Travel writing based on first-hand experience
Protaras and the broader Paralimni area undeniably stand out as one of the most desirable destinations, effortlessly blending natural beauty with unmatched elegance. Stretching from the mesmerizing beaches of Kapparis in the north to the state forest of Cabo Greco in the south, this region offers many choices sure to satisfy even the most demanding visitors. In this article, you will learn about the best things to do in Protaras and the surrounding area.
More Cyprus ideas you’ll want to add to your trip:
- ➡️ Best Restaurants in Protaras – where to eat after a long beach-and-viewpoints day
- ➡️ 7-Day Cyprus Itinerary – how to fit Protaras into a bigger island adventure
- ➡️ What To Do in Larnaca – an easy next stop for beaches, salt lake views, and city wanderings
- ➡️ Best Places To Visit in Nicosia – for culture, old streets, and a change of pace from the coast
- ➡️ Top Places To Visit in Northern Cyprus – castles, ruins, and dramatic scenery if you want to explore farther
- ➡️ What To Do in Cyprus With Kids – family-friendly ideas if you are planning a softer, easier-paced trip
Table of Contents
Getting Around Protaras
We move between beaches and viewpoints by walking, bus, and sometimes a rental car. You can enjoy a relaxed beach trip without a car. If you want sunrise hikes at Cape Greco and late dinners in nearby towns, a car is very handy.
On Foot (beach to beach)
Protaras is a chain of small bays—Fig Tree Bay, Sunrise Beach, Vrissiana—joined by a flat seaside path. It’s easy to walk for dinner along the main strip and drop down to the sand. Wear comfortable sandals; distances look short, but you’ll keep adding “just one more bay.”
Public Buses (cheap and frequent)
Routes 101/102 run all day along the coast between Protaras, Cape Greco, Ayia Napa, and Paralimni. One goes clockwise, the other anticlockwise, so waits are usually short in high season. You’ll find stops on Protaras Avenue and near big hotels.
Pro tip: For Cape Greco walks, ride 101/102 to Konnos or the Cape, hike the trails, then catch the bus back in the opposite direction.
From/To Larnaca Airport
The Kapnos Airport Shuttle runs coaches between Larnaca Airport and Protaras (about one hour). It stops near central Protaras. Check times and book ahead in summer.
Taxi & Ride-Hail
There is no Uber in Cyprus. Local taxi apps may work, but regular taxis are easy to find on the strip. Ask to use the meter or agree on the price before you go.
Driving & Parking
People drive on the left in Cyprus. Road signs are in Greek and English, and the coastal roads are simple. Many hotels and beaches have free or low-cost parking. When the strip is busy, park on the upper road and walk down to the beach. If you plan to visit several bays or chase sunsets at Cape Greco, renting a car is the easiest option.
Bike & E-bike
Bikes and e-bikes are good along the promenade and main road during daylight. Stay on coastal paths where possible and avoid the busiest times after the beach rush.
When You Don’t Need a Car
If you’re staying central and planning a simple swim–eat–rest routine, walking and the bus are enough. Save car days for Cape Greco, Ayia Napa evenings, or longer day trips.
Visit the Best Beaches in Protaras and around
No matter how much one extols the famous beaches of Protaras, nothing compares to the experience of swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Fig Tree Bay, Vrysi Beach, or Konnos. Konnos Beach, in particular, is a rare gem where the pristine state forest of Cabo Greco descends to meet the golden sands of this picturesque shoreline.
Fig Tree Bay
Fig Tree Bay cannot be overlooked. Recognised by TripAdvisor as one of Europe’s top 25 beaches for 2022, Fig Tree Bay, with its shallow, pristine waters and fine golden sands, is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. A small rocky islet just off the coast adds to the idyllic scenery, offering exploration opportunities for people of all ages. The beach’s name harkens back to a fig tree brought to the area by conquerors from the East in the 17th century.
Vrissiana Beach
Adjacent to Fig Tree Bay lies Protaras‘ longest beach, Vrissiana, which stretches for an impressive kilometer. Vrissiana is a charming beach with clean, soft sand and a shallow, inviting sea. There are plenty of sunbeds available, costing €7.50 a day, and you can conveniently pay by card—make sure to arrive early to secure one. The beach is well-maintained, with weekly sweeping to keep the sand pristine. While there are no beach bars, you’ll find nearby hotels and restaurants to meet your needs. Toilets and ice cream vans are close by, and the bus stop is just a short walk away.
Agia Triada
A particularly noteworthy beach is Agia Triada. The beach splits into two distinct areas: on the left, it’s ideal for those seeking solitude, with some rocky terrain. The right side is livelier, offering sunbeds, sand and a beach bar. This beach is perfect for swimming, nestled in a sheltered cove. Facilities include toilets, showers, and plenty of parking. A small fishing boat harbour adds a quaint touch on the right side, making it a well-rounded spot for all visitors.
Other remarkable beaches
Other remarkable beaches in the Pernera area of Protaras include Kalamies, Pernera, and Malama, all distinguished by their crystal-clear waters, fine sand, and numerous dining and entertainment options for visitors.
Beaches like Byzakia, and the captivating Nisi Loumbardi , renowned for their diving spots, are also worth discovering. Speaking of diving, one cannot overlook the famed artificial reef created from the Nemesis shipwreck off Vrysoudi Beach.
Top Protaras Sights
Agioi Saranta Cave Church
Among the most renowned attractions in the Paralimni area is Agioi Saranta Cave Church. This chapel, built within a cave, features a stone dome and fragments of hagiographies dating back to the 12th century.
Ancient port of Leucolla
A site of historical significance in Paralimni is the port of Leucolla, documented by the ancient geographer Strabo. Numerous tombs, statue fragments, and inscriptions referring to Apollo have been unearthed here. The name Lefkolla is linked to a pivotal naval battle in 306 BC, which had significant consequences for the future of Cyprus, as many ships involved in the battle were wrecked in the area. Recently, an exciting archaeological discovery was made here—a Roman-era shipwreck filled with commercial amphorae, likely from Syria and Cilicia.
Cyclops Cave
Another famous attraction in Protaras is the Cyclops Cave, a natural cave nestled between rocks near Konnos Beach. Evidence of life in the cave dates back to the pre-Neolithic era. The cave’s name is rooted in mythology, suggesting it was once inhabited by a family of Cyclopes who were shipwrecked on the island after a violent sea storm. The area is also a popular diving spot, with some speculating that the sanctuary of Akraia Aphrodite, mentioned by Strabo during his travels, may have once stood nearby.
Other things to do in Protaras and around
- Dine at Traditional Taverns: Enjoy local cuisine in Paralimni’s heart or at seaside fish taverns.
- Stay in Luxurious Hotels: Experience accommodations with full amenities or charming sea-view spots.
- Go Diving: Discover new diving spots in Protaras’s clear waters.
- Hike in Forests: Explore the Konnos and Fanos forests.
- Visit the Chapel of Prophet Ilias: Explore this historical site.
- Stroll Through Protaras Square: Enjoy a walk in this scenic area.
- Walk the Coastal Path: Walk from Agia Triada to Konnos Beach, connecting the beaches to Paralimni’s urban center.
Top Places to Eat in Protaras
From beachfront grills to modern “MediterrAsian,” Protaras keeps meals simple, fresh, and sunny. Here are our favorite spots—short intros, what to order, and why they’re worth your table.
Hippocampus Lounge Restaurant (central Protaras)
All-day crowd-pleaser with international dishes, sushi, and cocktails in a lively setting right on the main strip. Book for dinner in high season.
- What to order: Sushi rolls, grilled mains, signature cocktails.
- What we love: Reliable service, broad menu, easy location for a pre- or post-beach meal.
- Address: Protara 18, Paralimni 5289, Cyprus
Kalamies Restaurant (Pernera waterfront)
Seafood with a sea breeze—classic Cypriot plates and fish of the day in a white-and-blue beach house setting. Families like the setting and kids’ options.
- What to order: Grilled sea bream/sea bass, octopus, meze.
- What we love: Front-row sea views and straightforward, fresh seafood.
- Address: 40 Ellinon Street, Perneras Ave, 5295, Cyprus
La Cultura del Gusto (Pernera)
Modern “MediterrAsian” kitchen with fine-dining polish—creative plates, good meat cuts, sushi, and a smart wine list. Reserve ahead on weekends.
- What to order: Beef fillet, seafood specials, sushi selection.
- What we love: Inventive flavor pairings without losing the Mediterranean soul.
- Address: Ephestus 7, 5296, Cyprus
Yianna Marie Restaurant (Fig Tree Bay area)
Elegant seaside dining near the beach path—seafood, steaks, and a sunset-friendly terrace. Popular with couples and small groups.
- What to order: Prawns, fresh fish, grilled steak.
- What we love: Polished service and a special-occasion feel by the water.
- Address: Lefkolas 21, Protaras, Paralimni, Cyprus
Andama Tavern (Protaras Avenue)
Homestyle Cypriot cooking in a friendly taverna—good meze, grills, and welcoming service. Live music some nights.
- What to order: Pork souvlaki, stifado, mixed meze.
- What we love: Classic flavors, generous portions, fair prices.
- Address: Protara, Paralimni 5296, Cyprus
Lemongrass Pan Asian (central Protaras)
Pan-Asian menu with noodles, curries, and sushi—handy when you want a change from grills and meze. Quality can vary by night; go for crowd-favorite staples.
- What to order: Pad Thai, green curry, simple sushi sets.
- What we love: Big menu and central location for mixed tastes.
- Address: Protara 35, Paralimni 5296, Cyprus
Veranda (beachfront Italian, Protaras)
Casual Italian by the sea—pizza, pasta, salads—with relaxed beachfront seating. Easy pick for families after the beach.
- What to order: Thin-crust pizza, seafood pasta, caprese.
- What we love: Simple Italian comfort with a sea view.
- Address: Vrissaki Beach Hotel, Amphitritis 8, Paralimni 5296, Cyprus
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