Not So Basic Tourists

No trip to Cyprus is complete without exploring its coastline. We reserved our last day for a road trip to the island’s western side. There, you’ll find Aphrodite’s Rock, a legendary spot said to be the birthplace of the Greek goddess of love. Not far away, the Edro III shipwreck stands as a dramatic reminder of the power of the sea. When the ship ran aground during heavy seas in October 2011, it left behind an impressive 80-meter-long hull weighing some 2,500 tons—a sight that’s both haunting and fascinating.

Renting a car turned out to be the best decision we made: we picked it up in Ayia Napa and dropped it off near Larnaka Airport before our flight home. We only paid about 100 euros for 5 days, which felt like a bargain, especially considering how much ground we covered. With a car, we easily hopped from mountain villages to coastal views without worrying about bus schedules or pricey taxis.
For those curious about trip expenses, here’s a quick budget breakdown for 7 days in Cyprus (traveling in late May, just before the school summer rush):

• Flights: €200 each (we found a good deal).
• All-Inclusive Hotel: €800 total, which included a free taxi service from the airport.
• Car Rental & Gas: Approximately €250.
• Food, Water & Snacks: Around €150 for the week.
• Total: About €1,600 overall.

We’d also like to highlight that the best times to visit Cyprus tend to be May or October. May was ideal for us—fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and the beaches still felt tranquil. In contrast, peak summer months can see an influx of tourists, leading to crowded beaches and higher prices. Locals often suggest October for a quieter scene and cleaner waters after the rush of summer visitors.

If you’re chasing nightlife, Ayia Napa is known for its party scene, particularly along Ayias Mavris Street, where bars and clubs keep the beats going well into the early hours. However, families or couples seeking a low-key getaway might prefer a calmer locale, as there are plenty of serene towns and beaches around the island to explore.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re scouting mountain monasteries, beach-hopping along turquoise shores, or dancing the night away under neon lights, Cyprus offers a little something for every traveler. We loved the mix of natural beauty, friendly locals, and wallet-friendly surprises (free sights and affordable car rentals are always a plus!). Let us know if you’ve ever ventured to this Mediterranean gem—or if it’s going straight to the top of your travel bucket list.

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Check out also our adventure-filled Cyprus video from YouTube!