Cyprus

Places in Cyprus:
Ayia Napa | Larnaca | Paphos | Protaras

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, stretching 150 miles from east to west. Holidays in Cyprus offer a dramatically diverse landscape, combining: sun-drenched beaches with snowy mountain peaks; charming hilltop villages with lively holiday resorts; and sophisticated modern cities with lush countryside. The island enjoys a subtropical climate with temperatures soaring to more than 40 degrees centigrade. As a result of the year-round warm weather, Cyprus is adorned with a beautiful landscape of vine-covered hills and rolling valleys of citrus and olive trees.

Traditionally considered a convenient stepping-stone between Europe and the Middle East, Cyprus has been long been the site of colonisation and conquest. As a result of it turbulence past, Cyprus holidays offer a rich history and cultural heritage, with a wide choice of ancient monuments and archaeological sites. Visitors flock to explore the crusaders castles, Roman ruins, Greek temples and Byzantine cathedrals. Particularly important is Paphos, listed as a UNESCO's World Cultural Heritage site.

Cyprus is divided into the Turkish North and Greek-Cypriot South. The capital of Cyprus is the old walled city of Nicosia, with its 1000-year old past. Other important towns include the coastal resorts of Limassol, Larnaka and Pafos, renowned for their delicious seafood. To the north is Kyrenia, with its beautiful harbour and majestic castle, and Famagusta, with its ancient city walls.