Cyprus Travel Information

Cyprus is a fascinating destination, with its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Whether you're interested in ancient ruins, outdoor activities, or nightlife, there is something for everyone in this diverse island nation.

1. Visit Paphos Archaeological Park

Discover the ancient ruins and mosaics of Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the remains of the Roman governor's palace, early Christian basilicas, and public buildings.

2. Explore the Troodos Mountains

Take a scenic drive or hike through the Troodos Mountains and admire the stunning views. Visit traditional villages and taste local wine at one of the wineries.

3. Visit the Tombs of the Kings

Discover the impressive underground tombs cut into solid rock, dating back to the 4th century BC, in the necropolis of Paphos.

4. Explore the Akamas Peninsula

Take a boat tour or hike through the Akamas Peninsula, a protected area of natural beauty. Admire the stunning beaches and see the variety of flora and fauna.

5. Visit the Nicosia Old Town

Explore the charming streets of Nicosia's old town, divided between the Greek and Turkish Cypriot communities. Visit the Cyprus Museum and the Venetian walls.

6. Visit the Limassol Castle

See the medieval Limassol Castle, now housing the Cyprus Medieval Museum, showcasing the island's rich history.

7. Take a dip in the Blue Lagoon

Relax and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon, a popular beach destination in the Akamas Peninsula.

8. Visit the Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque

Explore the important Islamic site of Hala Sultan Tekke Mosque, dedicated to one of the companions of the Prophet Muhammad.

9. Enjoy the Ayia Napa nightlife

Party at the vibrant bars and clubs of Ayia Napa, one of the most popular tourist destinations on the island.

10. Visit the Shacolas Tower Museum

Climb to the top of the Shacolas Tower Museum in Nicosia for panoramic views of the city and learn about Cypriot culture and history.

Climate

Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures in the summer months can reach up to 35°C, while winter temperatures average around 15°C. The island receives most of its rainfall in the winter months.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Cyprus depends on what you're looking for. If you prefer warm weather and beach activities, the months of June to September are ideal. If you'd like to avoid the heat, the spring months of April to May or the autumn months of October to November are good options. Winter is also a good time to visit for those interested in cultural activities, as temperatures are mild and there are fewer tourists.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Cyprus offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style. Here are some of the most popular options:

Hotels

Cyprus has a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts. Hotels are popular for their convenience and variety of on-site amenities.

Villas

Villas are a great option for those who want more space and privacy. They can be rented on a short-term basis and often come with their own pool.

Apartments

Apartments are another popular option, especially for families or groups traveling together. They offer more space and a kitchen for self-catering.

B&Bs and Guesthouses

Bed and breakfasts and guesthouses offer a more intimate and personal experience, often with a friendly host and a homey atmosphere.

Camping and Caravan Parks

Camping and caravan parks are a budget-friendly option for those who enjoy the great outdoors. They are often located in scenic areas and offer access to facilities such as showers and toilets.

No matter what type of accommodation you choose, Cyprus has something to offer for everyone. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly options, you're sure to find the perfect place to stay during your visit.

Cyprus has a variety of transportation options available for visitors, including:

Car Rental

Car rental is a popular option for those who want the freedom to explore the island at their own pace. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to visit remote areas and scenic routes.

Public Buses

Public buses are a convenient and cost-effective way to get around, with frequent services connecting major cities and tourist destinations.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available and offer a convenient way to get around, especially for short trips. It is best to negotiate the fare before starting the journey.

Private Transfers

Private transfers are a convenient option for those who don't want to worry about navigating public transportation. Services can be arranged in advance for a set fee.

Bicycle and Motorcycle Rentals

Bicycle and motorcycle rentals are a great option for those who want to explore the island at their own pace and enjoy the scenic routes.

Boat and Yacht Charters

Boat and yacht charters are a popular option for those who want to explore the coastline and offshore islands. Services can be arranged in advance for a set fee.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.