Cyprus, nestled in the Mediterranean Sea, is a year-round destination with something for everyone. If you're looking to enjoy warm sunshine in the autumn months, Cyprus can offer the perfect getaway even for 5 days, with pleasant weather lasting until the end of November. I had the opportunity to explore Cyprus and was instantly captivated by its stunning nature, delicious food, and friendly locals, who are justifiably proud of their beautiful island.
A vacation in Cyprus offers a wonderful mix of culture, nature, history, gastronomy, and authentic experiences. Through the unique "Heartland of Legends" program, visitors can participate in local workshops and sample regional specialties, bringing them into close contact with Cypriot life and people. Participation is free for travelers, and local businesses are compensated by the government—a fantastic initiative!
Discover in this travel guide why Cyprus deserves a spot on your bucket list.
Day 1: Arrival in Larnaca to spend 5 days in Cyprus
From Brussels, there are several direct flights to Cyprus. We chose TUI and made a short stopover in Paphos. The flight took about 4 hours and 20 minutes. You can also fly from Amsterdam, USA, uk, France to either Paphos or Larnaca.
Upon arrival, greeted by a pleasant 23°C evening temperature in October, we were transferred to our first accommodation, Lordos Beach in Larnaca.
Here, we were immediately introduced to the delicious Mediterranean cuisine, with a spread of mezze, a variety of salads, meats, fish, pastas, and a dessert buffet to finish off the meal.
Day 2: From Larnaca to the Troodos Mountains
After a refreshing night's sleep, we took a morning stroll through the old center of Larnaca. At the end of the Foinikoudes promenade, where palm trees offer plenty of shade along the seafront, you'll find the medieval castle. This is one of the last remaining forts, built between the 11th and 17th centuries to protect the city from pirates.
Larnaca is the second-largest city in Cyprus after Nicosia and the only one with both a port and an airport.
Just a short walk from the fort is the Church of Saint Lazarus, a beautiful Orthodox church built in Byzantine style. It is said to house the tomb of Saint Lazarus, hence its name.
After soaking in the history, it was time for a drink at Sunmoon Hospitality, where we were treated to a "Brandy Sour," my new favorite cocktail! Made with the local anise-flavored spirit Zivania, lime juice, honey, and pink grapefruit soda, it’s a refreshing Cypriot delight. Another must-try drink is Commandaria, the world’s oldest sweet wine, perfect on its own or in cocktails.
For lunch, we headed to the picturesque mountain village of Kakopetria, one of Cyprus’ most colorful villages with narrow, cobblestone streets adorned with flowers and many Cypriot cats.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Cyprus has more cats than people? According to legend, they were brought here in the 4th century by Roman Empress Saint Helena to drive snakes out of a monastery.
Before entering the village, you pass the Panagia Podithou Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fine example of Byzantine architecture dating from the early 16th century.
In the heart of Kakopetria, we dined at Linus Inn, where the owner’s mother taught us how to make stuffed vine leaves (Koupepia) and allowed us to sample delicious zucchini flowers (Athoi).
We enjoyed a typical Cypriot mezze, similar to Greek tapas.
After this feast, we continued our journey to the Troodos Mountains, where we stayed overnight in Platres. We planned to hike part of the Kaledonia Trail the next day.
Our accommodation was Petit Palais Hotel, one of Cyprus' oldest hotels, dating back to the 1960s tourism boom.
Day 3: Nature and Local Encounters
Our morning began with a hike to the Kaledonia Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Cyprus at 13 meters. The level 3 hike was quite manageable, leading us through forests of cypresses and oriental plane trees. Thanks to the sunshine, we were treated to a beautiful rainbow by the waterfall.
Our next stop was the village of Foini, where we participated in a pottery workshop led by Giota, a local artist who still prepares clay traditionally. This hands-on experience gave us insight into her craft, and we enjoyed creating our own piece.
Alongside the pottery studio, we sipped on Cypriot coffee, a blend of coffee beans and chickpeas, traditionally served with water and a small biscuit.
In the afternoon, we visited Omodos, a charming and bustling village surrounded by vineyards. Its main attraction is the Timios Stavros Monastery, well worth a visit.
We enjoyed a delightful mezze lunch at Katoi Restaurant, followed by a stop in Doros, one of the ten villages permitted to produce Commandaria wine. The Karseras family treated us to a glass of this sweet red wine, a must-try for visitors.
On our way to Paphos, we passed by Petra tou Romiou, the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and fertility. According to legend, she was born from the sea foam here.
The day ends in Paphos where we will stay at the Athena Beach Hotel. This is the largest hotel in Cyprus, with as many as 500 rooms. There are several swimming pools and direct access to the beach. The hotel is particularly suitable for families but also for couples, so you have a separate pool for families and adults.
Entertainment is also provided in the evening, so there are all kinds of folk dances performed and you can venture out to the Sirtaki.
Day 4: Aphrodite’s Baths & Akamas Blue Lagoon
After breakfast, we visited the Aphrodite Baths, where the goddess supposedly bathed. Surrounding the baths are beautiful walking trails, and there’s even a quad bike circuit for the adventurous.
We then boarded a small cruise to the Akamas Blue Lagoon, where the water was an inviting, crystal-clear blue. Snorkeling gear was provided, and although the marine life was minimal, the warm water made for a refreshing swim.
We lunched at Y&P Fish Restaurant in Latchi harbor, enjoying the freshest seafood mezze, including shrimp, calamari, sardines, and more, all freshly caught from the sea.
On our way back to Paphos, we stopped at Barakas Lounge to enjoy a spectacular sunset with a freshly made cocktail in hand.
We dine this time in Paphos town at the local Pagkratios Tavern where the terrace tables are almost all occupied by locals (always a signal that the food is good). Notable here are the several tables where only men are eating. Apparently they have something to celebrate. There is also an orchestra playing consisting of two Cypriot musicians who sing as well as play their instrument at the same time. Regularly one of the men at the table next to us gets up to dance to the music. Wonderful to see!
While watching the local people dance, we again enjoy the most delicious mezze dishes and although we had asked for small portions, again so many delicious dishes are conjured up on the table that with the best will we cannot eat them all.
We spend the night at the Athena Beach hotel in Paphos.
Day 5: Archeological Discoveries Near Limassol and Colorful Villages
Our final day in Cyprus began with a visit to the Kourion archaeological site, where we explored the remains of the House of Eustolios. The site showcases beautiful mosaics that mark the transition from the Roman era to early Christianity.
The old theater is also worth a visit. Its beautiful location near the sea makes it very special and you can still enjoy a theater play or concert there today. The acoustics are excellent.
We had lunch under a centuries-old plane tree at Platanos Roushias, followed by a visit to Lefkara, a charming village famous for its lace and silverwork. A local woman invited us into her home, where we admired the handmade lace pieces that the village is known for.
I ended my 5 days in Cyprus with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Lefkara, surrounded by blooming bougainvilleas and pomegranate trees, grateful for the warm encounters with locals, delicious Cypriot cuisine, and unforgettable experiences.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Read our brand new magazine!
*Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Destination Explorer a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.
I love how your first photo is of a cat, and then later, you explain that there are more cats than people in Cyprus! There is certainly so much to see, do, and love here—your boat photo with the blue seas has me reaching for my bucket list notes to add Cyprus to it! It certainly looked like an amazing destination to explore!
Many thanks