Family Fun on the Mediterranean Island of Cyprus

Golden sandy beaches, family-friendly resorts and a unique cultural heritage make the Mediterranean island of Cyprus a great place to take the kids on vacation. Packages to the island are also renowned for being impressively low-cost, thanks to the excellent range of all-inclusive deals on offer and the low-cost airlines that fly there. Here are some of the main perks of taking a family holiday to Cyprus this year.

A variety of Beach Destinations
Whether you prefer large family friendly resorts or quieter self-catering accommodation there are plenty of sunny beach destinations to suit everyone on Cyprus holidays. The Larnaca region includes the vibrant resort of Ayia Napa where there are fourteen blue-flag beaches and water sports galore. Teenagers will particularly enjoy this area, with its vibrant party atmosphere. Nearby Nissi Beach is, by contrast, a low-key resort with gorgeous stretches of white sand. This may be a better option for those with younger children, though there are waterparks, play areas and kids clubs here to cater for all ages. The Protaras region, also on the East coast, is renowned for the caves and hidden coves that line the shore, as well as its shallow swimming beaches.

Sunshine throughout the Year
A large part of Cyprus’s attraction is its climate, with beach weather throughout much of the year. During the winter you can enjoy amazing off-peak deals to the island whilst swapping chilly home shores for island sunshine. The average December temperature is a family-friendly 20 °C.

A Unique Culture
A holiday to Cyprus offers the opportunity to explore a unique culture, unlike anywhere else in Europe. The island’s proximity to the Middle East as well as Asia and Africa has given it a distinct cultural heritage that can be enjoyed by exploring outside of the main resorts. Visit the Turkish bath house at Omeriye Hammam, see enigmatic archaeological finds at the Cyprus Museum and try local delicacies including grilled halloumi cheese, moussaka, and stuffed vine leaves in traditional restaurants.

A Gateway to History
One great day trip idea is to hire a car and explore outside of the main tourist areas, such as the traditional villages of the Akamas Peninsula. Here, life goes on much as it has for hundreds of years, within whitewashed houses fringed by vineyards. Family trips to medieval castles, including Kolossi and Kantara, provide plenty of variety when it’s time for a break from the beach. Paphos’s Tombs of the Kings is a UNESCO World Heritage site and kids will enjoy exploring its underground tombs and chambers.

A variety of nature trails also run through the island’s most beautiful natural landscapes, with the tourist office providing maps and guides.

Sunny, welcoming Cyprus really is an island for everyone. From adventurous outdoor kids to beach-loving toddlers – and their weary parents! - there is something here to please the whole family.