Paphos (Pafos)

A curious mixture of worlds, Paphos is sometimes described as being divided into two halves. The division of this south-western city comprises Kato Pafos (lower Paphos) and Ktima (upper Paphos). The former is the more developed of the two, there are more crowds, more music, more bars and more luxury hotels (Cyprus has seen tremendous growth in recent decades, Paphos no less than anywhere else) than Ktima. Yet it also houses the most intriguing archaeological sites and it's easy to forget the encroachment of the modern world as you explore them in the quiet of the day. Ktima, meanwhile, boasts a more traditional view of Cypriot life; with beautiful colonial architecture and regional food to enjoy, there is less of the hectic buzz that categorises an evening in Kato Paphos. Despite their differences, both offer a very real and undeniably exciting experience of modern Cyprus.

Limassol (Lemesos)

Limassol is the second largest city in Cyprus, and holidays here offer attractions matched by few other resorts on the island. The nightlife is famously exuberant (some might say raucous), and the restaurants are second to none. Divided by a busy main road, north of which sit all the attractive cafes, shops and plazas, south of which is a long and popular local Mediterranean beach, Limassol is a vibrant centre of Cypriot life. Some may describe it as a little rough in parts, though it is never threatening. If you like your cities to have the undiluted flavour of life on their streets, then Limassol is not to be missed.

Pissouri

A charming fishing village turned resort, Pissouri is nevertheless a fine choice for your luxury holidays in Cyprus. Surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, the modern town offers villas to rent along the beach or higher up on the hill, from which you can view mile upon mile of spectacular Mediterranean coastline. Located only 30km from Limassol, Pissouri offers a quiet, relaxed and beautiful alternative the more urban diversions of the regional capital. With around half of the residents being local Cypriots and the remainder being visitors from all over Europe and the world, there is an international flavour to the town, but certainly not to the detriment of its distinctly local character.

Kouklia

A small and famously beautiful village in the district of Paphos, Kouklia is surrounded by rich farmland that produces, amongst other things, grapes, olives, citrus fruits and avocados. While not an immediate choice for holidaymakers on the island (the luxury hotels of Cyprus tending to locate in larger towns), there are many fine villas to be found in the area, making it a great choice for those in search of something a little quieter and a little alternative, but with all the atmosphere that Cyprus is famous for.

Kyrenia

Kyrenia is famous for its picturesque stone harbour, filled with colourful sailing boats and overlooked by the imposing bulk of Kyrenia castle. A highlight on the itinerary of many Cyprus holidays, the town can suffer from overcrowding in the height of summer, but arrive at any other time of year and you'll discover a delightful destination which combines the charm of the modern island with the arresting architecture of a past age. Unmissable in any extended trip to Cyprus.