In a nutshell
- Want to discover Cyprus hidden gems off the tourist trail? We’ll show you the best-kept secrets — from secluded beaches to mountain villages and open-air art.
- We’ve explored these spots ourselves and love sharing quiet, less-visited places that most visitors walk right past.
- Most of these spots require a rental car to reach. Compare rental car deals on Discovercars to find the best price for your trip.
- From nature to culture to creative highlights: with these Cyprus insider tips, your vacation in Cyprus will be a truly one-of-a-kind experience away from the crowds.
Hidden Beach Gem: Lara Beach
What do you need to know? Lara Beach is located in Akamas National Park on the northwest coast and is one of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus. It’s best known as a nesting site for sea turtles. You can reach the beach by car via a gravel road from Polis, followed by a short walk — perfect for exploring Cyprus on your own terms.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! On top of crystal-clear water and fine sand, you might actually witness turtles laying their eggs — or tiny hatchlings scrambling toward the sea. A seriously special experience for nature and animal lovers.
Our tip: Visit Lara Beach early in the morning or late afternoon to see the turtles with as little disturbance as possible. Don’t enter the roped-off areas, and always keep a safe distance from the animals. Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen — there’s nothing nearby.
Want to swim with turtles? Then we recommend the turtle snorkeling excursion in Paphos.
Hidden Coves near Limassol
What do you need to know? East of Limassol, there are small, little-known coves that feel almost like private beaches. Tucked away from the main promenade, they offer real peace and quiet for sunbathing and swimming away from the crowds.
Is it worth it? Of course! And you’ve got options. Along this stretch of coastline you’ll find several tranquil spots — including the little-known Varadero Beach (a tiny sandy cove), the rocky White & Rocky Beach, and the sheltered White Stones.
By the way: Limassol is one of the best places to stay in Cyprus! If you haven’t booked a hotel yet, it’s definitely worth checking out the options here.
Rock Pools of Kritou Terra
What do you need to know? In the small mountain village of Kritou Terra, not far from Paphos, you’ll find natural rock pools fed directly by a fresh spring — the water is crystal clear and pleasantly cool. Surrounded by lush greenery, the pools feel like a little oasis. You’ll need a car to get here.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! Especially in the height of summer, when even the sea can reach around 82°F, this is the perfect place to cool off in total peace. A trip to the rock pools is a great alternative to the more well-known activities in Cyprus.
Our tip: Don’t rush this one. Explore the beautiful surroundings first, then reward yourself with a dip in the pools.
Mountain Village Kalopanayiotis
What do you need to know? Kalopanayiotis is a charming mountain village in the Troodos Mountains, known for its traditional stone houses, narrow alleyways, and the UNESCO-protected Agios Ioannis Lampadistis Monastery. Best reached by car.
Is it worth it? Absolutely! Kalopanayiotis shows you the authentic, unspoiled side of Cyprus — far from beaches and tourist hotspots. Stroll through pine forests, relax in thermal springs, or enjoy the valley view over a coffee. It’s one of the most rewarding secret places in Cyprus, well off the usual tourist trail.
Our tip: If the drive feels too long for a day trip, consider splitting your vacation — a few days by the sea, a few days in the mountains. That way you won’t miss a thing. Kalopanayiotis has some great boutique hotels, including the lovely Casale Panayiotis.
Panagia Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery
What do you need to know? The Panagia Chrysorrogiatissa Monastery sits in the mountains near Paphos. Founded in the 12th century, it’s been an important site of the Orthodox Church for centuries. The monastery sits peacefully among vineyards and is best reached by car or on a guided tour through the Troodos Mountains.
Is it worth it? Yes! The monastery is fascinating from both a historical and spiritual perspective, and it makes a wonderful stop if you’re already exploring the Troodos Mountains. It’s a great way to combine culture and nature — and it’s wonderfully peaceful up here.
Sculpture Park Ayia Napa
What do you need to know? The Sculpture Park in Ayia Napa sits on a hill overlooking the sea and is easy to reach by car or even on foot from the center. Across the sprawling grounds you’ll find over 200 sculptures by international artists — ranging from modern to abstract. Admission is free.
Is it worth it? Definitely! The park is a truly special place, yet almost completely unknown among visitors to Cyprus. It’s most beautiful around sunset, when the coastline glows golden and the sculptures look even more striking.
Our tip: If your hotel isn’t in Ayia Napa, you can easily combine a stroll through town with a visit to the sculpture park — it works perfectly as an afternoon outing.
Street Art District in Limassol
What do you need to know? In the historic center of Limassol, one of the most beautiful places in Cyprus, narrow alleyways have transformed into a sprawling open-air gallery. Local and international artists have created enormous murals here — from abstract to photorealistic — and it’s totally free to explore.
Is it worth it? If you’re into street art, don’t miss this! The works are seriously impressive to look at, and they make for a cool, under-the-radar photo spot. Limassol shows a completely different side of itself here — creative, young, and surprisingly bold.
Our tip: Combine your stroll through the street art district with a traditional meal at one of the tavernas in the old quarter nearby.
Exploring Cyprus by Car
If you want to discover Cyprus’s hidden gems on your own, you’ll definitely want to rent a car. That way you can reach secluded beaches, mountain villages, and other beautiful spots across the island.
For the best route for your Cyprus road trip, check out our dedicated article on that too.
Compare rental car deals for Cyprus on Discovercars
Important: Cyprus drives on the left, which can feel unfamiliar at first — but the roads are well maintained. Take it easy in the mountains and always pack plenty of water.
Find more travel tips for Cyprus here:
Hidden Hotel Gems in Cyprus
Away from the big resorts, there are small, characterful places to stay in Cyprus that can make your trip truly special. Where you sleep really does make a difference.
One standout is the Hotel Casale Panayiotis in Kalopanayiotis, which we mentioned above. Here you sleep in lovingly restored stone houses right in the heart of the Troodos Mountains — it’s seriously atmospheric.
For beach lovers, the Blue Harbour Boutique Hotel in Ayia Napa is a great pick — a modern boutique hotel with stunning sea views.
We have more hotel tips for Cyprus right here:
