The Ultimate 7-Day Cyprus Travel Guide
Cyprus is a Mediterranean paradise where ancient history meets stunning beaches, charming villages, and mouthwatering cuisine. This comprehensive 7-day itinerary will help you experience the best of Cyprus, from the lively resorts of Ayia Napa to the tranquil Troodos Mountains and divided capital of Nicosia.
Cyprus at a Glance:
- Currency: Euro (€) in the South, Turkish Lira (₺) in the North
- Languages: Greek (South), Turkish (North), English widely spoken
- Best Time to Visit: April-June & September-October (pleasant weather, fewer crowds)
- Average Daily Budget: €80-150 (mid-range traveler)
- Getting Around: Rent a car for maximum flexibility (drives on the left!)
Pro Tip: Cyprus is divided into the Greek-speaking Republic of Cyprus (south) and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. You can cross between them at several checkpoints (bring your passport).
Detailed 7-Day Cyprus Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Larnaca & Beach Relaxation
| Time | Activity | Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morning | Arrival at Larnaca Airport |
|
€30-60 |
| Afternoon | Mackenzie Beach |
|
€15-30 |
| Evening | Finikoudes Promenade |
|
€25-50 |
Local Insight: For authentic Cypriot coffee, visit any "kafeneio" (traditional coffee shop) and order "sketo" (unsweetened), "metrio" (medium), or "glyko" (sweet).
Day 2: Ancient Kourion & Paphos
| Time | Activity | Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Drive to Kourion | Scenic 45-minute drive west along the coast | €10-15 (fuel) |
| 9:00 AM | Kourion Archaeological Site |
|
€4.50 entry |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch in Episkopi |
|
€15-25 |
| 2:00 PM | Paphos Archaeological Park |
|
€4.50 entry |
| 5:30 PM | Kato Paphos Harbor |
|
€30-60 |
Photography Tip: The mosaics at Paphos look best in late afternoon light. The theater at Kourion offers panoramic coastal views perfect for sunset photos.
Day 3: Troodos Mountains & Wine Villages
| Time | Activity | Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Drive to Troodos | 1.5 hour scenic mountain drive (stop at viewpoints) | €15-20 (fuel) |
| 9:30 AM | Kykkos Monastery |
|
Free (donation expected) |
| 11:30 AM | Omodos Village |
|
€10-20 (tasting) |
| 1:30 PM | Lunch in Omodos |
|
€15-25 |
| 3:30 PM | Caledonia Waterfalls |
|
Free |
| 6:00 PM | Return to Paphos | Evening at leisure - relax at your hotel or explore Paphos nightlife | - |
Wine Lover's Note: The Commandaria wine produced in this region is one of the world's oldest named wines still in production. Try it at the wineries!
Day 4: Nicosia (Lefkosia) - The Divided Capital
| Time | Activity | Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Drive to Nicosia | 1.5 hour drive from Paphos to Cyprus's capital | €20 (fuel) |
| 9:30 AM | Ledra Street Crossing |
|
Free |
| 11:00 AM | Selimiye Mosque |
|
Free (donation) |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch in North Nicosia |
|
€15-25 (in TL) |
| 2:00 PM | Cyprus Museum |
|
€4.50 |
| 4:00 PM | Laiki Geitonia |
|
- |
| 7:00 PM | Dinner in Nicosia |
|
€25-45 |
Border Crossing Tip: Exchange some euros to Turkish Lira before crossing to North Nicosia for better prices. Many places accept euros but give poor exchange rates.
Day 5: Ayia Napa & Cape Greco
| Time | Activity | Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Drive to Ayia Napa | 1 hour drive from Nicosia to famous resort town | €15 (fuel) |
| 9:00 AM | Nissi Beach |
|
Free (sunbed €2.50) |
| 12:00 PM | Ayia Napa Monastery |
|
Free |
| 1:30 PM | Lunch at Limanaki Beach |
|
€20-35 |
| 3:30 PM | Cape Greco National Park |
|
Free |
| 6:30 PM | Sunset at Sea Caves |
|
Free (boat €15) |
| 8:00 PM | Dinner in Protaras |
|
€25-40 |
Nightlife Option: If you want to experience Ayia Napa's famous party scene, head to Square Club or Castle Club after dinner. The season peaks June-August.
Day 6: Akamas Peninsula & Blue Lagoon
| Time | Activity | Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Drive to Latchi | 1 hour drive from Ayia Napa to northwest coast | €20 (fuel) |
| 9:00 AM | Boat to Blue Lagoon |
|
€20-30 |
| 12:30 PM | Lunch in Latchi |
|
€25-40 |
| 2:30 PM | Baths of Aphrodite |
|
Free |
| 4:00 PM | Adonis Trail Hike |
|
Free |
| 7:00 PM | Sunset in Polis |
|
€20-35 |
Alternative Option: For a more adventurous day, rent a 4x4 and explore Akamas's dirt roads to remote beaches like Lara Bay (turtle nesting area).
Day 7: Lefkara & Return to Larnaca
| Time | Activity | Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Drive to Lefkara | 1 hour scenic drive through mountains | €15 (fuel) |
| 9:00 AM | Lefkara Village |
|
- |
| 11:00 AM | Choirokoitia Neolithic Settlement |
|
€3 |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch in Kiti |
|
€15-25 |
| 3:00 PM | Hala Sultan Tekke |
|
Free |
| 5:00 PM | Return Rental Car | Drop off at Larnaca Airport before flight | - |
Souvenir Tip: Lefkara lace makes for beautiful, authentic souvenirs. Look for pieces with the official Lefkara lace certification label.
Essential Cyprus Travel Information
Where to Stay in Cyprus
| City | Budget Option (€50-80) | Mid-Range (€100-150) | Luxury (€200+) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Larnaca | Metropole Hotel (central location) | Radisson Blu (beachfront) | Lebanese Sands (boutique luxury) |
| Paphos | Pyramos Hotel (great value) | Almyra Hotel (design hotel) | Anassa (5-star resort) |
| Nicosia | Classic Hotel (old town) | Altius Boutique Hotel | Hilton Cyprus (best in city) |
| Ayia Napa | Napa Plaza Hotel | Grecian Bay Hotel | NissiBlu Beach Resort |
Must-Try Cypriot Foods
Main Dishes:
- Halloumi - The famous grillable cheese, often served with watermelon
- Meze - A feast of 20+ small dishes (order for the table)
- Kleftiko - Slow-cooked lamb with herbs in sealed oven
- Makaronia tou Fournou - Cypriot pasta bake with minced meat
Street Food & Snacks:
- Souvlaki - Grilled meat skewers (pork or chicken)
- Loukaniko - Cypriot sausage with coriander
- Tiropita - Cheese-filled pastry
- Koupes - Fried bulgur wheat shells with minced meat
Desserts & Drinks:
- Loukoumades - Cypriot doughnuts with honey
- Commandaria - Sweet dessert wine (world's oldest)
- Zivania - Strong grape-based spirit (like grappa)
- Frappé - Iced coffee (national summer drink)
Estimated Trip Costs (Per Person)
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €350 (hostels/guesthouses) | €700 (3-4 star hotels) | €1500+ (5-star/resorts) |
| Food | €200 (street food/self-catering) | €400 (mix of tavernas & nicer restaurants) | €800+ (fine dining) |
| Activities | €100 (free beaches, self-guided tours) | €200 (some guided tours, entrance fees) | €400+ (private tours, premium experiences) |
| Transport | €150 (public buses) | €300 (car rental + fuel) | €600 (private driver) |
| Souvenirs | €50 | €100 | €300+ |
| Total | €850 | €1700 | €3600+ |
Practical Travel Tips for Cyprus
Before You Go:
- Visa: Schengen rules apply (90 days for EU/US/UK citizens)
- Packing: Bring comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sun protection, and a light jacket for mountain areas
- Driving License: International driving permit recommended for non-EU licenses
During Your Trip:
- Currency: Euros in the south, Turkish Lira in north (have some cash for small vendors)
- Tipping: 5-10% in restaurants if service not included (check bill)
- Water Safety: Tap water is technically safe but doesn't taste great - buy bottled
- Sun Protection: UV index can be very high - use SPF 30+ even in shoulder seasons
Cultural Notes:
- Greetings: A handshake is common, close friends may kiss on both cheeks
- Dress Code: Modest dress required for religious sites (cover shoulders/knees)
- Photography: Ask before photographing people, especially in rural areas
- North Cyprus: Crossing is straightforward but check current political situation
Final Thoughts
Cyprus offers an incredible mix of history, nature, and Mediterranean charm that can satisfy every type of traveler. This 7-day itinerary covers the highlights while allowing time to relax and soak up the island's unique atmosphere. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, swimming in crystal-clear waters, or indulging in meze feasts, Cyprus will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Remember that Cyprus is more than just beaches - take time to explore the mountain villages, meet locals in traditional kafeneios, and learn about the island's complex history. The pace of life here encourages you to slow down and savor each experience.
Have you visited Cyprus? Share your favorite spots and tips in the comments below to help fellow travelers!