Leventis Gallery

One of the most important artistic landmarks in Cyprus, since 2014 the Leventis Gallery shares the invaluable treasures of its founder, G.Leventis with the rest of the world. While it has hosted countless of temporary exhibitions, it’s also home to three stunning collections. The Paris Collection, owned by G.Leventis himself, the Greek Collection and the Cyprus Collection. The first features European art dated from the 17th century to the 20th, as well as period furniture and “objets d’art”. The second exhibits the work of local artists from the first half of the 20^th century whereas the latter is work by the first generation of local artists.

(22668838, Leonidou, Nicosia)

Centre of Visual Arts and Research (Severis Foundation)

Located in the heart of the old town of Nicosia, surrounded by picturesque traditional houses and buildings, CVAR opened its doors in 2014 and its collection includes hundreds of paintings, antique costumes, and memorabilia. It takes you on a time journey that showcases Cypriot history and the island’s relationship with its neighbors, throughout the centuries. It’s also home to more than 10,000 books, which are available to the public and to academics, whereas on its roof garden you will often watch screenings relating to the cultural heritage of Cyprus.

(22300999, Ermou 285, Nicosia)

Cyprus Museum

From the Paleolithic, Neolithic and Chalcolithic times to the Archaic Period and the Roman Period, a visit to the Cyprus Museum will make you realize the island’s rich cultural diversity. It dates to hundreds of centuries back in time and it’s a magnificent blend of different ages and different influences such as Egyptian, Ptolemaic and Assyrian.

(22865854, Mouseiou 1, Nicosia)

Local Ethnological Museum

Get a glimpse of 19^th century Cyprus, at one of the most charming villages of Cyprus. At Lefkara’s Ethnological Museum you will find evidence and artifacts of the time such as traditional costumes, jewelry, silverwork, and agricultural tools and of course a wide collection of old Lefkara embroidery, for which the village is so famous for.

(24342326, Lefkara, Larnaca)

Oleastro Olive Park and Museum

Cyprus is called “The olive island” for a reason! And that’ because olive harvesting was for a very long time, a way of living for most locals in rural areas. From extractions methods to how it influenced the everyday lives of Cypriots and how the island benefitted from olive related production, Oleastro will give you a hands-on experience!

(99525093, Anogyra, Limassol)

It’s an island with many surprises indeed.

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The landmarks

Places that are idyllic but not ‘ideal’ if you are out for a “relaxing day at the beach” mood. On your way to Paphos, make a stop at “Petra Tou Romiou”, the birthplace of goddess Aphrodite. There, stands a series of majestic rocks and legend has it that Digenis Akritas threw them to keep the Arabs away from the island. On your way to Peyia, the recent shipwreck of EDRO III is a must-see, it has become an “Instagram attraction” just 200 meters away from Paphos’ sea caves. If you do appreciate sea caves, then your next trip should be at Cape Greco, its stunning coastline will mesmerize you, either you choose to walk it, cycle at its designated areas or dive in its waters!

Up for a summer adventure?

Then head straight to Akamas Peninsula, an area of 30 square km of valleys, gorges and wide sandy bays. Go for a swim at the crystal clean and clear beaches of Lara, Aphrodite’s baths or Blue Lagoon, explore its grand ecological diversity by hiking at its three official nature trails, the Adonis Trail, the Aphrodite Trail, and the Smigies Trail or challenge yourself and discover Avakas Gorge, its rare plants and flowers, reptiles, immense cliffs and who knows, you might even get acquainted with wild mountain goats. If you choose the latter, then be extra careful and have all the necessary safety equipment at your disposal.

Looking for beachy-breezy-busy?

Pack the car with sunscreen, beach floaties, snacks and off you go to Konnos Bay, Figtree Bay, Nissi Beach, and Sirina Bay! These are most probably the most popular (and crowded) beaches In Cyprus, Nissi Beach was included amongst the 25 best beaches worldwide by the esteemed “Flight Network”, a huge distinction indeed. Equipped with amenities such as watersport facilities, beach bars, cafes, etc., there’s always something happening there that will keep you excited!

Whatever you do, make sure you have the time of your lives! You are, after all, at one of the most beautiful islands in the world!

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