DK Eyewitness - DK Eyewitness Top 10 Cyprus (Pocket Travel Guide)

Clockwise from top: Cape Greco, Ayia Napa; the rooftops of Nicosia; Saranda Kolones, Kato Pafos Archaeological Park; Roman Odeon, Kourion; fresco at Agios Neofytos Monastery; Agioi Anargyroi church at Cape Greco, Ayia Napa; Cypriots sit outside in Arsos village

Cyprus is an island that will challenge you with its complex political history, dazzle you with its breathtaking landscapes and beaches, and delight you with the hospitality of its people. It is a Mediterranean holiday destination that is, quite simply, like no other. With DK Eyewitness Top 10 Cyprus, its yours to explore.

The long history of Cyprus is visible in the physical landscape. You can walk in the footsteps of Mycenaeans and Romans at Kourion, Kato Pafos and Amathus; explore stone-age settlements on the Akamas Peninsula; and discover treasures of Byzantine religious art in the churches of the Troodos Mountains.

More recent history is reflected in Nicosia, the worlds last divided capital city. It is a unique experience to cross its border, observing how the smart shopping street of Ledra transforms into a Turkish-style medina, dominated by its magnificent Selimiye Mosque.

The island also boasts glorious beaches and year-round sun. If youre based at any of the main resorts youll find family-friendly activities and superb watersports, along with bars, restaurants and cafs, and an often hedonistic nightlife, of which lively Ayia Napa is the party capital.

Whether you are here for a few days or several weeks, our Top 10 guide is designed to bring together the best of everything Cyprus has to offer. It gives you tips throughout, from seeking out whats free to finding the best beaches, along with seven easy-to-follow itineraries, which cover a clutch of sights in a short space of time. Add inspiring photography and detailed maps, and youve got the essential pocket-sized travel companion. Enjoy the book, and enjoy Cyprus.

EXPLORING CYPRUS

Whether your visit is short or long, these itineraries will ensure that you experience the very best Cyprus has to offer. They cover all the islands archaeological and historic highlights, the best of its spectacular beaches, its top beauty spots and some of the most atmospheric and lively towns.

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Two Days in Cyprus

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Day 1

Morning

Make an early start in .

Afternoon

Explore this astonishing walled city, taking in the historical sights and the .

Cyprus Museum artifact

Day 2

Morning

Head into the on the coast.

The Troodos range is famous for its Byzantine churches.

Afternoon

After a seafood lunch, visit .

Amathus is a fascinating ancient site.

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Seven Days in Cyprus

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Day 1

Start your explorations in , a traditional restaurant, and then spend the rest of the day walking in the old town, from Onasagorou street to the Famagusta Gate area.

Day 2

Cross into . Explore this picturesque harbour and enjoy a seafood dinner overlooking the waves.

Day 3

Return to . Later, get ready for a night on the town. Start your evening with a drink in Plateia Seferi, the main square, before heading off to enjoy some of the best nightlife on the island.

Day 4

Head down the coast to .

Day 5

Travel west out of ) before enjoying lunch in a traditional tavern. Finish up at Omodos, where you can visit the towns magnificent monastery, browse the shops and enjoy local wine.

Day 6

Head for .

Day 7

Travel to the unspoiled , for a stroll around this picturesque small village, followed by a catch-of-the-day fresh seafood dinner at one of the superb restaurants lining the charming small harbour at Latsi.

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Top 10 Cyprus Highlights

Ruins of ancient Kourion

Top 10 Cyprus Highlights

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NICOSIA WALLED CITY

Modern Nicosia is a cheerfully rambling sprawl that surrounds a picturesque inner core ringed by impressive fortifications. Unlike many historic town centres, this carefully preserved medieval gem is still very much a living town, its streets bustling with shops, lively bars and restaurants. Pockets of restored buildings, such as the Archbishops Palace and museums, reveal a glorious Byzantine past. The city is famously divided and it is a fascinating experience to visit both sides of the border. The northern part reflects a vibrant Turkish-Cypriot culture, while the south is resoundingly Greek-Cypriot.

NEED TO KNOW

Tourist Office: Aristokyprou 11; 22 674 264

Ledra Observatory: Shacolas Tower; 22 674 139; open daily (times vary call ahead to check); adm 2.50

Archangelos Michael Trypiotis: Solonos 479; 22 663 601; opening times vary call ahead to check

House of Hadjigeorgakis Kornesios: