Historical sites to visit in Cyprus

The weather is wonderful, the people are warm and hospitable and the history stretches back to antiquity — Cyprus certainly has a lot going for it. 

The laidback pace of life on this island of beautiful beaches, old palaces and lively tavernas makes it a popular destination for holidaymakers looking to unwind. 

Exploring the historical sites in the sunshine is a top draw to this fabulous island and a Cypriot tour with culture, history and sightseeing at its heart is only a few clicks away with Saga. Here are a few hotspots to give you some inspiration.

Discover the beauty of the sun-drenched island of Cyprus. Find out more about holidays to Cyprus here

Paphos

Inhabited since the Neolithic period, Paphos has been designated a place of outstanding universal value by UNESCO for its many fascinating sites. 

These include the beguiling temple of Aphrodite, the Ptolemaic tombs and the inspiring Paphos mosaics. On a Saga tour of Paphos we always make sure that you stop for a delicious lunch. Ancient history can wait!

Limassol and Amathus

Cast your eye over artefacts from the Prehistoric era right up to the Late Roman Period on a tour of the Limassol District Archaeological Museum. 

Among the collection here you’ll find terra-cotta figures of Aphrodite as well as coins, jewels and primitive tools. The port of Amathus in the southeast part of Limassol is also worth a visit and the ancient remains here are a reminder of Roman influence in the area.

Discover the beauty of the sun-drenched island of Cyprus. Find out more about holidays to Cyprus here

Nicosia

Nicosia is the Cypriot capital and has been inhabited for over 4,500 years. It has been occupied by many different civilisations over the centuries, including the Roman, Venetian and Ottoman empires. 

For a short time in the 12^th century it was even ruled by Richard I. Soak up some of this enthralling history at the Cyprus Archaeological Museum. 

Several Saga tours stop in at Nicosia and we offer some illuminating excursions, including guided walking tours from your hotels.

Troodos Mountains

Leave the city behind and head for the Troodos Mountains, home of Mount Olympos, famous in Greek mythology as the home of Zeus. 

The mountains are a lovely place to go walking and routes like the forested Atalante and Artemis trails are Cyprus holiday favourites. No wonder so many people venture out of their hotels to go walking in Cyprus.

Kourion and Kolossi

Of the many different ancient sites on Cyprus none is more dramatic than the Greco-Roman Theatre at Kourion. Able to seat up to 3,500 spectators, this time-honoured venue was constructed at the end of the 2^nd century BC. 

Completely restored during the 20^th century, the theatre now puts on many open air performances and is one of the venues for the International Festival of Greek Drama. 

The 13^th century castle at Kolossi has a similarly intriguing history just waiting to be explored on tours like the Archaeological Treasures of Cyprus Tour.

Cyprus is home to some of the most incredible sights in the world and it’s a great place to just sit back and relax all day too. 

Travel to Cyprus this year and explore the remarkable treasures of the Cypriots on the Jewels of Cyprus Tour.

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