When you are planning your holiday in Cyprus, you need to see where you will be staying and how to get around the island to visit the most interesting places.
You will need a map of Cyprus for this.
Where should you get a map from?
You can, of course, download a map for free, but this is unlikely to be very practical as it will not show you the sights, hotels, restaurants or shops that you are interested in.
This is why so many people want to know the best place to buy a map from.
The map can easily be found in any city in Cyprus, in any of the number of shops, Peripteros, near your hotel. The maps are around €3–€8 depending on the shop. The most expensive maps are sold in the large shopping malls.
A free map of Cyprus is available from the Cypriot Tourism Organisation located in the tourist areas, or Estate Agents’ offices where they are usually displayed on stands.
Maps are also available on the stands of travel companies in the airport and, as a rule, travel firms will include a map with your documents.
Realistically speaking it’s quite difficult to get lost in a city in Cyprus. Most of the taxi drivers speak English as do restaurant and shop staff, so you can always ask for directions.
The Map of Limassol
Limassol is Cyprus’ second largest city and the most popular place to live for British expats.
If you want to get acquainted with the city you will need a pdf map of Limassol.
On the English language maps of Limassol given out by travel agencies, you will be able to find your hotel and what is situated nearby, including key sights.
For instance, the Old City (a Google map with items marked) is popular with both locals and tourists. There is a famous fortress where, legend has it, Richard the Lion heart married Berengaria of Navarre. The castle later became the property of the Knights Templar and then the Lusignans, which ruled Cyprus for most of the Middle Ages.
The castle has been besieged many times. The Egyptian mamluks severely damaged not only the castle but the whole city, and at the end of the 15th century the castle was seriously damaged again by an earthquake.
When Cyprus was transferred to Britain in 1878 the fortress was revived and used as a prison until the 20th century. Today there is a Middle Age art museum here.
A leisurely walk along the narrow streets of the Old City is a must, and you can admire the ancient houses.
Have a cup of authentic Cypriot coffee in one of the cosy cafes, and visit a bazaar on a weekend where the village locals come to sell their handmade goods.
The Map of Paphos
When in this amazing city, don’t forget to acquaint yourself with the interesting sights as well as the beaches. This is an ancient city, mentioned in the Gospels when the apostles Paul and Barnabas arrived here during their first journey.
Look at the pdf map of Paphos – the city is very conveniently located on the south-west of the island, which accounts for its unique micro climate. Banana plantations, where bananas ripen during the winter months, are only located on this part of the island.
The map of Paphos will be invaluable when planning your own tours. Please note that most of the interesting sights are located in the lower part of the city.
The inhabitants of the higher villages enjoy a magnificent bird’s eye view of the city and the sea.
There are many interesting things to see in Paphos and the surrounding areas – the ancient monastery of Saint Neophytos, the unusual museum of Paleokastro which resembles a space ship, the stunning white cliffs and, of course, the fortress located in the very heart of the city.
You can also take a pirate voyage here on a schooner called the Jolly Roger, and enjoy a coffee or snack in the Alea café afterwards, complete with magnificent sea views.
You can take the number 631 bus from here to get to Aphrodite’s stone, one of the most popular places in Cyprus.
There are the perfect ancient mosaics in the archeological park in the village of Kuklia, which is marked on the Google map, the botanical gardens of Eleouthki on the Anarita off ramp on the Paphos-Limassol road, and you can take some memorable photos of the beautiful scenery at Aphrodite’s stone (Petra tou Romiou).
No matter what you like to do, you will certainly not be bored.
The Map of Ayia-Napa and Protaras
During the high season in Cyprus (May-October), Ayia Napa and nearby Protaras (pdf maps) attract numerous tourists and locals. For many Britons, Ayia Napa became the first city they visited in Cyprus.
Ayia Napa, located in a quiet bay near cape Greco, is especially popular with the young, which is why it’s known as the Ibiza of Cyprus.
Ayia Napa, meaning “sacred forest” in Greek, is also popular for its sandy beaches and is much loved by children.
There are also cultural monuments and nature reserves located around Ayia Napa and Protaras.
The Map of Troodos. The Routes of Adventurers
The map of Troodos comes alive with the mountain colours. The height increases, gradually reaching the 1,952 metre mark near the summit of Olympus. The microclimate and vegetation is different here.
It is in Troodos where the unique Cypriot monasteries are located, lost amongst the mountain slopes. Amazing paths for hikers lie through the gorges.
Picturesque picnic areas, trout farms, unique hotels, holiday centres for those who love camping and wonderful mountain taverns are all here.
This is why you should equip yourself with a map, rent a light buggy or a car and get acquainted with the local treasures.
