Notorious for its nightlife and lazy days by the beach, it’s fair to say Cyprus has all the components for the ultimate beach break abroad. But it’s not all drinking, dancing, and daydreaming in this pocket of the Mediterranean. The Greek Island also offers a wide range of activities to sink your teeth into. So whether you’re sampling the local wine, crawling through prehistoric tombs, or exploring the diverse landscape, there are plenty of ways to soak up the Cypriot culture outside of the pubs - all while being easy on your wallet.

Wikimedia Commons: LukaszKatlewa, adapted by Wandering Educators

Greek Orthodox Church in Troodos Mountains, Cyprus. Flickr creative commons: colinscamera

Explore the ancient architecture

Go to the coastal city of Paphos in the southwest region of the island, and check out the world-famous historical necropolis underground - The Tombs of the Kings. Not only do these ancient creations date back to the 4th century, but the grounds are also officially registered as a UNESCO world heritage site.

Tombs of the Kings, Pathos, Cyprus. Wikimedia Commons: Kate Phizackerley

Meander in the marine life

See what’s underneath Cyprus’s turquoise tides and go scuba diving in the Mediterranean waters. One of the best places to go for a variety of fish is the Akamas peninsula on the northwest side of the island, which boasts sea life ranging from monk seals and turtles to tropical fish and coral reefs. Or visit the southeast coast of Larnaca, and dive down to the Zenobia shipwreck, which sunk near the fishing harbour in 1980. As it’s a fairly modern wreck, you can clearly make out the ship’s complex structure, as well as catching a close up look at the marine life.

Zenobia shipwreck, Cyprus. Wikimeda Commons: Jetlife2

Go to the island’s grape growing regions

Take a leaf out of the book of Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, and escape to the local vineyards. Arguably the leader in Mediterranean wine making, the beverage is thought to have been first produced in the hills of Cyprus some 6,000 years ago. The vineyards grow the island’s indigenous white Xynisteri grape and reds such as Mavro and Ofthalmo, as well as harvesting international varieties including Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon. So if you fancy yourself as a bit of a wine buff, it’s worth going on one of the countryside tours in the southern and southwestern parts of Crete.

Vineyard, Cyprus. Wikimedia Commons: Hannes Grobe

Hike the hills

Those in search of some varied landscape should make their way up the Troodos Mountains on the island’s western side. You can drive, walk, or cycle depending on your abilities. While there, why not stop by Spitiko tou Archonta, a restored house in the quintessential remote village of Treis Elies? Not only is there traditional Greek architecture to discover, but the venue also offers authentic cooking lessons, showing you how to whip up some of Cyprus’s authentic dishes.

 Troodos Mountains, Cyprus. Wikimedia Commons: Tech bro

What are your favorite things to do in Cyprus?