Cyprus – Personal Travel Studio

Cyprus is somewhere we think can sometimes be underestimated.

Yes, there are beautiful beaches and plenty of sunshine, but there’s also thousands of years of history, traditional villages, wonderful food, mountains, lively cities and an increasingly impressive collection of luxury hotels.

We’ve travelled around Cyprus ourselves and particularly enjoy the western side of the island.

Paphos is a favourite. It may sometimes feel a little cooler than resorts further east, but we love the combination of history, restaurants and the waterfront. Head further north towards Latchi and everything becomes quieter and more relaxed.

Then there’s Limassol, bringing a little more city life into the mix, with some excellent resorts stretching along the coast.

For us, Cyprus works particularly well when you want sunshine and a lovely hotel, but still want somewhere interesting beyond the resort.

Our travels in Cyprus

One of the things we enjoy about Cyprus is how easy it is to create very different holidays on the same island.

We’ve spent time exploring its resorts, cities and coastline and have also experienced some of the excellent five-star hotels we regularly recommend.

Sometimes we want little more than a beautiful hotel and somewhere lovely to relax.

On another trip, we might hire a car, explore the coast, visit archaeological sites or head inland.

Cyprus gives you both.

It also has a strong sense of history and culture. Its location in the eastern Mediterranean has brought different civilisations and influences to the island over thousands of years, and you encounter that heritage throughout your travels.

Those experiences help us think about more than the hotel itself. How easy is it to head out for dinner, what is nearby when you want a change of scene, and how much driving would you enjoy?

We would use those questions to shape your stay. A quieter base can work beautifully when relaxation comes first, while somewhere closer to town may suit a holiday with more exploring. There is room to do either without making every day feel planned.

Why we love Cyprus

Because it’s easy.

You can choose a wonderful hotel, enjoy the sunshine and completely switch off, but whenever you want a little more, there’s history, food, countryside and somewhere interesting to explore.

And particularly in spring and autumn, when we’re trying to squeeze a little more sunshine out of the European season, Cyprus is somewhere we find ourselves looking at again and again.

We also like being able to keep the arrangements straightforward. You can settle into one hotel and choose a few outings, rather than spend the holiday moving between bases. That leaves time to enjoy the room, the pool and the places you discover nearby.

The variety is useful when different people want different things from the same trip. One day might centre on an ancient site, another on a long lunch, with a quieter morning at the hotel between them.

For us, the best balance comes from choosing the right location at the outset. A beautiful hotel matters, but so does the atmosphere outside its grounds and the freedom to explore when the mood takes you.

Our Cyprus picks

These six choices reflect the places and experiences we particularly enjoy about Cyprus. We would use them to help choose your base and a few worthwhile outings, leaving plenty of room to relax.

Paphos

We particularly enjoy Paphos.

There’s something very easy about it.

The waterfront is a lovely place to walk, stop for something to eat or simply sit with a drink and watch the world go by, while the archaeological sites give the destination far more depth than a conventional beach resort.

It’s a good choice if you like being able to leave your hotel and actually explore somewhere.

Paphos also has some excellent hotels.

The Elysium is one of the standout luxury properties in the area and works particularly well when you want a proper resort experience while remaining close to Paphos and its historic attractions.

There are plenty of other options along this stretch of coast too, ranging from larger resorts to more intimate properties.

We would consider the location carefully, particularly if you want to walk out regularly. Staying somewhere that suits your evening plans can make the whole holiday feel more relaxed, with less arranging needed once you arrive.

Paphos

We particularly enjoy Paphos.

There’s something very easy about it.

It’s a good choice if you like being able to leave your hotel and actually explore somewhere.

Paphos also has some excellent hotels.

The Elysium is one of the standout luxury properties in the area and works particularly well when you want a proper resort experience while remaining close to Paphos and its historic attractions.

There are plenty of other options along this stretch of coast too, ranging from larger resorts to more intimate properties.

Latchi and the quieter west

Travel north from Paphos and Cyprus begins to feel different.

Around Latchi, the atmosphere is quieter and the landscape feels less developed. It’s a part of the island we particularly enjoy when the priority is slowing down.

Nalu Latchi is one of the properties that has particularly caught our attention here.

This side of Cyprus is ideal if your perfect day involves a slower breakfast, sometime beside the water, a leisurely lunch and perhaps exploring a little of the surrounding countryside.

It’s also a great example of why we wouldn’t automatically send everybody to the same part of Cyprus.

Paphos, Latchi and Limassol may all be on the same island, but the holiday experience can feel very different.

Think about the atmosphere of the property as well as the area. Family facilities, dining choices and room arrangements can make a real difference, even when the surrounding coastline has the quieter feel you are looking for.

Latchi and the quieter west

Travel north from Paphos and Cyprus begins to feel different.

Around Latchi, the atmosphere is quieter and the landscape feels less developed. It’s a part of the island we particularly enjoy when the priority is slowing down.

Nalu Latchi is one of the properties that has particularly caught our attention here.

This side of Cyprus is ideal if your perfect day involves a slower breakfast, sometime beside the water, a leisurely lunch and perhaps exploring a little of the surrounding countryside.

It’s also a great example of why we wouldn’t automatically send everybody to the same part of Cyprus.

Paphos, Latchi and Limassol may all be on the same island, but the holiday experience can feel very different.

Limassol and the coast

If you want more going on around you, Limassol is a great alternative.

It brings together a coastal holiday with the energy of a modern city, restaurants, bars, shops and a waterfront alongside some excellent hotels.

The coastline around Limassol has also become particularly strong for luxury resorts.

Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is one of the standout names and is a fantastic choice when the hotel itself is going to be an important part of the holiday.

We also like AMARA, another excellent luxury option along this stretch of coast.

And further west, between Paphos and Limassol, Columbia Beach Resort offers something rather different again, with a beautiful setting at Pissouri Bay.

That choice is one of Cyprus's strengths.

You can have a polished contemporary luxury resort, something quieter and more secluded or stay closer to a town where you can easily head out in the evening.

We would check how easily you can reach the city from your hotel.

Limassol and the coast

If you want more going on around you, Limassol is a great alternative.

It brings together a coastal holiday with the energy of a modern city, restaurants, bars, shops and a waterfront alongside some excellent hotels.

The coastline around Limassol has also become particularly strong for luxury resorts.

Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa is one of the standout names and is a fantastic choice when the hotel itself is going to be an important part of the holiday.

We also like AMARA, another excellent luxury option along this stretch of coast.

And further west, between Paphos and Limassol, Columbia Beach Resort offers something rather different again, with a beautiful setting at Pissouri Bay.

That choice is one of Cyprus's strengths.

You can have a polished contemporary luxury resort, something quieter and more secluded or stay closer to a town where you can easily head out in the evening.

We would check how easily you can reach the city from your hotel.

History, culture and exploring

It would be very easy to come to Cyprus, check into a lovely five-star hotel and not move very far for a week.

And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.

But there is a lot beyond the sun lounger.

Paphos in particular has extraordinary archaeological heritage, while travelling inland introduces you to traditional villages and a completely different landscape.

The Troodos Mountains provide another contrast to the coast, with mountain roads, villages and scenery that can feel a world away from the resorts below.

Food is part of the experience too.

Cypriot meals are wonderfully sociable affairs. A leisurely meze, local dishes and a bottle of wine somewhere overlooking the water is exactly the sort of uncomplicated evening we love here.

Our advice would be to leave the hotel at least occasionally.

Even if it's only for lunch.

Choose a few outings that appeal to you and give each enough time, leaving plenty of room to enjoy the hotel too.

History, culture and exploring

It would be very easy to come to Cyprus, check into a lovely five-star hotel and not move very far for a week.

And there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.

But there is a lot beyond the sun lounger.

Paphos in particular has extraordinary archaeological heritage, while travelling inland introduces you to traditional villages and a completely different landscape.

The Troodos Mountains provide another contrast to the coast, with mountain roads, villages and scenery that can feel a world away from the resorts below.

Food is part of the experience too.

Cypriot meals are wonderfully sociable affairs. A leisurely meze, local dishes and a bottle of wine somewhere overlooking the water is exactly the sort of uncomplicated evening we love here.

Our advice would be to leave the hotel at least occasionally.

Even if it's only for lunch.

Choose a few outings that appeal to you and give each enough time, leaving plenty of room to enjoy the hotel too.

Pissouri Bay and village

Pissouri offers another option between Paphos and Limassol, with a coastal setting that can suit a holiday centred on a comfortable hotel and time by the water. Columbia Beach Resort is one of the properties we would consider here.

The bay and the hillside village have different characters, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the coast and head inland for a change of scene. We would think about how often you want to move between them when discussing your arrangements.

This can be a good choice if you prefer a smaller setting to a city, while still wanting places to explore beyond the hotel. There is no need for a busy programme: a village visit, an unhurried meal and a few coastal outings may be enough.

Allow time to enjoy the property itself, and choose your room and board arrangements around the way you like to spend the day and evening on holiday.

Pissouri Bay and village

Allow time to enjoy the property itself, and choose your room and board arrangements around the way you like to spend the day and evening on holiday.

The Troodos Mountains and inland villages

Heading inland gives a Cyprus holiday a different perspective. The Troodos Mountains introduce scenery and villages that contrast with the coast, making them worth considering when you would like a day away from the resort.

We would plan a manageable route rather than trying to cover the whole region at once. Mountain roads take time, and the journey is more enjoyable when there is room to stop, look around and pause for lunch.

Your interests can shape the outing. You may prefer village streets and a leisurely meal, or a day that gives more time to the landscape. A driver or guide can be useful if you would rather enjoy the views without concentrating on the road.

For a longer holiday, a short inland stay could add another dimension. We would weigh that against the simplicity of one coastal base, choosing the approach that gives you the most enjoyment with the least unnecessary packing.

The Troodos Mountains and inland villages

Things to do in Cyprus

Explore the archaeology of Paphos

The ancient sites around Paphos give a coastal holiday another dimension. At the archaeological park, the Roman mosaics offer a particularly absorbing glimpse into the island's past, with detailed scenes that reward a closer look.

We would leave enough time to explore without rushing, choosing a part of the day that suits the weather. A guide can help explain the stories and place the remains in context if you enjoy understanding more of what you see.

Keep the rest of the programme light, perhaps following the visit with lunch near the waterfront. One well chosen historical outing can add a great deal without turning the whole holiday into sightseeing.

Enjoy the waterfront in Paphos

Sometimes the most enjoyable outing is also the simplest. A walk along the Paphos waterfront gives you a chance to leave the hotel, enjoy the coastal setting and find somewhere to stop for a drink or a meal.

We would make room for an unplanned afternoon here rather than treat it as another attraction to complete. Take your time, follow whatever interests you and leave space to return to somewhere you particularly like.

This is one reason the location of your hotel matters. If walking out is part of your ideal holiday, choosing a convenient base can make those everyday pleasures easier to enjoy throughout the stay, with fewer arrangements.

Slow down around Latchi

Latchi suits the kind of day that develops gently. Begin with breakfast, spend some time beside the water and leave room for a leisurely lunch rather than setting off with a long list of things to do.

A stroll around the harbour can provide a change of scene from the hotel, while a short outing into the surrounding area adds variety if you feel like exploring. The point is to enjoy the quieter atmosphere at a pace that suits you.

We would choose accommodation that supports that style of holiday, considering the setting and dining options as carefully as the room. A relaxed day should feel easy from the outset.

Spend a day exploring Limassol

Limassol brings a different energy to a Cyprus holiday, combining a coastal setting with city life. Spend some time exploring its waterfront and choose a few streets, shops or places to eat that appeal to you.

We would keep the day flexible rather than plan every stop. A morning out can become a longer visit if you find somewhere you enjoy, or you can return to the resort for a quieter afternoon.

Consider the journey from your hotel when making evening plans. Staying along the coast does not always mean being within walking distance of the city, so arranging transport can help you enjoy dinner without watching the clock afterwards.

Head inland for village scenery

A day inland can reveal a different side of Cyprus from the familiar coastline. Choose a manageable route through the villages and mountain scenery, with time to pause rather than spending the whole day in the car.

We would build the outing around your interests and how much driving you enjoy. One or two places explored properly can be more rewarding than a series of short stops, especially when you find somewhere appealing for lunch.

Allow for the roads and the return journey when deciding how far to go. The aim is a pleasant change of scene that leaves you refreshed, with time to enjoy your hotel again that evening.

Make time for a Cypriot meze

Food is a lovely way to enjoy Cyprus beyond the resort. A leisurely meze encourages you to try different dishes and spend time around the table, making the meal an experience in its own right.

We would choose somewhere for its atmosphere as well as the menu, whether that means a waterfront setting or a village restaurant during an outing inland. Ask about the dishes and let the meal develop without hurrying to another activity.

Leave a little space in the holiday for returning to a favourite place. An enjoyable lunch or relaxed evening meal can become one of the moments you remember most, without needing elaborate plans or special arrangements.

Cyprus FAQs

When is the best time to visit Cyprus?

One of Cyprus's big advantages is its location in the eastern Mediterranean.

It’s a little further to travel from the UK than some Mediterranean destinations, but that can reward you with a longer season and warmer conditions into spring and autumn.

We particularly like looking at Cyprus for those shoulder-season trips when some other European resorts are only just opening or beginning to wind down.

In recent years, warmer autumn conditions have sometimes stretched the season well into October and even November, although we'd never treat late-season weather as guaranteed.

For exploring Paphos, Limassol and the island's historical sites, the slightly cooler temperatures outside midsummer can actually be a real advantage.

Which part of Cyprus would you recommend?

It depends on the holiday you want. We particularly enjoy Paphos for its waterfront and history, Latchi for something quieter and Limassol when you want more restaurants, city life and luxury resorts.

Is Paphos good for a luxury holiday?

Yes. There are some excellent five-star hotels, including The Elysium, and you have the added benefit of Paphos's waterfront, restaurants and historical sites nearby.

Where should I stay for a quieter Cyprus holiday?

We'd look towards the west and particularly around Latchi. It has a much more relaxed feel and works well when escaping and slowing down are the priorities.

Is Limassol worth considering for a beach holiday?

Definitely. The coastline around Limassol has some exceptional luxury resorts, including AMARA and Parklane, while the city gives you plenty of restaurants, bars and life beyond the hotel.

Is Cyprus good outside the main summer months?

That's one of its big attractions. Its eastern Mediterranean location can make Cyprus particularly appealing in spring and autumn, when we’re looking for warmer European options without travelling long-haul.

Is Cyprus just a fly-and-flop destination?

Not at all. You can certainly spend a week doing very little in a beautiful resort, but Cyprus has ancient sites, villages, mountains, cities and a fascinating cultural heritage to explore.

Is Cyprus good for couples?

Very much so. There are some excellent adult-friendly and luxury hotels, great restaurants and quieter areas where the emphasis is firmly on relaxing.

Do I need to hire a car?

Not necessarily. If you choose a base that suits your plans, you can combine hotel time with local exploring and arranged excursions. A car becomes more useful when you want to visit several areas independently. We would consider how much driving you enjoy before recommending it for the whole stay.

Should I stay in one place or split the holiday?

One well chosen base works particularly well for a week. With ten nights or longer, two contrasting areas can add variety, although changing hotels is only worthwhile if it improves the holiday you want. We would compare both approaches with you.