Summer is already here and so is the vacation season. But which destination to choose for a family holiday with children?
Sunny Cyprus is a true Mediterranean gem, rightfully considered one of the best vacation destinations. Its welcoming and easy-going Mediterranean vibe, rich hospitality culture and warm weather make it an ideal family holiday spot.
Whilst it may not be an exotic tropical atol, its nature has its own unique beauty. Cyprus boasts warm sunny weather from the end of April till October, making it an ideal escape for school-holidays with the children, even during half-term breaks.
If you are just considering spending your family holidays on Cyprus coast, or already planning your family vacations, we will tell you all about the most family-friendly cities, beaches, sites and activities with the kids.
Holiday tips
For safe and stress-free holidays, it is a good idea to plan ahead:
- Use lots of sun protection — our sun is rather strong.
- If you are booking your holiday through an agent, make sure to use a trusted travel provider to stay protected.
- We recommend arranging comprehensive travel and health insurance.
- Early booking can help secure better deals for flights and accommodation.
- Sometimes airport transfer is included in some hotels’ rates. But it’s best to confirm with the hotel.
- All-inclusive holiday package tours might provide value for money, but offer less flexibility.
- Always check for special family deals when booking your holiday.
- Prepare a list of activities in advance so you can better enjoy your stay.
Limassol
Located in the middle of Cyprus’s south coast, Limassol has everything you might need for a pleasant family holiday – excellent infrastructure, proximity to the sea, a plethora of playgrounds and parks, resorts and hotels, activities and entertainment. And, if you rent a car, you can easily enjoy the unique beauty of Cyprus. Despite its high-end vibe, you can easily find various holiday accommodation options to satisfy every taste and budget.
Popular tourist areas
Germasogeia is by far one of the most well-known and the most populated areas of Limassol. Developed infrastructure with many hotels and resorts make it a popular tourist hotspot. One of the area’s most notable attractions is Dasoudi Beach with eucalyptus forest and Molos promenade with many small sports areas, playgrounds and parks, providing many activities for walks with children.
Located right in the heart of the historical part of Limassol, Old Port area is an eclectic mix of old and new. Colonial buildings of the Old Port area contrast the glamour of Limassol Marina, famous for its high-end apartments, trendy cafes, boutiques and restaurants. You can enjoy the good weather, sunshine and the sea breeze whilst sipping coffee at one of the cafes.
Hotels
- St Raphael Resort. Located 7 km from the centre of Limassol, this resort is the epitome of luxury with its own private beach and marina. It is also a family inclusive resort with many dedicated amenities. There are several swimming pools, including a splash-pool and adults-only pool and 8 restaurants with various dining options, including an extensive kids’ menu and choices of snacks. It has on-site tennis and volleyball, sailing and windsurfing facilities.
- Amathus Beach Hotel. Located 8 km east of Limassol, this 5-star hotel combines style and convenience. In addition to standard family rooms, the hotel has introduced interconnected standard suites, designed to accommodate up to 4 adults and 4 children. For your comfort and peace of mind, the hotel provides babysitting services, a kids’ club and a teenage club.
- Harmony Bay Hotel. For more budget-savvy holiday accommodation, Harmony Bay Hotel in Germasogeia could be the right choice. Hotel boasts spacious rooms with sea views and large balconies. There is also a splash-pool and a playground. Babysitting and a kids’ menu are also available. Regardless of its 3-star rating, the hotel’s level of service and comfort is closer to 4-star.
Things to do in Limassol
- Visit nearby villages — Omodos and Pissouri.
- Visit Fassouri Water Park — one of the island’s largest water parks, full-packed with fun activities, including water slides and more.
- Spend a day at Limassol Zoo and Limassol Municipal Park nearby.
- Explore surrounding beaches — Dasoudi and Molos in the city, and a little further — Lady’s Mile and Governor's Beach.
- Visit ancient Kourion and medieval Kolossi Castle.
Paphos
It is truly the most beautiful part of Cyprus. Mild climate, mesmerising seascapes, lush parks, cosy shallow harbours make it an ideal spot for a family holiday. It has always been loved by the British, who had made it their new home. Later, many Russian-speaking expat families joined them, as well as foreigners from all over the world, making it an unofficial expat capital. Whilst younger tourists would frequent Ayia Napa, Paphos has always been a family-friendly holiday destination.
Popular tourist areas
The city is divided into two parts — historical area with narrow streets and charming houses in pastel hues, and a modern coastal part of the city. Not long ago, it was a quiet sleepy neighbourhood, but recently the city saw lots of improvements.
In the past, Pegeya has been a quiet village. But as soon as the expats had discovered it, Pegeya has become one of the most sought-after areas, boasting spacious villas with sea views. Coral Bay is a favourite spot for local families and tourists. Calm shallow and warm sea all year round and soft golden sandy beaches make Coral Bay especially appealing. It is safe and comfortable even for small children.
Make sure not to miss the beautiful village of Tala, just a short drive from Paphos. Its unique landscape and plant life make it one of the most scenic in Cyprus. Next to it is the monastery of Saint Neophytos, famous for its unique frescoes dating as far back as 11 century A.D., which are now on a UNESCO heritage list.
If you rent a car, it is a good idea to see more distant but equally beautiful villages on the western edge of Cyprus’ southern coast — Polis Chrysochous and Agia Marina.
Hotels
- Almyra Hotel. This 5-star hotel right in the heart of the city combines an atmosphere of elegance and comfort. It is very family inclusive, making it ideal for a holiday with the kids. The hotel has an excellent kid’s club, spacious family suites and thought-out details for a comfortable stay. If you are travelling with a new-born or a toddler, the hotel can pre-order all baby care essentials for you.
- Elysium Hotel. Located near Tombs of the Kings, this 5-star hotel boasts Byzantine-style architecture, a plethora of gardens and courtyards. It has spacious rooms, some of which are in the Cyprian maisonette style with private access to the garden and an extra bedroom on the mezzanine. Its lush surroundings make it an ideal family-friendly holiday option.
- Cynthiana Beach Hotel. For a more affordable holiday stay without compromising quality and comfort , this hotel would be an excellent destination for your holiday. Located in the area of Kissonerga, a short drive away from Paphos, the hotel boasts panoramic sea views and private access to the sea. It has all child-friendly services and amenities for a comfortable stay with the kids.
Things to do in Paphos
- Take an excursion to Akamas peninsula — Cyprus’ natural treasure and a unique conservation area, home to a rare type of sea turtle, known in Cyprus as “caretta-caretta”. Near Akamas lies Avakas Gorge — another unique natural site of unsurpassed beauty.
- Take a cruise in a glass bottom boat for a fun adventure.
- Visit Archeological Park with free admission for children. Tombs of the Kings are also worth a visit.
- Spend the day at Paphos Zoo — the biggest zoo in Cyprus. Here you can find many animals, including exotic meerkats, kangaroos and wallabies.
- Visit Kouklia and Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou).
Larnaca
Larnaca is one of the most ancient cities in the world. It has been continuously populated for 6000 years. Not long ago Larnaca used to be a quiet tourist town. But recently it has started to turn into a contemporary commercial and tourist centre. Unlike Ayia Napa, famous for its nightlife and clubbing, Larnaca is more suitable for a family holiday. Here you can still expect to find friendly vibes and warm hospitality at cosy taverns, clean sandy beaches with palm trees and unforgettable sunrises and sunsets with plenty of family-friendly activities and entertainment.
Popular tourist areas
Situated in the heart of Larnaca, Finikoudes has everything you need for an ideal holiday. Named after a domestic type of a date palm, Finikoudes has long become a postcard image of Larnaca. Here you will be in the centre of events without the hustle and bustle. It is a perfect base, from where it is easy to explore the city and book various bus and sea tours.
If you prefer more privacy and quietness, then you should consider MacKenzie Beach area, only a 10 minute drive from Larnaca’s centre. This area has a more upmarket vibe with trendy cafes and restaurants right on the shore, clean sandy beach with comfortable sunbeds. The waters are always very calm and shallow, making it suitable for the kids, even the little ones. There are also many sports areas and playgrounds. Additional bonus — you can watch the planes land and take off whilst you are sunbathing, since the Larnaca airport is very near.
Hotels
Radisson Blu Hotel. Located near the Larnaca Port area, this 5-star hotel offers suites with beautiful sea views and a tranquil atmosphere ideal for relaxation. Whilst it has multi-generational clientele, there are special family-friendly amenities and services available.
Best Western Plus Larco Hotel. This contemporary 4-star hotel has everything that you need for a comfortable holiday — central location, family suites, a separate splash-pool and special kids’ meals at an on-site restaurant.
Lordos Beach Hotel & Spa. Located in Dekelia, just 15 minutes away from the centre of Larnaca, this 4-star resort provides spacious family suites, as well as kid’s club and babysitting service. Some suites even have their own garden access and a spacious veranda.
Things to do in Larnaca
- Take a walk around Salt Lake, especially beautiful in spring, and see the famous mosque — Halla Sultan Tekken.
- Visit Golden Donkey Farm in Skarinou.
- Take a trip to Lefkara, famous for its lace and silverwork.
- Take a sea excursion on a boat.
- Visit ancient Kition.
- Travel to Ayia Napa and Protaras.
- Visit Camel Park in Masotos.
