Looking for the best things to do in Protaras, Cyprus? You’ve landed to the right place.

Whether you’ve already booked your Mediterranean escape or you’re just daydreaming about what your trip could look like at this stage, this guide will walk you through all the top things to do in Protaras, from the best beaches to secret coves, cultural pleasures and the best places to grab a cocktail.

With spine-tingling temperatures all year round, and just a 4-hour flight from the UK, Protaras is a great place to escape to as winter sets in.

So, where exactly is Protaras?

Tucked away on the southeastern coast of Cyprus, right in the heart of the Mediterranean, Protaras is a chilled-out resort town that’s known for its natural beauty and stunning coastline.

Cyprus is part of Europe, just south of Turkey and west of Lebanon, and is known for its mix of ancient history, stunning beaches, and seriously good food (hello halloumi!).

You may know Fig Tree Bay, a postcard-perfect beach in Protaras that regularly ranks among Europe’s best. But there really is so much more to this place than just pretty sands.

Think turquoise waters perfect for a morning of snorkelling, sea caves waiting to be explored by boat, breezy waterfront tavernas where you can enjoy fresh fish, and a slower pace of life that’s ideal for couples, families, and solo travellers in need of a reset.

Whether you’ve heard of nearby Ayia Napa (Protaras’ wild boozy neighbour) or not, Protaras offers something very different and if you stick around, I’ll show you exactly why Protaras should be on your radar.

A Guide To Protaras, Cyprus

A few facts about Protaras:

• Drive: on the left had side of the road (Same as UK)
• Language: Greek
• Food: very greek based, a popular meal out includes a selection of meze dishes
• Currency: Euros
• The sun rises in Protaras but sets on the other side of the island

Protaras has a gorgeous coast, lined with sandy beaches and wonderfully warm waters. Whilst we were here (mid September) it was 31 degrees C every day (apparently slightly hotter than other years), and the sea temperature was recorded most days at 27 degrees.

Honestly – dreamy!

The beaches are lines with sun beds and wooden huts, offering water sport options for all the family. Let’s just say, if secluded and quiet beaches are your thing, Protaras may not be yours.

Where should you eat in Protaras?

The main hotels in Protaras line up along the beach and back onto the main Protaras strip which is filled with Greek-Cypriot restaurants, amongst all your favourite international cuisines.

My favourite place we dined in on the strip was ‘Promises’ which is just opposite the fountains in the centre of the strip and has a large balcony overlooking Fig Tree Bay (perfect for people watching).

Recommendation: The Swordfish & Tzatziki

Other restaurant recommendations:

• Novela
• Wan Chai
• Doma
• Patisserie Amelie
• Kafkaros Taverna
• Folio

Where should you stay in Protaras?

I was fortunate enough to be joined by my Grandma on this little getaway, and we stayed a 5-minute walk from the strip at the Coralli Spa Resort in an apartment we picked up on AirBnb.

I’m more of a spender on activities and experiences than a spender on accommodation, as personally when I go away, I don’t spend that much time in the accommodation and feel it can be a bit of a waste of money.

That’s one reason I love Airbnb – you can pick up really decent rooms/apartments / houses at a fraction of the hotel price!

Click here for Trip Advisor’s top 10 guide to hotels in Protaras.

The reason I don’t usually spend much time in the accommodation is because my favourite thing to do in a new country is EXPLORE.

Don’t get me wrong, sometimes it’s great to relax and simply sunbathe, but for me, if I’m in a new place, I get seriously itchy feet.

Luckily for me, Grandma fancied an adventure too!

The best things to do in Protaras, Cyprus

Walk up to Profitis Elias

This is 20 mins from the centre of Protaras. Walk the whole way along the Protaras Strip (with the coastline on your right) and when you get to the end (after the McDonalds) turn right onto the main road and on the left you will see the church peeking above the buildings.

Follow it and you’ll reach a path which you can ascend to this gorgeous church.

Hire a quad bike or buggy

Grandma and I hired one of these buggies (below) for our adventure. There are 3 or 4 car/quad/buggy hire companies on the Protaras strip and they all offer a very similar price. We paid 35 Euros for a day (including insurance) and then only had to pay an extra 10 euros to fill the tank up.

The buggy gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace, embrace the weather and venture to the caves. It was great for the distance we covered to Ayia Napa and the caves, but if your looking to travel further around the Island I would definitely recommend a quad, or in fact a car for safety – particularly at higher speeds!

Take a trip to Ayia Napa

Only a 15-minute bus ride from Protaras is the famous party town of Ayia Napa.

Personally, it didn’t do much for me. I found it a ghost town by day filled with restaurants offering £3 fry ups next door to shops selling neon ‘Ayia F******’ Napa merchandise. Maybe I got the wrong end of the stick, but on first impressions it was clear to see why it’s simply a popular tourist destination for hen do’s, stag parties & young people.

Cyprus’ main party town for sure. If a night out if your thing, and you’re up for a crazy one – Napa has you covered.

Visit Cape Greco

Located just 10 minutes by buggy or bus from Protaras, Cape Greco was number one on my to-see list & it was every bit as beautiful as I wanted it to be.

A group of gorgeous caves with the clearest of waters falling at their feet.

For those of you (like me) seeking an adrenaline rush, there’s a popular spot where you’ll see people cliff jumping into the warm blues & exploring inside the caves.

There is also a rocky way to climb down (and back up) should you prefer a more cautious option.

Go on a Boat Trip

Sailing along the Protaras coastline is a must. Whether you’re after a family-friendly cruise or a romantic sunset sail, get it on your list!

Here’s a few to consider…

• Protaras Cruises offer unforgettable experiences exploring hidden coves and swimming with turtles. Book here.
• Ayia Trias Cruises are a family-run business offering trips to the Blue Lagoon. Book here.
• St Georgios Boat is known for relaxed trips with swim stops and great food. Book here.

Go Scuba Diving

Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Protaras and discover the underwater world and the likes of Zenobia wreck.

A few companies to look at are Sirens Dive Centre, Easy Divers Cyprus and Nautilus Scuba Diving Centre.

Fun fact: The Zenobia wreck is considered one of the top 10 wreck dives in the world making this one of the best things to do in Protaras if you love scubadiving!

Explore Konnos National Park

Nestled between Protaras and Ayia Napa, Konnos National Park is a haven for nature lovers and is one of the best things to do in Protaras if you love a hike and time in nature. Hike through pine-covered trails, explore Konnos Bay and head into the ocean for a refreshing swim.

Try Horse Riding at Moonshine Ranch

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Protaras and fancy something adventurous and a little unique, experience the Cypriot countryside on one of the 15 horseback trailswith Moonshine Ranch. They offer rides suitable for all levels and you can book here Moonshine Ranch.

Other Beaches to Visit

Protaras boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Cyprus.

• Fig Tree Bay – known for its golden sands
• Green Bay – A snorkelling paradise
• Vryssi Bay – family friendly vibes
• Kapparis Beach – quieter more local spot

Visit Agioi Saranta Cave Church

Hidden up in the hills near Protaras, this unique cave come church offers a serene and spiritual experience. The church is actually carved into a natural cave and is dedicated to the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste. If you’re into history, this is one of the best things to do in Protaras!

That’s everything!

Even though our trip was short and sweet, Cyprus really was gorgeous to both drive around & stay in.

I got to spend some quality time with my Grandma, something I’ll forever cherish, and I also escaped 5 days of the winter currently descending on the UK!

Hopefully, I’ll be back one day to explore the other side of you Cyprus.

Have you been to Protaras, Cyprus?

What were your best things to do in Protaras? I’d love to know!

Love as always + happy adventuring,

Mollie.