Wine & drink in Cyprus
Including Commandaria Wine Region, Laona Wine Region, and Nicosia Historic Center Craft Beer Quarter. On the map.
The vibe
The wine culture here is rooted in some of the oldest traditions in the world, offering a rustic, earthy profile you won't find in typical commercial vineyards. Late summer and early autumn are the best times to visit the mountain slopes when the air is crisp and the vines are heavy. The experience feels personal and unhurried, with small-scale producers often pouring glasses for visitors in spaces that feel like a neighbor's living room rather than a polished tasting hall.
Commandaria Wine Region, Limassol Foothills
Cyprus
An. Antoniou / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Nestled in the southern foothills of the Troodos Mountains, this ancient wine region produces Commandaria, one of the world's oldest continuously produced named dessert wines. Visitors can tour historic hillside villages to taste sun-dried Xynisteri and Mavro blends with rich, honeyed notes.
Access. Accessible via scenic driving routes from Limassol, with winding roads connecting traditional winemaking villages like Agros and Zoopigi.
Notes. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for vineyard tours; many family-run wineries welcome visitors without prior booking, though reservations are recommended for guided tastings.
Laona Wine Region, Paphos
Cyprus
bobo3033 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
Perched on the rolling limestone plateau north of Paphos, the Laona region combines dramatic coastal views with boutique winemaking. Wine enthusiasts visit picturesque villages like Kathikas and Stroumpi to sample crisp white wines and structured reds crafted from indigenous vines.
Access. A 30-minute drive north of Paphos city, accessible via the main coastal and interior highways.
Notes. Combine winery visits with local taverna food pairings highlighting regional cuisine.
Nicosia Historic Center Craft Beer Quarter
Cyprus
Hansueli Krapf This file was uploaded with Commonist . / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The old walled city of Nicosia harbors a burgeoning craft beer scene, featuring independent taprooms and microbreweries revitalizing historic quarters. Beer enthusiasts flock to atmospheric courtyards to sample experimental IPA, stouts, and local Cypriot ales.
Access. Easily explored on foot within the pedestrianized historic center of Nicosia.
Notes. Vibrant nightlife and brewery events thrive during weekend evenings.