Are you planning a holiday to Cyprus? While there are some truly breathtaking hotspots that tourists naturally gravitate towards, there’s more to uncover beyond the well-trodden trails and popular beaches.
Immersing yourself in Cypriot life can offer a rewarding and unforgettable experience. By soaking up the local way of living, you can savour the true essence of this Mediterranean island.
While there have been increases in passenger numbers arriving into airports here, it’s possible to escape the crowds and enjoy Cyprus like a local. Here’s how you can leave with memories that go far beyond sun and sand.
Visit local markets
For authentic holidays to Cyprus, head to the markets where you can get a true taste of everyday life. These are hubs of social interaction where locals gather to sell their produce, chat with neighbours, and enjoy a relaxed morning. Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca are home to some of the best-known markets, offering everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to traditional Cypriot products.
Whichever market you visit, you’ll find this is a great way to sample Cypriot flavours. Try fresh olives, nuts, or the island’s halloumi cheese. Don’t be shy about interacting with vendors, too. They’re often more than happy to tell you about their produce and may even offer you a taste of something new.
The markets are also a perfect place to find handcrafted souvenirs such as Lefkara lace, a Cypriot embroidery technique that dates back centuries, or handmade pottery. Both make for beautiful and meaningful keepsakes to remind you of your time in Cyprus.
Dine at family-run taverns
While Cyprus is home to many restaurants geared toward tourists, for a true taste of Cypriot cuisine, it’s worth venturing into local, family-run eateries. These taverns, often passed down through generations, serve up traditional dishes made from family recipes.
Dining here is about the food, but it’s also about the experience, the warm atmosphere, and the chance to connect with the people behind the dishes. Make sure to sample local delicacies like souvla, which is slow-cooked meat grilled over a charcoal barbecue, halloumi, and mezze – small plates of dishes served to share.
If you can, try to have conversations with the cooks and the people who run these restaurants. Don’t be afraid to ask the owners for their recommendations or daily specials, as they often have fresh, off-the-menu options that highlight the best of the season. Building rapport with the owners can even lead to learning more about local customs and culinary secrets that aren’t available in tourist spots.
Enjoy the outdoors
To experience Cyprus’ natural beauty, take a break from the more crowded beaches and tourist areas. Instead, head to Karpasia Peninsula or Governor’s Beach, where you can enjoy a quieter atmosphere far from the crowds.
The island’s inland treasures, like the Troodos Mountains and the Akamas Peninsula, offer a contrast to the coastal resorts. These areas are perfect for hiking, with trails that lead you through dense forests, rocky cliffs, and villages.
If you’d like to enjoy some outdoor activities, you can try olive picking or harvesting grapes during the autumn months. Contact local farms to see if they welcome visitors. This can give you the chance to learn about the island’s agricultural heritage firsthand.
Embrace Cypriot traditions and festivals
One of the island’s most unique events is Kataklysmos, the Festival of the Flood, celebrated every year with music, games, and waterfront festivities across coastal towns like Limassol and Larnaca.
For those interested in spirituality, a visit to one of the island’s many churches or monasteries, such as Kykkos Monastery in the Troodos Mountains, offers a glimpse into Cyprus’s Orthodox Christian heritage. These sacred sites are not only places of worship but also of immense historical and cultural significance.
Learn the language
To fully immerse yourself in the local culture, learning a few basic Greek phrases can go a long way. A simple ‘kalimera’ – good morning – or ‘efharisto’, which is thank you, can open the door to deeper interactions with the people you meet.
