Cyprus for families

Cyprus is a perfect family holiday destination for many reasons - the wonderful weather, beautiful beaches, fascinating history and excellent amenities, not to mention that this lovely Mediterranean island is within easy travelling distance of the UK at around four hours flight time - ideal if you're jetting off with younger children.

There really is something for every kind of family here - the incredible ruins are fantastic for history lovers, the unspoilt natural landscapes appeal to families who enjoy getting out and about, while the cities are packed with attractions to suit all ages.

On top of all of this, there are some outstanding hotels in Cyprus that are well-equipped to cater for families, so you really will have everything you need for the perfect family getaway.
 

Getting active with the children

There are numerous opportunities to get out and about on a family holiday in Cyprus, whether you want to hit the beach, go for a walk or try a few thrilling water sports (especially ideal for older kids and teenagers). Spending time on one of the island's stunning stretches of sand is always a good option, particularly if you're looking for a bit of relaxation as well as some action.

Jump in for a swim, go snorkelling or have a go at the likes of surfing, wind or kite surfing if you're up for a bit more of a challenge.

If you're keen to go for some gentle walks with your children, base yourselves in Paphos, as this will give you access to the stunning Akamas Peninsula. There are various trails here - some running across the cliffs and inland, while others head down to pristine sandy beaches. It's great to spend a day exploring here and just enjoy being surrounded by nature.

You can also hire bikes during your holiday - a great option if you've got older children - allowing you to cover more ground and see a bit more of what Cyprus has to offer.
 

Top family attractions

There are numerous family-friendly attractions in Cyprus and visiting some of the island's historical sites should be near the top of your list of things to do. If you're staying in a hotel in Limassol, don't miss the Kourion Site, which will make children feel like real explorers. They can wander among the ruins of villas, temples and even see a huge Greco-Roman theatre, while also looking out for the wonderfully preserved mosaics that remain in some of the buildings.

If you're based in Paphos, take the chance to explore Paphos Castle, which was originally constructed as a Byzantine fort, although it has been remodelled and rebuilt several times since then. The old centre of Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so simply walking around the city will put you in touch with the island's incredible history.

To get a quick introduction to Cyprus' heritage, head to the Time Elevator in Limassol. This attraction is a multi-media experience that will give you the basics of the island's past in just 40 minutes, taking you from 8500 BC right the way through to 1974.

Cyprus' family-friendly attractions don't only revolve around its history, though, as there is much more on offer here. One of the best places for an action-packed day out with the kids is the Paphos Aphrodite Water Park, which boasts a wide range of slides, as well as water-based play areas and a wave pool.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to go?
You can travel to Cyprus all year round, with the island typically experiencing hot, dry summers and rainy, mild winters. The Mediterranean climate means temperatures average between 27 and 36 degrees Celsius during the summer (from mid-May to mid-September), while during the winter temperatures can fall below ten degrees Celsius. Cyprus is also known for its sunshine, with an average of 11.5 hours per day in the summer and 10 hours per day in the winter. To avoid the worst of the heat, travel in late spring or early autumn.

Do you need a visa?
As a member state of the European Union, British citizens don't need a visa to enter Cyprus and can stay for up to three months without having to contact the Cypriot immigration authorities.