In southern Nicosia, the Old Town is perhaps the most alluring section. Enclosed by the ancient Venetian fortifications, this maze of municipal gardens and ancient architecture is the central part and attracts much of the tourist crowd. Be sure not to miss the 16th century Ayios Ioannis Cathedral which has a series of paintings depicting Cypriot history through the ages. The Cyprus Museum just outside the city holds archaeological remains from Neolithic and Roman times.

One of the stellar attractions of Cyprus is the many Mediterranean beach resorts along its coast, which are not only serene getaways but are also full of history and culture. Paphos, on the west coast, is perhaps one of the most popular locations. Apart from the natural beauty, such monuments as the Tomb of the Kings (a stunning lair of tombs carved onto the soft rock next to the shore) or the famous mosaics, which are dedicated to Dionysus and which the Romans laid down in the 3rd century BC.

The mountainous splendour of the Troodos mountains in south Cyprus is sure to take your breath away with its rocky landscape punctuated with pretty villages and vineyards and monasteries. Nature lovers, as well as adventure seekers, should both find relief in the Troodos Massif from the hustle and bustle of the packed beach resorts.

Home to the island's biggest airport, Larnaka is the inevitable starting point for many visitors to Cyprus. However, its elegant promenade, beautiful Agios Lazaros cathedral, ancient ruins, and a vibrant resort are reason to linger.

Cyprus's second city, Lemesos, has a reputation for great restaurants and transformed itself recently into the definition of laidback Mediterranean living.

The most beautiful harbour town on the island, Girne (Kyrenia), and a good introduction to life in North Cyprus has a stunning castle, a relaxed atmosphere and offers wonderful days out to St Hilarion Castle and Bellapais Abbey.

Gazimağusa (Famagusta) is an ancient port city defined by its elegantly ruined old town, pounded by the Ottomans in 1571. Nearby are the magnificent ruins of Ancient Salamis and also the unsettling sight of Varosha, derelict since 1974.

Once the archetypal 18–30 resort, Agia Napa has morphed into a more sophisticated destination with a surprising smattering of museums, street art and other attractions.

Explore the villages and small-scale sights of the Karpaz Peninsula. Look out for its wild donkeys, and press on to lonely Apostolos Andreas monastery, both the easternmost and the northernmost point on the island.

You could spend an entire day exploring the ancient city of Salamis, the nearby Royal Tombs, Monastery of St Barnabas and the ruins of Enkomi-Alasia – all within a couple of kilometres of each other.