surrounding area provides a peaceful escape from the larger and busier beaches of central Protaras. What makes Polyxenia Beach particularly inviting is its balance of natural beauty and comfort. The beach is part of the scenic coastal walkway that links Pernera to Protaras, making it easy to combine a visit with a leisurely seaside stroll. Surrounded by hotels, holiday apartments, and local taverns, it provides all the convenience of being close to amenities while still preserving a calm and intimate setting. It is a place where visitors can enjoy both relaxation and light activity, whether that means swimming in the clear waters, trying water sports, or enjoying a meal at the nearby restaurants.
Pomos Municipal Beach
Pomos Municipal Beach offers a calm and relaxing beach day. The shoreline is mostly pebbles (with some sand), so water shoes are recommended for comfort. A stone fishing pier nearby is a hotspot for snorkeling, thanks to the clear water and nearby marine life. The beach is accessible by car with free parking nearby. It remains quieter than many of Cyprus’s major tourist beaches, making it ideal for visitors seeking peace and natural beauty.
Potami Beach
Potami Beach, also known as Marlita Beach, is a small yet captivating sandy bay located in the Pernera area of Protaras. Framed by gentle golden sand and the sparkling turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, it offers a tranquil retreat away from the busier stretches of coastline. The seabed slopes gently, making it safe for swimming and perfect for families with young children. The atmosphere is calm and intimate, giving visitors the chance to relax, read a book, or simply enjoy the soothing sound of the waves. Despite its smaller size, Potami Beach captures the essence of Protaras with its clear waters and natural beauty, yet remains less crowded than some of the more famous beaches in the area. The surrounding coastline is also picturesque, with the Paralimni coastal walkway passing just behind the beach, offering stunning sea views and connecting it to other nearby beaches and resorts. In the evenings, the area takes on a different charm, as the nearby beach bars and restaurants light up, making it a lovely spot for a sunset stroll or a relaxed seaside dinner after a swim. The location combines convenience and peace, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors seeking a quieter escape without sacrificing comfort.
Profitis Elias church
Located on a rocky hill above Protaras, the Church of Profitis Elias is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the area. Built in traditional Byzantine style with stone walls and a simple yet striking design, the church offers a blend of spiritual significance and breathtaking views. To reach it, visitors climb a staircase of more than 150 steps. A short but memorable journey that adds to the sense of pilgrimage. Inside, the church is adorned with beautiful icons and candlelit corners, creating an atmosphere of devotion and tranquility. Outside, the panoramic view of the coastline and surrounding villages makes it a favorite spot for photography, reflection, and even romantic proposals. In the evenings, the church is illuminated, glowing like a beacon over Protaras.
Protaras Marina
Protaras Marina is a modern harbour development along the Protaras coastline. The marina serves not only as a mooring point for leisure boats but also as a hub of activity for both residents and visitors. Boats and yachts are docked in calm waters, giving a sense of nautical charm and coastal sophistication to the area. The setting is elegant yet relaxed, with the shimmering Mediterranean waters reflecting the sun, small piers reaching out into the sea, and walkways that allow people to stroll, watch boats, enjoy the views, or dine by the water. Surrounding the marina are restaurants, cafés and shops that line the water’s edge. In the evenings the lights from the waterfront establishments cast a warm glow across the water, making it a pleasant spot for a meal, a drink, or just a leisurely walk. It combines a lifestyle-feel with accessible leisure, creating a place that both feels upscale and welcoming. Its location close to other beaches and hotel areas means that people can visit the marina as part of a beach day or stay, adding an extra dimension of interest beyond just sand and sun.
Saint Anna Chapel
The Chapel of Saint Anna is a charming little Orthodox chapel tucked away in Ayia Napa, offering a quiet spot for reflection away from the busier parts of town. The small whitewashed structure follows the classic Cycladic-style architecture, with simple lines, a stone courtyard, and a bright blue dome that stands out against the surrounding landscape. Though modest in size, the chapel holds great spiritual significance for locals, who often visit to light a candle or pray. It is also a peaceful stop for visitors exploring the cultural and religious landmarks of Ayia Napa.
Saint Barbara Church
The Old and New Church of Saint Barbara in Paralimni form a unique pair of religious landmarks that highlight both the history and continuity of faith in the town. The old church is a small, traditional stone-built chapel, representing the modest style of earlier centuries and serving as a link to Paralimni’s spiritual heritage. It is simple in form, yet deeply meaningful to the community, as it preserves traditions of worship passed down through generations. Next to it stands the new church of Saint Barbara, larger and more modern in design, built to serve the growing population of Paralimni. With its higher ceilings, expanded interior, and more elaborate architecture, the new church reflects the community’s growth and ongoing devotion. Together, the two churches create a striking contrast: one humble and historic, the other spacious and contemporary. Both are active places of worship and play a central role during Saint Barbara’s feast day, celebrated on December 4th, when locals gather in honor of the saint.
Saint George Church
Saint George Church is one of the most prominent landmarks in Paralimni, located in the main square at the heart of the city. The church is relatively modern compared to many other Cypriot churches, with its construction completed in the 20th century, but it was built on the site of two older churches, creating a unique blend of tradition and continuity. Its large stone façade, elegant bell towers, and spacious interior make it a central point for both worship and community gatherings. Inside, the church is adorned with striking frescoes, icons, and traditional Orthodox décor, reflecting the rich spiritual and artistic heritage of Cyprus. Saint George Church is an active place of worship, regularly hosting services, weddings, and religious festivals. Its location in Paralimni’s bustling square makes it easily accessible and a natural stop for visitors exploring the city. Around the church, you’ll also find cafés, shops, and pedestrian-friendly streets, blending faith and local life in a lively setting.
Saint Mark the Evangelist Chapel
The Chapel of Saint Mark the Evangelist is a small Orthodox chapel located in the center of Paralimni, standing beside the larger Saint George Church and the Metropolitan Church of Constantia and Ammochostos. Despite its modest size, it carries significant cultural and spiritual value, as it represents one of the older religious buildings of the area, preserved and cherished by the local community. Its traditional stone architecture and simple charm contrast beautifully with the grander neighboring churches, making the chapel a quiet place for prayer and reflection. Dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist, the chapel is often visited by locals who wish to light a candle or offer a prayer in a more intimate setting. It also forms part of the trio of churches in Paralimni’s main square, which together showcase the continuity of faith and the architectural evolution of the region. The chapel’s location in the lively city center makes it easily accessible for visitors exploring Paralimni’s heritage.
Saints Arsenios the Cappadocian & Paisios of Mount Athos Church
This modern Orthodox church is one of Ayia Napa’s most important spiritual landmarks, dedicated to Saint Arsenios the Cappadocian and Saint Paisios of Mount Athos, two revered saints of the Orthodox faith. Built in traditional Byzantine style, it features a large central dome, elegant stonework, and a bright whitewashed exterior that makes it stand out against the coastal backdrop. Inside, visitors are welcomed by impressive frescoes and icons depicting the lives and miracles of the saints. The atmosphere is serene and reverent, offering both locals and visitors a place for prayer, reflection, and spiritual connection.