Colour and character
More Than Just Sunshine and Sangria!
Welcome to the sun-drenched playground of the gods! Cyprus is so much more than just a pretty face in the Mediterranean. This is an island with a soul forged in myth, a history stretching back over 10,000 years, and a spirit as warm as its summer sun. Legend has it that Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty, rose from the sea foam right here, and honestly, after one look at its shimmering coastline, you’ll see why.
I’ve journeyed to Cyprus time and again, and the island never ceases to amaze me. One day I’m exploring the ghostly ruins of an ancient city, the next I’m hiking through a pine-scented mountain forest, and that evening I’m feasting on a banquet of meze under a blanket of stars. It's an island of two halves, with a complex modern history, but this only adds to its unique character. Prepare to be utterly enchanted; Cyprus is a love affair waiting to happen.
Why Cyprus?
A Dazzling Tapestry of History
Walking through Cyprus is like turning the pages of a giant, sun-bleached history book. This island has been courted and conquered by everyone from the Mycenaean Greeks and Romans to the Crusaders and Ottomans. You can stand in a magnificent Roman amphitheatre, wander through a crusader castle, and gaze at priceless Byzantine frescoes all in a single afternoon. History isn't just in museums here; it’s all around you.
Beaches Plucked from a Dream
Whether you’re a party-seeker, a sun-worshipper, or a family with buckets and spades, Cyprus has a stretch of sand with your name on it. From the legendary nightlife of Ayia Napa’s Nissi Beach to the pristine, protected shores of the Akamas Peninsula, the coastline is a spectacular parade of golden sands, dramatic white cliffs, and water so clear and blue you’ll think it’s been photoshopped.
A Feast That Never Ends
Prepare your appetite, because Cypriot food is a glorious celebration of flavour. It’s a delicious blend of Greek and Middle Eastern influences, where grilled halloumi cheese sizzles on the barbecue, and succulent souvlaki is wrapped in warm pitta bread. The true magic, however, is the ‘meze’ – a seemingly endless parade of small dishes that just keeps on coming. It’s not a meal; it’s an event!
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Unmissable Cypriot Adventures
Discover Ancient Mosaics in Paphos
Step into the sandals of Roman nobles as you wander through the incredible Paphos Archaeological Park. The main event is the collection of intricate and stunningly preserved floor mosaics that depict vivid scenes from Greek mythology. It's like an open-air art gallery that tells the stories of the gods.
Where to do it: The Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is conveniently located right by the harbour. Don't miss the House of Dionysus!
Find a Different Cyprus in the Troodos Mountains
Escape the coastal heat and discover the island's green heart. The Troodos Mountains are a world of pine forests, hidden waterfalls, and sleepy stone villages where life moves at a slower pace. It’s the perfect place for a scenic drive, a challenging hike, or a visit to one of the ten UNESCO-listed painted Byzantine churches.
Where to do it: Take a drive to the charming village of Omodos to sample local wine, or for a refreshing walk, follow the popular Caledonia Falls trail.
Walk the Line in the World's Last Divided Capital
Nicosia (or Lefkosia) is a city with a story to tell. It’s a fascinating, bustling place split in two by the UN-patrolled "Green Line." Walking through the beautifully restored old town and then crossing the checkpoint to the northern, Turkish Cypriot side is a surreal and eye-opening experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Where to do it: Start in the southern part of the Old City on Ledra Street, and then use the pedestrian crossing to explore the northern side, making sure to visit the magnificent Selimiye Mosque (a former cathedral).
Swim in the Unreal Blue Lagoon
Tucked away on the island's wild north-west coast is a patch of water so intensely turquoise it almost glows. The Blue Lagoon is a snorkeller's paradise, a sheltered bay accessible only by boat or a rugged 4x4 track, making the reward of diving into its warm, crystal-clear waters even sweeter.
Where to do it: Join one of the many boat trips that leave from the little harbour of Latchi. Most tours include drinks and fruit, turning it into a perfect half-day adventure.
Cyprus Offers
Luxury Holidays
Last Minute Holidays
Essentials
Visa Requirements
As a UK citizen, you can visit Cyprus for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without needing a visa. Just ensure your passport is less than 10 years old on the day you enter and valid for at least three months after you leave.
Average travel time
It’s a little further than Spain, but well worth it. A direct flight from the UK to Paphos or Larnaca airports will take around 4.5 to 5 hours – just enough time for a couple of films and a G&T.
Languages
Yes! While Greek is the official language in the south and Turkish in the north, English is spoken almost everywhere. Thanks to historic ties, road signs are in English, and you'll have no problem ordering food or asking for directions.
Currency
The Republic of Cyprus (the south) uses the Euro (€). If you cross into the north, the currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY), though Euros are often accepted. Tipping is customary and appreciated for good service – think around 10% in restaurants.
Weather and Climate
In a word: glorious. Cyprus boasts one of the best climates in Europe. Expect long, hot, dry summers perfect for beach-lazing from May to October, and mild, pleasant winters that are ideal for sightseeing and hiking.
Top Cyprus Destinations
Paphos: Where Myth Meets Modernity
Paphos is a history-lover's dream. A designated UNESCO World Heritage site, the entire town is an archaeological treasure trove. But it's not all ancient history; a charming harbour lined with restaurants, lovely coastal paths, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe make it the perfect base for exploring the west of the island.
Limassol: The Cosmopolitan Heart
Limassol (Lemesos) is Cyprus's vibrant, energetic second city. It expertly blends old and new, with a beautifully restored old town and castle at one end and a swanky, modern marina filled with yachts at the other. It's a fantastic year-round destination with great shopping, a buzzing food scene, and a long coastal promenade.
Ayia Napa & Protaras: The Kings of the Coast
These two resorts on the eastern tip are famous for a reason. Ayia Napa is home to the legendary Nissi Beach and a world-class party scene. Just up the coast, its more chilled-out neighbour, Protaras, offers stunning, family-friendly beaches like the breathtaking Fig Tree Bay. Together, they offer the perfect combination of excitement and relaxation.
The Troodos Villages: A Breath of Fresh Air
or a truly authentic experience, head for the hills. The Troodos Mountains are dotted with timeless villages where you can watch life unfold as it has for centuries. Stay in a traditional stone guesthouse in a village like Lofou or Omodos, sample local wines from family-run wineries, and enjoy the cooler mountain air.
Top Tips for Travelling Like a Pro
Hire a Car, Find Your Freedom!
The best of Cyprus is often found down a dusty track. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. You can discover deserted beaches, stumble upon ancient ruins not on the bus route, and find the best little village taverna for lunch. Plus, they drive on the left – a massive bonus for us Brits!
The 'Meze' is Not a Starter!
When a menu offers a 'meze', don't treat it as an appetiser. This is the main event! Wave after wave of small dishes, from fresh salads and dips to grilled meats and fish, will arrive at your table. The key is to pace yourself. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, and it's the best way to sample everything Cypriot cuisine has to offer.
Drink Like a Local (and an Emperor!)
Did you know Cyprus is home to the world's oldest named wine still in production? It’s called Commandaria, a sweet dessert wine that King Richard the Lionheart supposedly dubbed "the wine of kings and the king of wines." Seek it out for a true taste of Cypriot history.
Always Pack Your Passport
Even if you're just on a day trip to the capital, Nicosia, pop your passport in your bag. You'll need it to cross the Green Line into the northern part of the city. It’s a simple process at the pedestrian checkpoint, and it opens up a whole other side of the island's fascinating story.
Ready when you are
Your Unforgettable Island Escape Awaits!
Cyprus is a place that works its magic on you slowly and then all at once. It’s in the taste of the first sun-ripened olive of your trip, the feeling of ancient history under your feet, and the warmth of the welcome you receive in a family-run taverna. It’s an island that offers whatever you seek, be it non-stop sunshine, epic adventures, or a quiet corner to reconnect with yourself.
It effortlessly combines the comfort of the familiar (they drive on the left and speak English!) with the thrill of the exotic. You can have a full English breakfast in the morning and be exploring a millennia-old tomb in the afternoon. It’s this unique blend that makes Cyprus so special and keeps travellers like me coming back for more. So go on, Aphrodite is calling.
