Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, pleasantly surprised us big time. It’s a quiet, green, and charming city that feels more like a magical small town than a typical European capital. There’s almost no traffic, the atmosphere is very relaxed, and you can walk to almost every place. Beyond the impressive architecture and rich history, the city offers plenty of museums, parks, markets, and attractions. But what really caught us off guard was the culinary scene: we ate at one of the best restaurants we’ve ever experienced anywhere in the world. You can read a detailed post about all the restaurants we visited in Vilnius.

Additionally, if you visit in the summer, be prepared for endless sunny days. The sunset happens only at 10:40 PM, and sunrise is already at 5:00 AM. We left a restaurant at 10 PM and it was still light outside. It was simply perfect.

We’re always excited to discover new destinations, and the Baltics were high on our list of places we hadn’t been before. When we received an invitation from the Vilnius Tourism Board to experience the city, we jumped at the chance. For us, it was not only a new experience but also a way to introduce our audience to a less touristy but very worthwhile destination. Next time, we want to rent a car and explore all of Lithuania. If Vilnius was this successful, we have no doubt the rest of the country will captivate us too. By the way, Kaunas, which is about an hour’s drive from Vilnius, I visited back in October and really enjoyed it as well.

We stayed at Hotel Vilnia, a new four-star hotel in a central and quiet location. We really loved the hotel, and our room was excellent, spacious, comfortable, and with a balcony overlooking a park. For more details about our hotel experience, check out my extended review.

Vilnius Card

The city has many museums and things to do, and if you plan on doing a lot with discounted or free entry, the Vilnius Card is a great option. You can buy it for one, two, or three days. With the card, you get discounts and free entrance to many places. For example, the gondola ride cost us 1 euro instead of 8, and the Hop-on Hop-off bus was free for two routes, with an additional 3 euros for the third route. In short, it’s very worthwhile if you want to explore the city extensively. There is also a card version that includes free public transport.

Gondola Rid

We checked the benefits of the Vilnius Card and discovered there is a gondola ride along the river that lasts about 50 minutes. We decided to buy some cherries at the supermarket on the way and enjoy them during the ride. The gondola departs from a central point in the city, and it’s good to know the ride costs 8 euros, but with the Vilnius Card it drops to only 1 euro (very important to bring both the coupon book that comes with the card and the card itself).

There were four of us in the gondola, and the ride was a wonderful experience — the weather was perfect and the views along the river were magical. We passed under old bridges, by historic buildings, and through green areas, which added to the relaxing atmosphere. The cherries made the experience even sweeter.

If you’re looking for a light and fun activity, especially on a sunny, pleasant day, the gondola ride is a recommended, refreshing option in Vilnius.

Trip to Trakai Town

We decided to take a day trip to the charming town of Trakai, choosing a tour we found included in the Vilnius Card. We went to the bus station where the tour departs to Trakai (there is a tour only with audio guide for 20 euros without the castle visit, and a tour with a guide including the castle visit for 35 euros. Both offer discounts with the Vilnius Card).

We took the guided tour. It’s a half-day tour to the former capital of Lithuania (about a 30-minute drive). Our tour included transportation with a guide who told us about the city in English along the way. Then we toured the castle itself with the guide for about an hour, followed by about an hour of free time in town. We quickly realized an hour was not enough, so we told the guide we wouldn’t take the return transfer and decided to come back independently.

You can also get there by rental car or public transport (there is a bus from Vilnius to Trakai but it stops 2 km from the town center, so you either walk or take a taxi).

Trakai is a picturesque town about 30 km west of Vilnius, famous mainly for the Trakai Castle located on an island in Lake Galvė, looking like it was taken right out of a fairy tale.

The town is surrounded by natural lakes and green landscapes, making it a popular day trip from Vilnius. You can boat on the lake, rent bicycles, hike nature trails, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

A small, beautiful, and unique place definitely worth adding to your itinerary.

Castle Tour

After arriving in Trakai, we took a tour of the 15th-century castle, which has been restored several times. The castle is quite large and it’s recommended to join a guided tour because otherwise it’s hard to understand what you’re seeing in each room. If you’re visiting Trakai independently, try to call ahead and check if you can arrange a guided tour.

Lunch in Trakai

After the castle tour, we wandered a bit around town and then sat down at Bona restaurant, right by the lake. We ordered a local starter called Kibinai — a kind of pastry filled with various fillings. I chose cheese and sun-dried tomato filling and it was delicious. For mains, I had fish and Roman had mussels. We enjoyed the meal, especially the view of the lake and castle.

Pedal Boat in Trakai

After lunch, we decided to rent a pedal boat. The rental cost was 10 euros per hour and it was a really fun activity. The weather was warm and we regretted not bringing swimsuits because many people were in swimsuits, paddling in the boat and even swimming in shallow parts near the castle. It’s generally recommended to bring swimsuits because aside from pedal boats, you can also swim in the lake on hot summer days.

Museum of Illusions

Before the trip, I researched the city and saw many recommendations for the Museum of Illusions. Admission costs 11 euros, but with the Vilnius Card, it drops to only 5 euros. We spent about two hours there and enjoyed it.

The museum is suitable for adults and children alike, offering a wide range of visual illusions, puzzles, and interactive games that challenge perception and thinking in surprising and fun ways. Attractions include mirror rooms, 3D painted rooms that make you part of the scene, light and space illusions, and more.

I highly recommend visiting this museum, especially if you’re looking for a different, enjoyable, and stimulating activity during your visit. In my opinion, it’s a must-see spot in Vilnius.

Bike Ride in the Park

We rented bikes from our hotel, Hotel Vilnia, for 3 euros an hour and went for a short, relaxing ride in Bernardine Park, right across from the hotel. The park is simply lovely, with green spaces, well-kept paths, colorful flower gardens, and many seating areas by the river. There are playgrounds for kids, fountains, sculptures, and even a small botanical garden. The atmosphere is calm and pleasant — a great way to start the morning.

If you’re not into biking, you can just walk around, stop for a coffee at one of the spots, or sit on the grass and relax. The park is perfect for families and couples alike, and it’s within walking distance of Vilnius Old Town, making it easy to combine with other nearby attractions.

Open Kitchen Street Food Market

We went to the Open Kitchen street food market, which is only open on Fridays and Saturdays, so if you’re in Vilnius on those days, don’t miss it. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon or evening. There’s music, seating areas, and various food trucks offering Vietnamese, Turkish, burgers, and more. There’s also a beer stand and a juice bar.

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

We saw that the Vilnius Card allows free access to the hop-on hop-off bus, and thought it was a great, easy way to see the city, especially since I was a bit tired (that’s what happens when you travel pregnant). We went to the bus stop, but unfortunately missed the bus we wanted.

The city has three routes: the Red Route — the main and most popular route; the Blue Route — which passes through the Old Town and less touristy areas; and the Green Route — which covers greener, more scenic areas outside the center. We wanted the Red Route, but since it had already left, we took the Green Route instead.

Luckily, the delay turned out to be a blessing in disguise because thanks to the Green Route we discovered a magical and unique place we probably wouldn’t have found otherwise

Belmontas Area

We took a bus for about half an hour, and during the ride, we listened to an audio guide that told us about the places we saw along the way. When we arrived at Belmontas, from the audio description alone, we knew we wanted to stay there instead of continuing by bus. For those who want to continue, there is an option to stop for a 10-minute break to take pictures and then resume the tour. We decided to stay and return later by taxi; the distance to the city center is about a ten-minute drive.

The park itself is charming and located on the grounds of an old flour mill that was renovated and turned into a recreational and cultural area. Along the Vilnia River, calm waters flow, with small waterfalls, cute bridges, walking and biking paths. The place is surrounded by a green forest with many trees and plants, creating a peaceful and pleasant atmosphere. At first, we took pictures and explored the area.

Walking Trail in Belmontas

Afterwards, we went on about an hour-long walking trail. Along the way, we saw families having picnics on the shaded grass and people entering the shallow, refreshing river with small children. There is also an option for a longer hike for those who want to deepen their nature experience.

Grill Restaurant in Belmontas

When the walk ended, we decided to stop for lunch. There are several restaurants in the area, and we chose one facing the river and waterfalls. The restaurant, Belmontas Waterfalls, specializes in grilled dishes and local cuisine. Roman ordered excellent ribs, and we also had a Greek salad and sausages. Everything was very tasty, and the amazing atmosphere made the meal a special experience.

Red Bus Tour Hop On Hop Off

After lunch at Belmontas Waterfalls, we ordered a taxi via the Yango app and returned to the hotel (the cost was about 4 euros). After resting at the hotel, we decided to go on another bus tour, this time taking the red route. We did about a one-hour tour where we stayed on the bus, just listening to the audio guide and learning about the points of interest we passed by.

City Tour

We went on a city tour, our first time doing a Hebrew tour abroad since we usually join free tours based on tips. But this time we went on a private two-hour tour with the guide Danny. Danny took us to several landmarks in the city and told us about their history and about Vilnius in general. Then we went to the Jewish quarter, which the tour focused on. The tour was fascinating, and we learned a lot about Judaism in Vilnius and the darker sides of Lithuania during World War II. If you want a Hebrew tour in the city, you can book a private tour through Danny’s company Jerulita. If you want to join a group tour, there are free tour companies in the city such as FreeTour.

Restaurants and Cafes in Vilnius

You can read detailed information about all the restaurants in the post about recommended restaurants in Vilnius.

Chef Restaurants

During our trip, we visited two amazing chef restaurants. The first was Amandus, and the second Sweet Root. In both, we had tasting menus. If you’re looking for a very high-level restaurant to celebrate a special occasion or just to indulge yourself, I highly recommend going to one or both of these restaurants (if possible), as they are considered among the best in the city and offer a unique culinary experience.

Georgian Restaurant

We got the recommendation for this restaurant from our private tour guide Danny, who told us Georgian House is the best Georgian restaurant in the city, so of course, we followed his advice. The restaurant was excellent, and I especially loved the khinkali with mushrooms.

Portuguese Restaurant with Indian Touches

Before the trip, I saw several recommendations for a restaurant called Gaspars, so we decided to give it a chance, and it turned out to be one of the best restaurants of the trip. Seafood lovers will enjoy it a lot, and even those who don’t, will find very good dishes.

Local Restaurant

A local restaurant called Leiciai. Roman made a mistake eating ribs that day because we already had a full tasting menu with a lot of hearty local food, so he was full. The restaurant is decorated in a medieval style and had a band playing Lithuanian music. The atmosphere was great, and if you come for the tasting menu, which costs 25 euros per person, come hungry. The meal also includes tastings of 5 different local beers.

Legendary Cafe

That morning, we decided to skip breakfast at the hotel and go to a cafe called Augustas ir Barbora, which I got recommended on Instagram. It’s a perfect cafe for photos and also tasty food. I had a healthy breakfast of muesli, fresh juice, and coffee, and Roman just took juice because he was still full from the day before.

To sum up, this trip was a huge pleasure! We discovered a calm and beautiful city with lots to do. Before the trip, people asked if five nights was too long, but honestly, I felt we didn’t get to do many things. We wanted to visit several impressive churches, go to another big park, visit more museums, and check out some markets we didn’t get to, plus there are two great viewpoints in the city with stair climbs, but because of the pregnancy, I decided to skip those. In short, I recommend staying in the city at least four days, and if possible, even longer is better.

I hope my post helped you. If so, I would love for you to comment here, and if you have any other questions, feel free to ask them in the comments or message me on the blog’s social media: Facebook and Instagram.

Looking for more information about Lithuania? I have more posts about Lithuania on my blog.

Pin below to save on Pinterest

Larnaca is a beautiful city with many local restaurants, good cocktails bars, and nice sites to visit.
I tLarnaca is a charming city in Cyprus, featuring great local restaurants, bars, beautiful sites to visit, and a lovely promenade to stroll along. It’s definitely worth visiting and dedicating two to three days to explore. Additionally, Larnaca is a short drive from Ayia Napa and Protaras, so if you rent a car, you can also visit these towns for more attractions.

Larnaca Old Town

The entire Old Town area is full of life, with cozy cafes, bars, and restaurants. You’ll find charming, colorful architecture and plenty of spots to explore. I recommend starting at Saint Lazarus Square and wandering through the nearby alleys. Since it’s just a short walk from the sea, you can continue to the beach, promenade, and Larnaca Castle.

Church of Saint Lazarus

This historic Greek Orthodox church sits in the heart of Larnaca. Built in the 9th century, it is considered one of the island’s most important and impressive churches. The church is named after Lazarus, who, according to Christian tradition, was resurrected by Jesus and later became the bishop of Cyprus.

It’s located in Saint Lazarus Square, in the city’s historical centre, surrounded by cafes, restaurants, and small shops. Its central location makes it a notable landmark easy to reach on foot from the main promenade. Directions.

Larnaca Salt Lake

Larnaca’s Salt Lake is one of Cyprus’s most well-known natural sites. Located west of the city and close to the airport, it’s wonderful at sunset. The lake serves as a temporary home for migratory water birds, and during autumn and winter, you’ll see tens of thousands of pink flamingos stopping here to feed. Directions.

Hala Sultan Tekke

This Muslim mosque, located on the western shore of the Salt Lake, is also known as “The Holy Mother” because it’s believed to house the remains of the prophet Muhammad’s stepmother. One of the unique experiences here is the many cats that gather around visitors looking for attention. If you’re a cat lover, this is the perfect spot to visit! If cats aren’t your thing – consider this a warning. Directions. 

Opening Hours: 08:30–17:00

Address: Tekke Road, Dromolaxia, Cyprus

Kamares Aqueduct

This charming site features a trail leading directly to the Salt Lake. We took a 30-minute walk there, but the trail is about 4 km long, so you can walk its full length or just part of it. Directions.

Metropolis Mall

Larnaca’s modern Metropolis Mall, opened in 2021, offers a wide variety of international and local fashion brands, sports stores like Decathlon, restaurants, and even a children’s play area. The full list of stores in the mall.

Opening Hours: Daily 08:00–22:00. Directions.

If you’re hungry, I highly recommend the Aldente restaurant located inside the mall – it’s excellent!

Larnaca Promenade

The seaside promenade features the museum, Larnaca Castle, and numerous restaurants. It’s a lovely place for a stroll. If you visit with children, you’ll find playgrounds and a trampoline park that opens at 14:00.

Larnaca Castle

Located at the southern end of the Finikoudes Promenade, this historic castle has served as a fortress, prison, and military base over the centuries. It was built in the 13th century and later renovated in the 17th century under Ottoman rule. Today, it is a museum showcasing artefacts from various periods of Cypriot history. From the top of the castle, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Larnaca, the promenade, and the Mediterranean Sea. Directions.

Indoor Playground for Kids

If you’re with kids and looking for an indoor activity, you can visit the Fun Factory play area. We’ve been to this play area a few times, and it has always been nice. There is a gymboree and play zones for the little ones as well. The play area also has a restaurant with great food. We spent a few enjoyable hours there. In my opinion, the play area is best suited for ages 2-5.

The play area is open every day from 10:00 to 21:00.

SALTO Trampoline Park

Right on the promenade, near the Sunhall Hotel, is a trampoline park mainly suitable for children aged 5 and up.
The park features a variety of trampolines, both in covered areas and outdoors. The outdoor area also has a grassy section, several picnic tables, and food stands, making the visit pleasant and convenient for families. Directions. 

Recommended Beach

Finikoudes Beach, A lovely beach near the castle with sunbeds and umbrellas. The rental cost is €2.5 per item. Finikoudes Beach is one of the most popular and well-known beaches in Larnaca, Cyprus. Located in the heart of the city, it offers a perfect combination of relaxation, entertainment, and convenience.

Recommended Restaurants and Cafés

Wok and Oven

We loved the Thai restaurant Wok and Oven, a small and very authentic place. Reservations are a must since there aren’t many seats. All the dishes we ordered were excellent, with true Thai flavours. Directions.

Aldente Restaurant

Aldente restaurant in Larnaca Mall offers a cozy dining experience that blends Italian flavors with a modern and stylish ambience. Known for its delicious Italian cuisine, it’s a great spot for visitors looking for quality food in a relaxed setting while shopping or exploring the mall.

Red Pepper Restaurant

An Italian and steakhouse restaurant. There’s a different menu every day. You can opt for a three-course meal for €48 per person or choose individual dishes from the menu. The atmosphere is great, and the service is wonderful. We visited with Maya when she was little and enjoyed it. Directions.

Chef Grill Restaurant

A meat restaurant in the old town that offers great skewers and meats, with an excellent location. Directions.

Mingle Café

An excellent café located in the Qbic hotel (a new boutique hotel in the center of the old city), just a 5-minute walk from St. Lazarus Church. It has a diverse menu with brunch and lunch options, and plenty of choices for vegans. The coffee is excellent, and so is the food. I ordered a sweet potato dish with chickpeas, spinach, mushrooms, and yogurt, and it was simply delicious! Directions.

Edem’s Yard Café

A fantastic café for breakfast, with a varied menu offering all kinds of dishes at great prices.
The only downside is that it’s very popular, both among locals and tourists, so on weekend mornings, it can get quite crowded. My recommendation: arrive as soon as it opens to avoid the rush.

Maya especially loved the ricotta pancake dish. For Sophie, we ordered scrambled eggs with tomatoes and cream cheese, while Roman and I thoroughly enjoyed the pear Benedict with salmon. Directions.

Smoothie Factory Café

Honestly, we came to this café after seeing photos of their brunch dishes, which looked really good. However, we arrived at 9:00 only to discover that brunch starts at 10:00.

Nevertheless, we really liked the place, mainly because of its variety of healthy breakfast options that aren’t brunch-related. The menu features dishes like muesli, chia with peanut butter, fruit salad, and more. There are seating options both indoors and outdoors. Directions.

A few years ago, we were in Larnaca (when we were a couple without kids), and we visited a few other restaurants and bars. (It’s recommended to check if these places are still open as they may have closed since.) Link to an article about recommended restaurants and bars in Larnaca.

Day Trips Outside Larnaca

Cape Greco Reserve

A stunning nature reserve that I highly recommend dedicating at least 3 hours to, or even more. There are very easy and pleasant hiking trails, a beautiful natural bridge, a picnic area, and simply amazing sea views. I recommend bringing food for a picnic, as it’s really nice to sit there, whether at the picnic tables or in nature itself. It’s a 45-minute drive from Larnaca, located in Ayia Napa. Directions.

On the way back from the reserve, we stopped to eat in Ayia Napa at Liquid, a western-style restaurant. It’s not a local place and is quite touristy, but the pasta dishes there were excellent and very well-prepared. If you’re hungry after visiting the reserve, this is a good option for a satisfying meal.

Pano Lefkara Village

A picturesque village with local restaurants, charming cafés, and plenty of lace shops. You’ll also find a local wine shop with a variety of wines and liqueurs. Detailed post about Pano Lefkara.

Additional things to do in Larnaca and the area

• From Larnaca: Cape Greko Guided Tour with Transfers
• Larnaca Bay: Sunset Cruise with a Glass of Champagne
• Larnaca: Sunset Cruise with a Glass of Wine
• From Larnaca Bay: Grand Tour Jeep Safari
• Larnaca: Zenobia Shipwreck Cruise Swimming & Snorkelling

Car Rental in Larnaca 

Public transportation in Larnaca and Cyprus generally isn’t very convenient. Buses and taxis will be sufficient if you’re coming only for a beach vacation. However, if you also want to explore, I recommend renting a car. Driving here is indeed on the left side, but as someone who lives here, I can say that you get used to it quickly.

You can search for rental cars using the search engine Paapm Paapm. I personally love using it because it saves me time (instead of checking multiple websites) and lets you filter out unreliable car rental companies. I wrote a detailed post on car rentals abroad, and I recommend reading it, especially if this is your first time renting a car.

Special Offer for Blog Followers: I recommend renting a car from Cosmos, and I received a 10% discount coupon from the owner for online bookings. To rent a car directly from Cosmos, don’t forget to use the coupon code trvbox at checkout. Full details on car rentals in Cyprus.

Recommended Hotels in Larnaca

Radisson Blu Hotel 

Radisson Blu is a five-star hotel located just 10 minutes by car from the city center, the beach, and the new mall. We stayed in the suite with a panoramic view, and as Mayush described it: “Wow, what a room!” The suite includes a bedroom, living room, two bathrooms, a bathtub, a shower, a coffee machine, a pillow menu, and a balcony with a panoramic view of the city and sea.

The hotel features a pool, bar, gym, sauna, cafe, lounge, Japanese restaurant, steakhouse, and a sky bar. The service is exceptional, and overall, the hotel is fantastic. Most of the time, we relaxed by the pool, and the rest of the time we ordered room service to enjoy the lovely balcony. Breakfast was wonderful, with various cheeses, smoked salmon, pastries, pancakes, eggs of your choice (including eggs Benedict), bread, fresh orange juice, and more.

Book the hotel and read more reviews.

The Quality Lodge Boutique Hotel 

The Quality Lodge is a modern boutique hotel that opened two years ago. It’s located in a quiet area of Larnaca, so it’s an excellent option for those with a car or those looking for peace. The hotel has spacious rooms with a separate bedroom and living room, and each room has a balcony. There is an outdoor pool, a small playground, and a restaurant. It’s just a three-minute walk from the beach.

We’ve stayed here twice and enjoyed it both times. On one occasion, we visited in the winter because it was close to the Christmas market in Larnaca and a wonderful vacation.

Book the hotel and read more reviews.

Sun Hall Hotel on the Promenade

Sun Hall Hotel is in an excellent location right on the promenade, just 50 meters from the beach. It’s a 4-star hotel offering breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a gym. The promenade has many restaurants and bars, making the hotel’s location fantastic.

Book the hotel and read more reviews.

Elenora Hotel Apartments 

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option in a central location, we previously stayed at the lovely Elenora Hotel Apartments, which is located right in the heart of the city near restaurants, bars, and the promenade. The rooms are spacious, with a kitchen, balcony, and living room. There’s free parking and very kind service. We loved the location, which allowed us to walk to the beach and nearby restaurants and bars.

Note: I recommend requesting a rear-facing room, not one facing the main street, as the nearby bar plays music until 2 AM.

Book the hotel and read more reviews.

Jimmy’s Suites Hotel

In December 2024, we decided to spend a weekend in Larnaca to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere. We chose a simple hotel, knowing we wouldn’t spend much time in the room and preferred to save on accommodation costs.

Jimmy’s Suites is in a super central area, surrounded by many cafes, restaurants, and shops. There’s no reception desk on-site, and check-in is done independently using access codes. The process was simple and quick, and communication with the staff was very convenient. When we requested extra towels, they arrived promptly.

The main drawbacks for me were the construction work across from the hotel that woke us up at 7 AM on Saturday and the relatively low level of maintenance – but the place was clean.

In short, this is definitely a good option if you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodation in a central location.

Book the hotel and read more reviews.

By the way, if you’re looking for a boutique hotel in a central location, our friends stayed at two different hotels that they liked:

Qbic City Hotel
Leonardo Boutique Hotel Larnaca

Christmas in Larnaca

Although Christmas in Cyprus isn’t as extravagant as in big European cities, there’s still a festive atmosphere. Every year, Larnaca hosts a Christmas Market with over 200 stalls offering souvenirs and food, creating a lovely vibe in the city. You’ll find a decorated Christmas tree and festive decorations in the old city centre at Saint Lazarus Square. This year, the Christmas market in Larnaca will take place from December 6 to 8.

• Opening Hours: Friday 17:00–22:00, Saturday & Sunday 15:00–22:00.

Additionally, 8 villages in Cyprus are selected yearly to host Christmas celebrations with even more decorations and festive activities. The villages this year are:

• Agros
• Deryneia
• Fikardou
• Kalopanayiotis
• Kiti (20 minutes drive from Larnaca)
• Kyperounta
• Laiki Geitonia (Lefkosia)
• Lefkara

The Christmas villages will operate from November 23, 2024, until January 6, 2025, during the following times:

• Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
• Daily from December 23, 2024, to January 6, 2025.

Full post about Christmas in Cyprus 

Guided Tour in Cyprus

If you’re planning a trip to Cyprus, I highly recommend Roni Schwartz! He lives in Cyprus and takes care of everything – private tours with a certified guide (available in English/Russian), extremely professional and friendly, who will take you on a perfect day trip for 8-9 hours. Roni plans a personalized itinerary tailored exactly to your preferences, including a pre-trip consultation to make sure you’ll visit all the places you want. This is also suitable for large groups.

Contact Roni for a guided tour in Cyprus

Want to travel independently?
No problem! Roni also creates custom itineraries (minimum 3 days), so you can experience Cyprus at your own pace and exactly the way you like.

Contact Roni to plan a self-guided trip in Cyprus

Special offer! If you book one of Roni’s services and mention that you came through me, a special surprise awaits you.

I hope my post was helpful. If it was, I’d love for you to comment below, and if you have more questions, feel free to ask them in the comments or reach out to me on the blog’s social media: Facebook and Instagram.

Looking for more information about Cyprus? I have more posts about Cyprus on my blog.

Pin below to save on Pinterest

In May 2025, I went on a trip to Greece with my siblings, visiting both Athens and the Peloponnese region. The trip lasted four nights and five days, during which we managed to do quite a lot while also having time to relax. If you’d like more detailed information on what we did in the Peloponnese, I’ve written a dedicated post about the Peloponnese, as well as a post with Athens recommendations from this and previous visits.

Day 1 – Arrival in Athens and Drive to Epidaurus

We landed in Athens and rented a car through Europcar, found via the search engine Paapm Paapm. The company is located inside the airport terminal, so there’s no need for a shuttle. We got the car quickly and were on the road within ten minutes. Returning the car was also smooth and hassle-free (we made sure to return it with a full tank).

About an hour into the drive, we stopped for lunch at an authentic and excellent seafood tavern called Ψαροταβέρνα Ο Ρούκουνας. We ordered tzatziki, a Greek salad (as we did at every restaurant on the trip), small fried fish, and two grilled fish we picked out on the spot. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxed and local.

We then stopped for coffee at Riva Coffee, a modern café with a very friendly owner and beautiful design. We enjoyed our coffee outside—a perfect pause before continuing the day.

Later, we stopped at the Θέση στάθμευσης viewpoint to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

We arrived at the Yialasi Hotel, a boutique hotel in Epidaurus, where we stayed for the night (and every other night in the Peloponnese). It’s a small hotel with 14 rooms in a quiet area just above Epidaurus. The rooms, pool, and balconies offer stunning views of the sea and town. The hotel is clean, spacious, nicely scented, and well-maintained. I had a room to myself, my brother had his own, and my sisters shared a suite. We all agreed the beds were exceptionally comfortable.

The hotel features an outdoor pool, indoor and outdoor lounge areas, and we booked it with breakfast included. In practice, we also had dinner there every night. Each evening, special dishes like homemade moussaka or grilled fish were served. After our day trips, we’d relax with a glass of wine or homemade lemonade. The atmosphere was peaceful, like a small retreat. The owners were lovely and gave great recommendations. The price was very reasonable.

To book the hotel and more reviews

Day 2 – Ancient Theatre, Beaches, and the Town of Nafplio

After breakfast, we visited the Ancient Theater of Epidaurus.
Tip: arrive early, as it fills up with tourist groups. Entry is €20 – a bit pricey, but well worth it.

The theatre, from the classical era, is one of the best-preserved in the world, with incredible acoustics. The site also includes other archaeological areas. Plan for about two hours. There’s not much shade. Directions.

We then drove along the coast. Looking for a seaside café, we first stopped at Johnny Beach, but they didn’t serve drinks.

We continued to Kastraki Beach and had coffee by the sea.
It was windy, so we didn’t swim despite bringing swimsuits. We saw others swimming.

We arrived in Nafplio, a small port town with a calm Greek atmosphere. It was once the first capital of Greece and features Venetian architecture, colorful alleys, fortresses, and beautiful views. It’s much less crowded than Athens and great for slow strolls, coffee, and ice cream.

We visited in mid-May. Nafplio is about a 2.5-hour drive from Athens. The town has the Palamidi Fortress, boutique shops, pastry shops like L’amande, quiet bays, and a lovely sunset promenade. I wrote a full post about Nafplio if you’d like more details.

We returned to the hotel, read in the lobby with homemade lemonade and a bottle of Santorini wine.
Dinner included fresh grilled fish.

Day 3 – Methana Peninsula

After breakfast, we drove about an hour to the Methana Peninsula, starting with a hike up the volcano.
The trail is about 4 km long, not too hard but requires attention. The views are stunning. It’s best to have your hands free, as some parts require using them. Directions to the trailhead.

After the hike, we stopped at Ο Κάβος του Παυσανία, a seaside taverna for coffee and a light bite.

Nearby is the thermal bath of Pausanias, a sulfur-smelling hot spring. We soaked our feet, those who enjoy such things might want to stay longer.

We ended the day with a fish dinner at Theoni Kolias, which has no fixed menu, dishes depend on the day’s catch. It’s a quiet place with good food.

Back at the hotel, we read, had lemonade, and dinner. That night’s special was slow-cooked meat.
I’ve also written a full post on things to do in Methana.

Day 4 – Thermal Pools and Drive to Athens

After breakfast, we headed to the Loutraki Thermal Spa, located halfway to Athens.

We booked the treatment a day in advance via email. After a doctor’s check, we changed into swimsuits and entered the pools, one indoor and one outdoor. Afterwards, we got massages.

We spent about 1.5 hours there. The pools were pleasant with jets. The massage was okay, my sister and I enjoyed it, our other sister liked it less, and my brother thought it was average.

We grabbed coffee in the area and drove to Athens. It wasn’t a must-stop, but it came at a good point in the trip.

We arrived at the Sweet Home Hotel in the Plaka neighborhood.
There’s a parking lot across from the hotel where we left the car.

It’s a small and pleasant hotel in the heart of Plaka, walking distance to the Acropolis, Monastiraki, museums, restaurants, and cafés. Despite its central location, it’s quiet and relaxing. The staff are friendly and offer personal attention.
Rooms are small but clean and well-maintained. Some have Acropolis views. The décor is retro and floral. Breakfast is simple and varied. For more recommended hotels in Athens.

We had lunch at the vegan restaurant Winners Vegan. We ordered the Kale Salad and Winners Salad—both very tasty. The pitaya-mango smoothie was especially refreshing.

Excellent coffee at Samba Coffee Roasters | Crossroads—both coffee and cakes were fantastic.

We wandered through the Monastiraki Flea Market.

Dinner at Michelin-starred restaurant Makris
We made a reservation for 7:00 PM with a €50 non-refundable deposit per person.

We sat outside in a magical atmosphere. The restaurant is meticulous down to every detail. The cuisine is high-end and creative, with many ingredients sourced from the chef’s own farm. Every bite was amazing.

Day 5 – A Charming Neighborhood and Shopping

We bought pastries and coffee at 72H Bakery near the hotel.
We tried cinnamon, chocolate, and espresso-chocolate pastries – all excellent.

We walked to the Anafiotika neighborhood.
We arrived at 8:00 AM when it was nearly empty. Built on the slope of the Acropolis, the neighborhood features white houses, colorful shutters, artistic graffiti, and a village-like vibe. It’s important to stay quiet, as it’s a residential area. There are stairs and narrow paths. At the end of the alleys, there’s a great view of the city, a perfect stop for photos.

The entrance is within Plaka. Start at Stratonos Street stairs and head northeast. There’s no clear signage, so just follow the alleys and you’ll get there.

We returned to the hotel for breakfast and coffee, then went shopping on Ermou Street, Athens’ main shopping street, with stores like Zara, Mango, H&M, and more. Prices were lower than in Israel. Shops are open on Sundays starting at 11 AM.

Lunch at Vietnamese Street Food
I ordered wonton soup and a vegan Bánh cuốn with mushrooms—both were excellent.

Bubble tea at Funjoy.

Flight home.

Hope this post helped you! If so, I’d love for you to leave a comment – and if you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments or message me on the blog’s social media: Facebook or Instagram.

Looking for more information about Greece? I have more blog posts about Greece.

Pin below to save on Pinterest

In May 2025, I went on a trip to Greece with my siblings, which included Athens and the Peloponnese region. I was in charge of finding accommodations and planning the overall itinerary. To be honest, most of our route was based on a perfect place I found to stay in the town of Epidaurus. I didn’t plan a strict daily schedule in advance, but rather marked a few spots on the map worth visiting that were relatively close to our hotel. During the trip, we discovered some especially stunning places and excellent food. Some of the recommendations came from our hotel owner, and others we found through Google Maps.

An Amazing Boutique Hotel

Of course, I’ll start with our hotel, Yialasi Hotel, which made our trip even more successful. It’s a small boutique hotel with 14 rooms located in a quiet area slightly above Epidaurus. From the rooms, pool, and balconies you get a breathtaking view of the sea and the town. The hotel is very clean, the rooms are spacious, it smells great, and everything is well-maintained. I had a room to myself, my brother had his own, and my two sisters shared a suite. We all agreed that the beds were especially comfortable.

The hotel has a lovely outdoor pool, both indoor and outdoor seating areas, and we booked it with breakfast included – though we ended up eating there every evening too, simply because the food was excellent. Every night they offer different specials, like homemade moussaka or grilled fish. After our day trips, we would sit and read a book with a glass of wine or homemade lemonade. The atmosphere is very peaceful – like a small retreat. The hotel owners were also wonderful and gave us great tips for exploring the area. The price was relatively low for what the hotel offers, and the glowing reviews are justified.

To book the hotel and for more reviews

The Town of Epidaurus

Epidaurus (also spelled Epidavros or Palaia Epidavros) is a small, pleasant port town in eastern Peloponnese, with a simple local vibe, a small fishing harbor, waterfront restaurants, a quiet promenade, and natural coves. There’s also a beach with very clear water and even a snorkeling area with underwater archaeological ruins. In the evenings, you can see locals playing backgammon or sipping ouzo at the taverns. The place is quiet, not overly touristy, and that’s what makes it special.

When we arrived in mid-May, it felt lively but not crowded. We enjoyed walking around, dining by the water, and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. If you’re looking for a base to explore the region, this is an excellent spot – with easy access to both historic sites and nature.

The Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus

We visited the ancient theatre in the morning – I recommend arriving as early as possible since it’s a very popular site, including large tour groups. Admission is €20 per adult, which felt a bit expensive at first, but it’s truly impressive and worth it.

The theatre is from the classical period and considered one of the best-preserved in the world, with amazing acoustics – you can stand in the center and be heard all the way from the top rows. The complex also includes other archaeological sites like the Temple of Asclepius, an ancient hospital, and more. There are food and drink stalls at the entrance. Set aside at least two hours for your visit, and note that there’s very little shade. Directions.

Authentic Beaches

What I especially loved about the Peloponnese was the beaches – simple, beautiful, and with crystal-clear turquoise water. One of the places we stopped at was Johnny Beach, an organized beach with sunbeds and umbrellas, but the snack bar was closed when we arrived, so we couldn’t get drinks.

From there, we continued to Kastraki Beach, which has a restaurant just above the shoreline. We sat at a high table overlooking the sea, ordered iced coffee, and enjoyed the calm and relaxing vibe. The beach has thatched umbrellas, and the view is stunning.

The Town of Nafplio

Nafplio is a small port town with a relaxed Greek vibe. It was the first capital of independent Greece and has a lovely blend of Venetian architecture, colorful alleyways, ancient fortresses, and beautiful sea and mountain views. It’s much less crowded than Athens and perfect for leisurely strolls, afternoon coffee, and a mid-walk ice cream.

We visited in mid-May as part of our trip based in Epidaurus. The drive from Athens takes about 2.5 hours by car, but you can also go with organized guided tours. The town features a hilltop fortress (Palamidi), boutique shops, small galleries, excellent pastry shops like L’amande, quiet coves for swimming, and a beautiful promenade, especially at sunset.

A Detailed Post About the Town of Nafplio

The Methana Peninsula

We visited Methana following a strong recommendation from our hotel owner. He said it’s his favorite place – less touristy, with small villages, waterfront taverns, and hiking trails. Methana is a mountainous peninsula with dormant volcanic activity, connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge. The scenery is wild and unique, and there are even thermal waters.

The drive from our hotel took about an hour. From Athens, it’s around three hours. Our first activity was hiking up the volcano near the village of Kameni Chora – about a 4 km trail. It’s not too hard but requires some attention. The view during the climb is amazing, and it’s recommended to keep both hands free, as sometimes you need to use them to climb.

After the hike, we stopped at a local tavern right on the waterfront called Ο Κάβος του Παυσανία for coffee and a light meal. Nearby, there’s a thermal pool called The thermal bath of Pausanias with hot, sulfur-smelling water. We just dipped our feet, but those who enjoy such things can fully relax there.

We ended the day with a fish dinner at Theoni Kolias, there’s no set menu, just what was caught that day. The place was quiet and pleasant, and the food was good.

A Detailed Post About the Methana Peninsula

Spa and Thermal Pools in Loutraki

Before heading back to Athens, we wanted one last pampering stop and chose the Loutraki Thermal Spa. It offers massages and thermal pools and is located by the beach. Most of the visitors seemed local, though there are probably some tourists too.

We booked treatments in advance by email – highly recommended since spots aren’t always available. We paid for a 20-minute back massage and 20 minutes in the pools. Before entering, there’s a short check-up with a doctor, then you go to the changing rooms. Massage clients receive a robe.

The pools were pleasant, with good water jets, and there are both indoor and outdoor options. The massage was fine – my sister and I were happy, our other sister liked it less, and my brother said it was average. We stayed for about an hour and a half, then stopped for a simple coffee before heading back to Athens. It’s not a must-do or a luxury spa, but it was a good choice after a few days of walking.

Q&A About the Peloponnese Area

How do you get to the Peloponnese?
We rented a car in Athens from Europcar via the Paapm Paapm search engine. The drive takes 2–3 hours depending on the destination.

When is the best time to visit the Peloponnese?
The best times are April–June and September–October, when the weather is nice and the area is less crowded.

Which towns are especially recommended?
Nafplio, Epidaurus, and Methana – three quiet towns with beautiful views, beaches, taverns, and cultural points of interest.

Are there direct flights to the Peloponnese?
There are no direct flights – most visitors land in Athens and continue by car or public transport.

How much time should you spend on a trip?
At least 4–5 days is recommended. If you have a week, even better. It’s a region suited for a relaxed trip with lots of stops.

What is there for kids in the Peloponnese?
There are quiet beaches, easy walking trails, historical sites, and even hot springs. It’s not a theme park area, but there’s plenty of nature, sea, and open space.

Hope this post helped you! If so, I’d love for you to leave a comment – and if you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments or message me on the blog’s social media: Facebook or Instagram.

Looking for more information on the Peloponnese? I have more blog posts about the Peloponnese and about Greece in general.

Pin below to save on Pinterest

In May 2025, I went on a family trip to Greece with my three siblings. Each of us came from a different place: my brother from the United States, me from Cyprus, and my sisters from Israel. The flight times to Greece were convenient for all of us, and we managed to find a date that worked for everyone. None of us had ever been to the Peloponnese, and we thought it could be a great region to explore together. We wanted to combine history, nature, Greek food and relaxation. One place that especially surprised us was Methana, a small peninsula.

We didn’t plan anything; I just marked a few interesting-looking places on Google Maps. However, our hotel owner in Epidaurus, at Yialasi Hotel, recommended Methana because it’s his favourite spot. It sounded like something we would enjoy too. He said it’s an authentic and untouristy destination with hiking trails, small villages, and seaside tavernas.

A bit about Methana

Methana is a mountainous peninsula with dormant volcanic activity, located in the northeastern Peloponnese and connected to the mainland by a narrow bridge. It’s a relatively quiet area, with few tourists, volcanic landscapes, thermal waters, waterfront tavernas and small villages. There are hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, hot springs and interesting geological sites.

When to visit

The most pleasant weather is between April and June or September to October. Summer is very hot and winter can be rainy. May was a great time for us to visit, with warm and comfortable weather.

How to get there

We arrived by rental car, which we picked up in Athens through Europcar, using the Paapm Paapm search engine. We drove to Methana in the morning from our hotel in Epidaurus, the Yialasi Hotel. It’s about a one-hour drive south, across a narrow bridge connecting it to the mainland. There is no proper public transportation, but by car, it’s very simple.

If you’re coming directly from Athens, the drive is around three hours.

Hiking trail to the volcano

One of the first things we did in Methana was hike to the volcano. The trail starts in the village of Kameni Chora and follows a gentle uphill path for 4 kilometers. The dark volcanic rocks reflect the region’s geological past and the views gradually open up as you go.

The climb isn’t too difficult, but it does require some attention. We completed the round-trip in just over an hour. The summit itself doesn’t have a spectacular viewpoint, but the walk is beautiful all along the way. It’s recommended to bring a water bottle and keep your hands free, since you’ll occasionally need them to balance or hold onto rocks. Directions.

Coffee and snacks by the sea

After the hike, we stopped at a small beachside taverna called Ο Κάβος του Παυσανία. The owner was very friendly and when we went inside to find the bathroom, we discovered that she also knits and sells her handmade items like scarves and hats. My sister and I bought a headband that also warms the ears.

We ordered tzatziki, tomatoes with feta, frappé (Greek iced coffee) and black coffee. Places like this by the water feel magical to me, especially when we’re the only ones there.

Small thermal pool

Just a 2-minute drive from the taverna is a small thermal pool called the thermal bath of Pausanias. It’s a warm pool that fills with water at the press of a button. The water is around 39°C, and the smell is very strong, similar to a hot spring.

We only dipped our feet in, but if I had been there with my husband, we might have gone in for a few minutes. The smell is quite intense, so it’s not for everyone, and I think it’s a nice stop only if you happen to be alone there, since the pool is very small.

Lunch at a fish taverna

We ended the day at a small fish taverna called Theoni Kolias. Our hotel owner recommended it because he likes it. They have a menu, but most items aren’t available because it depends on what fish the owner caught that day and what vegetables are in stock. In the end we ordered tzatziki (as usual), a calamari salad, eggplant spread and two grilled fish. Again, we were almost the only ones there and the restaurant is right on the sea. The food was tasty, but we did have better meals on our trip. Overall, a solid lunch stop.

Beaches in Methana

Limnionas Beach – A quiet beach with shallow waters. Not always with facilities, but suitable for a picnic or swim.

Paralia Limnionas – There is sand, unlike most beaches in the area. Quiet and empty of people.

Peristeri Cave

Located in Methana, Peristeri Cave is a small and lesser-known cave nestled among rocks in a quiet, hilly part of the peninsula. The cave is not developed for tourists, but you can reach it by foot as part of a short nature trail. Inside the cave are narrow passages with unique rock formations formed by past volcanic eruptions. We didn’t get a chance to visit, but for cave lovers, it seems like a place worth exploring. Directions.

Castle Favierou

This small historic site sits on a hill and is considered an interesting but less-visited stop. The castle was built by French General Charles Fabvier in the 19th century as part of a defence effort during the Greek War of Independence. Today, only remnants remain. It’s a nice short stop with a quiet view, especially in the late afternoon. There are no signs or tourist facilities, but it’s accessible by car or a short walk from the town. Directions.

If you’re in the Peloponnese and looking for something a bit different, Methana can be a great choice. It’s small, untouristy and very charming. You should dedicate at least a day to it, maybe even spend the night. We saw a few simple guesthouses right by the water. There are small villages, hiking trails, seaside tavernas and plenty of peace and authentic beauty.

Pin below to save on Pinterest

In May 2025, I traveled to Greece with my siblings. The trip included Athens and the Peloponnese region. We planned the trip a few months in advance to ensure we visited special places that suited our style—beautiful natural landscapes, charming towns, and authentic cuisine.

One of the places we were especially curious about was the town of Nafplio. We had seen tons of recommendations and pictures, and it looked magical. The only thing we were a bit hesitant about was its reputation as a highly touristic spot—but we decided it was worth a visit anyway, and it truly was.

A Quick Look at Nafplio

Nafplio is a small, pleasant port town in the Peloponnese, with a rich history and stunning views. It was the first capital of modern Greece in the early 19th century. The town features a blend of Venetian architecture, picturesque alleyways, impressive fortresses, and a relaxed vibe. It sits right on the sea, with mountains all around, adding to its charm.

When to Visit?

We visited in mid-May, which isn’t peak season, so the town didn’t feel too crowded. There were tourists, mostly local school groups on year-end trips, but it wasn’t noisy or packed.

The best times to visit are probably in spring (April–June) or early fall (September–October). The weather is pleasant, the landscape is lush, and the crowds haven’t taken over like they do in July–August.

How to Get There

We stayed in the town of Epidaurus at the Yialasi Hotel and drove to Nafplio in about half an hour with a rental car.

We rented the car in Athens through Europcar, which we found via the Paapm Paapm search engine. I like booking through them because it saves time and allows you to filter out unreliable rental companies. I’ve written a detailed blog post about renting a car abroad, and I highly recommend reading it—especially if it’s your first time renting.

In the Paapm Paapm search, I filtered for an automatic car and pick-up directly at the terminal, so we didn’t have to wait for a shuttle.

The drive from Athens to Nafplio takes around two and a half hours.

Also, if you’re visiting Athens and just want to do a day trip to Nafplio and the surrounding area, you can join an organized tour.
Click here to book a tour from Athens online and for more info

Where to Stay

As mentioned, we stayed in another town, not in Nafplio itself, but I did look into accommodations in Nafplio and found some interesting options:

• Aetoma Hotel
• Nafsimedon Hotel
• The K Nest Hotel Nafplio
• Navria by Aetoma
• Naus Hotel

Palamidi Fortress

A stunning fortress perched on a high hill above the town, offering amazing views of the sea and city. There are quite a few steps to climb, but you can also drive to the top. It’s best to visit in the morning or near sunset for the light and cooler weather.

Shopping

This isn’t a shopping destination like Athens with big brands, but you’ll find boutique shops selling handmade jewelry, locally designed clothes, natural soaps, ceramics, and handcrafted bags.

I bought a pair of Camper shoes and a handmade, high-quality laptop bag. It’s worth checking out the small side-street shops, not just the main pedestrian street.

Wandering the Town

The town is full of charming spots to discover, and it’s best explored without a specific goal. The cobblestone streets, colorful houses, balconies with flowerpots—all contribute to the lovely vibe. There’s no one main attraction, but any alley can surprise you.

Pastry or Ice Cream Stop

My siblings are ice cream fans, and we found a good patisserie that also serves ice cream and coffee. It was less crowded than other places and had good reviews on Google: L’amande.

There are some nice outdoor seats in a quiet alley, which adds to the experience. The coffee was okay (I think it’s hard to find great coffee in Greece outside of Athens—but maybe I’m just picky). My siblings liked the ice cream, and the pastries looked good too—worth a try.

Swimming

If you visit in summer or on a hot day, bring swimsuits. There are small, lovely coves along the coast of the town, with shallow, clean water—great even for kids. Some are near restaurants and bars, so you can combine swimming with a light meal or drink.

The Promenade

Nafplio’s promenade is gorgeous. If the wind isn’t strong, it’s a great spot for a walk. There are benches, sea-view restaurants, and an overall relaxed feel. Around sunset, it’s the perfect place to sit with a glass of wine or a coffee and just take a break.

Bourtzi Castle

When we were there, it was a windy day and the sea was rough, so we skipped the visit to the castle on the small island in the bay.

But if the weather is nice and the sea calm, it’s worth taking a short boat ride from the port to visit this impressive Venetian structure. If you don’t get seasick, it could be a great little adventure.

Snorkeling Boat Trip

If you’re staying in the town, you can also enjoy other activities like a snorkeling boat trip and visits to secluded beaches near Xiropigado.

Online booking and more info here

More Nearby Recommendations

Argos – About a 20-minute drive from Nafplio. It has a local market (Municipal Neoclassical Argos Market), open on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with fresh produce, local honey, cheeses, and more. Directions.

Epidaurus Theater – Ancient Theatre at the Asklepieion of Epidaurus: A major archaeological site about a 30-minute drive away. A massive ancient theater with amazing acoustics—well worth a visit. Directions.

In Summary, Nafplio offers a great balance of history, scenery, atmosphere, and light tourism, at least during the shoulder seasons. You can easily spend 2–3 days here, and it’s even better when combined with nearby day trips. It’s suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. If you’re looking for a place that mixes calm vibes, walkable streets, charming alleys, good ice cream, and beautiful views, it’s worth stopping by.

I hope my post helped you! If it did, feel free to leave a comment. And if you have any questions, you’re welcome to ask below or message me via my blog’s social channels: Facebook and Instagram.

Looking for more info on Greece? I have more Greece posts on my blog!

Pin below to save on Pinterest

Athens is a vibrant and fun city, full of things to do – excellent hotels, trendy cafés, amazing food, and warm, welcoming people. Taxis are very affordable, and the public transportation system is convenient and efficient.

I’ve visited Athens three times:

• The first time was for a week in December, with my husband Roman, before we became parents.
• The second time was during a one-day visit on a cruise stop in August, with our two daughters.
• The third time was in May 2025, when I stayed there for two days with my siblings after traveling around the Peloponnese.

During our week-long stay in the city, we stayed in two hotels, Coco-Mat and Athens Square Hotel. We flew into Athens International Airport and took a taxi to the city center, which cost 40 euros. The city was beautifully decorated for Christmas – festive, lit up, and full of charm. The weather was mild and dry, which made the experience even more magical.

On our cruise visit, we docked at the port of Piraeus. From there, we took a taxi to the train station and then the train directly to the city center. (It’s a good idea to check train schedules in advance.)

During my most recent visit with my siblings, we stayed at a lovely boutique hotel called Sweet Home Hotel, right in the heart of the Plaka neighborhood. It’s a cozy and peaceful place with a perfect central location and warm, personal service.

You can read more about these hotels in my full post about recommended hotels in Athens, including tips from international travel bloggers.

The Most Photogenic Neighborhood in Athens: Anafiotika

We arrived in Anafiotika at 8 a.m. — the best decision we made. At this hour, the neighborhood is peaceful, quiet, and perfect for photography. It’s a small, hidden gem right on the slopes of the Acropolis, just a short walk from Plaka, yet often overlooked.
Winding alleys, whitewashed houses with colorful shutters, artistic graffiti, and a calm, village-like vibe make it one of the most beautiful places in Athens.
You’ll find a few cafés and small tavernas, but mainly this is a quiet residential area, so keep your voice low and be respectful.
Note: There are many stairs and narrow passages, making it less accessible for those with mobility issues or strollers.
At the top, a scenic viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the city. Arrive early, and you might have it all to yourself.
How to get there: Enter from Plaka via Stratonos Street and follow the alleys northeast. There are no signs, but wandering through will lead you there.

Michelin-Star Dining: Makris Restaurant

On our last evening in Athens, we treated ourselves to dinner at Makris, a Michelin-starred restaurant near Monastiraki Flea Market.
Modern Greek cuisine with a twist, served with elegance and soul. Ingredients come from the chef’s family farm, an hour outside Athens.
We booked a 6-course tasting menu (€115), which felt just right — satisfying yet exciting. There’s also a 9-course option, and a vegetarian menu (€88), which was just as impressive.
Wine lovers should opt for the Greek wine pairing (€70). Some wines are exclusive to the restaurant.
We dined outdoors in May, which enhanced the experience: soft lighting, gentle breeze, magical atmosphere.
The entire evening lasted three hours, a true culinary performance with top service.
Highly recommended for a special night in Athens.

Shopping on Ermou Street

We couldn’t skip some shopping time, especially with my sisters. For two hours we explored Ermou Street, the main shopping avenue starting from Syntagma Square toward Monastiraki.
All major brands are here: Zara, Mango, H&M, Bershka, and more — at lower prices than in Israel.
The best part? Stores are open on Sundays from 11 a.m., which is perfect for weekend travelers.

Must-Visit Bakery: 72H

Right next to our hotel (Sweet Home Hotel) was 72H Bakery, impossible to walk by without stopping.
We arrived at 8 a.m. to beat the queue. Each day offers fresh pastries, pretzels, bread, and sandwiches (available around 10 a.m.).
Favorites: cinnamon rolls, chocolate pastries, and espresso-infused delights.
Perfect for a morning treat.

Enjoying a local market experience

The Dimotiki Agora food market, the central market in Athens where you’ll find anything you desire, a fish market, meats, fruit and veg, spices, sausages, cheeses and more.
Directions.

Monastiraki Flea Market – The market is located in a central location as well, about ten minutes from the food market. Despite it being called a flea market, you’ll have no problem finding many shops for souvenir, bags, clothes, local produce and more. This is a lively area with a large square featuring street performances and food stalls selling chestnuts and corn on a cob, as well as many nice cafés and restaurants.

Fun bike tour

In the morning, we arrived at the company’s bike store ,Athens by bike, which is located right next to the Acropolis metro station. As it turned out, we were the only ones to book a tour for that day, and so we got a private tour. Our guide was Dimitris, a charming and funny guy who was really patient and interesting and made the tour a huge success.

We did a four-and-a-half-hour tour. We visited a beautiful and esoteric vantage point, rode along the only bike trail in Athens, visited the opera and the library. We rode along the beachline, had coffee by the sea, ate traditional Greek food and learned a ton about Athens.

This tour is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys riding a bike and is looking for another way to explore Athens – and not only it’s main areas. Read more about the bike tour and our experience of it.

Must-visit molecular cocktail bar in Athens

We arrived at the early hour of 8 o’clock to Momix bar. We were hyped about the place’s cool design since before even entering. We sat at the bar, so we could see the action. The bartender, Fotis, gave us the box shaped menu (So we could think outside the box :)) and we decided to start the evening off with a molecular cocktail in a spoon, along with a bubbling cocktail and a gelatinous textured one in a syringe.

That’s when the show started – Lots of smoke, mixing of drinks and when it was done we were served our drinks. It was such a success in our minds that ten minutes later we ordered 2 more cocktails, with more to follow. Consider yourself warned, those drinks are addictive! They’re so special and of such a high-quality that you just can’t stop drinking them.

We’d consider this bar a “mandatory recommendation” for anyone looking for a cool, intoxicating experience full of new flavors – With great service and of the highest quality.  Read more about Momix bar and our experience of it.

Tasty and fascinating food tour

We booked our tour through Alternative Athens. I’ve seen several companies offering food tours, but the length (4 hours) and number of culinary stops (8 stops) seemed an extremely worthwhile deal considering this tour’s price.

The choice turned out to be an excellent one – Our guide Andreas was charming and knowledgeable; his English was very clear and his stories were a joy to listen to. We finished the tour full and very satisfied. I think any foodie who likes to try new dishes, learning about the city and its cuisine all the while, will really enjoy this one as we did.
Read more about the food tour and our experience of it.

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Tired of walking or traveling with kids? The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is a great way to explore Athens at your own pace.
Climb on and off at major attractions like the Acropolis, Parliament, Temple of Zeus, and various museums.
Top stops include: Syntagma Square, Plaka, Monastiraki, Olympic Stadium, and more.
Convenient, cultural, and relaxing.
Book tickets online

Viewing cool graffiti area

In the Psiri area there are whole streets sporting beautiful graffiti. As we had some time left over during our bike tour, our guide decided to take us for a ride along these. I found a blog detailing the streets for both Psyri and our areas of Athens. Link to article about graffiti in Athens.

Going to wine tastings

We booked a wine tasting through Athens Walking Tours. Our tastings were scheduled to 18:00 and we were given the name of the bar they’ll be held at. We arrived at a lovely bar with a modern design. We met the owner, Miki, and the sommelier, Vangelis, and both were super nice.

Miki told us a bit about the bar and the wine, then we started the tastings. We sat at the bar and started off with rose wine. We followed it up with white and red wines. We really liked the wine itself, which was of high-quality, and the staff were really charming. The combined effect of the wine tastings, the nice food plate and the explanations themselves served to turn our hangout at the bar into a fun and enriching time. Read more about the wine tastings and our experience there.

Visiting the acropolis

You can’t visit Athens without going to the acropolis. My recommendation (Which I got from our bike tour’s guide) is to go in through the lower entrance adjacent to the acropolis’ metro station where the museum is. Start with the museum and make your way up to the acropolis. While this way is 15-20 minutes longer, it’s also much more impressive. If you just want to reach the top, you can go through the upper entrance; from there, it’s only a 5-10-minute climb.

Exploring the city

Athens is a fun city to wander around in, especially in central areas like Syntagma Square in the Plaka area. There you’ll find many places to shop, alongside restaurants, cafes and night life. There’s also the lively Psiri area, which is home to the flea , the ancient Agora and the food markets, graffiti and tons of cool cafés. The Kolonaki area is a luxurious shopping area with boutique hotels, delis, trendy modern cafés and high-class restaurants.

Lake Vouliagmeni

If you’re looking for a nature and water experience, I highly recommend visiting Lake Vouliagmeni (Directions).

We read about this lake on several websites and decided it was worth the trip. We got there by taxi, but you can also reach it by bus. It’s located about 25 kilometers south of central Athens. The lake was formed thousands of years ago after the collapse of a cave. The water temperature remains between 22 and 29 degrees Celsius throughout the year.

Entrance fees vary by season, but for adults the price ranges from €15 to €20, and for children from €7 to €10.

There are restaurants in the area, but we picked up some treats at the Dimotiki Agora food market and brought them with us for a picnic, it was a great idea and worked out perfectly.

Athens at Christmas

During Christmas, it is recommended to visit Syntagma Square, where the largest Christmas tree is located. In Omonia Square, you’ll find a Christmas market and the second-largest tree. Additionally, it’s worth visiting the Christmas Factory, which features games, gifts, an amusement park, an ice skating rink, shows, Christmas stories, workshops, food stalls, and the opportunity for children to meet Santa Claus.

Eating at great restaurants

The most delicious souvlaki stand there is. Watch out, it’s really addictive! Kosta’s Souvlaki.
Directions.

Excellent local Moussaka and Kebab restaurant-Thanasis, in the Psiri area. Large portions, filling and extremely delicious. Although this is a tourist-y place, the food is great and prices are reasonable.
Directions

Local tavern tourists don’t frequent as often with very low prices, Olympion. By the acropolis. A tavern that was recommended to us by the guide of our bike tour. We ordered many dishes there and everything was great. Anyone looking for good local, non-tourified food should definitely visit.
Directions.

Excellent skewer restaurant with relaxed atmosphere in the prestigious shopping area Kalamaki Kolonaki. The salmon, lamb and sausage skewers were a huge success. Fun atmosphere and great food.
Directions.

Local restaurant with vegan and gluten free foods, “Avocado”. High quality good made of good ingredients. Anyone looking for a healthy meal with vegetarian, vegan, gluten free options wouldn’t go amiss with this one. The prices are a tad high, but the food is worth it.
Directions.

As a Vietnamese food lover, I couldn’t resist Vietnam Street Food, especially after seeing its 4.9 rating on Google.
The wonton soup was rich and flavorful, and the vegan bánh cuốn (stuffed rice rolls) was soft and delicately seasoned — just like in Vietnam.
Only €20 for both dishes — great value and highly recommended for authentic food fans.

For a light pre-Michelin lunch, Winners Vegan was perfect.
We shared two salads — Kale and Winners — and both were fresh and flavorful. The pitaya mango smoothie was refreshing and tasty.
Ideal for a healthy, energizing break.

Sitting in the coolest cafés

Little Kook – luxurious coffee house with a fairy-tale theme. We were there before Christmas and there was constantly a line waiting to get in. Not only is it an impressive place all year round, for Christmas it was even more magical and special. If you’d like to have coffee with a slice of cake and feel like you’re in a fairy-tale, this is the place. The prices are higher than regular cafes but visiting fairy-tales is a pricy business :). We ordered a Ferrero Roche cake which was delicious, but the two of us couldn’t even finish half of it. It was ginormous and super sweet.
Directions.

Playhouse café – a cool café where you can spend the whole day, especially when it’s winter outside. You can go alone, as a couple or a group and the waiter will fit you a board game according to your preference. You don’t have to order anything, in which case you pay 1.5 euros an hour, although if you do order food or drinks off the menu – the rate is only half a euro hourly. We ordered tea and played there for two hours. It was really fun and even took us back to our childhood. Highly recommended.

Update from October 2024 following feedback from a blog reader: The location of the café has changed, and now the location shown on Google Maps is actually for the company’s offices. According to the café’s website, this is the new location of the café, but I recommend calling them first to confirm. Phone: 2103821200

Bar-café with view of the city, A for Athens Cocktail Bar
A hotel rooftop bar. There’s a roofed cocktail bar with an open balcony with a bar on top of it. We arrived during the afternoon and preferred to order coffee and enjoy the view, a vibrant vantage over the city and, of course, the acropolis.
Directions

Nancy’s sweet home – A coffee house of chocolate delight
If you’re chocolate fans, this is the one café you have to visit. Honestly, Roman and I aren’t into chocolate that much and had tried to order fruit cake there but they ran out. So, I ordered a chocolate truffle and Roman had a cream cake. We looked over at the tables around us and noticed everyone ordered giant chocolate cakes and appeared to really be enjoying themselves.
Directions

Samba Coffee- After struggling to find good coffee in the Peloponnese, we were thrilled to discover Samba Coffee Roasters | Crossroads in Athens.
Excellent coffee, and the cheesecake-in-a-bag and banana cake were both delicious. A must-visit for coffee lovers.

Booking Tickets for Major Attractions in Athens

• Visit to the Acropolis – Book Tickets
• Visit to the Acropolis Museum – Book Tickets
• Combined Visit to the Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum – Book a Combined Ticket
• Visit to the Museum of Illusions – Book Museum Tickets
• Athens Tourist Card (Athens Pass) – Book Pass

I hope my post was helpful for you! If it was, I’d really appreciate it if you leave a comment below. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask them in the comments or message me on the blog’s social media pages – on Facebook or Instagram.

Looking for more information about Athens? I have more posts about Athens and other posts about Greece on the blog.

Pin below to save on Pinterest

I have visited Barcelona several times by now, and it’s not a secret that the city is full of life, unique flavors, and tradition! That’s why on my 3rd visit, despite being short, I fell in love with the city and its different authentic restaurants, pubs, and “bodegas” like it’s called locally. It’s mainly where locals go for tapas and a drink, some of the last places to enjoy the true and authentic Catalan essence.

What I love the most about those places is that they aren’t just bars or restaurants. They’re places with a lot of history, they are one of those time-tested places where time seems to stand still. The atmosphere is family-friendly, the prices are fair, and the cuisine is 100% local. But sadly, these places are disappearing, victims of gentrification, and that’s why today I’m showing you my favorites.

1. Bodega La Puntual

If you’re looking for a bodega that’s only authentic but also has a great location, the Bodega La Puntual is a must-visit. Situated in Carrer de Montcada in Ciutat Vella, just a few blocks away from Lugaris holiday beach apartments Barcelona and the Ciutadella Park.

It was founded back in the ‘20s, and the place maintains its family-friendly atmosphere, as well as a menu packed with Catalan classics like anchovies in vinegar. Don’t expect luxuries or modern touches: here, simplicity and flavor are the key. I loved how the walls are filled with jams, other sausages, and garlic. The tables are wooden, and you can find a ton of different casks and barrels around the dark wood counter, showing the wear and tear that only years of use can produce.

The attention is top-notch here, and the waiters are very attentive. Make sure you ask for a local drink, it will be accompanied by olives and a slice of orange. Also, try some of the star dishes that include the typical bread with tomato and Iberian ham, which is made with freshly toasted country bread, and pickled anchovies.

Here, the friendly people from El Born (the neighborhood) gather to chat, grab a bite or just enjoy a beer.

2. Can Cisa / Bar Brutal

Also located in Ciutat Vella, on Carrer de la Princesa, and just a few blocks away from the Picasso Museum, you’ll find Can Cisa, a bodega that has somehow evolved without losing its soul. Nowadays, it shares space with Bar Brutal, which adds a different touch to it.

Despite that, it still maintains the traditional bodega spirit that made it popular, and as soon as you enter, you will notice the old shelves full of bottles, a bar packed with old wine barrels, and fake animals all around. The menu is a true tribute to the traditional local produce, you can find anything from tapas to dishes with different cheeses, different jams, cured meat, and seafood.

I highly recommend that you try the cod fritters, crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and served with homemade mayonnaise that makes them irresistible. But what really stands out here is the wine list, which has options from small Catalan wineries that you won’t find anywhere else.

3. Bodega Vidrios y Cristales

Next, hidden in plain sight on a narrow street in the Pg. d’Isabel II of Ciutat Vella is a bar that only a local could recommend. The Bodega Vidrios y Cristales looks like it has frozen in time for ages, despite not being open for that long. They opted to recover the classic format of the traditional neighborhood bodega that characterizes serving good conservas, salted fish, and other classic dishes.

It maintains the old charm intact: barrels, casked everywhere, hanging hams, and a time-worn wooden bar. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, it feels like going to an old friend’s house. The menu is short but hearty, with dishes like the olives, herring, dried tuna, cured bonito loin, and fried potatoes. If you’re feeling brave, order the house wine or a vermut that is served perfectly with olives or salted anchovies.

Conclusion: Visit Them Before They’re Just a Memory

Back in 2024, a bodega called Bar Salvat, which had been open since 1880, closed for good, leaving a lot of history behind. Sadly many places like this that have been around for ages are disappearing, that’s why you need to visit one before it’s too late. The bodegas are part of the city’s history, and each one has its own story, flavor, and soul.

If you want to experience the true essence of Catalonia, act quickly: many of these places are endangered by high rents and overcrowding.

So, you know: order a vermouth, share a tapa, and enjoy it like a local!

We moved to Cyprus in May 2021, and since then, we’ve had the opportunity to stay in many hotels across different regions of the island. Cyprus offers a wide variety of hotels – from luxurious, high-end resorts to simple and affordable options. There are hotels suitable for families, all-inclusive resorts, adults-only hotels, and even luxurious boutique hotels.

In this post, I will review all the hotels we’ve stayed at ourselves. It’s important to note that other highly recommended hotels do not appear here, so for each region, you can also find a separate, detailed post with more recommendations. The review focuses on the Greek side of Cyprus.

Limassol Hotels

5-Star Hotels

Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort
A luxurious and indulgent resort perfect for both families with children and couples. It includes a spa, pools, a well-equipped kids’ club, and excellent food.

St Raphael Resort
A great value resort with a kids’ club, a pool with a bar, a spa, a gym, and an excellent Thai restaurant. Suitable for families and vacationers on a reasonable budget.

Grand Resort
A resort renovated by the Fattal chain. It offers an all-inclusive package, a private beach, high-quality restaurants, a kids’ club, and a spa. Ideal for both couples and families.

Amathus Beach Hotel
A luxury hotel with a top-quality kids’ club, spa, pools, and excellent food. Located closer to the city center than other resorts in the area.

4-Star Hotels

Crowne Plaza
A hotel in a great location near the sea and close to the city center. Includes a spa, gym, pools, and restaurants. Suitable for couples, business travelers, and families with older children, as there is no baby pool or kids’ club.

Atlantica Miramare
A hotel near the beach with restaurants and bars. It includes pools, a spa, a restaurant, and water sports. A great value for money, but there are no special activities for children or a kids’ club.

3-Star Hotels

Harmony Bay Hotel
A basic hotel near the sea with spacious rooms, a pool, and a gym. Suitable for families looking for an affordable price and a good location.

Boutique Hotels (Mainly for Couples)

S Paul Hotel
A boutique hotel in the old town, close to restaurants and bars. A pleasant design, comfortable beds, and delicious breakfast. A romantic atmosphere.

NYX Hotel
A modern, youthful hotel with a rooftop pool, good restaurants, and a rich breakfast. Located in the city center near the marina.

Recommended hotels and resorts in Limassol

Paphos Hotels

5-Star Hotels

Olympic Lagoon Paphos
An all-inclusive 5-star resort perfect for families. It features kids’ and baby clubs, indoor and outdoor pools, great food around the clock, a daily mini disco, and a fantastic location on the promenade.

Minthis Resort
A luxurious and peaceful resort in the mountains, suitable for couples or families. Spacious suites, an infinity pool, an adults-only spa, and golf courses. About a 20-minute drive from Paphos.

4-Star Hotels

Sofianna Resort & Spa
A 4-star resort near the harbor, all-inclusive. Convenient location, heated pool, kids’ club, evening shows, and suites with two bedrooms for families.

Louis Breeze
A 4-star all-inclusive hotel from the Louis family. Good food, entertainment teams, a kids’ club, evening shows, various pools, a Greek restaurant, and a quiet location not far from the harbor.

Louis Ledra
A 4-star all-inclusive hotel on the promenade with a beach attached. Mini disco for kids, an indoor pool, outdoor pools, diverse and excellent food, and family rooms.

Recommended hotels and resorts in Paphos

Larnaca Hotels

Radisson Blu
A 5-star hotel 10 minutes from the city center and the beach. Spacious suites with panoramic views of the city and the sea, including a living room, bedroom, two bathrooms, and a balcony. The hotel offers a pool, gym, sauna, restaurants, a sky bar, and excellent service. A diverse and tasty breakfast.

The Quality Lodge
A modern, quiet, and new boutique hotel, especially suitable for those with a car. It includes rooms with a separation between the living room and bedroom, a balcony, a pool, a restaurant, and a small playground. Located about 3 minutes’ walk from the beach. A pleasant experience, suitable for winter as well.

Sun Hall
A 4-star hotel in an excellent location on Larnaca’s promenade, just 50 meters from the sea. It includes an outdoor pool, gym, and breakfast. Close to restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues – a great choice for those who want to be in the heart of things.

Our top things to do in Larnaca 2025

Protaras Hotels

Louis Althea Beach
A 4-star all-inclusive hotel, located near a quiet beach and a pleasant promenade. Perfect for families with small children. Spacious rooms with a living room and 1–2 bedrooms, two large pools, and a baby pool. Excellent entertainment team, diverse and tasty food, snacks and ice creams throughout the day. Designed in a resort-style. The rooms are a bit outdated but clean and well-maintained.

Louis St. Elias Waterpark
A 4-star all-inclusive hotel located within walking distance of the Protaras amusement park. Includes a small water park with slides, a kids’ club, activities throughout the day, and quality food. Especially suitable for families with children who love water and action. Spacious rooms and a great entertainment team. The price is a bit higher but worth the value.

Recommended hotels in Protaras, Cyprus

Ayia Napa Hotels

Olympic Lagoon Resort
A 5-star all-inclusive hotel with a perfect family experience. It includes a rich buffet, a burger diner, an adults-only restaurant, a lazy river, a water slide ship in the children’s pool, on-site crepe and pasta stations, an ice cream parlor, and various bars. There are rooms with a separation between parents and children, a kids’ club with supervision from six months old, and evening shows. Very high service and food quality.

NissiBlu Beach Resort
A 5-star modern hotel near the famous Nissi Beach. It includes outdoor pools, an indoor pool, a gym, a spa, 3 restaurants, and a kids’ club. The rooms are pleasant and designed, and the food is diverse and tasty. Suitable for families and couples, though there are fewer activities for kids during the day, and the service at the restaurants needs improvement.

Recommended Hotels in Ayia Napa

If you’re planning a vacation in Cyprus, you’re sure to find the perfect hotel for you – whether you’re a couple looking for romance, a family with small children, or simply want to indulge in an all-inclusive vacation by the sea. Over the years, we’ve tried a wide range of hotels across the island, and each one provided a unique and special experience. We hope this review has helped narrow down the options and find the ideal hotel for your stay. Don’t forget to check out the expanded posts for each region – there, you’ll find more recommendations and tips that will help you plan the perfect vacation in Cyprus.

I hope my post has helped you. If it has, I’d love for you to leave a comment here, and if you have any more questions, feel free to ask them in the comments or reach out to me on the blog’s social media pages: on Facebook and Instagram.

Looking for more information about Cyprus? I have more posts on Cyprus on my blog.

Pin below to save on Pinterest

We’ve been living in Cyprus since 2021, and over the years, we’ve visited Nicosia quite a few times – mostly for official purposes like embassy visits, bank meetings, or meetings with entrepreneurs. But despite the city not always being a travel destination for us, I decided to write a post about it because it is the capital of Cyprus, and despite its business nature, it has a unique charm and many places worth discovering – from excellent coffee shops to green parks and kids’ play areas, including one of the best play areas on the island.

About Nicosia

Nicosia is the largest city in Cyprus and serves as the political, economic, and cultural center of the country. The city is divided into two parts: the southern part, controlled by Greek Cyprus, and the northern part, controlled by Turkish Cyprus. This division gives the city a unique character, blending various cultures and influences.

How to Get to Nicosia?

There is no active airport in Nicosia. The Nicosia International Airport was closed following the Turkish invasion of Cyprus in 1974, and it is now located in the UN buffer zone.

Currently, the two main airports in Cyprus are:

• Larnaca International Airport (LCA) – about 50 km from Nicosia
• Paphos International Airport (PFO) – in western Cyprus, further from Nicosia

The best way to reach Nicosia is by renting a car from either Larnaca or Paphos airports and driving there. Taxis are also available, but they are quite expensive, and you can also take a bus to Kapnos Station in Nicosia, from where you will need to take another taxi or bus to your hotel. However, if you are only visiting for a day trip, renting a car is the most convenient option. I recommend using the search engine Paapm Paapm to find a rental car. Personally, I like using it because it saves me time (instead of searching on multiple websites), and it also filters out rental companies with bad reviews. I’ve written an extended post on car rentals abroad, and I recommend reading it, especially if this is your first time renting a car.

Special offer for blog readers: I recommend checking the options through Paapm Paapm and the local Cosmos company. I received a 10% discount coupon for online reservations. For direct car rental from Cosmos (don’t forget to use the discount code TRVBOX). I also recommend reading my post on tips for driving and car rentals in Cyprus.

Another option for a Troodos Mountain trip is to do private day tours with a guide. I recommend contacting Roni Schwartz, who takes care of everything – private tours with a certified guide (the tour is in English/Russian), super professional and pleasant, who will take you on a perfect 8-9 hour day trip. Contact Roni for a guided tour in Cyprus.

Recommended Hotels in Nicosia

I haven’t stayed in Nicosia yet, but there are a few boutique hotels I’ve seen with great reviews, so I’m mentioning them here:

• MARTIN Nicosia City Suites
• Gate Twenty Two Boutique Hotel
• Almond Business Hotel
• The Sendal Boutique Hotel

Recommended Coffee Shops

I think Nicosia has some of the best coffee shops in Cyprus. Whenever we visit, we find a modern coffee shop with great coffee and a nice atmosphere. Perhaps it’s because the city has many students, so there is a demand for good coffee shops.

Deliyard
A coffee shop we’ve been to many times. It has both indoor and outdoor seating, with great breakfasts and tasty coffee, and a very pleasant atmosphere. I love their Cypriot breakfast of bread with avocado, tomato, halloumi cheese, and a fried egg. They also have delicious pancakes that we ordered when Maya came with us. Directions.

GT Health Food Shop
A small and intimate coffee shop with a variety of healthy desserts and baked goods, with vegan and gluten-free options. The coffee is excellent. We had a health ball and coffee, and it was fantastic. Directions.

Cito
A high-end deli coffee shop. You can find cheeses, cold cuts, and prepared salads and sandwiches. I had a quinoa salad with a side dressing, which was great, and the coffee was excellent. Directions.

Nom
Another excellent coffee shop for breakfast. I like that they offer a meal with both a savory open sandwich and a sweet one, so you get to enjoy both worlds in one dish. We had an amazing open sandwich with avocado and a hard-boiled egg and another with salami and balsamic vinegar. Directions.

Parks

Nicosia has many parks, which is a huge advantage for those with children who want a place to let off steam or for walking with a stroller. It’s also a great place to walk and just enjoy the peace in the city.

• Nicosia Municipal Park – A nice park with a kids’ area, a small lake, a fountain, green scenery, and a small cage for ducks. A perfect spot for families.
• Pedieos Linear Park – Ideal for walking and other sports activities, it has a basketball court, a bike path, and plenty of seating. Generally well-maintained.
• Engomi Park – This park is simply magical and beautiful, perfect for a calm and pleasant walk. The nature here is breathtaking, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. It features various animals, a small river, a pond, and a picturesque waterfall that adds to the pastoral atmosphere.
• Athalassa National Forest Park – There are many bike trails, and they’re also suitable for running. There are even challenging uphill sections. From the park, you can see views of the Turkish side, and there are picnic areas.
• Acropolis Park – A nice park in the center of Strovolos, opposite the Marks & Spencer store. It has playgrounds, a basketball court, and a nice restaurant.

Indoor playgrounds in Nicosia

For families with children, here are a few recommended play areas:

• ARC (Alternative Recreational Center) – An indoor trampoline park with other attractions.
• Extreme Park – A play area with a variety of games and activity zones. It also offers birthday party arrangements. There is ample parking nearby.
• Bubble Kids Club – A play area divided by age groups with a café-restaurant offering food and drinks.

The Old City

The Old City of Nicosia is full of narrow alleys, boutique shops, restaurants, and coffee shops. It’s a great place for a walking tour to experience the local history and culture.

Shopping

Ledra Street is the main shopping street in Nicosia, with a variety of stores, restaurants, and coffee shops. Additionally, the street leads to the border crossing to the Turkish side of the city.

Shacolas Tower

This tower is located in the Old City and offers a panoramic view of Nicosia. On the 11th floor, there is a museum and a viewpoint with information about the city’s history. Directions.

Church of Archangelos Michail

A Venetian-era church (16th century) located in the historic center of Nicosia. The church features impressive architecture and a spiritual atmosphere. Directions.

Crossing the Border to Turkish Cyprus

As many of you may know, Cyprus is divided into two parts: Greek Cyprus (the Republic of Cyprus) in the south, and Turkish Cyprus (the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) in the north. Nicosia is the only place on the island where you can cross between the two areas on foot through the Ledra Street border crossing.

The crossing is quite simple: you need a valid passport, pass through the border control on the Greek side, and then again on the Turkish side. The crossing is free, but it’s important to know that rental cars from the Greek side are not insured in the north. Anyone wishing to travel with a car should buy additional insurance at the crossing.

Crossing into the Turkish side of Nicosia gives the feeling of entering another country – the architectural style changes, the official language is Turkish, and the local currency is the Turkish lira (although the euro is accepted in many places). It’s worth visiting the local market, the Selimiye Mosque (formerly St. Sophia Cathedral), and the Buyuk Han area, an old Ottoman caravanserai with shops and authentic cafes.

Other Attractions in Nicosia

In addition to coffee and parks, Nicosia offers many historical and cultural attractions worth checking out:

• The Byzantine Museum – One of the most important museums in Cyprus, with a collection of stunning Byzantine icons.
• The Cyprus Archaeological Museum – Exhibits findings from various periods, from the Neolithic to the Roman era.
• Famagusta Gate – One of the three ancient gates of the Venetian city walls, which has become a cultural and arts center.

Conclusion, Nicosia may not be a typical tourist destination like Limassol or Paphos, but it offers a unique combination of history, culture, great food, and attractions for the whole family. The city is especially suitable for history enthusiasts, shopping lovers, and families with children who want to spend time in parks and play areas. If you’re looking for a different and interesting day trip during your vacation in Cyprus, Nicosia is worth a visit.

I hope my post was helpful. If so, I’d love it if you could comment below, and if you have any further questions, feel free to ask them in the comments or reach out to me on the blog’s social media pages: on Facebook and Instagram.

Looking for more information about Cyprus? I have other posts on Cyprus on the blog.

Pin below to save on Pinterest