How to Spend FIVE DAYS in Cyprus: 5-Day Itinerary

Ready to plan the perfect five days in Cyprus? You’ve come to the right place.

Cyprus is a stunning island, but it makes planning tricky because there’s simply too much you’ll want to do. You’ve got soft-sand beaches with water colors that look photoshopped, mountain villages, ancient ruins, sunset dinners, and bakery stops that’ll have you craving more. 

Whether you’re swimming in the Blue Lagoon, wandering around Paphos, or beach-hopping in Ayia Napa, this guide helps you fit in the very best of it. We’ve also included timings and insider tips, so you can spend less time overthinking and more time exploring. Ready? Let’s go.

Itinerary Overview 

Five days in Cyprus is enough time to properly enjoy the island, while still leaving with a list of reasons to come back. For this itinerary, you’ll start in Paphos for three nights, then road trip over to Ayia Napa for the final two. We’ll take it day by day, with a mix of adventure, scenic stops, local villages, and plenty of food breaks along the way.

While buses do run across the island, renting a car will make life much easier and let you do everything at your own pace (except tours, where being on time really matters!). The easiest option is to fly into Paphos and pick up one there.

Planning a trip to Cyprus can feel overwhelming, which is why this guide breaks down the best things to do, where to stay and eat, which beaches to visit, and exactly how to spend five perfect days on the island. 

So here’s what to expect:

Day 1: Spend your first day exploring Cyprus by land and sea, discovering sea caves, grottos, and blue lagoons on a full-day tour, then round it off with dinner and some of the best sunset views around. 

Day 2: Start your morning with a hearty breakfast, then head off on a half-day quad and buggy tour to Lara Bay and Adonis Falls. After lunch, explore Paphos Archeological Park and ease into the evening with an aperitif and traditional dinner. 

Day 3: Explore the Troodos Mountains and villages on a full-day cultural tour, then unwind with a dinner and a stroll in Paphos Harbour.  

Day 4: Check out a few stops on the way from Paphos to Ayia Napa, then explore the center and local sights, or learn a new skill with a scuba diving course before settling into dinner mode. 

Day 5: Fill up on pastries at a popular bakery before heading off on a jeep safari adventure around Ayia Napa. Spend some time at the beach, then round off the evening with a sunset spot and a delicious dinner as a proper send-off. 

Day 1

Full day – Explore the Blue Lagoon, Baths of Aphrodite, and more 

We loved how our trip started! After breakfast at the hotel, we were picked up by our driver at around 8 am and set off to explore Cyprus. This full-day tour is one of the most popular trips on the island, and the Blue Lagoon, the Baths of Aphrodite, and Cyprus’s gorgeous blue coastline are all part of the reason.

Our first stop was the Edro III Shipwreck, along with the nearby sea caves and banana plantation. We had around half an hour here to explore and take photos. The shipwreck felt a little eerie, but it’s also one of the most photographed spots in Cyprus. Tempting as it is, you’re not allowed to climb on it, so best settle for photos instead. 

Next up was the Baths of Aphrodite, a freshwater grotto and UNESCO World Heritage Site, worth checking out. From there, we made a quick stop in Latchi, a small fishing village, where we hopped on a boat to the Blue Lagoon. We cruised along the coast of the Akamas Peninsula National Park before dropping anchor at the Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling. 

The water here was so clear it almost didn’t look real. Expect to spend around three hours relaxing in the lagoon (it was so good it didn’t feel like enough). 

Once we’d had our fill of swimming and sun, we headed to Polis village. Here, we wandered the souvenir shops before lunch in a local taverna (bring some cash, as lunch isn’t included in the tour). By the time we got back around 4 pm, there was still plenty of time to freshen up before the evening plans. 

Dinner – Muse

After the tour, we did a quick reset at the hotel and headed straight to the Old Town for food, because by then we were absolutely starving. Muse Cafe Kitchen Bar turned out to be a great find! It’s just a short walk from Agios Theodoros Cathedral, set on a hill overlooking the city, and comes with some of the best sunset views, which is why it’s so popular.

We managed to get a table after a 15-minute wait and definitely got lucky, so reservations are a good idea as this place stays busy. Inside, it’s modern and stylish, but if the terrace is available, that’s where you want to be. For food, they have everything your heart desires, from spinach and ricotta ravioli to wagyu burgers, but keep in mind that portions are generous, and sharing a starter is a smart move.

The ambiance is lovely and instantly puts you in holiday mode. Luckily, it stays open until 11 pm, but it’s probably best not to overdo it, as tomorrow we have another big day planned for you.

Day 2 

Breakfast – The Agora Cafe  

There’s no better way to start your morning on the island than with a proper breakfast, and the popular Agora Cafe in the Old Town, directly opposite the lift, is a great place to do it. The cafe is family-owned and very friendly, and seeing plenty of locals here is always a good sign. There’s comfortable seating inside, but for breakfast with views over Paphos and the Mediterranean coastline, grab a table outside. 

It’s also an excellent spot for people-watching (which we always find fun!). Food-wise, you can get anything from meat options and typical Greek breakfasts served on rustic platters to vegetarian dishes, local fruit juices, strong coffee, and homemade cakes that will make you crave more. We’d start with a refreshing peach iced tea while deciding what to order.

It opens at 7 am, so you should have plenty of time for breakfast before meeting your tour at 9 am, unless it’s a Sunday, when they open at 8 am, and you’re driving to the tour, in which case you may need to grab something at your hotel before heading out for the day.

Morning – Go on an Akamas Peninsula ATV adventure

Now that you’ve fueled up, it’s time to switch into adventure mode with this ATV and buggy tour, a fantastic way to see more of the island you may have missed on day one.

You can meet the tour at the office in Coral Bay, around a 20-minute drive north of Paphos, or request hotel pick-up for an extra $10 USD. It runs from 9 am until 1 pm, giving you a good four hours to tick off even more spots from the list.

We went with a buggy and had an absolute blast! Going off-road was great fun, and we stopped at places we probably never would have found on our own.

It can get pretty dusty, so sunglasses and something to cover your face definitely help (goggles are provided, and bandanas are available for a small fee). Wear clothes you don’t mind getting a bit dirty, and water shoes make the pebble entry easier. Definitely bring a swimsuit too, as you’ll want it for the stop at Adonis Baths Waterfalls! 

Lara Beach was the highlight for us. It’s home to a turtle breeding area, and we had around 40 minutes here. We arrived before the other tours, so it almost felt like our own private beach for a while. Our final stop was a small café at Lara Bay where we had the option to purchase a BBQ lunch and drinks, but food availability can vary by tour size, so bringing a few snacks is a smart idea.

This was one epic day, and with more than 400 five-star reviews, it’s clear that it’s not just us who enjoyed it.

Lunch – Gyros Salonikiotikos 

If you didn’t have lunch during the tour, make your way towards Kings Avenue Mall after your adrenaline-pumped adventure, where you’ll find Gyros Salonikiotikos, a fantastic spot for a quick souvlaki lunch. It would be easy to miss this place, as it sits away from the main tourist areas (and it’s not inside the mall), but locals know it’s here, and they queue for a reason. We’ve seen lines even on a Sunday night, which usually tells you everything you need to know.

Whether you go for a classic gyro, shawarma, or even a chicken and bacon Caesar salad, you won’t go wrong. As for the gyros, they come packed with fillings, and yes, you absolutely want the tzatziki. Just keep in mind the portions are huge, and one can easily feed an adult.

Despite the crowds, it never feels chaotic thanks to quick service, plus many decide to take it to go. But you can sit inside or outside and enjoy your lunch. From here, it’s a 5-minute drive or a 25 min walk to get to the Archeological Park next. I recommend driving to save time and stay out of the heat! 

Afternoon – Visit Paphos Archeological Park and the Tombs of Kings

For a deeper look into Paphos’ history, this is a great time to visit the area’s top archaeological sites: Paphos Archaeological Park and the Tombs of Kings. If you have time to visit both, that’s a bonus. If not, head to the Paphos Archeological Park, which closes at 5 pm. 

Paphos Archaeological Park 

Paphos Archaeological Park is where you’ll want to head if you have the time and the energy left for a bit more walking. Overall, we felt like we could have spent more time here, but we wanted to do the Tomb of Kings as well, so it was going to be enough walking for the day. If you’d rather pace yourself, it may be better to split the two across different days.

The €4.50 admission fee (free for visitors over 65) was well worth it, as there’s plenty to see. From the coastline and lighthouse to the little theatre below it, rock-cut tombs, Roman ruins, and outdoor mosaics, you can easily plan on spending about 2 hours here. 

Just keep in mind that there is no shade around, and the sun can be quite intense, so going later in the afternoon is best. Bring things to cover up from the sun!

Tombs of Kings

Tombs of Kings is a fascinating place, with ancient tombs and beautiful coastal scenery to go with them (it’s actually the burial site of Ptolemaic aristocrats and high officials). It wasn’t very busy when we went, so it was easy to get photos without people wandering into every frame.

The area is well kept, and the site itself is huge but easy to explore, with lovely sea views as you move between the tombs, although a few of them do start to look a little similar after a while.

There’s an audio guide if you’d like more background as you go, and plenty of space to wander at your own pace and stop for photos whenever you like. Comfortable shoes and water are a must, especially on a warm day. You can see most of it in around an hour, and admission is only €2.50, so it’s well worth a visit.

Aperitif – Boulevard Bistro Wine Bar 

After exploring some of the must-see sights, you can freshen up at the hotel (if needed) and get ready for a relaxing evening, starting with an aperitif at the popular Boulevard Bistro Wine Bar. It’s on a busy main street with plenty of traffic, probably better known by locals than tourists. Still, it’s a great spot to relax and watch the world go by. There’s also a secret garden out back if you’re after something a little more intimate.

Inside, it’s cozy and welcoming, with an industrial vibe, brick walls, and those trendy hanging lights. Wines and beers are great, the cocktails look tempting, and the sangria is definitely worth trying. They also do excellent food, from seafood to burgers, but since we already have a great dinner spot lined up, we’d keep it light and save room. 

The atmosphere is lively, with good music and an easygoing feel. Plus, Boulevard Bistro Wine Bar is just an easy 8-minute walk from dinner.

Dinner – Agora Tavern

Agora Tavern is set in a historic building and feels warm and welcoming from the moment you walk in. It’s full of retro chandeliers, old paintings, rustic details, and vintage furniture. Out the back, there’s a garden terrace with sunset views and lemon trees below, which is where you’ll want to be if you can find a table. We went at 6:30 pm and watched the sun go down, so it was pretty magical. 

When it comes to food, you really are spoiled for choice here. Expect homemade local dishes and generous portions, so bring your appetite! Don’t miss the ouzo, which goes perfectly with their authentic Cypriot meze. The chili feta cream cheese dip alone will make you come back for more! 

There’s also live Greek music with bouzouki and guitar, which instantly puts us in a vacay mode. It opens at 6 pm daily except Sundays when they’re closed, and sits right across the road from the breakfast spot. Book a table if you can, as it fills up quickly, especially in summer. 

After dinner, head back to the wine bar for espresso martinis or have a wander around the Old Town before calling it a night.

Day 3 

Full day – Explore the Troodos Mountains and villages

If you want to experience some of Cyprus’ top sights in one day, this is the experience for you. This cultural tour runs from about 8 am to 4 pm, taking you to Aphrodite’s Rock and the Troodos Mountains, known for their wine, monasteries, and waterfalls, plus a wine tasting is included!

After pick-up from our hotel (included from most hotels in Paphos), we traveled down the coast to see the famous Aphrodite’s Rock, which, according to legend, was the place where the ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty was born from sea foam. We had around 15 minutes here, which felt like plenty of time for photos and admiring the scenery. 

Our next stop was the mountain village of Lofou, where we had about an hour to explore the old streets and surroundings. Here we also tried local halloumi (the best we’ve had so far), strong Cyprus coffee, and browsed a few craft shops for souvenirs. 

After a short drive further into the mountains, we arrived in Omodos. This place was the highlight! It’s home to many local wineries and Timios Stavros Monastery, which is one of the island’s oldest monasteries. It turned out to be one of our favorite stops, so peaceful and with beautiful architecture and Byzantine icons. 

Towards the end of our tour, we made a quick stop at Millomeris Waterfall, easily one of the prettiest waterfalls we’ve seen, and for the grand finale, there was a wine tasting waiting at Lambouri Winery. We had a blast, and judging by the THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews you can read here, plenty of others felt the same. 

Dinner – Ocean Basket Paphos  

After your tour, there’s plenty of time to head back to the hotel and stretch your legs for a bit. Just don’t take too long, as you’ll probably be starving by then (we definitely were). Ocean Basket Paphos is where you’re headed for dinner tonight. It may be a little touristy, but the harbor views are great, and it’s highly rated for a reason. 

This is in Paphos Harbour, right near Nea Paphos Archaeological Site. It stays open until 10 or 10:30 pm, so there’s plenty of time to enjoy your meal at your own pace.  

We showed up around 6 pm without a reservation, asked for a balcony table, and were seated pretty quickly. Watching the sun set while a steady stream of food and drinks arrived made it clear we’d made a great choice.

The seafood was fresh and tasty, with great fish, prawns, calamari, and a full sushi menu too. If you’re not sure what to drink, go with the house wine. It did not let us down! Service was impressively fast, too, and we waited maybe only 10 minutes to get our order. 

Evening – Stroll along Paphos Promenade 

After dinner, enjoy the views and the vibe of Paphos! Take a stroll along the promenade and stop for a nightcap or dessert at one of the many spots along the way. You can walk from Paphos Castle toward the Church of Agios Nikolaos, and the stunning sea views are there the whole way.

We especially loved how well-maintained and clean it was, with plenty of benches and places to rest. It’s lined with beaches, bars, souvenir shops, restaurants, and hotels, so there’s always something to look at. Paphos Castle is especially lovely at night and makes for a romantic little detour.

The path is mostly wide, flat, and wheelchair-friendly, stretching for around 5 kilometers (3 miles). But there’s no need to conquer the whole thing tonight. Save some energy, because tomorrow we’ve got another exciting day planned for you. 

Day 4

Breakfast – Omikron Brunch  

Before you head out for the day, fill up with breakfast at Omikron Brunch, a popular spot not far from the town hall in the Old Town.

The vibe here is relaxed and a proper way to start the day. We genuinely loved everything about it, from the modern interiors to the menu packed with brunch favorites, from granola with fresh fruit to Eggs Benedict, croissants, and paninis. We’d happily come back just for the homemade American-style pancakes!

If you’re in Paphos, make sure you eat here at least once. It opens at 7 am on weekdays, 8 am on weekends, and is closed on Tuesdays.

Morning – Drive from Paphos to Ayia Napa

Today we are heading to Ayia Napa, on the eastern side of the island. The drive alone is about 2 hours, but there are some lovely stops along the way, and we are in no rush, so take it slow! 

Recommended stops 

• Explore Kourion Archaeological Site – If you’re into history and archaeology, these clifftop ruins are stunning, and there are several other ancient sites to see. The big amphitheater is the main draw, and you can easily spend 2-3 hours at the archeological site. After the ruins, you can go down to Kourion Beach for a swim in the shallow water. It’s a lovely beach and probably the wildest one we visited during our time in Cyprus. 

• Stroll down Limassol Marina – There’s always time for a little yacht-window-shopping, and this superyacht marina gives you plenty to look at. It also makes a great stop for coffee or lunch if you’ve spent a few hours exploring the ruins. We’d recommend FRESHA Healthy Cuisine Restaurant, especially if you fancy fresh, healthy food with lovely views over the water. 

• Get to know Limassol city – Can’t decide where to spend your time here? Limassol itself is also worth a look. It’s the second-largest city in Cyprus and has more of a polished, metropolitan feel. There’s an Old Town area with the medieval Limassol Castle, but if you’re after that all-around old-world feel, other towns on the island do it a little better. 

• Relax at the quiet beaches – If you’d rather skip the city and stick to a secluded road trip, there are a handful of great quiet beaches along this route, and if you’re anything like us, there’s no such thing as too much beach time. Your choices include Kourion Beach, Governor’s Beach, and Oroklini Beach, all spacious sandy beaches that work well for families with children or older travelers. 

It’s hard to make a bad choice here. Pick what sounds best and settle in for a few hours before the afternoon plans. 

Afternoon – Explore Ayia Napa 

Ayia Napa is a great place to spend an afternoon. We were pleasantly surprised by how much there was to see and do here, so here’s what we recommend:

• Once you’ve checked into your hotel, head to Ayia Napa center. It’s pedestrian, with a lot of energy and a lively vibe that makes you want to stay a little longer. It’s also one of the biggest party spots on Cyprus. If you don’t like the crowds, you don’t need to venture further off, as there are many more serene areas or nature escapes just outside the center. 

• The Ayia Napa Monastery is a cool, quick stop, with stone courtyards, gardens that offer a bit of relief from the heat, an ancient sycamore fig tree, and a peaceful break from the lively town around it. Originally built as a monastery around 1500 AD, it now works as a museum and hosts festivities and religious events throughout the year. 

• Ayia Napa is also famous for its beaches, so if you’d rather hit the beach, head to Nissi Beach, easily the best-known and most popular beach here, with beach bars and a lively atmosphere. You can fill the afternoon with watersports like waterskiing or snorkeling, but you might just as well grab a sunbed and parasol and ease into island life the way it’s meant to be done, toes in the sand and a cocktail in hand.

Optional afternoon activity: Discovery Scuba Dive 

If you’ve always wanted to try scuba diving, Ayia Napa is a great place to give it a go. This beginner scuba diving course includes all the equipment and full instruction, so you don’t need any experience at all. 

Make your way to Ayia Napa a little quicker so you can meet this tour at 1 pm, which will end by 4 pm. Groups are kept small, with only six people, so you feel looked after the whole time. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, too, which makes life easier. 

Once underwater, expect to see statues, lots of fish, and maybe even turtles and jellyfish if you’re lucky. Plus, there are photos and videos available, so you’ll have proof you actually did it.  

With nearly 500 five-star reviews and counting, it’s a reliable choice for anyone wanting to learn a new sport while vacationing in Cyprus. 

Dinner – Mousikos Restaurant 

As we said, Ayia Napa can be a bit party central and touristy, so if you want a really good, memorable meal, head to Sotira (the next town over, just a 10-minute drive) and try Mousikos Restaurant. 

It’s set inside an old stone farmhouse, which gives it a lovely ambiance, especially with the arches and large outdoor terrace. This is definitely not a tourist trap! It’s hugely popular with locals, and you’ll often spot large families celebrating special occasions, which adds to the atmosphere.

You won’t leave hungry here. Expect plates of souvlaki, kleftiko, mini mezes with feta, homemade halloumi, chips, and lots of other local staples. Warm bread and butter arrive first, and there’s often baklava or pudding to finish. If you’ve skipped lunch, you can go for the full meze (we didn’t dare)!

It opens at 6 pm daily and closes at 10:30 pm, but stays closed on Sundays. Be sure to reserve a table, as it’s almost always fully booked. 

Day 5 

Breakfast – Sigma Bakeries Ayia Napa 

Start your last day bright and early! If your hotel doesn’t serve breakfast, you can head to Sigma Bakeries for some seriously delicious food! It may be a chain bakery, but the quality is still solid.

They seem to have everything under one roof, from coffees, croissants, cakes, and fresh juices to sandwiches and proper meals, basically anything you could want for breakfast. If you can name it, they probably have it. 

There’s plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, plus free Wi-Fi if you need a quick scroll before the day begins. It’s located on the main tourist strip and open 24 hours, so you can get here as early as you need before your tour picks you up at 8:15 am. 

Morning – See Ayia Napa’s highlights in a jeep safari  

Cape Greco is one of the most popular sites in Ayia Napa, so this jeep safari makes it easy to see. You start with a hike to the top of Cape Greco for fantastic 360-degree views, and it’s well worth the effort. Konnos Bay is your next stop, with enough time for a swim or watersports if sitting still isn’t really your thing. 

You’ll also visit Love Bridge and Cyclops Cave. This is your chance to walk across the bridge of lovers (said to bring good luck), or just watch jumpers launching themselves into the clear water below.

There’s also a stop at Agioi Saranta Chapel, which is a cute little chapel a bit hidden away in the hills above Protaras. In fact, it’s so hidden that even some locals struggle to find it.

Pick-up is usually between 8:15 and 8:30 am, with the tour finishing around 1 pm. Keep in mind the jeep ride can get quite bumpy once you go off-road, but that’s part of the fun. Overall, it’s a fun half-day out that shows you parts of the area you probably wouldn’t get to see on your own, and the excellent reviews here suggest plenty of others agree.

Lunch – Lasmari Beach Bar 

Next, you’ll be going to the beach! So we chose Lasmari Beach Bar near Nissi Beach. It was the perfect spot for lunch, as we spent the entire afternoon on Nissi Beach afterward. There are many high-energy beach clubs in the area, but this was the perfect find, laid-back, and very easy to slip into island mode. 

The music is great, with a DJ playing, and the menu has something for everyone. Don’t miss the shrimp tacos and fried calamari, but you can also grab a burger if seafood isn’t your thing. Whatever you order, start with the crispy feta and filo prawns, they were absolutely divine!

We managed to walk in and find a table, but we were probably just lucky, as this place is busy even for breakfast. If you choose another beach, there will still be other excellent food options around.

Afternoon – Relax on the beach 

This afternoon, enjoy a leisurely few hours at the beach! Here are a few recommendations, although there are even more in the area. 

• Nissi Beach is the most famous beach here, known for its lively atmosphere and the closest thing to Ibiza you’ll find without flying to Spain. It’s got soft sand, turquoise water, watersports, beach bars, and all the facilities you could need, so it’s easy to see why people love it. At low tide, the water becomes shallow enough so you can walk from the main beach over to the small island just offshore. 

• Makronissos Beach is a bit quieter if you’re after a peaceful, lazy kind of beach day. It still has all the comforts you need, including Wi-Fi, lifeguards, free showers, an infirmary, and stunning, clear water. From here, a promenade links several of the beaches in Ayia Napa, so it’s easy to wander between them. If you’re in the mood for something more lively, you can rent jet skis, try parasailing, or hop on a banana boat!

• Konnos Beach is the iconic Mediterranean beach you’d hope to find, and if you did the Cape Greco tour, you already visited this beach today. With calm, shallow waters, it’s a perfect spot for families with children. It’s also great for snorkeling, and if you feel like exploring beyond the sand, there are plenty of hiking trails and viewpoints nearby. 

Evening – See the sunset at Cape Greco 

The Sea Caves at Cape Greco are one of the best places to watch the sunset and are well worth adding to your evening plans. If you did the Cape Greco tour, you’ll know. It’s a relaxed spot to just sit for a while and wind down after the day. Bring a drink, some snacks, or a blanket if you’d like to stay a bit longer (and you will!).

One thing to know, the sun sets quickly once it starts going down, so it’s best to arrive early if you’d like time for photos or to grab a bench. During the day, this is also a fun spot to explore the caves and jump into the water if you’re feeling brave. I’d recommend wearing flat, closed shoes, as the ground can be uneven.

It’s only about a 10-minute drive from the center of Ayia Napa, so very easy to reach. If you don’t have a car, buses 101 and 102 can get you close, and then it’s just a short walk from there.

Dinner – Spartiatis Restaurant 

For dinner, head to Spartiatis Restaurant, an elegant spot near Konnos Beach that works perfectly for a final-night meal. This family-run fish taverna is known for its views over Konnos Bay and for serving some of the best seafood in the area. The clifftop setting also makes it a great sunset spot, especially if you time dinner right. 

There’s plenty on the menu, but our favorites were the king crab arancini and the ceviche. You’re welcomed with zucchini fritters and a yogurt dip to start, which immediately put us in an even better mood (we were already doing just fine). If you’re not sure what to order, the fish meze is an easy choice and gives you a bit of everything. 

It stays open until midnight, so there’s no need to rush through dinner. Take your time, enjoy one last proper meal, and make the most of your final night. 

Where to Stay in Cyprus 

Now that you know how to spend your time in Cyprus, you’ll need somewhere comfortable to stay! Luckily, there are plenty of options, whether you want something ultra all-inclusive and beachfront, a city base for exploring, or something more budget-friendly. You’ll be spending three nights in Paphos and two nights in Ayia Napa, so take your pick from the reliable stays we’ve chosen for you. 

Paphos 

Luxury – $$$ 

For something luxury with a capital L, Elysium is a great choice. Right next door to the Tombs of the Kings UNESCO site, the whole place has a Byzantine-inspired feel, with marble columns, arches, and tons of grand touches. It’s a stunning property with lagoon-style pools, a swim-up bar, gardens, and multiple restaurants!

There’s a multi-level outdoor pool, plus an adults-only pool, ideal for couples after a more relaxing stay (available only for those staying in the Royal Wing). Rooms are bright and spacious, and all come with balconies that offer lovely sea or garden views.

There’s plenty to keep you busy, too, with two tennis courts, a scuba diving center, and a gym, so you can stay active between all the relaxing. Prices typically start around €220 per night, but can climb past €1,000 during peak season. Check all the options and book this luxury stay here!

Mid-range – $$ 

Mayfair Hotel is a fantastic mid-range stay in Paphos, thanks to its great location (around a 15-minute walk from Paphos Harbour), family-friendly setup, and the fact that it offers far more than you’d expect for the price. For starters, it has two outdoor pools, an aqua park, an indoor pool, and all-inclusive options. There are plenty of children’s activities and special menus for children, so it’s a strong choice for families.

If you don’t feel like heading far for evening entertainment, the karaoke and live music might be enough to keep you happy for the night. Rooms here are spacious, with balconies and lovely views, while the generous breakfast included in the price makes waking up early a little easier. With prices starting at only €100 per night, we think it’s a great deal, especially for the location. Find the best deals and secure your great value stay in Cyprus here!

Budget – $ 

If you’re after something more spacious and like the idea of cooking while on holiday, Crystallo Apartments is a really good shout, especially for its large studios and apartments. It’s also close to Paphos Harbour, with shops and bars nearby, so you can save your money for more important things. It’s much smaller than some of the bigger hotels and resorts around here, and the family-run feel gives it a more relaxed and personal atmosphere. 

There’s a swimming pool and bar for lazy afternoons, while the buzz of Paphos Harbour and Kings Avenue Mall is only a short walk away if you feel like a change of scene. Prices start at around €60 per night, depending on the apartment type and your dates. Don’t miss this friendly budget find – book your stay here! 

Looking for more great options? Browse all Paphos accommodations here!

Ayia Napa 

Luxury – $$$ 

Amanti, MadeForTwo Hotels is one of the best upscale adults-only resorts in Ayia Napa, and just the place to treat yourself to a well-deserved holiday. With its large infinity pool, palm trees, and fountains, it puts you straight into island mode and almost feels more Caribbean than Cyprus at times (never a bad thing).

What stands out most, apart from the gorgeous pool area, is the sleek romantic restaurant and the chance to join yoga classes in such beautiful surroundings. It doesn’t get much more zen than that. The location is excellent too, close to the center of Ayia Napa, the Ayia Napa Monastery, and plenty of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

You can choose from standard rooms to spacious suites, all with modern amenities and lovely views. Expect to pay around €215 to €380 per night. Check the latest availability and book your stay here!

Mid-range – $$ 

For something more beachfront and family-friendly, but just as laid-back, Atlantica SunGarden Beach is a great choice. You’ll have access to an infinity outdoor pool, a swim-up bar, and a tennis court, plus delicious Italian and international food, all for a price that feels very fair for what you get. When it comes to entertainment, there’s an outdoor amphitheater on site, while watersports are available at Pantachou Beach, which is right there.

The hotel sits about a 20-minute walk, or a five-minute drive, from the center of Ayia Napa, so you get a peaceful seaside stay while being super close to the action. Prices start at around €155 per night, a great bargain if you ask us! Check your dates and reserve your stay at this fantastic hotel here!

Budget – $ 

If standard hotel rooms feel too small for you, Carina Hotel Apartments fits the bill. With studios and one-bedroom apartments, all equipped with kitchens, plus a good-sized outdoor pool, a kids’ pool, and a small outdoor play area, it’s ideal for families and budget-conscious travelers who don’t want to sacrifice comfort for price. There’s also a 24-hour bar and a billiards table, which makes nights even more fun!

It’s close to Nissi Beach if you fancy a change of scenery, with plenty of restaurants and bars nearby. There’s a bank and supermarket right across, plus free parking, which makes life a lot easier, especially if you’re traveling with a big family. With prices starting at just €50 per night, it’s excellent value for what you get.  Secure this affordable Cyprus stay here!

Still searching for the perfect spot? See all Ayia Napa accommodations here!

Related Read: Want a deeper dive into the best areas and hotels? Check out our full guide on where to stay in Cyprus here for detailed neighborhood breakdowns, hotel picks for every budget, and tips to help you choose the perfect base.

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Cyprus might simply look like a laid-back beach destination at first glance, but there’s so much more to it. From coastal adventures and mountain villages to unforgettable food and crystal-clear water, this itinerary helps you experience the best of the island without overcomplicating things. Five days strikes the perfect balance of exploring, relaxing, and soaking up everything Cyprus does so well.

Before you pack those bags, take a look at all our Europe travel guides here for even more inspiration. We’ve packed them with our favorite experiences, helpful tips, and can’t-miss spots to inspire your next adventure. Or let these popular guides below spark your next trip idea!

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