Located in the east of the glittering Mediterranean Sea, the spectacular island of Cyprus is known for its rolling mountains, lush forests, rugged headlands and sandy beaches lapped by turquoise waters. It boasts a unique cultural heritage with a blend of historical influences including Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Cyprus features romantic archaeological finds such as the Temple of Aphrodite, the House of Dionysos, and the Tomb of the Kings. Visitors can look forward to an array of fantastic activities including: exploring the magnificent Kolossi Castle, a 15th-century fortress; visiting the Erimi Wine Museum, to learn about the history of a variety of locally produced wines; and discovering the 2000-year-old amphitheatre in the ancient city of Curium, a treasure trove of history. Soak up the sun-baked vistas, discover a multitude of scenic mountain treks and indulge in an array of heavenly halloumi.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Euro
Symbol: €
ISO code: EUR
Subunit: Cent
Banknotes: €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500
Coins: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1, €2
Banking
Card Transactions: Yes
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Yes
Diner’s club: No
Banking Hours:
Weekdays: Typically 09:00-17:00
Weekends: Limited hours or closed
Public Holidays: Yes (If yes, add hours)
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Cyprus Airways, Ryanair, easyJet
International Airports: Larnaca International Airport (LCA), Paphos International Airport (PFO)
Domestic Airports: None
Road:
Driving on the: Left
Tar roads: Yes
Gravel roads: Limited
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: No
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Limited to neighboring countries
Water taxis: Limited
Leisure cruises: Limited
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: Yes
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes
Ice: Yes
Meat: Yes
Street food: Yes
Local cuisine:
Cypriot cuisine is a fusion of Greek, Turkish, and Middle Eastern flavors. Highlights include halloumi cheese, souvlaki, moussaka, and meze—a selection of small dishes served as appetizers. Don't miss trying Cyprus's famous Commandaria wine and zivania spirit.
Drinks: Commandaria wine, Zivania spirit, Cyprus coffee
Tipping: 10-15%
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies by region
Average temperature: 25-40 °C
Summer:
Average highs: 30°C
Average lows: 20°C
Winter:
Average highs: 15°C
Average lows: 8°C
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Cyprus is in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is pleasantly warm, and tourist crowds are thinner.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: No
Accommodation options: Yes
Restaurants: Yes
Cafes: Yes
Shopping malls: Yes
Public parks: Yes
Libraries: Yes
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: Type G
Voltage (V): 230
Frequency Hertz (Hz): 50
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.