Where in Cyprus does the sea end and the sky begin? It is impossible to answer this question! The azure shades flow into each other so smoothly that it seems as if you are in a world woven from turquoise light. The aroma of citrus groves makes your head spin, the sun hangs over the horizon like a red-hot disk, and the warm waves of the Mediterranean Sea bring ancient legends to the shore. According to one of them, it was here, from the foam of the sea, that the goddess of love Aphrodite emerged, who gave the island not only a name, but also an atmosphere shrouded in romance.
Today, Cyprus is not just a piece of land in the middle of the endless sea, but a place where eras, cultures and traditions meet, where you can wander through the ruins of ancient cities in the morning and watch the sunset in the evening, sitting in a coastal café with a glass of local wine. Where everyone will find a vacation to their liking - whether it is leisurely contemplation of historical monuments or carefree beach days.
But before packing our bags, let's describe: what does this island offer to guests?
Regions and resorts of Cyprus
Tourism is one of the main sources of income in Cyprus, which means that travelers are welcome here with open arms. Excellent beaches, developed infrastructure, a rich excursion program - you will not be bored.
Nicosia
The capital of Cyprus is the only major city on the island that is far from the sea, and it is the last city in Europe to be divided into two parts: Greek and Turkish. Tourists are attracted here no longer by a beach holiday, but by the spirit of history.
Larnaca
The city is for those who appreciate a measured vacation and do not like to overpay. There are sandy beaches, a gentle entrance to the sea, which is especially convenient for families with children, as well as ancient temples, cozy taverns and one of the most famous dive spots in the Mediterranean Sea - the sunken ferry "Zenobia".
Pathos
A legendary city associated with the name of Aphrodite. Not only ancient ruins and ancient necropolises are "located" here, but also luxury hotels designed for discerning tourists. Minus one is rocky beaches, but the views are amazing.
Limassol
The Cypriot capital of fun. Nightclubs, festivals, wine tastings - this city does not sleep even in winter!
Ayia Napa
The local "Ibiza" is an ideal resort for young people: bars, beach parties, active entertainment - from diving to jet skiing. But there are also secluded places for family recreation, you just need to move a little further from the center.
Protaras
A quiet corner with clear waters and picturesque beaches, where divers, families with children and those who want to spend a vacation away from the noise like to relax. If you suddenly want to have fun - just 15 minutes by taxi to Ayia Napa!
Climate and nature of Cyprus
The island pleases guests with a mild climate: summer here lasts from May to October, and the number of sunny days per year exceeds 300. Even in winter, you can see people sunbathing - the air temperature rarely drops below +15C! In the mountains, snow sometimes falls, but this is more exotic than a rule.
Cyprus is not only beaches, but also amazing nature. Mountain valleys, coniferous forests, vineyards, turbulent rivers... Also rare plants that cannot be found anywhere else. For example, the carob tree, which is called "black gold" here, or olive groves, symbolizing peace and prosperity - their branches are even depicted on the flag of the country.
How to pay in Cyprus
Cash always helps, so taking euros with you is a good idea. You can exchange currency in banks or round-the-clock exchange offices, but keep in mind that the exchange rate at the airport is less favorable. In Southern Cyprus, the official currency is the euro, and in Northern Cyprus, the Turkish lira is in use.
How to choose accommodation
The choice of accommodation in Cyprus is huge: from budget studios to five-star hotels. If you prefer to book a hotel in advance, it is best to compare prices on different services, check whether taxes are included in the price and whether there are any hidden fees.
In Cyprus, even 2-star hotels will have air conditioning, and breakfast, albeit modest, will be included in the price. More expensive hotels serve buffets, and some offer all-inclusive meals.
If you want more space and comfort, you can rent an apartment - it is often more profitable, especially if you travel with a company or family. For example, in Paphos, a studio or a small apartment can be rented for 400-500 euros per month, but in other resorts prices are higher.
Don't forget the sockets! In Cyprus, three-phase sockets with flat contacts are used, so you will need an adapter: you can buy it in a store (from 2 euros) or take it at the hotel reception.
What to do in Cyprus?
This island is not only for a lazy beach holiday - there are a lot of opportunities for active travelers and history lovers.
Beach holidays
Cyprus is the second country in the world in terms of the number of Blue Flag beaches (eco-friendly). The most popular resorts include:
- Ayia Napa – youth holidays, snow-white sand, foam parties and parties until the morning,
- Paphos – quiet beaches with golden sand, convenient for families with children,
- Limassol – volcanic sand with healing properties,
- Kourion is the best place for paragliders,
- Lady Mile is solitude and tranquility away from tourists.
The beaches are mostly municipal, the entrance to them is free, but you will have to pay separately for sun loungers, umbrellas and water activities.
Excursions
If you are interested in the past of Cyprus, pay attention to:
- The Bath of Aphrodite is the place where, according to legend, the goddess of love was born,
- The old quarter of Nicosia with churches and museums,
- Ancient Kourion – ruins of an ancient city and a theater with stunning sea views,
- Kykkos is the richest monastery on the island.
Tip: if you are planning a trip in the summer, go on excursions in the morning, before the sun is too hot.
Diving
For beginners, Cyprus is a great start in the underwater world. The most interesting places are:
- The ferry "Zenobia" is one of the 10 best sunken objects in the world (sorry for such a strange "name", but such a title was given to it by the divers themselves),
- The cruiser HMS Cricket (33 m deep) is a relic of World War II,
- Octopus Reef is a place where you can meet octopuses.
Wellness programs
Five-star hotels have spa centers with thalassotherapy - we highly recommend trying: programs include face and body care, aromatherapy, anti-cellulite and anti-stress treatments.
What to try in Cyprus?
Food in Cyprus is a separate pleasure, because under the influence of Greek and Middle Eastern cuisine, a special gastronomic style has developed here. Mandatory gastronomic minimum includes:
- Meze – up to 20-30 small appetizers (meat or fish), a kind of "snack set",
- Halloumi cheese – fried or "raw", it is the hallmark of the island,
- Stifado – beef stewed in wine with onions and spices,
- Moussaka – minced meat with vegetables and béchamel sauce,
- Loukoumades – honey donuts,
- Zivania is a local moonshine that should be tasted with the utmost caution!
In Cyprus, coffee is often drunk in small cups, and wine here is not just a drink, but part of the culture.
How to avoid problems on vacation?
Cyprus is considered a safe country, but it is still worth remembering the basic precautions:
- Do not leave things unattended. Pickpocketing, alas, happens,
- Be careful on the roads. There is left-hand traffic here,
- Observe the dress code in churches: it is better for women to wear a skirt and cover their shoulders, for men - long trousers (you can light, the main thing is not shorts).
- Do not discuss Northern Cyprus. This is an extremely sensitive topic for locals.
