Holidays in Cyprus

A holiday to Cyprus will take you to the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea with an area of 9251 sq. km. Located about 200 km north-west of Israel, 380 km north of Egypt, and 800 km east of the Greek mainland. It stands at the crossroads of Africa, Asia and Europe and this exotic mix is well-reflected in Cyprus' cultural history. Although a small country, a holiday to Cyprus is filled with overwhelming cultural heritage.

• Country Profile - Cyprus Holidays
• Getting Around Cyprus
• Climate for Cyprus Holidays
• Places of Interest in Cyprus
• Eating/Drinking in Cyprus
• Activities in Cyprus
• General Information for Holidays in Cyprus
• View Google Map of Cyprus

View a map of Cyprus

Country Profile - Cyprus Holidays

A holiday to Cyprus will take you to an island, according to Mythology the birthplace of the goddess of love and beauty, Aphrodite. The island is both an ancient land, with an eleven thousand year-old history and civilisation as well as a young independent republic since 1960.

Cyprus holidays give you the chance to experience a modern country that effortlessly marries European culture with ancient enchantment. Holidays in Cyprus are a discovery of a compact world of alluring beaches and fragrant mountain peaks, vineyards studded with olive trees and ancient ruins that stir the imagination, citrus groves and old stone villages where sweet wine flows as freely as conversations at the local cafe. Cyprus holidays are carefree where a sense of timelessness is magnified by the kindness of the people.

Cyprus holidays, hotels in Cyprus and flights to Cyprus are extremely popular amongst holidays thanks to its excellent warm climate, wonderfully hospitable people, first rate accommodation, delicious cuisine and its safe, friendly environment.

Cyprus holidays offer the contrasts from the cool pine covered Troodos mountains to the miles of attractive coastline with golden beaches and crystal clear waters, holidays in Cyprus have something for everyone.

Many of the tourists who take Cyprus holidays feel the urge to explore the island and its people by visiting the various towns and villages, archaeological sites and monuments, and they find that their stay is infinitely richer for it. A number of tours of Cyprus are available to holidaymakers taking you to interesting sites with the aid of a guide.

The enchanting island and its hospitable people will ensure you will return again and again to the 'Island of Love'. For more information about holidays to Cyprus within a particular resort, select one of the links below:-

Holidays in Ayia Napa; Holidays in Episkopi; Holidays in Larnaca; Holidays in Limassol; Holidays in Cyprus's Mountains & Villages; Holidays in Omodhos; Holidays in Paphos; Holidays in Pissouri; Holidays in Polis & Latchi; Holidays in Protaras

Capital: Nicosia

Population: 780,133 (approx.)

Language: Greek

Currency: Euro

Religion: Greek Orthodox

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Getting Around Cyprus

Taxis: Holidays in Cyprus are made easier by the plentiful supply of metered taxis.

Interurban buses: Various Bus companies link all major towns with daily routes at specified intervals.

Urban Buses: These operate frequently during daytime, during summer and timetables are extended till midnight. These buses operate in many tourist resorts so you can explore as much or as little on your Cyprus holiday.

Bicycles: Bicycles can be hired in most resorts and make a wonderful way to explore the resort when on holiday in Cyprus/

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Climate for Cyprus Holidays

Mediterranean holidays have plentiful sunshine throughout the year and Cyprus holiday is no exception. Holidays in Cyprus benefit from ideal weather with sunny days and fine temperatures almost every day with nine months of summer and three of spring. Autumn and winter do not really exist, and the rainy season is short. Snow falls only on the highest mountains in January and February.

Cyprus holidays - 5 Day Forecast

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Places of Interest in Cyprus

Amathus - Limassol: Part of the ancient Kingdom of Cyprus where numerous tombs have been found. Excavations are still continuing at the Acropolis and Agora area of the ancient site. A must for history lovers, a holiday to Cyprus would be incomplete without visiting Amathus.

Kolossi Castle - Limassol: A fine example of military architecture originally constructed in the 13th century, and subsequently rebuilt in the form it is now, in the middle of the 15th century. It served first as the Grand Commander of the Knights Templar, and after the fall of Acre in 1291 for some years, as the headquarters of the Knights of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. 14 km (9 miles) west of Limassol, on the road to Paphos.

Kourion - Limassol: Kourion is also an important ancient city kingdom, and one of the more interesting and spectacular archaeological sites on the island with excavations still bringing new treasures to light. On a holiday to Cyprus the Kourion Museum is fascinating housing a collection of finds from nearby archaeological sites.

Tombs of the Kings - Paphos: Spread over a vast area, these impressive underground tombs date back to the 4th century BC. They are carved out of solid rock with some being decorated with Doric pillars. High officials rather than Kings were buried here, but the magnificence of the tombs gave the locality its name. If taking a Cyprus holiday near Paphos the Tomb of the Kings will leave you awestruck.

The Mosaics of Paphos - Paphos: The Mosaics of Paphos are considered amongst the finest in the Eastern Mediterranean. They mainly depict scenes from Greek mythology.

Petra Tou Romiou - Paphos: Birthplace of Aphrodite, Aphrodite goddess of love and beauty, rose from the waves in this strikingly beautiful spot. The Greek name, Petra Tou Romiou 'The Rock of the Greek' is associated with the legendary frontier-guard of Byzantine times Digenis Akritas, who kept the marauding Saracens at bay with amazing strength. It is said that he heaved this large rock into the sea destroying the enemy's ship. An extremely popular tourist attraction for Cyprus Holidaymakers.

Baths of Aphrodite - Polis: An area of breathtaking beauty associated with Aphrodite. According to legend, the goddess Aphrodite used to bathe in the pool of the nearby natural grotto, which is shaded by a fig tree. A trail from the Baths takes you to Fontana Amorosa (8 km from the Baths, at the end of the Akamas Peninsula). A holiday in Cyprus would not be the same without walking along this trail, where one can enjoy an incomparable view and unspoilt nature.

Larnaca Fort - Larnaca: Erected in 1625 by the Turks. This fort is now a museum and its inner courtyard is used as an open-air garden-theatre during the summer months.

The Pierides Museum - Larnaca: Contains a unique archaeological, medieval, post-Byzantine and Cypriot fork art collections gathered by five consecutive generations of the family. It also exhibits an old arsenal and a rich collection of old chartography of Cyprus and the Eastern Mediterranean.

Ayia Napa: Originally a fishing village it is now a major tourist resort. The charming medieval monastery dedicated to 'Our Lady of the Forests' stands in the middle of the village surrounded by a high wall. It's 16th century church is partly underground and cut into the rock. The Marine Life Museum can be found within the premises of the Ayia Napa Municipality. This area is very popular for young people looking for holidays in Cyprus where they can take in the lively nightlife including bars and clubs.

Cavo Greco: A National Forest Park at the southeastern end of the island between Ayia Napa and Paralimni. The uniqueness of the area is not only due to its natural beauty but also to the fact that it offers a wide range of interests such as swimming, diving, towed parachute, fishing, rowing, cycling, riding, climbing, airports and hiking.

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Eating/Drinking in Cyprus

A holiday in Cyprus is made even more special due to its fantastic cuisine, all over the island there are restaurants offering genuine Cypriot food. One of the best ways of enjoying Cypriot food is by ordering "meze", a large selection of a number of different local dishes.

There are no licensing hours and the highlight of the wine year is the annual wine festival in Limassol, usually held in September, when free wine flows and local food is on offer. If you are able to take a Cyprus holiday during the wine festival, be sure to pay a visit and you will be surprised by the quality and quantity of wines available.

It always nice to take home a memento of your holiday in Cyprus? How about the island's culinary delicacies such as wine, sweets like Shuchuco, Halloumi cheese and Chiromeri ham?

Nightclubs of all stripes are found in Limassol and Nicosia, Larnaca and Paphos but especially in Limassol and Ayia Napa. Ayia Napa is a resort in the eastern part of Cyprus now known as an international clubbing destination, widely recognised for its British House Garage sounds, up-and-coming DJs and festive atmosphere. The action usually gets started late - towards midnight.

Cyprus holidays offer panoply of choices for night owls of all feathers. You will find traditional entertainment - folk music and dancing at numerous tavernas and restaurants in the cities as well as in many villages. Tavernas offer a tantalising selection of local food, and dessert is often on the house for visitors. You're sure to enjoy this festive look into many of the colourful customs of old Cyprus.

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Activities in Cyprus

Holidays in Cyprus can be taken all year round so there are a huge variety of activities available including diving, golf, sailing, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, horse riding. For those who seeking holidays in Cyprus filled with relaxation and pampering there are plenty of spa and health centres around Cyprus.

Golf: Cyprus is quickly getting a reputation as the latest holiday Mecca for golfers. There are three 18-hole courses only a short drive from Paphos. The Aphrodite Hills hotel has a 18-hole standard championship golf course follows the scenic contours of the two plateaux that are divided by a central ravine. A premier Golf Academy and Pro Shop enhance your golf experience, while the Clubhouse offers delectable specialities and a breathtaking view to the golf course. The Tsada Golf Club near Tsada village is the oldest in Cyprus and is set in the grounds of a twelfth century monastery. The Secret Valley Golf Club is slightly further away, about 18 km east of Paphos.

Waterparks: "Water World" - Ayia Napa; "Fasouri Watermania" - Limassol; "Aphrodite" Waterpark - Paphos. A lot of surprises are waiting for you there. You'll be completely carried away by breath-taking high hills, swimming pools with artificial waves and many other water attractions for every age. Entertainment and water games will remind you the scenes of ancient Greek mythology.

Watersports: Water Sports All sorts of beach activities from water and jet skiing to windsurfing and pedal boating are catered for along the coast. Both the beaches backing onto hotels and those further a field provide equipment hire

Diving: There are over forty different dive sites in Cyprus. The best way to find out more is to visit one of the area's dive centres. Around Latchi and Akamas you will find the best scuba-diving available anywhere in Cyprus, with crystal clear water and no tides or strong currents to worry about.

Jeep Safaris: It's a unique day out for everyone to enjoy! You will be travelling in a four wheel drive "Land Rover Defenders", driven by professional friendly drivers who will take you to the heart of this beautiful island, normally inaccessible except by donkey!! You will be truly captured by the mystique and sounds of nature as you enjoy the true beauty of Cyprus. Jeep safaris are available to Troodos mountains and Akamas.

Cycling: Cyprus is a natural mountain-biking place. Its terrain offers many opportunities for exciting mountain-biking in different tracks, making the island a paradise for the sport's fans.

Due to the excellent weather conditions prevailing on the island, cycling sports can be enjoyed almost throughout the year.

Hiking: The Akamas peninsular, to the north of Paphos, provides an excellent area for walking as it has been virtually untouched by tourism and development. Further a field, numerous interesting walks can be found among the breathtaking Troodos mountains.

Skiing: Skiing for the winter lovers. Cyprus is also becoming established as a destination for winter sports. In Cyprus, snow-skiing can be enjoyed on the slopes of Mount Olympus (1951 metres a.s.l.), from the beginning of January to the end of March. Mount Olympus is only 3 km, from Troodos hill resort.

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General Information for Holidays in Cyprus

Time: +2 hours GMT

Electricity: 240 volts throughout Cyprus. All electrical appliances will require a 3 pin plug adaptor.

Weights and Measures: Kilo and Metric system.

Banks: Open from Monday to Friday from 08:30 - 12:30 and are not open on Saturday or Sunday. In the summer season banks offer a "Tourist Service", meaning they open in the afternoon usually from 15:15 - 17:15.

Passport/Visa: Passport valid for at least three months beyond the period of intended stay required by all except: (a) 1. nationals of EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland who hold a valid national identity card with the bearer's photograph. Visa not required for British passport holders.

Shopping: Join in the bustling activity of a colourful market where you'll find fresh produce, fish and meat, basket work and national specialities which make original and reasonably priced souvenirs. Purchases in Cyprus include lacework and embroidery, tablecloths, silks, basket work, pottery, silverware, leather goods and jewellery. Silver spoons and forks are a traditional symbol of Cypriot hospitality. Lefkara lace is famous throughout the world as one of the products most closely associated with Cypriot workmanship; the name originates from the village Lefkara. The local wines and brandy also make good purchases.

Most of the tourist and souvenir shops stay open until midnight.

Nov - Apr: 9:00 - 1:00 / 2:30 - 5:30

May - Oct: 9:00 - 1:00 / 4:00 - 7:00

Wednesday and Saturday is half-day shopping from 8:00 - 1:30 all year round.

Health: When in hot countries always remember to drink plenty of water and bear in mind that alcohol speeds dehydration. Due to a high mineral content in the tap water, it is advisable to drink bottled water. Cuisine overseas can vary from home and may contain ingredients, oils, and spices that your system is not used to. Therefore, it is advisable not to over indulge, especially at the beginning of your holiday. Should you require any medical assistance during your stay, please see your representative or see your Olympic notice board for the 24-hour medical emergency contact number.

Post Offices: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 12:30. The post takes about four days to reach the UK.

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