Know Before You Go: Cyprus

As a Travel Seen favourite, we have selected hotels here that are perfect for a luxurious holiday. Here are a few facts to know before you go…

Where is Cyprus?

In the eastern Mediterranean Sea, around 40 miles south of Turkey lies Cyprus, officially the Republic of Cyprus.

It is the third largest island in the Med after the Italian islands of Sicily and Sardinia. The capital of the island is Nicosia.

What is Cyprus like?

The first image that springs to mind is the island’s beaches. Miles of unspoilt - many Blue Flag awarded - stretches of coastline hug the Cypriot borders.

Inland there are pine-covered mountains to hike or mountain bike through, dotted with little villages where traditional tavernas serve up tasty island fare.

Fascinating history seems to pop up around every corner, from the Tombs of the Kings to the 16th century walls in the capital.

Then of course there are the island’s well-known holiday resorts which after decades of welcoming visitors have equipped themselves for all. Like the coastal broadwalk at Paphos which is ideal for joggers and pushchairs. And the clubs and bars of Ayia Napa that welcome revellers from across the globe for an island party.

How do I get to Cyprus?

Direct flights to Cyprus from the UK take around 4.5 hours. A number of UK airports serve the island with direct flights, including regional airports across England, and in Wales and Scotland.

Carriers flying to the island from UK airports include TUI, Ryanair, BA, Jet2 and easyJet. There are three airports on the island; Paphos International, Larnaca International and Ercan International.

What is the weather like in Cyprus?

As you’d expect from a Mediterranean island the most popular time to visit Cyprus is during the summer months when there’s the most hours of daylight, and the air and sea temperatures are at their warmest.

The island is renowned for being sunny all year round thanks to its southerly position. This means there are some excellent deals to be had out of season if you don’t mind slightly lower temperatures and the odd shower, the main chance of which is in December through to March.

What is the food like in Cyprus?

If you’re yet to try Cypriot food then you’re certainly in for a treat. There’s a great mix of eateries to sample; from the traditional tavernas serving mezze and the island’s famous halloumi cheese, to elegant waterside restaurants featuring the catch of the day from the Med.

“In Cyprus you have many options to have different dining experience,” says @skevi.constantinou. “For me the best dining experience I had was at the Tocayo and Rous restaurants.”

Check out our What and where to eat in Cyprus blog for Travel Seen’s insight into the finest fare on Cyprus.

Facts about Cyprus for travellers

Language: Greek and Turkish

Time zone: GMT + 2 hours

Currency: Euro

Visas: British travellers only require a valid passport to travel to Cyprus for a holiday. However, be sure to check your passport’s expiry after new regulations were recently brought in. Your Travel Seem specialist can support you with all the necessary information.

Best for: being so far south, Cyprus is a great short-haul destination for guaranteed sunshine. Its year-round mild climate makes it popular out of season, and families with preschoolers find the temperatures cooler and the prices lower in May.

Families love the beaches here and the calm, shallow waters that are ideal for paddling. Couples and single travellers will discover some of the best nightlife in Europe, with many of the hotels being well positioned for heading out for the night on foot or via a short cab ride. History buff? Cyprus will spoil you for choice with its fascinating sites of interest.

Will there be Covid restrictions at my Cyprus hotel?

As with all destinations, you should check with your Travel Seen specialist about the latest guidance before you go; as Covid-19 requirements do change.

For example, at the time of writing this blog, Elysium’s statement for guests can be found here.  As you will see, most restrictions have been lifted but there may still be some post-pandemic practices in place; like mask wearing for staff, contactless ordering and limits on the number of guests in the restaurants.

Did you know?

·       On average Cyprus has a whopping 320 days of sunshine a year.

·       Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, was said to have been born on Cyprus.

·       Cyprus is one of just two countries on the planet to have a map on its flag.