Discover the top things to do in Cyprus, with a special focus on North Cyprus. From beaches and castles to hiking and local food, here’s your complete travel activity guide.
Whether you’re heading to the sun-drenched south or the hidden gems of the north, Cyprus offers an unforgettable mix of culture, nature, and adventure. This complete activity guide focuses on the best things to do in Cyprus, especially for travelers interested in exploring the authentic and less-commercialized North Cyprus.
🏰 Top Historical Sites in Cyprus (Don’t Miss These!)
Cyprus is a history lover’s dream. Explore castles, ancient ruins, and walled cities:
🔹 In North Cyprus
- Kyrenia Castle – Overlooking the scenic harbor, with a shipwreck museum inside
- St. Hilarion Castle – A fairytale mountain fortress that inspired Disney’s Snow White castle
- Ancient Salamis (Famagusta) – Walk through Roman baths, temples, and a massive amphitheater
- Bellapais Abbey – A peaceful Gothic ruin with views over Kyrenia
🔹 In South Cyprus
- Kourion Ruins – One of the most impressive Greco-Roman cities
- Paphos Mosaics – Stunning preserved artworks from Roman villas
- Kolossi Castle – A Crusader-era stronghold near Limassol
⛱️ Best Beaches to Visit
🌊 North Cyprus Beaches
- Golden Beach (Karpaz) – The island’s most untouched and stunning coastline
- Escape Beach (Kyrenia) – Great for swimming, beach bars, and water sports
- Glapsides Beach (Famagusta) – Soft sand and shallow waters, perfect for families
🌊 South Cyprus Beaches
- Fig Tree Bay (Protaras) – Famous for crystal-clear waters
- Nissi Beach (Ayia Napa) – Lively vibe, music, and activities
- Coral Bay (Paphos) – Safe for kids and good facilities
🧴 Tip: North Cyprus beaches are often quieter and less commercialized, ideal for a peaceful escape.
🚶 Outdoor Adventures & Nature in Cyprus
Love the outdoors? Cyprus offers everything from mountain hikes to marine life.
🌄 Top Outdoor Activities in North Cyprus
- Hike the Five Finger Mountains (Beşparmak) – Stunning views and peaceful trails
- Bike through the Karpaz Peninsula – Ride past wild donkeys and unspoiled beaches
- Explore Alevkaya Forest Station – A nature escape with scenic picnic spots
🌿 Other Nature Highlights Across Cyprus
- Troodos Mountains (South) – Forest trails, waterfalls, and traditional villages
- Cape Greco (South) – Ideal for cliff walks and sea caves
🍽️ Local Experiences & Food in North Cyprus
Cyprus is full of rich culinary and cultural experiences. Here are a few local favorites:
- Try a Turkish-Cypriot meze – A spread of small plates, from halloumi to köfte
- Sip Turkish coffee in the old towns of Kyrenia or Nicosia
- Visit a local market – Taste local olives, fruits, and handmade sweets
- Explore villages like Bellapais or Dipkarpaz – Authentic, slow-paced life
🎭 Don’t miss local festivals, especially in summer and autumn—many villages host cultural days with music, dancing, and food.
🏞️ Unique Experiences Only in North Cyprus
- Visit the Ghost Town of Varosha (Maraş) – Recently reopened, haunting and historic
- Tour Lefke’s Ottoman architecture – A quiet town with authentic Turkish-Cypriot charm
- See wild donkeys in Karpaz – A symbol of North Cyprus’ untouched nature
- Dive at Alagadi Turtle Beach – Where you might see turtles nesting in season
🎯 Activities for Every Type of Traveler
| Type of Traveler | Recommended Activities in North Cyprus |
|---|---|
| Families | Beach days, Kyrenia Castle, Glapsides, boat trips |
| Couples | Bellapais sunsets, wine tasting, boutique hotels |
| Adventurers | Castle hikes, mountain biking, scuba diving |
| Culture seekers | Nicosia old city walk, local museums, village tours |
| Budget travelers | Free-entry beaches, affordable food, scenic road trips |
📅 When to Visit for Activities?
- Spring (March–May): Perfect for hiking, cultural sightseeing, and wildflowers
- Summer (June–August): Best for beach lovers and night festivals
- Autumn (September–October): Ideal for road trips, vineyard visits, and warm sea swimming
- Winter (November–February): Quieter, cultural-focused holidays with mild weather
❄️ Even in winter, North Cyprus stays mild and mostly sunny — great for off-season explorers!
🧳 Practical Tips for Enjoying Cyprus Activities
- Rent a car to access remote beaches and villages
- Carry cash, especially in North Cyprus where some shops don’t accept cards
- Respect dress codes at monasteries and religious sites
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect Cyprus’ marine ecosystems
- Travel insurance is recommended for outdoor adventures
✅ Final Thoughts: Why North Cyprus is a Must-Visit
If you’re looking for things to do in Cyprus that combine beauty, culture, and authenticity—North Cyprus is your ideal destination. Less crowded, more affordable, and full of character, it offers a side of the island that many travelers never experience.
Whether you’re in it for the beaches, castles, hiking trails, or just great food and views, North Cyprus delivers big adventures with a small-town feel. northcyprusinvesting.com, Investra.io