What is better to choose Paphos or Ayia Napa for recreation: a comparison of resorts. Report on a trip to Cyprus Limassol or Paphos what to choose for a holiday

Paradise corner. Spring in Cyprus begins in February, and chrysanthemums join the year-round blooming mimosa. We flew to the island towards the end of March. At this time, everything that could bloom was already in full bloom and fragrant. The palette of colors was pleasing to the eye. And if you imagine the azure sea, the golden sands of the beaches and the mountains covered with coniferous virgin forests, then the picture is drawn of amazing beauty ...

The island of myths met us not very friendly. It was cold, a strong wind was blowing. Then it started to rain a little. Later, the guide Elena said that such weather is not typical for this time of year. Starting from mid-March, it is already quite warm, about +18–25 C, and you can swim in the sea. But the next day, the mood improved - the sky was clear, the sunbeams merrily jumped everywhere, and the sea pleased with its azure color.

In general, Cyprus is a standard beach destination, without any frills, but also without obvious drawbacks, except perhaps for prices - they are quite high here, and for everything - from food to excursions. But there is a comfortable and mild climate, the service is quite "on the level", and the beaches are considered among the best in the Mediterranean.

Climate of Cyprus- moderate, with a lot of sunny days throughout the year. Summer is hot, lasts from mid-May to mid-October. During this period, the temperature can rise to 35C in the shade, but due to low humidity it is easily tolerated.

Larnaca

Larnaca is the most "simple" of the Cypriot resorts, it is a small port city. The hallmark of Larnaca, of course, is the Finikoudes promenade lined with palm trees, which offers a wonderful view of the bay with yachts moored in it. There are many restaurants and street cafes where you can enjoy the seascape and watch the strolling public over lunch or a glass of wine. It - great place to relax and meet new people. Also this the resort is suitable for the elderly who want to take a break from the noise of large cities. In the south of Larnaca there is a salt lake. It resembles a lagoon 8 km long and 1 km wide. According to legend, St. Lazar turned the vineyard into a salt lake to punish the owner of the vineyard for not giving him a bunch of grapes… In summer the lake dries up and in winter it comes to life again, and then pink flamingos arrive, we were lucky to see them when we flew back, it felt like that they followed us.

Recommend :
- one of the most refined and prestigious hotels in Larnaca. Here, every vacationer can fully enjoy solitude and tranquility. Superbly furnished rooms. On the beach, all kinds of water sports, including scuba diving. For children there is a special pool, which is surrounded by a playground, stylized as a medieval castle. Nearby hotels -, (The hotel is just super. Highly recommended for families with children. Beautiful area, cozy, despite the fact that it is not small. On a wonderful sandy beach).
, is a good economical option. 500m from the sea (you can walk to Mackenzie beach, the best in Larnaca), in the city center, near the airport (2-3 min). Offers all-inclusive meals, which is popular with Russian tourists. The hotel is small - 56 rooms. It has a kind of family and chamber, but at the same time a cozy atmosphere. There is a swimming pool, gym, billiards (for a fee). Russian-speaking staff, the main manager of the hotel - a woman speaks Russian very well. The rooms are small but cozy. In general, everything is very cute, modest, but tasteful!
- for an economical holiday. By the way, there is a small deli opposite the hotel.
- located in the city (the only "two-star" hotel in Cyprus, operating on an "all inclusive" basis)

Pathos

Paphos lies in the southwest of the island of Cyprus and faces the sea with its face. The entire coast is built up with ultra-modern hotels. Paphos itself is a small city (only 33 and a half thousand inhabitants) and consists of two parts connected by a long road: the coastal region of Kato Paphos and the Ktima region, where banks, institutions, shops, museums are concentrated. I was primarily interested Kato Paphos - aka New Paphos. It was named new in contrast to the Old, Palais Paphos, which was once located 18 kilometers away, on the site of the modern village of Kouklia.

Both Old Paphos and New existed in ancient times. From here, from New Paphos, in the blooming days of April, a magnificent procession of pilgrims who came from all over the ancient Mediterranean, went through the "sacred gardens" to the temple of Aphrodite, which was located in Old Paphos. There, in the "hundred-hall temple", pilgrims worshiped the symbol of the goddess - a granite phallus stone. Each woman had to surrender herself to a stranger in honor of Aphrodite, the girls sacrificed their innocence, the priestesses performed the initiation ceremony for young men ... Obviously, this was how, according to the ancient Greeks, it was necessary to communicate with the goddess of love. Initiates were presented with a pinch of salt and a phallic amulet.

Today, only fragments of stones and the bases of columns on the rust-red earth remain from the temple of Aphrodite. The conical stone - the phallus is stored as the most valuable exhibit in the archaeological museum of Kouklia. Excavations in Old Paphos have been going on for more than a century and are now carried out by the Department of Antiquities.

So let's go back to New Paphos, to its ancient quarters... . In 1962, a tractor plowing rocky ground came across a mosaic panel. It was in the area between the white candle of the lighthouse, built by the British, and the harbor, on the banks of which stands a medieval Turkish fortress. Excavations have begun. And after a while, the ruins of a villa of the late Roman period were discovered. Archaeologists and restorers worked long and carefully, and today, thanks to them, we enter the house of a rich and probably eminent resident of Paphos. Unfortunately, his name remained unknown, but the dwelling was called the "villa of Dionysus": the image of a young, cheerful god of viticulture and winemaking is often found in mosaic paintings. A villa built of tuff - such as it was - of course not.

Recommend :
- located 15 minutes from the center of Paphos, has its own beach, but not very good, rocky. It is more expedient to walk (4 minutes on foot) to the best and only sandy beach in Paphos Coral Beach with a good smooth entrance to the sea. Large and beautiful area of ​​the hotel. Hotel building and design in Cypriot style. Several bars: incl. a lobby bar with a very good pianist-grandfather, a DJ bar where there are discos (quiet) and musical groups perform. There is also a DJ and live music on the terrace, which usually hosts events (English weddings, christenings). I advise you to take the sea view, the view is simply amazing! On the first floor, almost all rooms have a terrace-balcony.

But you can safely give 4 * - suitable for family holidays. - also for families. The hotel is great, the kitchen is great, the breakfast has a lot of choice, but it's the same every morning. For those who want privacy and silence - a great option for relaxation! There is no party there, after ten in the evening it seems that you are left alone in the hotel. In my opinion, the rest there will be excellent with the family, or those who are over fifty ... The only negative of the hotel is its location. Far from the center - 4.5 km., can only be reached by transport.

One of the best and most expensive hotels(we would boldly give all 7 *) - this is a place of pleasure for body and soul ... Colonnades and mosaics, waterfalls, pools and an amphitheater create scope for hospitality. From the steps of the amphitheater it is beautiful to watch the sunset and the lavender alley leading to the sea. The air here is filled with aromas of jasmine, citrus and olive trees. Be sure to pamper yourself at the Opium Health Spa.

Fabulous splendor of tropical gardens surrounding a bizarrely shaped pool with waterfalls and walking bridges.
and - for youth and economical recreation.

Limassol

On the road from Paphos to Limassol, running along the seashore, there is a sandy bay, as if divided by stone blocks into two semicircles. These stones - "Petra tou Romiu" - are famous for the fact that here, in the words of Homer, "... the wet breeze of Zephyr carried (Aphrodite) on the waves of the sea into the noise of soft foam ...". There is also a bath of Aphrodite, not far from the place of her birth, - a verdant grotto and a transparent spring. And in the Troodos mountains, on the slopes of Mount Olympus, the highest in Cyprus, the inconsolable Aphrodite was once looking for the corpse of her beloved Adonis, who died in a fight with a boar.

Limassol is considered the most cheerful and "cosmopolitan" city, loved by both "party" youth and family vacationers and a respectable public. This is also the most "Russian-speaking" resort of the island. For children, there are three water parks, an amusement park and the only zoo in Cyprus in the city amusement park. The resort is especially suitable for those who want to visit different parts of the island, as it is located approximately in the middle between the main attractions of Cyprus.

In the immediate vicinity of Limassol are the oldest cities of Cyprus, Amathus and Kourion, which were once ancient city-states. To the north of the resort are the picturesque Troodos mountains with ancient monasteries hidden in pine forests. Also in Limassol there is the famous citadel, built at the beginning of the 14th century on the ruins of a Byzantine castle, in the chapel of which the marriage between Richard the Lionheart and Berengaria was concluded. Now the Cyprus Museum of the Middle Ages is open in the citadel.

Recommended :
- one of the most fashionable and luxurious hotels in Cyprus. The layout of the hotel meets not only the highest requirements of guests, but also exceeds all expectations. An abundance of natural light, elegant decor, panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea are an integral part of most rooms. Rooms to suit every taste: suites, studios, beach studios, honeymoon suites, business suites, prince suites and the prestigious King of Brunei Suite. For children, a kindergarten, daily entertainment programs.
(former Hawaii) - a very green area. The appearance of the hotel resembles a certain pathos, inside the hotel everything is also very beautiful and graceful - from sculptures, fountains and ending with palm trees on the sandy shore.
- the biggest advantage of the hotel is its location, just 700-800 meters from the city center. The beach is small, with gray, volcanic sand. There is a heated indoor pool. Most of the rooms are with sea view. If you take a family room (family room), then they are all without balconies, a larger area and a view of the city (road), which is inconvenient - very noisy.
- the only club hotel in Cyprus, surrounded by magnificent landscaped gardens, located right on the coast in a secluded place on the outskirts of Limassol. One of the best hotels in Cyprus for families and especially families with children. For children, everything is provided for everything to the smallest detail, there is even a nursery for infants. The unique thalassotherapy center Le SPA, which has no analogue in Europe.
- The advantage of the hotel is all-inclusive meals, a solid 4 *. Price quality. The only inconvenience is that it is far from the center, 10 km., You will have to get there by public transport or by taxi. The business card of the hotel is the most picturesque yacht pier in Limassol, which belongs to the hotel. There is also an excellent fish restaurant right on the pier. The beach is great. The sand is gray with an admixture of ash, which is very useful for the respiratory tract.
- a very cozy and comfortable hotel, located on a magnificent sandy beach near the center of the tourist area. The hotel is famous for its excellent cuisine. Luxurious rooms with every comfort. Most of the staff speaks Russian.
, - for an economical holiday.

Returning home after such a long and complete rest, we walked for a long time with a smile on our faces, having gained positive on this glorious island. Cyprus is a place where you want to return again and again. And this is the real truth! (We also had such a desire). Most of the tourists arriving in this country visit it not for the first time. Newcomers make up a small percentage of all guests and most often choose to vacation on the island on the recommendations of acquaintances and friends. Attention! If you do not have any, we will always be happy to share our impressions, give the necessary advice and, most importantly, help you choose a tour, taking into account your interests and wishes!

For the first time, travelers usually face the choice of a suitable resort for them. If you are close to the problem of this choice, this article is just for you. The most popular are and. However, there is a significant difference between them, and it would be very disappointing to make the wrong choice. Therefore, let's try to figure out what is still better - chic Paphos or modest Larnaca?

As for the temperature of air and water, despite the fact that Larnaca is located on the east coast, and Paphos on the west, the temperatures in them practically do not differ. The only point is that it is not so hot in Paphos.

This is a luxurious resort for people who are not burdened with family responsibilities and the need to save money. A huge number of proposals for outdoor enthusiasts have been concentrated here. Spa treatments, horse riding, diving and snorkelling, excursions and entertainment activities - everything is at your disposal. In addition, Paphos is home to very interesting sights of the island, such as, for example, the archaeological park of Kato Paphos, the monastery of Chrysoroyatissa and the famous rock of Aphrodite. So for an inquisitive mind, Paphos will be the best solution.

Taking into account only the shortcomings of these resorts, it is worth noting the Paphos unpreparedness for the arrival of young travelers. There are absolutely no children's entertainments in the city, and indeed, it will not be very convenient to relax in Paphos with a child.

Of the minuses of Larnaca, its undeveloped entertainment infrastructure stands out clearly. Young and energetic here, most likely, will become bored after a few days of constant lying in the sun and swimming in the warm sea. By the way, about the sea. In Paphos, the water, according to tourists, is much cleaner than in Larnaca.

For budget tourists, for families with children or pensioners, or just for those who like to be lazy all the time under the scorching sun, Larnaca is the best option. are also considered one of the best in Cyprus, so if you are not constrained in finances, love outdoor activities and all kinds of crowded events, go here and do not hesitate - this resort is definitely for you. As for accommodation, there are enough hotels for every budget and taste.

And in other words, as it is sung in the well-known song, think for yourself, decide for yourself what exactly you expect from this vacation, and what you would like to avoid. In any case, all resorts in Cyprus are full of pleasant surprises, so you certainly won't go wrong.

In the open spaces of the island resort in the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus, which is popular in Russia and all over the world, there are many resort towns. The largest of them include Limassol, Paphos, Polis, Ayia Napa, Larnaca, Protaras and Pissouri. Cyprus is geographically adjacent to Asia, but is considered a European state, and the service here is appropriate, at a high level. The currency used exclusively is the euro. All major resorts are located in the southern part of the island, which belongs to the Republic of Cyprus.

Many tourists think about where is the best place to relax. Let's try to make a small comparative analysis of the two major resorts of the island - Paphos and Larnaca.

Larnaca

Larnaca is a city located in the southeast of the island, the average summer air temperature here reaches 32-33 degrees (sometimes over 40), the water temperature in the warm season is 25-25 degrees. The beaches of Larnaca are distinguished by their pleasant, gentle entry into the Mediterranean Sea, which is especially appreciated by tourists of mature age and those who have a rest with families with small children. Larnaca does not have a huge number of luxury hotels, restaurants or shops, it is appreciated by people who are used to relaxing on a budget, but with taste.

Larnaca is located in the very center of the south coast, so it is convenient to get from it both to Paphos (west coast), and to Ayia Napa or Protaras (east coast). It is convenient to settle in this city, and only then choose excursion routes for yourself and plan your further vacation. In general, Larnaca is considered the most democratic resort in Cyprus, which, combined with emerald beaches and warm sea water, makes it highly popular among tourists.

One of the most striking sights of Larnaca is the Church of St. Lazarus, which has been standing in Cyprus since the Middle Ages and is one of the three temples that have been preserved on the island since ancient Byzantium. The Church was built in honor of the Evangelical Lazarus, who, according to legend, after his miraculous resurrection, arrived in Larnaca, where he became the Bishop of Kition (Kition is the ancient name of Larnaca). The temple was built on the site of his grave in the 9th century.

Other places of interest include Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, Salt Lake, Larnaca Castle, Khirokitia and ancient Kition.

Pathos

Paphos, located on the southwestern coast of Cyprus, is considered the best place for expensive entertainment and parties. It is very popular among those who are not constrained by money and are not burdened with family responsibilities, including young children. It has everything for an interesting and active holiday - horseback riding, scuba diving, exciting excursions, SPA-salons, shopping centers, cafes and restaurants. The average summer temperature in Paphos is 29-30 degrees, the water temperature is 25-26 degrees.

Paphos is the best place for a beach holiday and relaxation in expensive comfortable hotels. In the hot summer season, the number of tourists in the city is several times higher than the number of local residents. In Paphos, there are both comfortable sandy beaches and wild rocky ones, from which entry into the sea is difficult. Just on such a rocky beach, according to legend, Aphrodite was born from sea foam. A large number of tourist places are associated with Aphrodite - the Temple of Aphrodite, the Rock and the Bath of Aphrodite, the "Fountain of Love".

There are also numerous Byzantine monuments in the city - the Castle, the Church of Panagia Theoskepasti (monument of the 10th century), the Church of Panagia Chrysopolitissa (13th century), as well as the royal tombs and the archaeological site of Kato Paphos. Paphos is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Larnaca and Paphos are 2 completely different, dissimilar cities, and at the same time they are united by the common spirit of Cyprus. Both resorts have numerous attractions, pleasant sandy beaches, comfortable hotels and fresh sea air. Whichever city you choose, your vacation will undoubtedly become unforgettable for years to come!

It seems completely crumbled, while in the world tourism industry it occupies a significant place. There are many different resort towns on the island, similar to each other and at the same time radically different. Which city to choose for recreation, or, Russian travelers often ask themselves. Let's try to answer it by comparing the resorts for individual positions. We will focus on beaches, entertainment and attractions.

Limassol or Paphos - comparison of beaches

Limassol is the first to demonstrate its beach areas, the characteristics are the best - the beaches are sandy or sandy-pebble, the peculiarity of the sand is that it is of volcanic origin. The composition contains flint, so the rest takes place with a slight healing effect. Almost all beaches have a gentle slope into the sea and a well-developed beach infrastructure: jet skis; boating, boats, catamarans; water aerobics.

The beach areas of Paphos lag behind Limassol, there are sandy areas with a convenient descent into the sea for relaxing by the sea. On the other hand, this resort has a fairly large number of rocky beaches, where it is not very convenient to relax and it is difficult to go down to the water.

This is due to the initial orientation of the resort to German tourists, who preferred swimming in the pools to the sea. The locals call Coral Bay the best beach in Paphos, and the tourists who rested there agree with them. Romantic beach scenery can be seen in Lara Bay.

Main entertainment

In Limassol there are entertainments for parents with small tourists, for an adult company, and for active youth. Young tourists can, in addition to the beach, have a good rest in local water parks, where a variety of slides, water attractions and pools are prepared for their services.

Adult tourists love Limassol for a huge number of festivals organized in the summer. While relaxing in the resorts, you can become a participant in a large theatrical performance or attend concerts of outstanding musicians. September is not only the "velvet season" in Limassol, but also the time of one of the most interesting cultural and entertainment events - the wine festival.

Sports youth will find their own ways to have fun at this resort - all kinds of clubs, dances, discos, various game sports and entertainment. In Paphos, you can have a good rest, have fun and at the same time get acquainted with ancient sights. To do this, you need to visit the Odeon, a theater that has been preserved since ancient times. Today it is not only a historical monument, but also an active theater and concert venue. A trip to this open-air theater will leave an unforgettable impression. During the performance, you can almost completely immerse yourself in ancient times.

Another important activity for the guests of Paphos is visiting the so-called "Baths of Aphrodite", according to legend, a beautiful goddess appeared from the sea foam in this place. Unfortunately, it is not safe for modern beauties to swim here, but you can visit one of the ancient temples built in honor of the ancient Greek legendary person.

Popular Attractions

There are many witnesses of ancient history in Limassol, a walk around the city will allow you to get acquainted with its architectural highlights, the ruins of the local Acropolis and Christian basilicas. In the vicinity of the resort there are the ruins of two more ancient city-states, whose names history has preserved. Modern tourists can see Amathus and Kourion, or rather, what remains of the former greatness.

Paphos is a place of concentration of ancient shrines, temples and monastic complexes. Many ancient monuments in the city are under the protection of UNESCO. The Royal Graves complex, despite such a sad name, is considered one of the most popular places in the resort. The underground necropolis evokes strange sensations, but the tombstones are made with great skill, almost masterpieces.

A comparative analysis of the individual components of recreation in Limassol and Paphos leads to the following conclusions. Each of the resorts is good in its own way, any traveler will find a hotel to his liking, and entertainment of interest, and sights that he dreamed of seeing.

Limassol is chosen by guests of Cyprus who:

• know about its convenient location and the ability to get to any attraction of the island;
• dream of combining a seaside vacation with a visit to water parks;
• adore participating in various festivals and theatrical and musical events;
• would like to learn about the ancient history of the island, its rich cultural traditions.

Paphos will be chosen by travelers who:

• not afraid of rocky beaches;
• plan to attend an antique performance;
• prefer pilgrimage tourism;
• dream of meeting Aphrodite or her modern counterpart.