Looking for tips on where to stay in Cyprus? Whether you’re dreaming of beachfront luxury, charming mountain villages, or a lively town full of nightlife, Cyprus has a spot that fits.

Image of Konnos beach near Agia Napa. Many blue sun loungers and umbrellas on white sand near transparent blue water in a bay and rocky hills. Cloudless day in fall
Konnos beach near Ayia Napa, Cyprus.

I’ve explored the island from coast to coast, and this guide covers the 11 best areas to stay in Cyprus, with honest insights and hotel picks to help you choose the right base for your trip.

Each area has its own flavour, so the best place for you depends on your vibe.

Here’s the lowdown on where to stay in Cyprus:

1. Limassol πŸŒ†

Limassol – for a bit of everything. A cosmopolitan city with a shiny marina, buzzy nightlife, and beach promenade.

Limassol blends modern luxury with historic spots like the medieval castle and ancient Kourion ruins. It’s a great base if you want city fun and beach chill.

Top Picks: Four Seasons Hotel (ultra-luxury), Amathus Beach Hotel (romantic), The Royal Apollonia (stylish resort).

2. Paphos πŸ›οΈ

Paphos – for history lovers and families. A UNESCO World Heritage city with ancient tombs, mosaic-covered villas, and a charming harbour.

Palm-lined promenade in Paphos, Cyprus, with benches and streetlights at night, next to calm water and buildings with lit storefronts in the background.

It’s also fab for families, with beaches, waterparks, and easy-going vibes. πŸ‘‰ See my Paphos Guide.

Top Picks: Elysium Hotel (luxury + culture), Almyra (stylish and family-friendly), Annabelle Hotel (classic beauty).

3. Ayia Napa πŸ–οΈ

Ayia Napa – for beaches and buzzing nights. Party central, but with some of the best beaches in Cyprus (Nissi Beach and Konnos Bay are dreamy).

Stunning mediterranean island with a sand path to a neighbouring islet, Ayia Napa
Nissi beach, Ayia Napa

It’s not just clubs – there’s a peaceful side too, plus access to Cape Greco National Park.

Top Picks: NissiBlu Beach Resort (new and modern), Grecian Bay Hotel (upmarket with a private beach), Alion Beach Hotel (elegant and calm).

4. Larnaca 🌴

Larnaca – for a relaxed, budget-friendly base.

A wide pedestrian promenade lined with palm trees runs alongside a sandy beach with rows of sun loungers and umbrellas.
Larnaca promenade

More low-key than Limassol or Ayia Napa, Larnaca has a laid-back charm, palm-lined promenade, and local feel. It’s super convenient too, close to the airport.

Top Picks: Radisson Blu Hotel (modern and central), Ciao Stelio Deluxe (adults-only boutique), Sun Hall Hotel (sea views and comfy).

5. Protaras πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘§β€πŸ‘¦

Protaras – for families and couples. Next door to Ayia Napa, but calmer.

A sunny beach scene in Cyprus with yellow boats on clear blue water, people swimming, and white buildings in the background under a slightly cloudy sky.
Fig Tree Bay.

The beaches are beautiful and shallow (ideal for kids), and the atmosphere is friendly. Fig Tree Bay is the star of the show.

Top Picks: Constantinos the Great Beach Hotel (beachfront classic), Sunrise Jade (adults-only serenity), Cavo Maris Beach Hotel (family fave).

6. Nicosia πŸ™οΈ

Nicosia – For city breaks and culture. Europe’s last divided capital, with a fascinating mix of old and new.

A cityscape of Nicosia, Cyprus, with a mosque and buildings in the foreground and mountains in the background under a clear blue sky.

Explore museums, coffee shops, markets, and cross the Green Line into North Nicosia. More urban than coastal – but very interesting. πŸ‘‰ Nicosia Day Trip.

Top Picks: Hilton Nicosia (sleek and spacious), Cleopatra Hotel (central and practical), Central Park Residences (longer stays or luxe city living).

7. Troodos Mountains 🌲

Troodos Mountains – for nature and mountain air. Cooler temps, forest trails, and tiny villages with stone houses and local tavernas.

A top pick for hikers, wine lovers, and anyone who wants a slice of authentic Cyprus. πŸ‘‰ Also see my Troodos Day Trip.

Top Picks: Casale Panayiotis (luxury in a restored village), Linos Inn (rustic charm), Forest Park Hotel (classic mountain escape).

8. Polis and Latchi 🌊

Polis & Latchi – for peace, nature, and sea views. On the northwest coast near the Akamas Peninsula. Think quiet beaches, waterfalls, and scenic boat trips. Great for couples or off-grid types.

Top Picks: Anassa Hotel (pure luxury), Aphrodite Beach Hotel (family-run gem), Souli Beach Hotel (budget with a view).

9. Kyrenia (Girne) βš“

Kyrenia (Girne) – for charm and a taste of the north.

In Northern Cyprus, Kyrenia offers cobbled streets, castle views, and a pretty harbour. It’s got that Ottoman-meets-Med vibe and fewer crowds. πŸ‘‰ Cyprus Border Crossings Explained.

Top Picks: The Arkin Colony Hotel (rooftop pool + glam), Rocks Hotel & Casino (posh and playful), Lord’s Palace Hotel (luxury with sea views).

10. Famagusta 🏰

Famagusta – For haunting history and sun-soaked beaches. Also in the north, Famagusta mixes Gothic ruins with golden sands.

A large Gothic-style stone building in Famagusta, Cyprus with arched windows and a minaret on the left side, set against a clear blue sky and surrounded by trees.

Visit the ghost town of Varosha or just soak up the history and sun. πŸ‘‰ Famagusta & Varosha Itinerary.

Top Picks: Arkin Palm Beach Hotel (beach meets history), Salamis Bay Conti Hotel (big and beachy), Kaya Artemis Resort (for spa lovers).

11. Coral Bay πŸ–οΈ

Coral Bay – for beach days and laid-back nights.

A chilled beach resort near Paphos, Coral Bay has a bit of nightlife and lots of soft sand. Perfect if you want to stay near Paphos but with a more casual feel.

Top Picks: Coral Thalassa Hotel (boutique bliss), Corallia Beach Hotel Apartments (great for families), Coral Beach Hotel & Resort (all the facilities!)

Want to See It All on a Map? πŸ—ΊοΈ

Check out my interactive hotel map to visualise each area and explore availability in real-time.

Β 

? Booking Tip: Book early for the best deals – especially in summer. Many hotels offer free cancellation, so you can stay flexible.

?FAQs: Where to Stay in Cyprus πŸ’‘

Q: What’s the best place to stay in Cyprus for first-timers?

A: Limassol or Paphos are great choices. Both offer a mix of beach, history, food and easy transport links.

Q: Where to stay in Cyprus for nightlife?

A: Ayia Napa is the nightlife capital, but Limassol also has a good party scene.

Q: Can I stay in Northern Cyprus?

A: Yes. Kyrenia and Famagusta are safe and interesting, with different architecture, food and culture.

Q: Is it better to stay in one place or move around?

A: Depends on your trip length. For a week, one or two bases is perfect. If you have longer, consider a mini road trip.

Related Reading πŸ“š

Ready to explore more? Check out:

πŸš— Cyprus Coast Road Trip.
πŸ›οΈ 2 Days in Paphos: A Myth & History-Filled Itinerary.
🌲 Troodos Day Trip: Villages, Wine & Nature in the Cyprus Mountains.
πŸ™οΈ Nicosia Day Trip: Exploring Europe’s Last Divided Capital.
πŸ–οΈ 10 Fantastic Things to Do in Paphos, Cyprus.

Quick Links for Cyprus.

Here are some quick shopping links to help you with your trip to Cyprus.

Pin This for Later πŸ“Œ

If you have enjoyed reading this guide on where to stay in Cyprus, or found it useful, please use the below images to pin this article to your Pinterest boards. 

πŸ‘‰ Looking for practical travel tools? Check out my Travel Resources page.

Tags: , ,