Cyprus: a Comprehensive Guide on What You Should to Know Before Your Journey
Cyprus enjoys a climate similar to that of Tunisia and Turkey, but it has fewer all-inclusive hotels and entertainment options. This makes it an ideal place for those seeking a more independent and relaxing vacation.
Families are often drawn to Cyprus for its calm environment, while younger travelers flock to Ayia Napa, famous for its lively nightlife.
In this guide, we will explore Cyprus’s main resorts, local food, and must-see attractions.
General Information
- Sea: The Mediterranean Sea
- Travel Season: From April to November
- Average Temperature: Ranges from 21°C to 32°C
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Languages: Greek and Turkish are the official languages, but English is widely spoken across the island
A Brief History of Cyprus
In 1974, a conflict divided Cyprus into two parts: the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Turkish forces took over about 35% of the island, but only Turkey recognizes the TRNC. People commonly refer to the two areas as Southern Cyprus (the Republic) and Northern Cyprus (the TRNC).
Read more about the Cyprus conflict – Wikipedia
A dividing line, monitored by United Nations peacekeeping troops, runs across the island, creating a buffer zone between the two regions. Tourists visiting the Republic of Cyprus can easily travel to the TRNC without a special visa. However, if you enter Northern Cyprus, you cannot legally return to Southern Cyprus.
While both regions boast beautiful beaches and various attractions, they differ in culture, religion, language, and currency. Generally, a trip to the TRNC may be less expensive, although prices can vary due to fluctuating exchange rates of the Turkish lira.
Climate in Cyprus
Cyprus has a great swimming season that lasts from June to November. During these months, the sea stays warm, with temperatures above 22 °C and reaching about 27 °C in August. From May to September, rain is quite rare along the coast, so you can count on a lot of sunny days.
In October and November, the weather remains pleasant but can be a little unpredictable. You might experience sudden rain showers that can interrupt the sunshine for a short time. When I visited, I was fortunate to enjoy warm temperatures of 27 °C, which were perfect for swimming and relaxing in the sun.
In the winter, as well as in late autumn and early spring, the average temperatures range from 15 °C to 18 °C. During this time, you can expect to feel stronger winds, and in the mountainous areas, there is even a chance of a little snowfall.
Currency and Payment Methods
In tourist areas of Cyprus, visitors usually pay with credit or debit cards, and even small souvenir shops have payment terminals for this.
It’s a good idea to have some coins and smaller bills on hand. This will help you cover expenses like bus fares, parking fees, street food, or handmade souvenirs from local artisans. Having cash can make these small purchases easier.
Getting to Cyprus
Cyprus has two main international airports: Larnaca and Paphos.
Larnaca Airport is located on the southeastern coast of the island. It’s close to popular resorts like Larnaca, Ayia Napa, and Protaras.
Paphos Airport, on the other hand, is found on the western side of Cyprus. This airport mainly serves budget airlines, making it a good option if you plan to explore the western areas of the island.
Traveling from the Airport to the City
If you’re heading to Larnaca or Paphos for vacation, getting to the city from the airport is easy. Both airports have city bus services that run frequently. However, if you plan to travel to other cities after you arrive, it can be a bit trickier. Taxis can be quite expensive, and intercity buses don’t run as often. A good option is to rent a car directly at the airport, especially during busy times, so it’s best to book in advance.
From Larnaca Airport
A taxi ride from Larnaca Airport to Limassol typically costs between €60 and €80. You can easily order a taxi using mobile apps like Bolt, Cabcy, or inDrive. The trip usually takes about 50 minutes, and the price will vary depending on where you’re going.
If you’re looking for a cheaper option, the Limassol Airport Express bus costs €10 for adults. You can buy tickets in cash from the driver. However, note that this bus only runs about once an hour and not at night. If you miss a bus, you’ll have to wait for the next one or take a taxi.
For trips to Ayia Napa, Protaras, or Nicosia, the Kapnos Airport Shuttle is a good choice, with fares between €9 and €13 for adults. Keep in mind that there are only five trips each day to the beach resorts, while buses to the capital run roughly every hour.
Buses also connect to Larnaca from the airport, like route number 407, which costs €1.50.
From Paphos Airport
The Limassol Airport Express also provides service between Paphos Airport and Limassol. However, its schedule is less regular, with only three to six buses running each day.
From Paphos, you can also take the Kapnos Airport Shuttle to Larnaca or Nicosia. A ticket will cost you €16, and there is only one to three buses departing daily for these destinations.
Additionally, bus number 612 offers hourly service to the center of Paphos, with a fare of €1.50.
Cities of Cyprus
Enchanting Limassol: History, Harbor, and Heritage
Limassol is a great place to stay if you want to explore Cyprus. It is conveniently located, allowing you to reach most major towns within a 45 to 60-minute drive.
In the center of the Old Town, you’ll find Limassol Castle. This historic site was controlled by Richard the Lionheart, the King of England, after the year 1191. Many historians believe that this is where he married Princess Berengaria of Navarre. Today, the castle houses the Cyprus Museum of the Middle Ages, where you can see a variety of exhibits, including stone tombstones, weapons, armor, coins, and pottery. Admission to the museum costs €4.50.
For a relaxing walk, visit the harbor or Limassol Marina. This area features a lovely square with a fountain, a cultural center, and a fitness facility that includes a swimming pool, as well as a free-access beach. During the day, you can enjoy the sight of pristine white yachts. In the evening, the area lights up with colorful decorations, creating a romantic atmosphere ideal for special outings.
Paphos: A Captivating City in Cyprus
Many visitors believe that Paphos is the most charming city on the island of Cyprus. Founded in the 4th century BC, it was once the capital of the island. Surrounded by beautiful nature reserves and mountains, Paphos is reflected in the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea. According to Greek mythology, this is the spot where Aphrodite, the goddess of love, emerged from the sea foam. This legend adds a magical touch to the area, and you can find symbols and references to Aphrodite on many signs, souvenirs, and promotional materials throughout the city.
Paphos has two main areas: Pano Paphos (also called Ktima) and Kato Paphos. Pano Paphos is located on a hill and serves as the administrative center of the city. Here, visitors can stroll through quaint old neighborhoods with classical architecture.
On the other hand, Kato Paphos lies along the coast and is the heart of the city’s tourism, filled with hotels, souvenir shops, restaurants, and many attractions.
A key historical site in Paphos is the Archaeological Park of Kato Paphos, found in the lower part of the city. This outdoor park features the ruins of the Castle of the Forty Columns, which dates back to the 7th century AD. It also includes the remnants of four luxurious villas from the 2nd to 4th centuries, known for their stunning mosaic floors. In addition to these, you can explore the remains of a marketplace, an amphitheater, and a temple, as well as a newly added lighthouse. Ongoing excavations are still uncovering more of the area’s rich history. Admission to the park costs €4.50.
The Kato Paphos promenade stretches about 5 kilometers and is a popular and beautiful place for walking and relaxing in the city. A leisurely stroll along the promenade can lead you to the charming Paphos Castle. Furthermore, as a nod to the city’s connection with Aphrodite, a sculpture of the goddess stands on a large rock by the waterfront, looking out over the harbor. This reinforces Paphos’s identity as the city of love.
Exploring Larnaca: A Vibrant Port City Rich in History
Larnaca is a lively port city famous for its many historical sights. If you’re planning a visit, it’s a great idea to set aside an entire day to explore. You can take a leisurely walk along the palm-lined promenade, enjoy a boat ride, and relax with a refreshing frappe—an iced coffee with milk—at one of the charming street cafés.
One of the city’s standout attractions is the Church of St. Lazarus. This active Orthodox church is not only an important destination for Christian pilgrims but also a site of great historical significance. Built in the 9th century and designed in the Byzantine style, it is among the oldest places of worship on the island. Inside, you can find the relics of Saint Lazarus, and the ringing of its bells echoes throughout Larnaca.
Just a short distance away is the Salt Lake, which is also associated with the legend of Saint Lazarus. Locals recommend visiting this natural wonder in the winter when the lake is full of water and attracts many pink flamingos.
From the Church of St. Lazarus, you can stroll down the cobblestone streets that lead to the promenade. Following this path will take you to the port, where you can embark on a boat trip. These five-hour excursions are quite affordable, starting at just €22 per person.
At the southern end of the promenade, near Finikoudes Beach, you’ll find the historic Larnaca Castle. Originally built as an Ottoman fortress in the 14th century, it was renovated by the Turks in 1625. After the British took over the island in the late 19th century, the castle was converted to house the judicial police. It served as a prison and site for executions until 1948, when the last execution took place. After that, the police left, and the Larnaca Historical Museum was established inside the castle. Admission to the museum is very affordable at only €2.50.
Ayia Napa: A Fun-Filled Destination for Young Travelers
Ayia Napa is a lively spot that attracts many young travelers. The city is famous for its wide range of bars and nightclubs, which mostly operate during the tourist season. If you want a break from beach activities, the area has plenty of interesting attractions to check out.
One must-see site in the town center is the Ayia Napa Monastery. Established in the 15th century, this well-preserved building was renovated in the mid-20th century, and today it operates as a museum rather than a functioning church. Near the southern entrance, you’ll find a plane tree that local legends say is over 600 years old.
In 2021, a new harbor opened in Ayia Napa. Even if you’re not planning to rent a yacht or take a boat tour, this waterfront area is perfect for a leisurely walk. The harbor is lined with restaurants, cafes, and villas, all painted in light colors. There’s also a swimming pool that connects beautifully with the sea. If you’re looking to relax on the beach, you can rent two sun loungers with an umbrella for €40, which includes two towels and two bottles of water. This beach offers excellent service, with waitstaff bringing you food and drinks, calming music playing in the background, and the option to enjoy the pool whenever you like.
For those seeking thrills, don’t miss WaterWorld, the largest water park in Europe. It’s themed around ancient Greek mythology and features 18 different attractions, including a slide that lets you reach speeds of up to 40 km/h. An adult ticket costs €45, while a child’s ticket is €27.
On the outskirts of Ayia Napa, you’ll find an exciting open-air sculpture park. Opened in 2014, this park regularly adds new exhibits every winter during an annual sculpture symposium, attracting talented artists from around the world. The sculptures are beautifully displayed against the stunning backdrop of the blue sea. It’s best to visit early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperatures are cooler, as there isn’t much shade in the park. Admission is free, and the park is open 24/7.
Exploring Nicosia: A Unique Capital City
Nicosia, also known as Lefkosa, is the only capital in the world divided by a buffer zone between two countries. In Nicosia, the Agios Dometios checkpoint is the main crossing for vehicles moving from the south to the north. If you’re walking, you can cross at Ledra Street, where passport checks are quick and usually take just a few minutes. Later, we will explore more about Northern Cyprus and its Turkish side.
Nicosia is surrounded by mountain ranges and does not have direct access to the sea. This makes it different from other capital cities.
It’s a good idea to spend at least one day exploring Nicosia. This time will help you see both the contrasts and the similarities between its two cultures. In the city, you can find remains of Venetian fortress walls next to busy oriental bazaars. Elegant Orthodox cathedrals sit alongside beautiful mosques. Nicosia has a charming European feel and many museums, including some focused on contemporary art.
At the center of the city is the Old Town. It is surrounded by walls built by the Venetians in the 16th century to protect against the Ottomans.
Near these historic walls is Eleftheria Square, designed by the well-known architectural firm Zaha Hadid. This square has won several awards, including in the “Urban Design” category of the Architecture MasterPrize. Eleftheria Square was built in a former dry moat, turning it into a modern park. The park features trees, walking paths, paved areas, fountains, and creatively designed benches.
Beaches of Cyprus
In 2024, Cyprus had 59 beaches that received the Blue Flag award. This award highlights the quality and safety of these beaches. Each year, beaches are evaluated based on factors like how clean the sea is, the state of the shoreline, and the available facilities.
All beaches in Cyprus are managed by local authorities, so you can access them for free. The government regulates the prices for sunbeds and umbrellas, setting a maximum fee of €2.50. Visitors can also bring their own loungers or towels. The beaches offer facilities like changing rooms, restrooms, showers, bars, and small cafes.
Beaches of Ayia Napa
Nissi Beach is among the most popular beaches in Cyprus. It is often compared to the Maldives because of its soft, white sand and clear waters. However, it can be very crowded and mostly attracts tourists, particularly those who speak Russian.
Just 2 kilometers away is Makronissos Beach. It has similar fine sand but provides a quieter atmosphere. The beach gently slopes into the water, making it a great choice for families with children. Adults can swim comfortably without worrying about scraping their knees on the seabed.
Konnos Beach is located in a beautiful cove at the edge of Cape Greco National Park. It is surrounded by scenic cliffs and pine forests. Sometimes, people consider Konnos Beach to be part of Protaras, as it marks the boundary between the village and Ayia Napa. A winding road leads to this beach, offering lovely viewpoints that are perfect for taking photos. The unique underwater landscape and clear waters display a stunning mix of blue shades, from bright azure to deep turquoise.
Beaches of Protaras
Protaras, located just north of Ayia Napa, is known for its peaceful atmosphere, making it a great spot for family vacations. The coastline is lined with lovely bays that offer beaches with gentle water access.
Fig Tree Bay Beach is a standout destination, regularly ranked among the top 25 beaches in Europe by Tripadvisor. This beach gets its name from nearby fig trees. While the sand here is a bit yellower compared to the beaches in Ayia Napa, the stunning sea remains a major attraction.
Beaches of Paphos
When visiting Paphos, you’ll find most beaches have a mix of sand and pebbles, with some rocky areas. If you want to avoid rocky surfaces, Coral Bay Beach, just 12 kilometers from downtown Paphos, is a great choice. It features a soft stretch of imported light yellow sand mixed with coral fragments, offering a gentle entry into the water. This beach is well-equipped with amenities, including a massage facility, for a relaxing day out.
In contrast, Lara Beach offers a more untouched and natural experience. With no infrastructure, it provides a wild atmosphere. This beach is particularly known for being a turtle nesting ground during the summer and early autumn, which has led to restrictions on sunbeds, public transport access, and dog walking to safeguard the wildlife.
Pissouri Beach is another beautiful spot, nestled in a small bay between Paphos and Limassol. In the fall, it becomes a quiet retreat with fewer visitors, creating a serene environment. The beach features both sand and pebbles, making it more appealing to adults than families. It’s a good idea to wear water shoes due to the small stones on the beach. For those exploring the area, a walk to the left will take you to a nudist beach.
Beaches of Larnaca
Finikoudes Beach is named after the famous promenade in Larnaca and stretches for 600 meters. It’s a lively spot perfect for relaxation and fun. If you want to take a break from sunbathing, just walk across the palm-lined walkway to find a street full of dining options.
Another popular destination in Larnaca is Mackenzie Beach, known for its soft gray-yellow sand and shallow waters. Families with young children love this beach because it’s safe for them to play. Additionally, aviation enthusiasts enjoy it due to its closeness to the airport, allowing for unique photos of planes flying overhead.
Beaches of Limassol
Limassol has many sandy beaches that are easy to access. The coastline is long, with beaches flowing into each other. Dasoudi Beach, located in the eastern part of Limassol, takes its name from the Greek word for “forest” because of the nearby eucalyptus grove. This grove creates a park-like setting that merges beautifully with the sandy beach.
The sand found on Limassol’s beaches has a gray hue due to its volcanic origins, giving them a unique appearance.
Located about 19 kilometers from Limassol, Kourion Beach features both sand and pebbles. It is situated next to the hill where the ancient city of Kourion’s ruins are found. We discovered this beach while visiting the archaeological park. This area is protected from tall buildings, including hotels, to preserve the environment. Kourion Beach can be windy, leading to choppy waves. If you prefer calmer waters, you might want to look elsewhere.
Natural Attractions
Petra tou Romiou Bay
Located near Paphos, this famous site is known as the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite. The impressive rock formation, called Petra tou Romiou, is said to bring beauty, youth, and lasting love to those who touch it while in the water. Nearby, on Aphrodite Beach, couples often search for heart-shaped stones as symbols of eternal love.
Akamas National Park
Akamas National Park is situated on the Akamas Peninsula in the northwest part of Cyprus. This park boasts a rich variety of plant life and is home to about 150 bird species, including the endangered griffon vulture. It also hosts various mammals and reptiles, like the Caretta Caretta turtles.
Many visitors come to Akamas to escape the busy resorts and enjoy the natural surroundings, beautiful beaches, and explore one of the island’s most scenic trails—the Aphrodite Trail. This 7.5-kilometer path winds through hills and forests, leading to a viewpoint with stunning views of the coastline.
Since regular vehicles can’t drive through the park’s rugged terrain, adventure-seekers can rent a buggy or ATV to explore the area. Prices start at €65 per day for an ATV and €110 per day for a buggy.
For those wanting to experience Akamas from the water and swim in the famous Blue Lagoon, boat tours are available, or you can rent a boat yourself. A 2- to 3-hour trip from Latchi’s harbor starts at €20 for adults, while boat rentals begin at a minimum of €60 per hour. During the tourist season, you can operate a rental boat with a driver’s license from any country, after a brief safety introduction.
The sea caves at Cape Greco
The sea caves at Cape Greco are located along the coast and create a unique maze. They contain many grottoes, passageways, and tall columns. Interestingly, no legends about these caves involve Aphrodite. Visitors should be careful when exploring the caves, and wearing comfortable shoes is important. Some thrill-seekers jump from the cliff edges, but this can be dangerous due to hidden rocks just below the surface.
Getting to the caves from central Ayia Napa takes about 10 to 15 minutes by car. During the off-peak season, there are not many visitors, but summer brings a lively crowd.
From Ayia Napa, you can take boat trips to the caves, with tickets starting at €15. Prices vary depending on the type of boat and the length of the trip. Many boat routes also pass by the Lovers’ Bridge, another magical spot in Cyprus. This natural arch has its own legend; it is said that kissing your partner on the bridge will make your love stronger.
The Troodos mountain
The Troodos mountain range is the largest in Cyprus. Its highest peak, Mount Olymbos, rises to 1,952 meters above sea level. This area offers many attractions, including charming villages, beautiful Venetian bridges, ancient monasteries, historic churches, stunning waterfalls, and artificial reservoirs.
The climate in Troodos is very different from the seaside. Summers are usually drier and cooler, while winters can bring snow. There’s even a ski resort with four lifts where you can enjoy winter sports from late December until the end of March, as long as there’s enough snow.
Troodos also has many well-kept walking trails, making it perfect for hiking lovers. To fully enjoy the beauty and charm of this amazing region, it’s recommended to spend two to three days in the mountains.
Villages of Cyprus
Cyprus has many villages that are welcoming to tourists. These villages are upgrading their streets and museums, promoting local farming and crafts, and hosting small festivals and cultural events. In the mountainous regions, visitors can enjoy delicious local food and buy handmade items from local artisans.
Lefkara is one of the most historic villages in Cyprus. Its narrow, winding streets and charming houses have been preserved since the 10th century. Lefkara is famous not only in Cyprus but also around the world for its beautiful silverwork and traditional lace called lefkaritika. In 2009, UNESCO added this lace-making skill to its list of intangible cultural heritage.
Omodos is another lovely village with about 300 residents, most of whom are involved in winemaking. Visitors can taste various wines, while those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks can enjoy local delicacies like palouze, a jelly made from grape juice, and sujukos, a sweet made from boiled grape syrup.
Omodos is also known for its rich fruit orchards. You can find jams made from oranges, quinces, cherries, plums, pears, and apples sold throughout Cyprus. In April and May, the village blooms with vibrant gardens.
Kakopetria is yet another charming village, known for its beautiful scenery. Its small houses with open shutters and tiled roofs go up the hillside, and a mountain river flows nearby. The narrow streets are often lined with flower pots, and you might see a cat napping in the sun.
With over 1,200 residents, Kakopetria is one of the larger villages. It has enough attractions to keep visitors busy for an entire day. In the hot summer months, Kakopetria becomes a popular getaway for locals, making its quaint streets lively during the tourist season.
Monasteries in Cyprus
Christianity is the main religion in Cyprus. There are about 30 active monasteries on the island, with more than half dedicated to women.
The Macheras Monastery looks like a medieval fortress and is located in the Troodos mountain range, surrounded by beautiful forests. It was founded in the late 12th century and is still open for worship today. The monastery is home to the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary Macheras.
Local legend says that two hermits, Saints Neophytos and Ignatius, discovered this icon hidden in a cave covered with thick vegetation. They used a knife to clear the way through the underbrush. This story inspired both the name of the icon and the monastery; “macheras” means “knife” in Greek.
Monastery websites:
Kykkos is another well-known monastery in the Troodos range. It sits 1,140 meters above sea level and is one of the wealthiest and most thriving monasteries in Cyprus. Its rich history is reflected in its lavish decorations and modern buildings, even though it was founded in the 11th century. Kykkos is famous for its collection of rare and important icons. Among these is an icon of the Mother of God, which is said to have been created by St. Luke himself.
The monastery has two separate areas: one for tourists and another that serves as living quarters for the monks. Visitors can buy locally made liqueurs and wines at the gift shop.
Stavrovouni Monastery is another important site. It was established in 327 AD. This monastery contains an ancient cypress cross covered in silver, holding a piece of the Life-Giving Cross.
Stavrovouni is unique because women can’t enter the monastery, and men must not wear beach attire. If they do, they can borrow trousers at the entrance. While men explore the grounds, women can enjoy stunning views of the island’s southern coastline from a special observation point.
Northern Cyprus
Visiting Northern Cyprus comes with many myths and spooky stories. One common idea is that you can’t rent a car and drive there. This is not entirely true; you can definitely rent a car if you arrange the border crossing with your rental agency ahead of time.
Keep in mind that your insurance won’t cover you in the Turkish part of Cyprus. Before you go through passport control, you need to get local insurance. A three-day insurance policy costs about €20, while a month-long one is around €35.
Make sure your driver’s license meets international standards. Also, remember that border officials do not stamp international passports.
Driving and Currency in Northern Cyprus
In both Northern and Southern Cyprus, people drive on the left side of the road. In the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), it’s important to follow traffic laws closely because there are many speed cameras in use.
The currency used is the Turkish Lira (TRY). You can also use Euros, but expect a less favorable exchange rate. If you pay in cash, change will typically be given in Lira.
Distinct Features of Northern Cyprus
Northern Cyprus is known for its many Turkish flags, mosques, armed personnel, and street vendors. Despite these differences, both sides share stunning landscapes and beautiful blue waters.
Famagusta is especially notable for its medieval architecture, ancient ruins, and lovely sandy beaches, which are similar to those found in Ayia Napa.
Othello’s Castle
In Famagusta, you will find Othello’s Castle. There is a legend that events resembling those in Shakespeare’s play took place there. It’s unclear if the Venetian commander really killed his wife Desdemona at the castle. However, the fortress, built in the early 13th century, is definitely impressive. Its thick walls surround the Old City, and from the tower, you can see the Cathedral of St. Nicholas, which is now a mosque called Lala Mustafa Pasha Mosque.
The Ghost Town of Varosha
The abandoned area of Varosha in Famagusta attracts many visitors. Once a popular tourist spot with luxurious hotels, it was known for hosting celebrities. In 1974, after the Turkish invasion, much of Famagusta came under military control, and many Greek residents left, never to return.
Currently, Varosha is managed by Turkish military forces and the United Nations. Some main roads have been repaired, and bicycle paths have been added. Today, visitors can see many abandoned hotels and homes.
Exploring Kyrenia
Kyrenia is a lively port city and a popular resort in Northern Cyprus, known for its “33 tourist delights.” Visitors can relax on beautiful sandy beaches, visit the Shipwreck Museum, which displays parts of a 4th-century BC ship, or wander along the scenic harbor. Many enjoy trying their luck at the numerous casinos, as gambling is allowed in Cyprus, with Kyrenia featuring some of the finest casino hotels. The city is also close to the Kyrenia Mountains, home to three medieval castle ruins: Kantara, Buffavento, and St. Hilarion.
Hagia Sophia and Its Transformation
The Gothic Hagia Sophia Cathedral, located in the Turkish part of Nicosia, took over a century to build and was consecrated in 1325. It once hosted royal coronations. After the Ottoman conquest in 1571, this important Catholic cathedral was changed into the Selimiye Mosque, becoming the main mosque in Northern Cyprus. Gothic-style mosques like this can be found throughout the region.
Accommodation in Cyprus
When looking for a place to stay in Cyprus, you’ll find great apartments available for rent on sites like Airbnb and Booking.com. In August, the average price for a well-equipped apartment with a kitchen—often near the beach and usually with a swimming pool—is around €700 per week for two guests.
As you choose your accommodation, pay attention to the condition of the property and check for essential amenities. It’s a good idea to ensure there’s a dishwasher, iron, and hairdryer. Also, confirm that the air conditioning works well and that the bedding, including pillows, is comfortable.
If you’re planning a winter visit to Cyprus, make sure to check that the apartment or room has adequate heating. Before your arrival, it’s also wise to verify whether the electricity costs are included in your accommodation fee to avoid any surprise charges.
For travelers who are looking for a more luxurious stay, Cyprus has several five-star hotels. Here are the prices for the least expensive double rooms that include breakfast, for a week in September 2024:
- Elysiom Hotel in Paphos: €2615
- St Raphael Resort in Limassol: €2284
- Amarande in Ayia Napa: €1950
Transport
Buses
Buses are the cheapest way to get around Cyprus, but they might not always be the most convenient. In cities, the bus system is usually reliable, but connections between cities can be rare, and reaching mountainous areas can be tricky. Most intercity buses leave around 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, and there are no public transport options after that time. You can find bus schedules on the websites of local transport companies in each major city.
The cost for traveling between cities ranges from €4 to €9 for a one-way ticket. Within cities, the fare is €1.5, and if you’re traveling between 9:00 PM and 4:00 AM, it costs €2.5. You can buy tickets directly from the bus driver, so it’s a good idea to have some coins or small bills handy.
Car rental
If you want more flexibility, you can rent a car in Cyprus. Many local rental agencies compete with larger international companies, although some smaller businesses may not have websites, so you’ll need to visit them in person. Many of these local agencies may rent cars without requiring a deposit. You can usually pay in cash or with foreign bank cards. If you want to reserve a car in advance, you can use the Localrent website to pay by credit card. Rates for small vehicles start at around €25 per day, but during busy times, availability may be limited, and prices can rise to between €50 and €60 per day.
Car-sharing
There is one car-sharing service in Cyprus called Ridenow. You can use their vehicles throughout the island, excluding Northern Cyprus. However, you must start and end your rental at specific locations, such as Limassol, Nicosia, Larnaca, Paphos, or at airports. Rental costs depend on how long you use the car and the distance you travel: a short trip within Limassol costs about €5, while a ride from Limassol to Paphos will be around €25.
Rented and car-sharing vehicles have red license plates, which indicate to locals that the driver is a visitor. Keep in mind that having red plates won’t protect you from traffic fines, which can be quite high in Cyprus. For example, not wearing a seatbelt can result in a €150 fine, and running a red light or parking in spaces for people with disabilities can lead to a €300 charge.
Cuisine
Traditional Fare
When you visit a traditional Cypriot restaurant, you’ll find a delicious selection of classic dishes. The menu usually includes Greek salad, tzatziki (a refreshing yogurt-based sauce with cucumbers and garlic), moussaka (a layered dish filled with minced meat and eggplant, topped with béchamel sauce), and souvlaki (grilled, skewered meat). On average, expect to spend about €10 to €15 for a hot meal.
Meze
Meze, or mezedes, is a delightful assortment of small dishes, featuring both seafood and meat options. Many people think of meze as just a platter of cold cuts or seafood, but it actually consists of 10 to 30 individual courses, creating a unique dining experience.
For example, at the Avra Tavern in Ayia Napa, their meat meze includes kleftiko (slow-cooked lamb), sheftalies (minced lamb sausages), emisto (vegetables stuffed with minced meat), and stifado (rabbit stew). These dishes are served on small plates, often accompanied by appetizers such as olives, various sauces, freshly baked bread, fried halloumi cheese, and vegetable salad.
Cypriots take pride in their spices and sauces. One popular option is tahini, a nutritious paste made from ground sesame seeds and lemon juice. Tahini is often used in sauces for meat, fish, and vegetables, as well as in pastries and desserts. Cinnamon is another common spice in many dishes, so if you’re not a fan, be sure to let your waiter know.
Interestingly, jams in Cyprus are made not only from fruits and berries but also from vegetables like eggplants, tomatoes, and pumpkins. These vegetable jams can have a similar taste to fruit jams, with sugar making up about 50-70% of the ingredients.
Seafood
Even though Cyprus is located in the Mediterranean, seafood can be quite expensive here. Many restaurants import seafood from places like Thailand and Vietnam, which is often cheaper than sourcing fresh squid and octopus locally on a daily basis. For instance, at popular chains like Ocean Basket, many seafood dishes are made from frozen ingredients, costing around €35 for a plate.
However, we highly recommend trying the locally caught fish, such as sea bream or tsipura. You can often find these fresh catches at small taverns along the coast, away from touristy areas. Dishes featuring these local fish start at around €12.
Internet and Mobile Communication in Cyprus
In Cyprus, the main mobile service providers are Cyta, Epic, and Primetel. Getting a prepaid SIM card is easy—available at airports, gas stations, supermarkets, and kiosks. You won’t need to show your passport to buy one.
SIM card prices start at about €2. Each operator offers special packages for travelers. For example, Epic has a “Holiday Internet” plan for €20, which gives you unlimited internet for 15 days. Primetel offers the “Travel Internet Pack”, which provides 250 GB for €20, and it’s valid for 20 days.
Keep in mind that Northern Cyprus is seen as a separate area. To avoid high roaming charges, it’s best to turn off your mobile data when crossing this border.
If you don’t want to buy a SIM card, you can find Wi-Fi in many restaurants and hotels all around the island.
Safety Guidelines
Like any travel destination, it’s important to keep your belongings safe in Cyprus. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach, in your car, or on cafe tables, as they could be stolen easily.
The sun in Cyprus can be quite strong. Even in November, you can get sunburned, especially with the cool sea breezes that might make it feel cooler. Always apply sunscreen, even if it looks cloudy.
Also, remember that Cyprus is located in an area where earthquakes can happen. While many small earthquakes go unnoticed, it’s smart to know some safety tips in case an earthquake occurs during your visit. Being prepared can help you enjoy your time on the island with more peace of mind.
