With the perfect mix of beautiful sandy beaches, historic sites and lively nightlife, it’s no surprise that Cyprus is a firm holiday favourite.
Here we give you the low-down on the island that’s got something for everyone…
The Climate
Boasting an impressive 340 days of sunshine a year, Cyprus has one of the best climates in Europe, thanks to it’s location in the far south of the Mediterranean.
Temperatures start to rise from April – in the 20s – before soaring in the summer months to around the 40ºC mark. The winters stay comfortably warm and most rain is confined to the months between December and March, although only a few inches fall each month.
The most comfortable times to visit are April, May and October, as the thermometer moves between 17ºC and 25ºC.
The Culture
With a long history and rich culture that spans 10,000 years, Cypus is one of the oldest civilisations in the Mediterranean.
The Mycenaean Greeks joined the island’s prehistoric age inhabitants 3500 years ago, firmly establishing the island’s Greek roots. Since then Cyprus took influences from the cultures that followed, including the Phoenicians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Romans, Franks, Venetians, Ottomans and British.
Each culture has left behind visible remnants of their passage, so it’s no surprise that the island is rich with fascinating cultural sights, museums, monuments and galleries.
There’s so much to see, from prehistoric settlements, classical Greek temples, Roman theatres and early Christian basilicas.
Venture away from the tourist sites and into rural villages and you’ll find that the customs, traditions and ‘old ways of life’ of Cyprus are still very much alive.
Where to Visit
If you’re looking for the best in nightlife then head to the Larnaca region to find clubbing Mecca, Ayia Napa. With the best in clubs, pubs and bars you can party all night long before heading to the town’s long stretch of sand to recover during the day.
It’s not just nightlife that’s on offer on Cyprus’ East Coast though, Protaras is a family-favourite thanks to its beautiful beaches that shelve gently into the sea and its array of water sports at Fig Tree Bay.
There are impressive craggy rock formations, sea caves and hidden coves along Protaras’ coast which can be explored on foot, bike or boat.
The town of Paphos is the most popular resort of Cyprus’ West Coast. There are several golden beaches to enjoy, plenty of historical sites to visit – including the Tombs of the Kings – as well as a picturesque marina.
Move away from the coast and you can get a taste of a sleepy Mediterranean existence. There are pine-covered hills and olive groves stretching across the countryside and peaceful village squares, like Pomos and Latchi to visit.
The Food
An exotic blend of Greek and Middle Eastern cultures, complete with remnants of ancient civilisations, Cypriot cuisine incorporates a variety of delicious tastes and flavours.
The ‘meze’ is synonymous with Cyprus. Using a variety of small dishes to create a feast, a meze is a great way to get a taste of the island’s local tastes, like braised, stewed, and clay-cooked meats, dips, freshly caught fish, pulses and legumes in various sauces, speciality cheeses and delicatessen cuts.
