From exhilarating beach hacks to scenic vineyard tours, these are the best attractions in Cyprus. It's one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean, almost further to the Middle East than Europe, but with vibes similar to those of other Greek islands.

There is so much more to do here than people think. Today, we will share some of the fun things you should consider doing during your stay in this fascinating country.

1. Explore the Tombs of the Kings in Paphos

The Tomb Of The Kings is one of the best things to visit in Paphos and regularly tops the list when people ask what there is to do. One reason it's at the top of our list is because it costs just €2.50 to enter, which is an absolute bargain.

It's a UNESCO World Heritage site that will be much bigger than you expected, and it can take a long time to walk around. Therefore, we recommend you take a hat and a bottle of water, as most of it is outside with limited shade.

You can visit the well-preserved tombs, which we think are excellent. The coastal path has multiple exits, meaning you can exit in a different place and continue your journey.

2. Visit Nissi Beach in Ayia Napa

Imagine obvious blue water and golden yellow sand—that's Nissi Beach, and it's always mentioned as one of the best beaches to visit in Cyprus.

The sea here is shallow, making it great for those with young children and perfect for snorkeling if you venture further out.

Due to its popularity, it can become busy with all the sunbeds gone by about 10:30 am. But for about 7 Euros, you can rent two loungers with a parasol for the whole day, which is pretty affordable. There are also free public toilets, lifeguards, and a bar.

Kids will also love this beach, as plenty of watersports are available, including banana boat rides and parasailing.

A nearby beach club is a bit expensive, so it could be worth taking your packed lunch if you want to save some money.

3. Visit the Kykkos Monastery

Kykkos Monastery is off the beaten track in the stunning Troodos Mountains. It is recommended for anyone who wants to add culture to their trip.

The easiest way to get there is to drive, but the journey up there is almost as enjoyable as the monastery, and the scenery is fantastic. Be prepared for a winding drive and take care on the roads, significantly where large rocks may have fallen. Inside the monastery is plenty of history with beautiful mosaics and paintings.

The monastery's museum houses ancient artifacts, illuminated manuscripts, and religious items, providing insight into the region's history.

What we like about it is that it's all free!

4. Paphos Aphrodite Waterpark

Paphos Aphrodite Water Park is one of the most popular destinations in Cyprus and offers a fun day out for kids and adults. It's easily accessible by bus, with the number 611, which takes you directly to the gate and back from the city center every 30 minutes or so.

If you want to be more frugal, you can book online, which will give you some discount compared to just turning up on the day. There's also a great wristband system, which means you can buy anything in the park and pay at the end without having to carry around wet cash all day.

Inside the park, there are some amazing slides for those who love them, but there are also plenty of places to relax and a cool wave pool, meaning there is something for everyone. There is also a dedicated area for younger children.

5. Fig Tree Bay

Fig Tree Bay is a unique, children-friendly beach. The water is only about waist height for about 25 meters, which means it's also a great place to do some snorkeling. The water is just so warm and calm, and that's why people love it.

This beach can get busy, but as long as you are there early enough (before 10 am), you should be able to get a spot without a problem.

Once you are done with the beach, many bars, restaurants, and cafes are along the front. We recommend heading to Koi Bar, which has the most amazing koi carp.

6. Kourion

We are adding another archaeological park to our list of “fun” things to do in Cyprus. While this might not be fun for everyone, we believe it must be included.

The entrance fee was just €4.50, which was very cheap.

Kourion gives you a glimpse of what life was like in ancient Rome. The main attractions are the well-preserved mosaics, columns, arches, thermal baths, and even a theater carved into the rock.

Our tips are to get here early, bring a hat, and bring plenty of water. As it's all entirely spread out, you will walk further than you think.

7. WaterWorld Themed Waterpark

WaterWorld is a great day out for all the family as there is something for all ages. If you want to chill out, there's the lazy river and plenty of loungers. If you want to do something more fun, there are 25 rides.

One of the main features here is the massive wave pool that activates on the hour from 11 am, which provides plenty of entertainment watching people try to jump over the big wave.

Food and drink are well-priced here, which is suitable for frugal travelers. There's also great support for those needing assistance on the rides, and there are plenty of lifeguards around to make you feel safe and help you onto the rides.

8. Pafos Zoo

Pafos Zoo is a great day out, especially if you have a family. It will keep everyone entertained for half a day. It's not as big as some zoos, but it costs about 50 Euros for a family of 5, which is extremely good value.

When the heat becomes too much, head over to the free bird display, which has an air-conditioned area that is a nice welcome break.

The lemur enclosure is also very popular, as you can interact with them. They will climb all over you, which you will love or hate! There's also the elephant experience, which I highly recommend. You can get some good photos and feed them.

Remember to bring cash as everywhere inside is cash only.

9. Bellapais Monastery

This attraction is in the North of Cyprus (the Turkish side). The entrance fee to the monastery is 20 Turkish Lira, which is about $2.50, which is again very affordable.

Once inside, you will realize that it's a lot larger than it looks. Steps lead up to various vantage points, offering superb island views. Just be careful, as there are few railings or things to hold onto near the edges.

There are a few exhibitions inside, the best of which is the boat display in a nice, air-conditioned room.

There is also a small shop in the middle selling drinks and souvenirs.

10. Makronissos Beach

There is often a debate about what the best beach is in Cyprus. Some say it's this one, and others say it's Nissi Beach. This is the lesser-known of the two, which means it is sometimes less crowded.

Like many beaches in Cyprus, the water here is calm, warm, and shallow, making it perfect for those nervous about the sea.

Sunbeds and umbrellas are affordable here, costing about €2.50 daily.

Overall, the beach is spacious enough not to feel overcrowded, but it can get busy later in the day or during the peak season in July and August.

11. Saint Hilarion Castle

Saint Hilarion Castle is located in the mountains in the north of Cyprus. It offers a glimpse into the past and some great views.

Entrance is cheap at €2.50. (If only other countries offered such unique attractions at these prices!)

The climb to the top can be hard work, especially in the middle of the day, so we advise getting up early. The steps can also be uneven, so take your time and don’t rush.

The castle is built into the rocks, well restored, and offers history lovers a good half-day.

12. Ghost Town in Famagusta

Did you know that Cyprus is split into two sides? The north of the island is Turkish, and the south is Greek. In 1974, a war abruptly abandoned part of the city of Famagusta, the Varosha quarter, and it has been frozen in time since then.

Recently, it became possible to tour and explore this area, so take full advantage of this.

We believe the best way is to hire a guide to take you through it, as you will learn so much about what happened.

Just don’t forget your passport for the checkpoint.

13. Fasouri Watermania Water Park

Cyprus loves its water parks, and Fasouri is the biggest. However, it's also the most expensive, with a price double that of some of the others.

There is a wide range of attractions suitable for all ages, with a whole area designed for children aged 2 to 8.

There are over 30 rides and plenty of loungers for when you need a break from the run. 

Overall, it's worth spending half a day here, but arrive early as parking can be tricky.

14. Limassol Marina

If you have had enough water parks and sunbathing, then take a trip to Limassol Marina, one of the nicest in Europe.

It's filled with impressive yachts and boats and gives you a glimpse into Cyprus' luxurious side. It's the perfect place for a walk to dream about having loads of money and what it would be like to live this lifestyle.

Once you are done looking at the boats, plenty of cafes and restaurants are dotted along the front, where you can enjoy a nice meal and watch the world go by.

15. Camel Park

Camel Park is an excellent day out for the whole family. Entrance is reasonably priced at €7. There are extra fees for camel, donkey, and pony rides, which are very popular with the kids.

You can feed the camels, one of the highlights, with small bags of camel food.

There is an on-site restaurant, which costs €15, but you can eat as much as you like.

Overall, it's a great day out, and it’s something different that all the family will love.

16. Caledonia Waterfalls

You reach Caledonia Falls via a lovely, accessible trail that's perfect if you love hiking and exploring. It's suitable for all abilities, and the walk is only about 35 minutes, so all the family can enjoy it.

You start at a trout farm and then follow a stream up, crossing a few bridges. The waterfall is the perfect place for a quick dip to cool off before you head back. We recommend stopping for a meal at Dendo Trout Restaurant, as it's a great way to end the adventure.

Final Thoughts

There is so much to do in Cyprus, with something to fit everyone's itinerary. That's why it's one of the Frugal Expat’s favorite destinations, and team members have returned time after time.

Please let us know in the comments below if you would like to include somewhere else on our list that you enjoyed during your trip.