Cafeteria in Nicosia, Cyprus, January 2023

At the end of January 2023, my Mum and I took a flight from Krakow to Paphos, Cyprus, where we spent a wonderful week exploring this amazing island. We were incredibly fortunate with the weather, as it was pleasantly mild for January—not too hot, making it perfect for sightseeing.

We made Paphos our home base, but from there, we explored several other charming spots across the island, some by bike and others through organised tours. Cyprus is a blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, and we enjoyed every moment of it.

Paphos – A Historical Gem

Paphos, the town where we stayed, is one of the most historic cities in Cyprus. The city is famous for its connection to Greek mythology, as it is believed to be the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. We explored Aphrodite’s Rock, a beautiful spot along the coast, and enjoyed the archaeological sites, such as the Tombs of the Kings and the Paphos Archaeological Park, which are home to ancient mosaics and Roman villas.

Exploring the Countryside and Villages

From Paphos, we ventured to the stunning surrounding villages, each with its own charm and character.
• Kuklia – A small village near Aphrodite’s Rock, rich in history, where we took a stroll through its traditional streets.
• Lofu – A quaint Cypriot village, offering a glimpse into local life and famous for its traditional architecture.
• Pano Platres – Nestled in the Troodos Mountains, this village was perfect for enjoying the cool mountain air and seeing the lush nature that Cyprus has to offer.
• Omodos – Known for its wine-making heritage, we enjoyed a visit to the local wineries and explored its picturesque cobbled streets.

Visiting Nicosia – The Divided Capital

One of the most fascinating places we visited was Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, which remains the last divided capital in Europe. We explored both the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot sides of the city, learning about the historical tensions and the efforts towards reunification. Walking through the Ledra Street crossing was a poignant reminder of Cyprus’s complex political history.

Cholraka, Kurion, and Limassol

We also explored several more towns and archaeological sites on the island:
• Cholraka – A peaceful village near Paphos, where we visited its local beaches and traditional markets.
• Kurion – One of the most spectacular ancient sites in Cyprus, where we saw Roman ruins, amphitheaters, and stunning views over the Mediterranean Sea.
• Limassol – A coastal city where we wandered through the old town, visited the Limassol Castle, and enjoyed the lively marina area.

A Wonderful Trip with Mum

The trip was extra special because I had the chance to travel with Mum. It was wonderful to share these memories with her, whether we were discovering Cypriot history, enjoying local food, or simply exploring the scenic countryside together. Cyprus turned out to be an ideal destination for this trip—rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.

We left Cyprus with hearts full of gratitude and memories of an amazing holiday that brought us even closer together.

Click here to access the album.