Guide
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A 3-day weekend in Cyprus
Limassol, Ayia Napa, the Troodos and Nicosia in 3 planned days, with Parklane, Almyra or Anassa for the nights.
Cyprus ·
Where
Cyprus
Cyprus is the island Aphrodite is said to have come from, and it does Mediterranean weekends well. Ancient ruins, clear beaches and a mountain range in the middle, all within 3 days if the days are planned. This is the route we use.
Where to stay
Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort and Spa, Limassol. A large resort on the Limassol shore with a serious spa. Fora perks: $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, upgrade and extended check-in and checkout whenever possible.
Almyra, Paphos. A beachfront resort with modern rooms and sea views.
Anassa. A hilltop hotel above the sea on the Akamas coast. Fora perks: $100 food and beverage credit or a 30-minute massage, daily breakfast, upgrade and extended check-in and checkout whenever possible.
Day 1: Limassol
Morning. Land at Larnaca and drive to the Kourion Archaeological Site near Limassol. It sits on a cliff above the sea, with a Roman theater, mosaics and a basilica.
Lunch. The Fish Market, on the Limassol seafront.
Afternoon. The marina and the promenade, with the shops and cafes along it.
Evening. The old town, where the wine bars and tavernas are. Meze at Meze Taverna.
Day 2: Ayia Napa and the Troodos
Morning. Drive to Ayia Napa for Nissi Beach, white sand and clear water. Swim, or rent a paddleboard.
Lunch. Ocean Basket by the beach, for Cypriot seafood.
Afternoon. Up into the Troodos Mountains to Omodos, a village of cobbled streets and a monastery, and the Oenou Yi winery for a tasting.
Evening. Dinner at a mountain taverna in Omodos or Platres. The Village Tavern does souvla and halloumi.
Day 3: Nicosia
Morning. Nicosia is the last divided capital in Europe. Walk Ledra Street and visit the Cyprus Museum, from the Neolithic to the Byzantine. Cross the UN buffer zone at the Ledra Street checkpoint.
Lunch. Piatsa Gourounaki in the old town, for souvlaki.
Afternoon. Laiki Geitonia, the restored quarter of narrow streets and craft shops. Lace and loukoumia are the things to bring home.
Evening. Back to Larnaca for the evening flight.
