Towns and Villages in Cyprus

Alsancak

Riverside is only a short walk from the village centre where you will find the locals very friendly and welcoming. It’s a traditional Cypriot village where life goes at a leisurely pace. There are shops, supermarkets, a post office and cafes where you can get a superb meze lunch at a very sensible price. Just outside the village, but within easy reach of Riverside, are a chemist and a bank (with a cash point). There is no need to go any further unless you want too. 

To the east, Escape Beach is the place where the first troops landed in 1974, there is a huge monument commemorating the Turkish Peace Operation and go a little further to find the war museum with a lot of memorabilia.    

There are late night bars with music and dancing and plenty of places with widescreen TVs for those who can’t miss the match.

Bellapais

A place not to miss, Bellapais is internationally renowned, a setting of which the locals are very proud and it’s always a favourite with tourists whether on their first trip or return visits. The village is centred on its history, the magnificent Gothic Abbey where in summer months concerts and music festivals are held. Take a walk around the village, visit the gift shops and there are several small cafes where you can relax for an hour or so whilst enjoying some of the most wonderful views over the plains of Kyrenia. At night the views are tremendous, enjoy a meal here; the restaurants will arrange transport for you, to and from Riverside.

Nicosia

Nicosia is a divided city and capital of both north and south. There is much to do here and with over 2000 years of history a lot to see as well. There are plenty of shops and the Old Bazaar, where you can buy some delicious Turkish delight and other Cypriot souvenirs. Visit the mosques, Ataturk Square or the Gambler’s Inn to name but a few. The ancient Buyuk Hamam, the Turkish bath, is below street level and part of a 14th century church. A steam bath and massage will cost around £8.

If driving into the capital is not for you then take a bus, the local dolmus is cheap and an experience in itself.