Explore eight enchanting traditional villages and towns of Cyprus, each offering a magical array of authentic Christmas experiences that will leave you with cherished memories to last a lifetime!

Agros, Deryneia, Fikardou, Kalopanagiotis, Kiti, Kyperounta, Laiki Geitonia (Lefkosia), and Lefkara are beautifully adorned in their festive best, spreading Christmas cheer and captivating visitors of all ages, both locals and tourists.

From cultural events and stalls featuring local products and handicrafts to culinary and crafting workshops, guided village tours, outdoor activities, and charming local restaurants and hotels serving special holiday menus—there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

The Christmas Villages will be open until January 6, 2025 (inclusive), promising a truly unforgettable Cypriot Christmas experience.

Agros

Situated in the Pitsilia region of the Lemesos (Limassol) district, within the Troodos Mountain range, the village of Agros rests at an altitude of 1,100 metres.

This charming village, resembling a theatre with its layout embraced by surrounding mountains, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the forested landscape, making it a perfect destination for agrotourism. Agros has preserved its traditional character, customs, and agricultural heritage, producing a variety of fruits and vegetables.

The village is renowned for its rose cultivation and the production of traditional cured meats such as sausages, ‘Lountza’, and ‘Hiromeri’, as well as homemade marmalades and sweets. Visitors can explore local workshops to witness the time-honoured processes of rose oil distillation, sweet making, and meat curing.

Deryneia

Situated in the Ammochostos (Famagusta) district, the small town of Deryneia – originally called ‘Yerinia’ – boasts a rich and ancient history. It is believed to be one of the first settlements on the island following the Trojan War.

As part of the fertile ‘red soil villages’ (Kokkinochoria), Deryneia is renowned as the island’s leading strawberry producer, celebrated for its sweet, juicy fruit. Visitors can experience this during the biennial Strawberry Festival, where complimentary fresh strawberries and an array of strawberry-based products – including juice, jam, liquor, and ice cream – are offered.

Key attractions in the town include the Folk Art Museum, the Open Air Museum for Traditional Professions, and the Cultural Center of Occupied Ammochostos. Deryneia is also home to notable churches, such as the 15th-century church of Agia Marina, the Byzantine church of Panagia with its preserved 17th-century icons, and the small Medieval church of Agios Georgios.

The town also hosts a significant religious celebration on December 16, honouring Agios Modestos (Feast of Saint Modestos). This annual event features traditional festivities with stalls, entertainment, and local food and drink, warmly welcoming visitors to join in the celebrations.

Fikardou

Fikardou village, located in the Lefkosia (Nicosia) district, rests at an altitude of 900 metres on the southeastern slopes of the Troodos Mountains, within the Pitsilia region.

This tranquil and picturesque village, now nearly abandoned, was declared an Ancient Monument by the Department of Antiquities in 1978 and received the Europa Nostra award in 1987. Carefully restored to preserve its 18th-century houses, renowned for their exquisite woodwork and traditional folk architecture, the village remains vehicle-free. Two notable houses – the House of Katsinioros and the House of Achilleas Dimitris – are now managed by the Department of Antiquities and have been transformed into museums showcasing rural artefacts and offering a glimpse into traditional village life.

The village church, dedicated to Apostles Peter and Paul, dates back to the 16th century AD.

The village's name is believed to derive from the Greek phrase ‘figa andron’, meaning “den of fugitives,” referring to those who sought refuge and were recruited by two influential clans that dominated the area between 400 and 800 AD.

Kalopanagiotis

The village of Kalopanagiotis is nestled in the Marathasa Valley within the Troodos mountain range.

Renowned as one of the island’s most picturesque mountain retreats, Kalopanagiotis boasts thermal springs, traditional architecture, and breathtaking views of the Marathasa Valley. Surrounded by serene natural beauty, it is an ideal destination for agrotourism.

A highlight of the village is the Monastery of Agios Ioannis Lampadistis, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. The monastery comprises three Byzantine churches adorned with remarkably well-preserved frescoes dating from the 9th to the 15th century. Other notable attractions include the Venetian bridge and the Kykkos watermill. The 16th-century stone bridge, once the sole connection between the village and the monastery, reflects the area’s historical charm. The Kykkos watermill, an impressive example of pre-industrial architecture, has been recognised as a “cultural heritage monument” by the Cyprus Department of Antiquities.

The village’s charm is evident in its chapels, museums, and the old neighborhood with its cobbled streets.

Kalopanagiotis enjoys an exceptional climate year-round, making it perfect for exploring nature. Its extensive network of well-maintained hiking trails is among the finest on the island, offering visitors an opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the stunning landscape.

Kiti

Situated 11 km southwest of Larnaka, the vibrant coastal community of Kiti seamlessly blends history and modernity. It boasts one of the island’s finest examples of Byzantine art from the Justinian period and is renowned for offering the best beach for the increasingly popular sport of kitesurfing.

A key highlight of Kiti is the remarkable Angeloktisti Church, home to a rare 6th-century mosaic depicting the Virgin and Child flanked by two archangels. This significant site is listed on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List.

Kiti is also known for Softades Beach, the island’s first and only designated beach for wind and kitesurfing. With exceptional sea and wind conditions, it is among the finest spots in the Mediterranean, attracting enthusiasts and hosting world-class tournaments.

Adding to its historical charm, Kiti features one of the region’s four Venetian Watchtowers, which is part of the Thematic Cycle Routes.

Kyperounta

Nestled in the Pitsilia region of the Lemesos (Limassol) district, within the Troodos mountain range, the village of Kyperounta sits at an altitude of approximately 1,300 metres.

As the third-highest village on the island, Kyperounta preserves its traditional charm and boasts an active community. Its scenic character is defined by winding uphill roads, grapevines, small courtyards, and houses with tiled roofs and picturesque lofts. The village is particularly renowned for its apples, wine, and traditional cold meats, which contribute to its distinct appeal.

Kyperounta dates back to the Byzantine era and derives its name from the ‘kypros’ or ‘kyperi’ weed, which grows abundantly in the region. The area’s unique microclimate led to the construction of a sanatorium for tuberculosis patients by the British in the 1930s, which now operates as the Troodos Hospital.

Notable landmarks include the 18th-century church dedicated to Agia Marina, the newer and grand church of Agios Arsenios, and the ancient church of Timios Stavros, which is adorned with unique frescoes and also serves as an icon tower. Visitors can also explore the village’s three museums: the Natural History Museum, the Folk Art Museum, and the National Liberation Struggle Museum.

Additional attractions include the Kyperounda Winery and the Adventure Mountain Park, as well as two beautiful nature trails – Doksa soi o Theos and Teisia tis Madaris. The village offers a variety of options for visitors, including a hotel, agrotourism accommodations, and several dining venues.

Laiki Geitonia (Lefkosia) 

Laiki Geitonia is a traditional neighbourhood located within the city walls of Nicosia. It was developed with the goal of preserving the traditional character of old Nicosia, particularly from the 1900s, while revitalising the area by introducing spaces that promote folk art and culture, as well as outlets for selling local products.

Situated along Aristokyprou and Praxandrou streets, the neighborhood was later expanded to include surrounding streets. Laiki Geitonia has brought life and activity to the area during both the day and evening, offering cultural centers, recreational spaces such as tavernas, coffee shops, and restaurants, as well as workshops and shops. Its tiled central square is partially occupied by a coffee shop-restaurant and is encircled by shops.

The tiled courtyards of the buildings serve as exhibition spaces for workshop creations and form charming walkways throughout the zone. These pathways, interconnected by arcades, allow pedestrians to move easily while creating pleasant open-air spaces. The buildings in the neighborhood reflect the traditional urban architectural heritage of Nicosia.

Laiki Geitonia was officially inaugurated on December 21, 1983, by the then-President of the Republic of Cyprus, Spyros Kyprianou, during the mayoralty of Mr. Lellos Demetriades. On May 3, 1988, it received the prestigious Pomme d'Or award from the International Federation of Journalists and Editors of Tourism (FIJET).

Lefkara

Nestled in the Larnaka (Larnaca) region, the picturesque mountain village of Lefkara is divided into two areas: Pano Lefkara (Upper Lefkara) and Kato Lefkara (Lower Lefkara). Renowned worldwide for its traditional lace embroidery and silver filigree, Lefkara sits at an altitude of 650 meters, at the base of the Troodos Mountains in southeastern Cyprus, just 43 km from Larnaka. It can be reached by following the A5, A1, and E105 routes.

The village has a long history of lace and silver craftsmanship dating back to the Venetian era. Visitors can explore the art at the Lefkara Handicraft Centre, the Museum of Traditional Embroidery and Silversmithing, and local workshops where they can observe artisans at work. According to legend, the famous painter Leonardo da Vinci visited Lefkara in 1481 and purchased a lace altar cloth, which he later donated to Milan Cathedral.

Lefkara’s charm is evident in its narrow, winding streets and traditional architecture, featuring old terracotta-roofed houses. The village is also part of the 7th Wine Route, a scenic trail that covers the mountainous areas of Larnaka and Lefkosia.

Notable landmarks in Lefkara include the Folklore Museum, the old fountain, and the ancient olive mill. The village is also home to historic chapels, such as the Church of Timios Stavros (Holy Cross) and the Chapel of Archangelos Michail in Kato Lefkara, which contain frescoes dating back to the 12th and 15th centuries.

Each August, the Lefkara Festival draws visitors with a vibrant program of music, dance, theater, and handicraft exhibitions, where guests are warmly welcomed.

enjoy the christmas markets!

the villa group wish you  a very merry christmas!