Europe
Cyprus
Europe
Cyprus
Updated Jan 04, 2025
Overview
Cyprus, the third-largest Mediterranean island, offers a captivating mix of history and natural beauty. Explore ancient Greek ruins in Paphos, relax on golden beaches in Ayia Napa, or hike the Troodos Mountains. Nicosia, the world's last divided capital, showcases the island's complex history. Don't miss local experiences like sipping Commandaria wine in rustic villages, joining a traditional taverna night, or learning to make halloumi cheese. The island's rich culinary scene blends Greek and Turkish flavors, offering unique gastronomic adventures.
Best time to visit. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal weather for sightseeing and beach activities. Summers are hot and crowded, while winters are mild but can be rainy. Fall brings the added bonus of wine harvest festivals in mountain villages.
Cities
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Country stats
Population
918,100
157th
Land area
3,572 sq. mi.
162nd
Highest elevation
6,404 ft
Currency
Euro
Generally accepted payment methods
Mobile, Card, Cash
Total GDP
$34.221 billion
105th
GDP per capita
$37,149
27th
Year founded
1960 CE
Official langauge
Greek
English speaking
Widely spoken
European Union
Yes
Schengen Area
No
Human development index
0.907
29th
Timezone
Eastern European (UTC+2)
Driving side
left
Capital
Nicosia
Website
Google Maps link
| Month | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 63°F - 48°F | 62°F - 45°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:54 am | 5:01 pm | 8 days 3.2 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| February | 64°F - 48°F | 63°F - 45°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:33 am | 5:33 pm | 7 days 2.6 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| March | 68°F - 51°F | 67°F - 49°F | Partly Cloudy | 5:57 am | 5:58 pm | 6 days 1.8 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| April | 74°F - 56°F | 73°F - 54°F | Sunny | 6:16 am | 7:22 pm | 4 days 0.9 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| May | 82°F - 63°F | 82°F - 62°F | Sunny | 5:44 am | 7:48 pm | 2 days 0.4 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| June | 89°F - 70°F | 90°F - 69°F | Sunny | 5:31 am | 8:06 pm | 1 days 0.1 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| July | 93°F - 74°F | 95°F - 73°F | Sunny | 5:43 am | 8:04 pm | 0 days 0.0 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| August | 94°F - 74°F | 96°F - 73°F | Sunny | 6:05 am | 7:37 pm | 0 days 0.0 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| September | 89°F - 70°F | 90°F - 69°F | Sunny | 6:26 am | 6:56 pm | 1 days 0.1 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| October | 82°F - 64°F | 82°F - 63°F | Sunny | 6:47 am | 6:13 pm | 3 days 0.8 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| November | 73°F - 57°F | 72°F - 55°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:13 am | 4:41 pm | 5 days 1.8 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 7 mph |
| December | 66°F - 51°F | 65°F - 48°F | Partly Cloudy | 6:41 am | 4:35 pm | 8 days 3.1 in | 0 days 0.0 in | 9 mph |
| Name | Date | Description | Travel rating | Closure rating | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year's Day | January 1 | Cypriots celebrate the start of the new year with fireworks and family gatherings. | Avoid travel, most places are closed. | ||
| Epiphany | January 6 | Christian holiday commemorating the baptism of Jesus. Many attend church services. | OK to travel, some businesses open. | ||
| Green Monday | First day of Lent (movable) | Marks the start of Lent. Cypriots picnic and fly kites to celebrate spring's arrival. | Enjoy outdoor celebrations if visiting. | ||
| Greek Independence Day | March 25 | Commemorates the start of the Greek War of Independence. Parades are held. | Travel OK, expect some closures. | ||
| Greek Cypriot National Day | April 1 | Marks the start of the 1955 campaign against British rule. Parades and events occur. | Travel possible, some businesses closed. | ||
| Orthodox Good Friday | Friday before Orthodox Easter (movable) | Solemn day marking Jesus' crucifixion. Church services and processions occur. | Avoid travel, most places closed. | ||
| Orthodox Easter Sunday | Sunday (movable) | Major Christian holiday celebrating Jesus' resurrection. Families gather for feasts. | Avoid travel, everything is closed. | ||
| Orthodox Easter Monday | Monday after Orthodox Easter (movable) | Continuation of Easter celebrations. Many Cypriots have the day off work. | Limited services, consider postponing. | ||
| Labor Day | May 1 | Workers' rights are celebrated. Parades and demonstrations may occur. | Travel OK, expect some closures. | ||
| Pentecost Monday | 50 days after Orthodox Easter (movable) | Christian holiday commemorating the Holy Spirit's descent upon the Apostles. | Travel possible, some services limited. | ||
| Assumption of the Virgin Mary | August 15 | Important religious holiday. Many attend church and gather for family meals. | Travel OK, but expect some closures. | ||
| Cyprus Independence Day | October 1 | Celebrates Cyprus' independence from British rule. Parades and events occur. | OK to travel, some businesses closed. | ||
| Ochi Day | October 28 | Commemorates Greece's refusal to surrender to Axis powers in WWII. Parades held. | Travel possible, expect some closures. | ||
| Christmas Eve | December 24 | Preparations for Christmas. Many attend church services in the evening. | Travel OK, some businesses close early. | ||
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Major Christian holiday celebrating Jesus' birth. Families gather for feasts. | Avoid travel, most places closed. | ||
| Boxing Day | December 26 | Day after Christmas. Many Cypriots have the day off work to continue celebrations. | Limited services, consider postponing. |
1 | Greet locals with 'Yiasas' (hello) or 'Kalimera' (good morning). Learning a few Greek phrases shows respect and is appreciated, even though many Cypriots speak English. |
2 | Remove shoes before entering homes or religious sites. It's a sign of respect and cleanliness. Always ask the host if unsure about shoe etiquette in their home. |
3 | Dress modestly when visiting churches or monasteries. Cover shoulders and knees. Some sites provide wraps or shawls, but it's best to come prepared. |
4 | Tipping is customary in Cyprus. Leave 10% in restaurants if service charge isn't included. Round up taxi fares and tip hotel staff a small amount for good service. |
5 | Avoid discussing the political situation between Greek and Turkish Cypriots unless invited to do so. It's a sensitive topic and can lead to uncomfortable situations. |
6 | Be prepared for a slower pace of life, especially in rural areas. Shops may close for long lunches and on Sundays. Plan accordingly and embrace the relaxed atmosphere. |
7 | Try local cuisine like souvlaki, halloumi, and meze. Cypriots take pride in their food culture. Refusing offered food or drink may be seen as impolite. |
8 | Respect the siesta time, typically from 2-4 PM. Many businesses close during this time, especially in summer. Plan your day around this cultural practice. |
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