Off the coast of Turkey lies the small island nation of Cyprus. This unique place blends Mediterranean culture with eastern flair giving it its own personality. Once a territory of the United Kingdom, Cyprus gained its independence more than 40 years ago although you still see the British influences there is so much more to discover in the ancient cities and villages that dot the island. Though clashes between the Greek and Turkish populations have occurred, visitors are perfectly safe visiting. Here are all things Cyprus to consider exploring while touring the Island of Aphrodite.

Agia Napa

Once a sleepy fishing village, when Cyprus gained its independence in the 1970’s the island began to attract multitudes of visitors every year. Some turn their nose up at this beachy hot spot due to the fact there it may not feel very ancient Cyprus-like as this resort town has been geared toward tourist for many years. The sun-drenched beaches and popular music-filled bars make Agia Napa at sure party central location. However if you are looking for nice beaches and fun that never stops then Agia Napa is for you.

Paphos

This great divided city is by far one of the best places to explore while in Cyprus. Divided into the tourist and historic lower town and the more commercial upper town, Paphos has some of the most important archeological sites in Cyprus. Considered to be the birthplace of the Greek goddess Aphrodite, Paphos dates back thousands of years. Tour the Archeological Park with House of Theseus and House of Dionysus to discover the ancient Roman ruins there and the history of some ancient Greek mythology. You can find a classic Greek amphitheatre, the Odeon, or the Aphrodite Water Park for the a little relief from the Mediterranean sun in the summer months.

The most famous site in Paphos is certainly the Tomb of the Kings. Though royal kings of the past were never actually buried there, it did once contain other tombs and dates back to the 3rd century BC. The tombs have long since been pillaged by grave robbers but the city has made great strides to re-create and restore as much as they could. It is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is fascinating to see the incredibly old structure whose architecture draws from ancient Egypt.

While in Paphos, stroll along the ancient traditional Tala Village where you can see the Agios Neophytos Monastery or just enjoy this friendly outcrop just northwest of the city.

Kyrenia (Girne)

This small coastal town in northern Cyprus is probably one of the most beautiful and romantic place to visit. The famous Venetian port is picturesque and the clear blue waters off the coast make for really good scuba diving and snorkeling or take a tour of the wildlife that inhabit the area such as the population of sea turtles. Looming over the city is the dramatic tree-covered hills of the Beşparmak Mountains.

Buses can take you to the beaches if you are not staying directly on the coast as there is limited public transportation and the roadways can get fairly crowded. If you can tear yourself away from the scenic port long enough, explore the Kyrenia Castle that dates back to the 7th century. In it you can tour the shipwreck museum detailing the merchant ships that once docked here centuries ago.

Also consider trekking to the nearby village of Bellapais. This incredibly beautiful village is absolutely mesmerizing and has the ruins of the ancient Bellapais Monastery built in the 12th century as well as three haunting gothic castles keeping watch over the city.

Karpaz Peninsula

This long peninsula on the north side of the island offers much to explore though there are no actual cities here as it is considered a national park. At the very tip is the Monastery of Apostolos Andreas, a place some believe miracles take place. Greeks have made pilgrimages here for years, at least when the Turkish authorities would allow them to. Mehmetçik is where you will find the vineyards and wineries or climb to the Kantara Castle for some pretty nice views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Protaras

Heading back to the south side of the island is the beach resort town of Protaras. It has become in recent decades one of the most popular destinations on the island. Home to several very nice sandy beaches and plenty of sea-side hotels. Fig Tree Bay has some of the best beaches with soft, fine sand that is a perfect spot for lying in the Mediterranean sun and sip a refreshing drink. The town has many shops, restaurants, and bars to enjoy when you need a break from the sun and the hillside give fantastic views as well. Cape Greco is another popular tourist attraction just outside of town and is a protected part of the island.