About Cyprus

For many, Cyprus is a retreat where one feels safe and secure – a place where you can spend time with yourself and your thoughts.

Cyprus is a fairytale island that enchants with its beauty and contrasts. An island full of natural and rural landscapes, rich in charm and diversity.

The luxurious atmosphere of Cyprus’s hotels and villas, built to the most modern standards, alternates with the coolness of the cedar forests in the mountains, the tranquility of small villages, and the beauty of nature.

Cyprus is an internationally recognized tourist center with a well-developed entertainment industry and excellently preserved medieval and ancient heritage. The friendly eastern Mediterranean climate, the white, soft sand, and the crystal-clear sea make a vacation in Cyprus an experience of the highest level. The island’s hotels welcome guests all year round in the best traditions of national hospitality.

Capital: Nicosia Population: about 790,000 Language: Greek and Turkish Currency: Euro (EUR)

Climate: The climate is subtropical-Mediterranean, with around 330 sunny days a year. In summer, the air temperature is between +25 and +30 °C; in winter, it does not fall below +10 °C. The water temperature never drops below +20 °C, making swimming possible all year round. Rain falls mainly from the end of October to April.

Cyprus is inhabited by Greeks and Turks, separated by the “Green Line,” which is monitored by UN peacekeeping forces. Entering the Republic of Cyprus via Turkish ports and airports is considered illegal and is punishable. Tourists may take short excursions to the north, but only with special permission. Travel from the north to the south is prohibited.

Time zone of Cyprus: Summer and winter time correspond to the time in Kyiv.

Main resorts: Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos, Ayia Napa, Protaras.

Visitors can expect fascinating views from the viewpoints on steep cliffs, where Mycenaean Greeks once built temples for their gods – including the Temple of Aphrodite, goddess of love and beauty. One can attend performances in the Roman theater, which is still used today, or admire the impressive mosaic floors that once adorned the villas of Roman nobles.

In the cedar and pine forests of the Troodos Mountains, colorful Byzantine churches are hidden, their walls and apses covered with frescoes – ten of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Customs regulations: There are no restrictions on the import and export of currencies, traveler’s checks, or credit cards. Duty-free imports allowed: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 g of tobacco, 1 l of high-proof alcohol, 0.75 l of wine, 150 g of perfume, 300 g of eau de cologne, souvenirs worth up to 50 CYP. The import of parrots, fruit, live flowers, weapons (including gas weapons), drugs, and dangerous chemicals is prohibited.

It is forbidden to recover archaeological finds from the sea or take them out of the country without permission from the Department of Antiquities.

Transport: The cheapest transport in Cyprus is buses. The local “minibus” is about twice as expensive. Taxis can be hailed on the street, ordered through hotels, or called by phone from any shop or restaurant. There are two rates: daytime rate (06:00–20:30) and nighttime rate (20:30–06:00, about 15% more expensive). Luggage costs extra regardless of the time of day. For sightseeing tours, the price should be agreed upon in advance.

Rental cars: The minimum age is 25 years (18 at some rental agencies) and at least 2–3 years of driving experience. For weekly rentals, the mileage is unlimited. Not included in the price: insurance, VAT (15%), and a full tank (the car is returned empty).

Shopping: From October to April: 08:00–18:00 (break 13:00–15:00); closed Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. Most shops are closed on Sundays.

Common souvenirs include wines and liqueurs, the famous dessert wine “Commandaria,” lace handicrafts, leather goods, jewelry, and embroidery. For gourmets: Halloumi cheese, sweets like Loukoumi, Halva, and Soutzoukos (almond strings in grape juice syrup).

Restaurants, bars, cafes: Cypriot cuisine is based on seafood and Mediterranean ingredients. You should try feta and halloumi dishes as well as green walnuts in syrup. Popular drinks: Cypriot wines, liqueurs, and the local schnapps Zivania (up to 80% alcohol!). Many hotels and restaurants automatically add a 10% service charge – tipping is therefore not mandatory, but gladly accepted.

Tipping: 10% service is often included in the price. A small additional tip is appreciated.

Sights: Nicosia (Lefkosia), the capital, is one of the oldest cities in the world. Main attractions include the Famagusta Gate, the Byzantine church of Chrysaliniotissa, the Leventis Museum, the Faneromeni Church, and the Archbishop’s Palace.

Amathus – one of the oldest cities in Cyprus, east of Limassol, with ruins of early Christian basilicas, Aphrodite sanctuaries, and ancient baths.

Kourion – ancient city-state ruins with Roman baths, the Sanctuary of Apollo Hylates, a theater, and mosaics.

Troodos – nature park and ski resort, famous for its monasteries and UNESCO-protected churches.

Mini-cruises: From Cyprus, mini-cruises to Egypt, Israel, Syria, or Lebanon are possible. The tours usually include transfers, visas, German or Russian-speaking guides, full board, and accommodation on board. Price: from 800 USD.