A Guide to Visiting Cyprus

Cyprus at a glance

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean, but it’s plenty more besides. According to legend, the Greek goddess of love was born on the paradise isle, where you’ll still find plenty of romantic spots. Cyprus is home to the energetic party town of Ayia Napa and incredible cultural quarters too. From ancient wonders at Paphos to the aquamarine waters of Coral Bay, you’re sure to find a resort that suits your tastes.

Intrigued? Design your perfect holiday with our complete guide to Cyprus.

Travel advice when visiting Cyprus

As the holiday destination of choice for about one million Brits every year, the Cypriot Republic is a safe and secure nation. Most visitors enjoy their stay without any problems, but it is still important to be aware of potential dangers.

Things to do in Cyprus

One of the most popular things to do in Cyprus is a trip across the border into the north. There are lots of rules about crossing the border, so taking a guided tour is often the safest and most convenient way to travel.

You will be able to explore the lush beauty of the natural landscape, religious buildings and unique Turkish-influenced culture. Golden Beach is an unspoilt location stretching for miles on the Karpaz Peninsula.

Nicosia is the last divided capital city on earth, where Venetian walls line the streets of a place trapped in limbo. In the Old Town you’ll find the Cyprus Museum, plus a handful of the country’s best artsy attractions.

Bring your passport, since much of the exquisitely crafted architecture is north of the Green Line. Keep an eye out for the meeting of cultures at the Selimiye Camii mosque – a Gothic building which was once a cathedral.

It is also possible to discover the unknown in southern Cyprus. Rural towns in the mountains close to Paphos Forest are packed with hidden treasures. You’ll find monasteries, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the beautiful Caledonia Waterfall in the Troodos Mountains.

Shopping in Cyprus

Once you’ve spent some time soaking up sunshine and indulging in the nightlife, you may be looking for somewhere to spend your spare euros.

Ledra Street is one of the best places to shop in Nicosia and is well worth a visit if you’re in the capital. Here you’ll find international coffee shop chains and trendy Cypriot boutiques. There are fashion shops selling products from every corner of the globe and niche comic shops tucked down side streets.

My Mall is Limassol’s star retail spot – a towering department store dome where you can buy everything from smartphones to apparel from the world’s biggest brands. The collection is housed under a glass roof alongside premium restaurants and even an ice skating rink.

If you’re staying near Paphos, there is no shortage of cute craft stores. The Place is simply unmissable; a great location to browse Old Town treasures. Inside, you can learn about traditional Cypriot workmanship including ceramic pottery and wood carving. This is more than just a gift store – you can even try wine tasting or relax in the traditional on-site ‘kafenio’ coffee shop.

Since this city is so bursting with old world charm, you may not be surprised to learn that there are more shopping delights in Paphos. Aphrodite Jewellery is one of the largest jewellery shops in the nation, where you can browse the island’s gems and shop for valuable trinkets.

Cyprus culture and art

You might come for sand and sea, but it is simply not worth missing the delights of the Cypriot cultural scene. The Cyprus Museum in Nicosia is an important landmark where archaeological treasures are housed in a British colonial building – which itself is a slice of history.

A great place to stroll from the city or the beach to be instantly transported. Step inside to find huge sculptures and themed exhibitions, then explore Larnaca’s other treasures including the Halcoessa Copper Art shop. Here, you can see local craftsmen creating copper homeware in the small workshop.

For a more immersive taste of Cypriot culture, head to the Kykkos Monastery in the Marathasa Valley. Here you will be able to appreciate the important role religion has always played in local life.

Of course, the city of Paphos is a cultural attraction in itself. Make sure you don’t miss the preserved Roman mosaics where art and history combine – it’s a great insight into the ancient world.

Outdoor adventure in Cyprus

Cyprus is home to Mount Olympus – not the version from Greek mythology, but ice-capped and impressive nonetheless. Seasoned explorers will love the views and there are even four ski slopes named after Greek gods and goddesses.

If you prefer to stay in the warmth of lower altitudes, try snorkelling at Cape Greco. These crystalline waters form part of the Cape Greco National Park, where coastal wildlife enjoys its own little haven.

Along the hiking routes you’ll see sea caves, beautiful clifftop flowers and rich marine life.

Look out for the Kamara tou Koraka natural ‘bridge’ – the scenery here is so stunning that you might spot newlywed couples using the romantic landscape as a backdrop for photographs. Inside the water you’ll see tropical fish and, if you’re lucky, even turtles.

Best times to travel to Cyprus

Cyprus enjoys warm weather in spring, autumn and even winter, since even December holidays are graced with mild temperatures of around 17°C. Since July and August can see temperatures soar close to 45°C, some people prefer to visit Cyprus in June and September when the sun is less intense.

Cyprus is busiest in July, with August following closely behind. May is a strong contender for the best time to visit Cyprus, drawing crowds but less densely while benefiting from cooler temperatures. December is the quietest time, so you could get good deals on winter sun.

Now you know what Cyprus has to offer, the next step is to decide which resort to book for your next Mediterranean escape.