Cyprus is a Mediterranean gem where golden beaches, ancient ruins, and charming villages come together in one easily drivable island. Despite its modest size, Cyprus feels endlessly diverse, like several destinations wrapped into one. From coastal relaxation to cultural discovery, the best way to take it all in is on your schedule, with a seven-day road trip that lets you dive deep into its beauty, history, and hospitality. Here’s how to turn one unforgettable week in Cyprus into the road trip of a lifetime!
Begin your trip in Larnaca, a relaxed city located on the southeast coast. Once you land and collect your luggage, Larnaca welcomes you with its inviting seafront and laid-back atmosphere. You might start with a slow walk down the palm-lined Finikoudes Promenade, where the Mediterranean Sea sparkles beside cafés and tavernas. It’s the perfect place to sit with a coffee or fresh juice while you acclimatise.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Lazarus, a well-preserved ninth-century Byzantine church located in the heart of the Old Town. This stone-built church sits at the centre of cobbled streets and offers a peaceful glimpse into Cyprus's deep-rooted Christian heritage. For dinner, tuck into a Cypriot mezze meal—an array of small dishes like halloumi, grilled meats, dips, and local olives. Larnaca is also a great place to pick up essentials for your road trip before you begin exploring the rest of the island.
Your road trip properly begins today with a journey along the southern coast. As you leave Larnaca, your first stop should be the UNESCO-listed site of Choirokoitia, one of the most significant prehistoric settlements in the eastern Mediterranean. Its circular stone dwellings date back to the Neolithic period, offering a vivid glimpse into how humans lived over 9,000 years ago. Continue your drive to Governor’s Beach, a peaceful bay where white chalk cliffs meet turquoise waters. It’s quieter than other beaches and ideal for a picnic or a dip in the sea. With ample parking and clear water, it’s a refreshing break on your drive.
Arrive in Limassol by mid-afternoon. This city blends cosmopolitan flair with historic depth. Visit the Old Town and its medieval Limassol Castle, where Richard the Lionheart is said to have married Berengaria of Navarre. The castle now houses the Cyprus Medieval Museum. In the evening, explore the marina, home to trendy restaurants, cafés, and boutique shops, and enjoy a seafood dinner by the water. For more ideas on how to make the most of your time here, check out our Perfect Weekend Itinerary for Limassol with Sun, Castles, and Local Flavor.
Spend today delving into Cyprus’s ancient past. Just a short drive from Limassol is the ancient city-kingdom of Kourion. Set dramatically on a clifftop, Kourion boasts a stunning Greco-Roman theatre with sea views, mosaics, Roman baths, and remnants of noble villas. It’s one of the most atmospheric archaeological sites in Cyprus and offers plenty of quiet corners for photography and reflection.
Next, head to Kolossi Castle, a compact but historically important fortress dating back to the Crusader period. Once a stronghold for the Knights Hospitaller, the castle sits in a region famous for producing Commandaria—a sweet dessert wine that’s among the oldest named wines in the world. The surrounding vineyards give the landscape a pastoral charm. Return to Limassol for a relaxed evening. Try a different district, like the Saripolou Square area, known for its mix of traditional tavernas and modern cocktail bars. For more inspiration on scenic stops and scenic drives, browse our Top Driving Routes and Must-See Stops for Your Road Trip in Cyprus.
The road to Paphos is among the most scenic in Cyprus. Just west of Limassol, you’ll come across Petra tou Romiou, the mythical birthplace of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. Local legend says she rose from the sea here. The dramatic rock formations and clear waves make this one of the island’s most photographed spots.
Arriving in Paphos, you’ll quickly see why the entire city is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Paphos Archaeological Park houses sprawling Roman villas with vivid mosaic floors depicting scenes from mythology. The House of Dionysos, the House of Theseus, and the House of Aion are highlights that bring ancient stories to life in breathtaking colour and detail. Later, explore Paphos Harbour with its picturesque fort and seaside tavernas. This is a great spot to enjoy dinner at sunset, with the sea just metres from your table.
Paphos still has much to offer. Today, visit the Tombs of the Kings, a vast necropolis carved into limestone, dating from the 4th century BC. Despite their name, these tombs were not reserved for royalty but are monumental in scale and craftsmanship. The site’s arched chambers and Doric columns show the influence of Egyptian burial practices blended with Hellenistic design.
In the afternoon, unwind at Coral Bay, a popular sandy beach just north of Paphos. The water is shallow and perfect for swimming, while beachfront cafés serve cool drinks and light snacks. A short distance away is the Edro III shipwreck, an eerie but beautiful sight of a cargo ship that ran aground during a storm. It now rests near the coast and makes a stunning silhouette during sunset.
Head inland to the Troodos Mountains, the green heart of Cyprus. This pine-covered region offers cooler air and a glimpse of traditional village life. Stop first in Omodos, a peaceful village known for its stone houses, local wines, and handmade lace. Explore its cobbled streets, visit wine cellars, and see the Monastery of the Holy Cross at its centre.
Continue up to Kykkos Monastery, one of Cyprus’s richest and most famous. Decorated with gold icons and colourful frescoes, it also houses a museum and a revered icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to be painted by Saint Luke. Stay overnight in a mountain guesthouse and enjoy hearty Cypriot dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. End the day under a sky full of stars, surrounded by the quiet beauty of the mountains.
On your final day, visit the village of Lefkara, celebrated for its handmade lace and silverware. Legend says Leonardo da Vinci himself visited Lefkara in the 15th century and bought lace for the altar cloth of Milan Cathedral. Whether or not it’s true, the craftsmanship continues today. Stroll through workshops where locals weave complex patterns passed down for generations.
From Lefkara, return to Larnaca. Depending on your departure time, you may want to stop at Larnaca Salt Lake, home to migratory flamingos in winter, or revisit the beach for a final swim. Larnaca’s blend of sea, history, and modernity makes it an ideal place to end your journey.
This 7‑day route is crafted to offer balance and variety. Early days focus on the coast and cultural landmarks; mid-trip days immerse you in historical wonders; later days take you into the peaceful mountains before returning to the beach. It offers plenty of chances to explore without feeling rushed and is suitable for couples, friends, or families looking for adventure and rest in equal measure.
To fully enjoy a road trip around Cyprus, having your own vehicle is essential. It allows you to travel at your own pace, discover hidden gems, and avoid the limitations of public transport. Here’s why renting a car with Final Rentals makes the experience smooth and stress-free:
With a reliable rental car, your Cyprus road trip becomes more than a holiday—it’s your own personal adventure.
Every region in Cyprus offers its spin on food. Along the coast, seafood is the star, from grilled octopus to calamari. In the villages, try kleftiko (slow-roasted lamb), koupepia (stuffed vine leaves), and homemade cheeses. Mountain inns often serve family recipes made from foraged herbs and wild greens.
As for accommodation, options range from boutique hotels and resorts to village guesthouses and agrotourism lodges. Booking in advance during the busy summer months is advised, but outside of peak times, you’ll find lovely places to stay with local character and warm welcomes.
A road trip around Cyprus is more than just a holiday—it’s an immersive journey through landscapes shaped by myth, history, and hospitality. In seven days, you’ll stand in Roman theatres, swim at secluded beaches, sip wine in mountain villages, and walk the same roads as Crusaders, merchants, and monks. Renting a car in Cyprus brings all of these experiences within reach, connecting you not just to places, but to the spirit of the island. Ready to explore? Pack your bags, map your route, and let Cyprus surprise you every day of your journey.
