The resort towns of Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca, Ayia Napa and Protaras all offer the holidaymaker something slightly different, but one thing they all have in common is that you’ll find some of the highest quality accommodation to be found anywhere in the Mediterranean. That doesn’t mean that only the well-heeled can visit Cyprus – there is an abundance of hotels and apartments to suit all budgets and tastes.

For lovers of nightlife, head for Ayia Napa, no longer hedonistic, and more sophisticated than its low-point a decade ago. Ayia Napa is also home to fabulous Nissi Beach. Nearby, Protaras is great for families with safe bathing and another excellent beach. Paphos is for history lovers and has a small man-made beach, harbour and a relaxed evening scene. Latchi and Polis are small resorts for those who seek peace and quiet. Larnaca is a large town with a lovely beach and promenade, and the working port of Limassol is busy with a bustling shopping centre. Inland, the Troodos mountains rise majestically and as well as being spectacularly beautiful, they are home to many ancient monasteries and churches, and pretty villages such as Omodos, famed for its lace.

Top things to see and do

1. Akamas Peninsula. Come and be with nature along this rugged and unspoilt coast of sandy bays and pine forest.
2. Baths of Aphrodite. An isolated freshwater pool in the beautiful unspoilt countryside, where the Goddess of Love is said to have bathed.
3. Troodos Painted Churches. UNESCO World Heritage listed, this collection of 10 ancient Byzantine churches and monasteries had the decorators in, back in the 10th & 11th centuries. The results can’t be described.. come and see for yourself.
4. Tombs of the Kings. The whole of Paphos has UNESCO World Heritage status thanks to these incredible tombs, some resembling houses, built for noblemen rather than kings.
5. Hala Sultan Tekke. An important Islamic site, this fabulous ancient mosque is beautiful on its own, but the setting on a lake just adds to its beauty, especially in winter when the lake becomes home to thousands of migrating flamingos.
6. Kourion. The finest archaeological site on the island with its spectacular Greco-Roman theatre overlooking the Mediterranean, and wonderful floor mosaics.
7. Paphos Harbour. A stroll along the seafront at Paphos is a delight as you gaze at the beautiful medieval fort which sits at one end of this pretty harbour.
8. Kykkos Monastery. Founded in AD1100 by the Byzantine Emperor Alexios Komnenos, the monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and contains three remaining icons decorated by the Apostle Luke.
9. Lefkara. A beautiful traditional village in the Troodos Mountains. It is said that Leonardo da Vinci visited this charming village in the 15th century and purchased lace for Milan’s Cathedral.
10. Fassouri Waterpark. Enough history. now for some fun. This award-winning water park has the biggest wave pool in Europe and is a great way to cool off under the hot sun.

When to go? Cyprus welcomes visitors all year round. The summers are scorching, but the cool Mediterranean is a welcome retreat. Winters are mild and whilst not great for sun worshippers, it’s a perfect time to sightsee in temperatures which are more comfortable. Winter is also the cheapest and less crowded time of course. We like April, May, September & October when the weather is great, sunbathers can enjoy the hot sunshine without the extremes, and it’s comfortable to walk around the historical sights.