Cyprus has been a popular destination with British holidaymakers for a number of years now due to its excellent year-round climate and famous Blue Flag beaches. It is also popular with lovers of Greek culture as the hospitality here is legendary, and its combination of fantastic beaches and wonderful food has made this island a top choice for families.
So, the children will love the beaches and the swimming pool but what do you do with them when they get bored? Well, don’t worry because we have listed the top things to do with kids in Cyprus to ensure a fun filled trip.
1. Horse Riding – Eagle Mountain Ranch, Paphos
This is one of the best places for horse riding in the whole of Cyprus, and we highly recommend the amazing horseback safari tours which depart both early morning and late afternoon. The tours include a pick up and drop off service, an introductory course and a picnic. And if you don’t want to spend a full day here you can choose a shorter ride, which will last one and a half hours or if this isn’t quite long enough you can opt for a three hour ride. The horses here are clearly well looked after and the routes are great for all levels of riders, so don’t panic if you’re a beginner. This activity can also be a fun way to explore Cyprus’ stunning countryside.
Top Tip – If anyone is nervous about riding the staff here are superb and extremely patient with beginners. They also offer riding lessons if you are not confident enough to go trekking.
2. Aphrodite Waterpark – Paphos
With a huge selection of thrilling rides this waterpark provides a fantastic family day out. They offer everything from fast white knuckle rides to baby pools and lazy rivers. And when it is time to refuel there are plenty of places where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat as we know playing in the water can make you hungry. There are also lockers positioned near the entrance of the park where you store all your belongings, so you don’t need to worry about carrying them around. Although the lockers are optional, if you prefer not paying the fee, which is currently five euros, you don’t have to.
Top Tip – Ask around the resort or hotel for money off vouchers as they often have special offers.
3. Paleontology Museum – Larnaca
Prehistoric creatures await you and your children at this fun museum. So, if your a lover of dinosaurs a day spent walking around this museum will be an amazing experience for both you and your little ones. Popular exhibits here include bones from pygmy elephants and hippopotamus from before 10000 BC. This is a unique and enjoyable experience if you want to escape the heat for a couple of hours.
Top Tip – To add to the fun factor your children can collect shells while walking around the museum, and at the end of the tour they will be rewarded with a certificate in exchange for the shells.
4. George’s Fun Bus – Paphos
We love this trip as George is extremely informative and teaches the children about Cyprus in an exciting and fun way. The tour starts at a prehistoric settlement so you get to see how people lived in this primeval period.
Next there is a stop at an art college, but this isn’t just any art college. In fact, the building has been built out of recycled materials so if you want to teach your children to be eco-friendly this is sure to do the trick as they will be amazed when they find out that the college has been built from rubbish.
Now, it’s time to visit Ayios Neophytos Monastery. After the steep walk uphill you will be able to explore the cave and monastery before resting for a much-needed cup of tea. Your swimming costume is a must for the next stop. That’s right – Adonis Waterfall is the ideal refreshing break when you have spent a full day in the blazing sun. But make sure you get your camera at the ready for the views of the Mavrokolymobos Dam and the final stop, the Sea Caves. Here you can enjoy a BBQ feast followed by soft drinks or wine for the adults. You can also make the most of the sun by relaxing on the beach or hitting the waves. After your meal it’s time to unwind and join in with the entertainment.
Top Tip – Don’t forget your swimming costumes, towels and sun cream. Be prepared to laugh through the whole trip as George is an extremely amusing character.
5. Play Planet My Mall Limassol
This indoor arcade complete with a kids land has its fair share of activities and games to keep children as young as two fully occupied. Older children and teens, on the other hand, will enjoy battling each other in the video games arcade. You’ll also find that My Mall has a bowling alley and an ice skating rink so you won’t be short of things to do on your visit.
Top Tip – This arcade is located in the largest shopping centre in Cyprus so make sure you have enough time to visit the 150 stores, cafés and restaurants.
6. Dinosaur Park – Ayia Napa
Another activity for dinosaur lovers is Dinosaur Park. Fans of these ancient creatures will be amazed when they come across lifelike dinosaurs as they move and make noises. Little ones often enjoy spotting the different species of dinosaurs as they wander along the trail. Once you have finished the trail don’t forget to visit the park’s shop to buy those essential souvenirs.
Top Tip – They have picnic tables so if you want to save money we suggest you pack your lunch beforehand.
7. Looney Land – Paphos
Inside King Avenue Mall is a fantastic indoor and outdoor playground. Toddlers are taken care of here and there is a dedicated area which is great for 1-3 year olds. Alternatively, the older kids can spend their time either jumping around on the many trampolines or whizzing down the large slides. But don’t forget to venture outside as you will find three large slides, more trampolines and a bouncy castle.
Top Tip – Opening hours are Monday to Friday 13:00 until 20:45 and weekends 10:00 until 20:45.
8. Holiday Village Aliathon – Paphos
This is not an activity as such because it is a hotel, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a fantastic place for families. There are so many things that both you and your children can enjoy at this hotel from clubs for 0 to 11 year olds, the largest swimming pool in Cyprus and not forgetting a splash park with a huge pirate ship. There is also plenty to enjoy on an evening with entertainment geared towards families. With so many repeat guests there’s no wonder this hotel has made our top things to do with kids in Cyprus list.
Top Tip – Some of the many activities and facilities here include table tennis, a pool table, kayaks, a swimming academy, a playground, DJ workshops (July and August), raft building and bicycle hire. Most are included in your holiday so it’s great for families with a budget.
9. Star Leisure Mini Golf – Protaras
Not only does this park have a 19-hole mini golf course, but it also has trampolines, bumper cars and a mini train which makes its way around the grounds daily. It’s safe to say that this place offers a fun filled day out for all ages.
Top Tip – It can get very hot during the day as there isn’t much shade, so you may prefer to visit on an evening as it is floodlit.
10. Sunset Breeze Restaurant – Paphos
This restaurant is great for a family dining experience with its delicious food and reasonable priced children’s menu with prices at just six euros for most meals.
Top Tip – We recommend the sweet and sour pork with fries for adults and the tomato pasta for kids.
All kids are different and they all have different interests but as you can see Cyprus offers something for most families. Whether they enjoy animals excursions, waterparks or a slice of history there is plenty on offer here.
Are there any excursions or days out which you think are great for children that we haven’t mentioned? If so, why not let us know?