Cyprus

Cyprus: general info for travelers

Cyprus is an island nation located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its great weather, stunning beaches and rich history. The island was once home to the Mycenaean Greeks, the Egyptians, the Persians, the Romans, the Byzantines, and the Ottomans, which all have left their mark on the island's culture, architecture and cuisine. Cyprus is also known for its delicious food, which includes traditional Greek and Turkish dishes such as Meze, Kleftiko, and Moussaka. The island is divided between a Greek Cypriot south and a Turkish Cypriot north, which are separated by the UN Buffer Zone. Visitors can explore the many historical and natural attractions, such as the ancient city of Kourion, the Tombs of the Kings, and the beautiful natural parks and reserves.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Cyprus, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Cyprus: places to visit

Certainly! Here are the main places to visit in Cyprus along with descriptions for each of them: 1. Nicosia: Nicosia is the capital of Cyprus and it is famous for its rich cultural heritage and history. Visitors can explore the Old Town, visit the Cyprus Museum, and the Selimiye Mosque.
2. Limassol: Limassol is the second largest city in Cyprus, and it is famous for its beaches, nightlife, and wine. One of the must-visit places is the Limassol Castle, built during the Crusades.
3. Paphos: Paphos is a coastal city known for its ancient ruins, such as the Paphos Archaeological Site and the Kato Pafos Archaeological Park. This city is also famous for its beaches, especially the Coral Bay.
4. Troodos Mountains: The Troodos Mountains are located in the heart of Cyprus and are home to several charming villages and monasteries. The mountains are also famous for their hiking trails, ski slopes, and picturesque waterfalls.
5. Ayia Napa: Ayia Napa is a popular tourist destination known for its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife scene. This town also has several cultural sites, such as the Thalassa Municipal Museum of the Sea.
6. Larnaca: Larnaca is a charming seaside town located on the southern coast of Cyprus. Visitors can explore the palm-lined promenade, enjoy the beaches, and visit the Hala Sultan Tekke, a stunning mosque located on the shore of Lake Larnaca.
These are just some of the main places to visit in Cyprus. Each of these towns has its own unique attractions, history, and culture.
There is more to see and do in Cyprus: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Cyprus: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Cyprus, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and hot summers. Generally, the best time to visit Cyprus is from April to November when the weather is warm and sunny. Here is a breakdown of the weather in different seasons: - Spring (March-May): Temperatures are pleasantly warm, ranging from 18°C to 25°C. This is a good time to visit if you prefer milder weather and want to see the island's flowers in full bloom.
- Summer (June-August): It can get very hot during the summer months, with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 35°C. This is peak tourist season, so expect the beaches and attractions to be busy.
- Autumn (September-November): Temperatures remain warm but start to cool down towards the end of November. This is a great time for hiking and exploring the island's countryside.
- Winter (December-February): Temperatures can drop to around 10°C, but it rarely snows in Cyprus. Some winter visitors enjoy the island's cooler weather, peaceful beaches, and sightseeing without the crowds.
Overall, if you like the beach and outdoor activities, the best time to visit Cyprus is from May to October when the weather is warm and sunny.

Cyprus: activities and what to do

In Cyprus, there are plenty of activities and sports to enjoy. Here are some popular ones: 1. Water sports: Cyprus is famous for its crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for water activities such as swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, jet-skiing, and parasailing.
2. Hiking: The island offers several beautiful trails and hiking routes, many of which lead to stunning views and hidden natural wonders.
3. Golf: Cyprus has a few world-class golf courses, and golf enthusiasts can enjoy playing on the greens with the stunning natural surroundings.
4. Cycling: One of the best ways to explore Cyprus countryside and villages is by cycling. There are several dedicated cycling routes and bike rental companies throughout the island.
5. Horseback riding: Horse riding is another popular activity in Cyprus. You can take a horseback ride through the lovely countryside, along the beach or even around some ancient ruins.
6. Tennis: Tennis enthusiasts can enjoy playing a game or two on one of the many courts in hotels or public facilities throughout Cyprus.
7. Fishing: Cyprus is a fishing paradise with several fishing spots around the island and many charter boats available for hire.
Overall, Cyprus is the perfect destination for those looking for an active and fun vacation.

Cyprus: few words on history and culture

Cyprus has a rich history and culture that dates back thousands of years. It has been inhabited by various civilizations, such as the Mycenaeans, Assyrians, Persians, and Romans. The island was also a part of the Byzantine Empire and the Ottoman Empire, before gaining independence in 1960.
The culture of Cyprus is diverse, with influences from its history and geography. The island has been a crossroads of different cultures, resulting in a blend of traditions, customs, and languages. The official languages are Greek and Turkish. The island has a significant Greek Cypriot majority and a smaller Turkish Cypriot community.
Cyprus is well-known for its delicious cuisine, which features fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Some popular dishes include souvlaki, moussaka, halloumi cheese, and baklava. Wine making has a long tradition in Cyprus, with some of the oldest wine producing regions still being used today.
Finally, Cyprus has a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional music, folk dancing, and architectural landmarks. You can find many sites of historical and cultural importance throughout the island, such as the ancient city of Kourion, the Tombs of the Kings, and the Old Town of Nicosia.

Cyprus: how to move around on holiday

Cyprus can be accessed via air and sea transport. The main airports in the country are Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport. Both airports handle flights from major international destinations.
Once you are in Cyprus, you can use various modes of transport to move around and explore the country. Taxis and rental cars are readily available and are ideal for those who wish to have more flexibility in their travels. However, there are also well-organized bus services that are reliable and affordable. Additionally, cycling is also becoming a popular option, especially for those who enjoy exploring at a slower pace.
The country is well connected by roads, and driving is on the left-hand side of the road. So, it's essential to keep this in mind if you plan on renting a car and driving in Cyprus. To hire a car to visit Cyprus, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Cyprus: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Cyprus with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the most typical foods of Cyprus along with a brief description: 1. Halloumi - a semi-hard, brined cheese made from a mixture of goat and sheep milk. It has a distinctive salty flavor and a unique, chewy texture that makes it ideal for grilling or frying.
2. Souvlaki - small pieces of meat (usually pork or chicken) marinated in olive oil, lemon juice and herbs then grilled on skewers. It is typically served with warm pita bread, fresh tomatoes, onions and a squeeze of lemon juice.
3. Tzatziki - a dip made from Greek yogurt, cucumber, garlic, olive oil and lemon juice. It is often served as an appetizer with warm pita bread, crackers or vegetables.
4. Kleftiko - a traditional Cypriot dish consisting of slow-cooked lamb or goat that is marinated in garlic, lemon juice and herbs then wrapped in parchment paper and baked in a clay oven. The result is tender and juicy meat that falls off the bone.
5. Kolokassi - a dish made from taro root that is boiled, mashed, then sautéed with garlic, onions, and tomatoes. It is often served as a side dish or as a main course with a salad.
6. Loukoumades - a type of sweet pastry made from fried dough balls that are drizzled with honey syrup and sprinkled with cinnamon. They are popular as a dessert or as a sweet snack.

Cyprus: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Cyprus can be considered a little more expensive than some other Mediterranean destinations, but it's still affordable compared to many European countries. The cost of living and travel expenses vary depending on the time of year, location and type of accommodation you choose. Luxury hotels and tourist areas tend to be more expensive, while smaller towns and villages may offer more affordable options. However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options in Cyprus, such as renting a holiday apartment, self-catering, and exploring local markets and supermarkets for affordable meals and snacks.

Cyprus: where to find accodation

There are several popular options for accommodation in Cyprus: 1. Hotels - Cyprus has a wide range of hotels that cater to all budgets and preferences. You can look for hotels on popular booking websites such as Booking.com, Hotels.com, and Expedia.
2. Airbnb - Airbnb has become a popular option for travelers who want to stay in local apartments or houses. You can find a range of options at different prices on the Airbnb website or app.
3. Hostels - If you're a budget traveler, hostels can be a good option. There are several hostels in Cyprus that offer affordable accommodation.
4. Vacation rentals - You can also look for vacation rentals, which are often furnished apartments or houses that you can rent for short stays. Websites such as HomeAway and VRBO offer a range of vacation rentals in Cyprus. Make sure to read reviews and compare prices before booking any accommodation to ensure you get the best deal for your trip to Cyprus.
You can check hotel prices in Cyprus here:
Booking.com

Cyprus: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Cyprus receives around 4 million tourists annually. The peak tourist season is usually between June and September, with a significant increase in visitors during the summer months. The island can get quite crowded during this time, especially in popular tourist destinations like Ayia Napa and Limassol. If you prefer to avoid large crowds, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, which are between April and May or September and October.
Cyprus is generally a safe country for tourists. Crime rates are low, and the locals are friendly and welcoming. However, as with any destination, it is always wise to take necessary precautions when traveling.
In terms of places to avoid, there are no specific areas that are considered dangerous or off-limits. However, like in any tourist destination, there may be areas where pickpocketing or other petty crimes are more likely to occur. It is recommended to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid any dark or isolated places at night. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the ongoing political situation on the island, particularly in the northern part of Cyprus, which is occupied by Turkey. Visitors should avoid any political demonstrations or gatherings and stay updated on the situation through credible news sources.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Cyprus on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Cyprus: events for tourists

Cyprus is known for its rich cultural and historical heritage which has resulted in numerous events and festivals throughout the year. Here are some of the most interesting events for tourists: 1. Limassol Carnival - held in February, Limassol Carnival is one of the most popular festivals in Cyprus. It features parades, music, and dancing with people wearing colorful costumes.
2. Anthestiria Flower Festival - held in May in the city of Larnaca, this festival celebrates the arrival of spring with flower exhibitions, music, and dance performances.
3. Kataklysmos Festival - held in June, Kataklysmos Festival is a celebration of the flood and the rebirth of life. It is celebrated in cities and towns across Cyprus with events including music, dancing, and water games.
4. Pafos Aphrodite Festival - held in September in the city of Pafos, this festival features performances of famous operas at the historic Pafos Castle.
5. Wine Festivals - Cyprus produces some excellent wines, and several wine festivals are held each year in various parts of the island. The most popular wine festival is held in Limassol in early September.
These events provide a glimpse into the local culture and tradition of Cyprus, and are a great way to experience the country's unique atmosphere.

Cyprus: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Cyprus, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Here's a sample two-week itinerary for a typical tourist visiting Cyprus: Day 1-3: Larnaca - Explore the old town and visit the Larnaca Castle - Visit the Hala Sultan Tekke mosque and the St. Lazarus Church - Relax on the beautiful Finikoudes Beach - Take a day trip to the neighboring town of Ayia Napa Day 4-6: Limassol - Visit the stunning Limassol Castle and the Limassol Archaeological Museum - Take a stroll along the Limassol Marina and enjoy some waterfront dining - Explore the Old Town area and shop for local souvenirs - Visit the Curium Beach and Ancient Curium for a dose of history and sunbathing.
Day 7-9: Paphos - Visit the famous Paphos Archaeological Site and see ancient buildings and mosaics - Take a trip to the stunning Aphrodite's Rock and enjoy swimming in the clear waters - Visit the Tombs of the Kings underground tombs for a bit of archaeology and history - Relax at the Coral Bay beach and admire the stunning views.
Day 10-12: Troodos Mountains - Enjoy scenic mountain drives and hikes - Visit the beautiful Kykkos Monastery which houses a famous icon of the Virgin Mary - Explore the village of Omodos, known for its wine production.
- Visit the famous Venetian bridges of Troodos Day 13-14: Larnaca - Return to Larnaca for your final days and visit any spots you might have missed previously - Spend time enjoying delicious Cypriot cuisine and local culture - Relax at the famous mckenzie beach.
There you have it, a sample two-week itinerary for a tourist visiting Cyprus. Enjoy your trip!

Cyprus: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Cyprus described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Agia Marina is a small town located in the Larnaca district of Cyprus, close to the famous Larnaca Bay. The town is well-known for its beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning natur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agia Marina
- Agia Marina Xyliatou is a small village located in the Nicosia district of Cyprus, approximately 45 kilometers northwest of the capital city of Nicosia. The village is surrounded by beautiful forested... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agia Marina Xyliatou
- Agia Napa is a resort town located in the southeastern coast of the island of Cyprus. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. The town was once a small fish... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agia Napa
- Agia Triada is a small, picturesque village located on the southeastern coast of Cyprus, near the city of Larnaca. The village is known for its beautiful, sandy beaches which attract visitors during t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agia Triada
- Agia Varvara is a small rural village located in the district of Nicosia, Cyprus. It is situated approximately 12 kilometers southwest of Nicosia and has a population of around 700 people. The village... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agia Varvara
- Agios Epiktitos is a charming village situated in the Troodos Mountains of Cyprus, approximately 25 kilometers south of the capital city of Nicosia. The village is located at an altitude of 1100 meter... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agios Epiktitos
- Agios Georgios is a small village located on the northern coast of the Mediterranean island of Cyprus. It is situated near the border between the territory controlled by the Republic of Cyprus and the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agios Georgios
- Agios Nikolaos is a picturesque village located in the eastern region of Cyprus, near the popular resort towns of Protaras and Ayia Napa. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agios Nikolaos
- Agios Theodoros is a small village located in the Larnaca district of Cyprus, near the southern coast of the island. It is situated about 38 kilometers west of Larnaca and 6 kilometers from the sea.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agios Theodoros
- Agios Tychonas is a coastal village located on the eastern coast of Cyprus. It is situated between the cities of Limassol and Amathus and is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agios Tychonas
- Akoursos is a small village located in the west of Cyprus, in the Paphos district. It is situated on the hillsides between the towns of Coral Bay and Peyia, and it is known for its beautiful views of ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Akoursos
- Anogyra is a village located in the Limassol District of Cyprus. It is approximately 36 kilometers west of Limassol and 12 kilometers northwest of Avdimou. The village has a population of around 800 p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anogyra
- Avdellero is a small village located in the southeastern part of Cyprus, near the coast. It is situated within the Larnaca district, and is known for its beautiful beaches and natural scenery. The vil... CONTINUE here for a trip to Avdellero
- Ayia Napa is a popular beach resort located in the southeastern coast of the island of Cyprus. It is known for its breathtaking beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush greenery, and vibrant nightlife. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ayia Napa
- Cape Greco is a beautiful natural area located on the southeastern coast of Cyprus, near the popular tourist destination of Ayia Napa. It is known for its stunning clear blue waters, dramatic cliffs, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cape Greco
- Deryneia is a small town located in the eastern part of the island of Cyprus, near the border with the Turkish-occupied north. It is situated about 6 kilometers northwest of the popular tourist destin... CONTINUE here for a trip to Deryneia
- Geroskipou is a small historic town located in the Paphos district of Cyprus. It is known for its beautiful beaches, delicious local cuisine, and the famous Geroskipou town square where you can find t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Geroskipou
- Kalavasos is a small village located in the Larnaca District of Cyprus, about 30 kilometers west of the city of Larnaca. It is situated on the southern slopes of the Troodos Mountains and is surrounde... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kalavasos
- Kalo Chorio (which means "good village" in Greek) is a small village located in the eastern part of Cyprus, close to the city of Larnaca. It is known for its rich history, traditional architecture, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kalo Chorio
- Kato Akourdaleia is a small traditional village located in the Paphos district of Cyprus. It is situated at an altitude of approximately 450 meters above sea level, and it is surrounded by beautiful g... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kato Akourdaleia
- Kato Arodes is a small village located in the Paphos district of Cyprus. It lies approximately 20 kilometers north of Paphos town and is situated at an altitude of 498 meters above sea level. The vill... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kato Arodes
- Kato Drys is a small traditional village located in the Larnaca District of Cyprus, about 30 minutes from Larnaca city. It has a population of around 200 people and is known for its well-preserved tra... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kato Drys
- Kato Lefkara is a traditional village located in the Larnaca district of Cyprus. It is famous for its beautiful cobblestone streets, traditional stone houses, and lace embroidery. The village is also ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kato Lefkara
- Kato Paphos is a coastal city located in the southwestern part of the island of Cyprus. It is known for its historic landmarks and archaeological sites, such as the Tombs of the Kings and the Paphos A... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kato Paphos
- Kato Pyrgos is a small village located on the north coast of Cyprus, near the border with the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. It has a population of around 400 permanent residents and is popular ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kato Pyrgos
- Kato Stavros is a small village located in the eastern part of Cyprus, near the town of Famagusta. It is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters, making it a popular destination for t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kato Stavros
- Kiti is a small village located in the Larnaca District of Cyprus. It is approximately 10 kilometers southwest of Larnaca town and about 1 kilometer from the Mediterranean Sea. The village has a popul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kiti
- Kornokipos is a village located in the Larnaca district of Cyprus. It is situated approximately 25 kilometers east of Larnaca city and is known for its traditional architecture and scenic surroundings... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kornokipos
- Kornos is a small village located in the Larnaca district of Cyprus. It is situated approximately 25 kilometers west of Larnaca city and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The villa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kornos
- Kouklia is a historic village located in the southwestern coast of Cyprus, near the city of Paphos. It is known for its rich history and archaeological sites, including the Sanctuary of Aphrodite, whi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kouklia
- Kourion is an ancient Greek city-kingdom located on the southwestern coast of Cyprus. It was founded in the late 12th century BC and was an important center of trade and culture throughout the Helleni... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kourion
- Larnaca is a city located on the southern coast of the island of Cyprus. It is the third largest city in the country and has a population of approximately 75,000 people. Larnaca is known for its beaut... CONTINUE here for a trip to Larnaca
- Latchi is a small fishing village located on the north-west coast of the island of Cyprus. It is known for its beautiful and unspoiled surroundings, with clear blue waters and a long sandy beach. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Latchi
- Limassol is a city and a seaside resort located on the southern coast of Cyprus. It is the second-largest city in the country and a major economic center, known for its bustling port and commercial ac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Limassol
- Mandria is a small peaceful village located in the Paphos district of Cyprus, just 10 minutes away from Paphos International Airport. The village is situated just a stone's throw away from the Mediter... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mandria
- Miliou is a small picturesque village located in the Paphos District, Cyprus. It is situated on the hills near the Akamas Peninsula, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Miliou is ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Miliou
- Monagri is a historic village located in the Limassol District of Cyprus. It is situated approximately 27 kilometers northwest of the city of Limassol and sits at an altitude of 400 meters above sea l... CONTINUE here for a trip to Monagri
- Nicosia is the capital city of Cyprus, located in the geographical center of the island. It is also the largest city in Cyprus with a population of approximately 310,000 people. Nicosia has a rich and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nicosia
- Pafos is a coastal city located in the southwestern part of Cyprus. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times and is even considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the main attractions ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Pafos
- Palaichori is a small village located in the Troodos Mountains of Cyprus. It is known for its natural beauty, traditional architecture, and stunning views. The village is surrounded by pine forests an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Palaichori
- Paralimni is a town located in the southeast of the island of Cyprus, near the popular tourist destinations of Ayia Napa and Protaras. It is the largest town in the Famagusta District and has a popula... CONTINUE here for a trip to Paralimni
- Peristerona is a small traditional village located in the Pafos (Paphos) district of Cyprus, approximately 22 kilometers northeast of the city of Pafos. It is situated at an altitude of around 450 met... CONTINUE here for a trip to Peristerona
- Peyia is a village on the western coast of the island of Cyprus, located about 14 kilometers northwest of the city of Paphos. It is known for its stunning sea views, beautiful sandy beaches and charmi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Peyia
- Polis is a picturesque town located in the northwest of Cyprus, near Akamas peninsula. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and traditional Cypriot villages. The town has a rich... CONTINUE here for a trip to Polis
- Potamitissa is a small village located in the Limassol district of Cyprus. It is situated in the Troodos Mountains, and its altitude ranges from 600 to 950 meters above sea level. The village has a po... CONTINUE here for a trip to Potamitissa
- Protaras is a popular tourist destination located on the eastern coast of Cyprus, near the more well-known city of Ayia Napa. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a wide ran... CONTINUE here for a trip to Protaras
- Skarinou is a small village located in the Larnaca district of Cyprus. It is situated on the southern slopes of a hill range, about 35 kilometers from the city of Larnaca. The village is known for its... CONTINUE here for a trip to Skarinou
- Sotira is a village located in the Famagusta district of Cyprus. It is situated on the east coast of the island, not far from the popular beach resorts of Ayia Napa and Protaras. The village has a pop... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sotira
- Troodos is a mountain range in the center of Cyprus, located approximately in the middle of the island. It is Cyprus' largest mountain range, and its highest peak, Mount Olympus, reaches an elevation ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Troodos
- Xylotymbou is a village located in the Larnaca district of Cyprus. It has a population of around 3,000 residents and is situated approximately 10 kilometers from the city of Larnaca. Xylotymbou is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Xylotymbou


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