Cyprus Travel Tips: 17 Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Trip
Welcome to the ultimate first-timer’s guide! We’re not about gatekeeping the good stuff here at The Travel Tinker. This list is packed with practical advice and personal insights to help you navigate Cyprus like a seasoned pro from the moment you land. Because, when I was there I wasted time on things that didn’t matter and missed out on some gems initially. That’s why I’ve put together this guide. These are the tips I wish I had on that first trip, the insider knowledge that turns a good holiday into an absolutely unforgettable one. Let’s get you ready for your Cypriot adventure! 🇨🇾
When is the Best Time to Visit Cyprus?
This is probably the first question you’ve typed into a search bar, and for good reason! Your experience can change dramatically with the seasons.
Spring (April-May): My personal favourite. The island is lush and green, wildflowers are blooming everywhere, and the temperature is blissfully warm without being scorching. It’s perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
Summer (June-August): Hello, sunshine! ☀️ This is peak season. Expect sizzling temperatures, bustling beaches, and a vibrant nightlife. It’s fantastic for a classic sun-and-sea holiday, but be prepared for the heat and crowds.
Autumn (September-October): The sea is still beautifully warm from the summer sun, but the crowds have thinned and the heat is less intense. It’s a brilliant time for a relaxed beach holiday combined with a bit of exploration.
Winter (November-March): Cyprus enjoys mild winters, especially on the coast. While you might not be sunbathing daily, it’s a great time to grab cheap flights, enjoy the historical sites without the queues, and even see snow in the Troodos Mountains!
✋🏼 Good to Know: The ‘shoulder seasons’ (April-May and September-October) are often considered the sweet spot. You get fantastic weather without the peak summer prices or crowds. Also, keep an eye out for public holidays, especially Greek Orthodox Easter in the spring. It’s a huge celebration and while some things might close, witnessing the local festivities is a truly special experience!
🗺️ Guide to Cyprus: Kyrenia’s Harbor Charm: Northern Cyprus Gem
Flights from Trip.com (Best for Cyprus)
North vs. South: Understanding the Divide
Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room. You’ll quickly notice that Cyprus is divided. The south is the Republic of Cyprus (predominantly Greek Cypriot and in the EU), while the north is the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. For your first trip, you’ll most likely be flying into and staying in the south (airports are in Larnaca and Paphos).
Crossing the border (the “Green Line”) is straightforward for tourists at several checkpoints, most notably in the capital, Nicosia. You’ll need your passport. It’s a fascinating experience and gives you a glimpse into the island’s complex history. Just be aware that car rental insurance from the south might not cover you in the north, so check your policy.
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: If you cross in Nicosia on foot, you can wander from the modern shops of the Republic into the historic, bustling market streets of the North in a matter of minutes. It’s like visiting two countries in one day.
🗺️ Cyprus Related: Larnaca’s Salt Lake: Flamingos & Unique Sights
Our Google Map Legends
Get lifetime access to our endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all our pins are at the touch of your fingertips.
Getting Around Cyprus: To Rent a Car or Not?
Let’s be honest, we all love a bit of freedom on holiday. While there are public buses (and cheap), they aren’t always convenient for reaching the hidden coves, mountain villages, and remote monasteries that make Cyprus so special.
I only recommend what I actually do, and I always rent a car if I want to head to photo spots or just randomly stop where I want. It gives you the ultimate flexibility to explore on your own schedule. Imagine finding a deserted beach and deciding to stay for the sunset, or stumbling upon a village festival. You just can’t do that when you’re tied to a bus timetable.
Recommended Car Rental: Discover Cars Cyprus
A Word on Driving in Cyprus
If you’re from the UK, you’re in for a treat: they drive on the left! This makes hiring a car incredibly easy. The road signs are in both Greek and English, and the motorways connecting the main cities (Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca, Nicosia) are modern and well-maintained.
The fun really starts when you head into the mountains or along the coastal back roads. These can be narrow and winding, so take your time and enjoy the stunning views.
Where Should I Stay? A Cheat Sheet
Where you stay can really define your trip, and Cyprus has a spot for every type of traveller. Let’s break down the main hubs so you can find your perfect match.
📍 Paphos
- The Vibe: Historical and relaxed.
- Go here for: A romantic getaway, a family holiday, or if you’re a massive history buff.
- Don’t Miss: Exploring the incredible Tombs of the Kings at sunset and wandering through the ancient mosaics. It’s breathtaking.
🌊 Ayia Napa
- The Vibe: Lively and energetic.
- Go here for: A trip with your mates, legendary nightlife, and some of the most perfect sandy beaches you’ll ever see.
- Don’t Miss: The unbelievable turquoise water at Nissi Beach. Beyond the party scene, the nearby sea caves are stunningly beautiful.
🏙️ Limassol
- The Vibe: Cosmopolitan and bustling.
- Go here for: A bit of everything! It’s a proper city with great food, a long beach promenade, and it’s a brilliant base for exploring the rest of the island.
- Don’t Miss: Grabbing a coffee at the slick, modern marina before getting lost in the charming backstreets of the old town.
✈️ Larnaca
- The Vibe: Laid-back and convenient.
- Go here for: An easy, no-fuss break. It has a chilled-out feel and being so close to the main airport makes arriving and departing a breeze.
- Don’t Miss: A sunset stroll along the palm-lined Finikoudes promenade and a visit to the beautiful Hala Sultan Tekke mosque on the edge of the salt lake.
Use Booking.com for your perfect accommodation!
Let's Talk Cash: Euros and Tipping
It’s Euros (€) in the south, simple as that. Cards work in most hotels, restaurants, and big shops, but I always keep cash on me. You’ll need it for the little bakeries, market stalls, sunbed rentals, and impromptu ice creams.
When it comes to tipping, don’t overthink it. It’s not a massive deal like in the US. No one’s going to be offended if you don’t, but rounding up the bill or leaving a couple of extra coins for great service is a lovely gesture. For a really nice meal, 5-10% is perfect.
🗺️ Related Post: Nicosia’s Divided Capital: Exploring Both Sides
Recommended Tours and Tickets
The Random Stuff I Always Forget to Pack
You’ve got the sunnies, swimmers, and sun cream sorted. But here are the things I always nearly forget, and then kick myself for.
Water Shoes: I’m telling you, these are a game-changer. So many of Cyprus’s gorgeous beaches are pebbly or rocky under the water. Stop stubbing your toes and just get a cheap pair.
A Light Jacket or Scarf: I know you’re packing for heat, but the evenings can get surprisingly fresh, especially if you’re eating by the sea or up in the mountains.
A Reusable Water Bottle: You’ll be drinking tons of water. Be a good human and save some plastic. A recommended bottle.
Your Driving Licence: For the love of all that is holy, if you’re renting that car we talked about, don’t leave this on the kitchen counter at home. I’ve heard the horror stories.
Please, Don’t Get Sunburnt
This isn’t your dad telling you off, this is a genuine plea. The Cypriot sun is powerful. I’ve seen so many people looking like unhappy tomatoes on day two, and it just ruins their holiday.
Slap on the high-factor sun cream more often than you think you need to. A hat is your best mate. And from midday to 4 pm, do what the locals do: find some shade. Have a long, lazy lunch. Have a nap. The beach will still be there later.
Drink More Water Than You Think You Need
This goes with the sun safety thing. It is so easy to get dehydrated and feel rubbish. You’re going to love this simple hack: always have a bottle of water with you.
You can buy huge six-packs of bottled water from any supermarket for a few euros. Keep them in your hotel fridge. It’s the cheapest and easiest way to stay on top of it.
🗺️ Related Must-read: Guide to Travel Insurance
Our Google Map Legends
Get lifetime access to our endless hours of research and time spent on the ground finding the best places to eat, drink, relax and explore in the area. You simply open the Google Map on your device and all our pins are at the touch of your fingertips.
What You Absolutely MUST Eat in Cyprus
Oh, the food. Let’s be honest, this is half the reason we travel, right? Cypriot food is just incredible, a gorgeous mash-up of Greek and Middle Eastern flavours. You have to get stuck in.
Here are the dishes you can’t leave without trying:
🧀 Halloumi
The famous squeaky cheese, usually grilled or fried until golden.
My take: Forget the rubbery stuff you get at home. Freshly grilled halloumi in Cyprus will change your life. I’m not even exaggerating.
🥙 Souvlaki / Souvla
Big chunks of juicy grilled meat (usually pork or chicken) served on a skewer or in a pitta.
My take: This is your ultimate easy lunch. Stuffed in a fluffy pitta with salad and a dollop of tzatziki. Perfection.
🍖 Sheftalies
A herby, skinless Cypriot sausage that’s grilled to perfection.
My take: These little flavour bombs are just divine. They often come alongside souvlaki – if you see them, you have to order them.
🐑 Kleftiko
Lamb, slow-cooked for hours with lemon and herbs until it completely falls off the bone.
My take: This is a proper, soulful dish. It’s so incredibly tender and melts in your mouth. A must-try for a special dinner.
😋 Moussaka
Layers of minced meat, sliced aubergine, and potato, all topped with a rich, creamy béchamel sauce.
My take: The ultimate comfort food. Every taverna has its own family recipe, and it’s always hearty, rich, and delicious.
How to Eat Like You Know What You’re Doing
1. Order a Meze: On your first night, don’t even look at the menu. Just find a traditional taverna, sit down, and say “Meze, please”. They’ll start bringing out dish after dish… after dish. Dips, breads, salads, grilled meats, fish… it’s a food marathon. Wear stretchy trousers.
2. Hit the Bakery (Fournos): In the morning, follow your nose to a local bakery. They’re everywhere. Grab a warm tahinopita (a swirly, sweet tahini pastry) or an eliopita (an olive-stuffed cake). It’s the perfect cheap and authentic breakfast.
3. Try a Proper Coffee: Ditch the Starbucks and order a Cypriot coffee. It’s strong and served in a tiny cup. You ask for it sketos (plain), metrios (one sugar), or glykos (sweet). Just remember not to drink the thick sludge at the bottom!
The Most Important Phrase: 'Siga-Siga'
You’re going to hear ‘siga-siga’, which means ‘slowly, slowly’, all the time. It’s the island’s unofficial motto. Your coffee might take a while. The bill might not appear for ages. This isn’t bad service; it’s a different rhythm of life. My best advice? Just breathe and go with it. You’re on holiday! Let go of the rush. It’s actually amazing for your soul.
Get Off the Beach and Into the Hills
Look, the coast is brilliant, but if you want to see the Cyprus that I truly fell in love with, you have to go inland. Just get in that car and drive towards the Troodos Mountains. The air changes, it smells of pine, and you’ll stumble upon these incredible little villages like Omodos or Lefkara where time seems to have stood still. This is where the heart of the island beats.
A Little Respect Goes a Long Way
Cypriots are some of the most genuinely warm and lovely people you’ll ever meet. The main thing to know is about visiting churches and monasteries. They are beautiful and you should definitely see some, but you need to cover your shoulders and knees. It’s a sign of respect. I just keep a light scarf or sarong in my bag for this. Easy.
Staying Online: Wi-Fi and SIMs
If you’re from the EU, your phone should work just fine with no extra roaming charges (but maybe just double-check before you fly). For everyone else, it’s super cheap and easy to grab a local SIM card from a corner shop (periptero) or just use Airalo e-sim. Otherwise, pretty much every café, bar, and hotel has free Wi-Fi for your essential holiday spam. 📸
Power Up! The Plug Situation
A quick practical one: Cyprus uses the Type G plug. That’s the big, chunky three-pin one we use in the UK. So if you’re a fellow Brit, you can leave the adapters at home! Anyone else, you’ll need to bring one. Just bring a universal plug, then you’ve no issues!
Don’t Forget the History Bit
You can’t swing a cat in Cyprus without hitting a 1000-year-old rock. The whole island is an open-air museum. Even if you’re a committed sun-worshipper, please promise me you’ll take one afternoon to see something ancient. The Roman mosaics in Paphos are mind-blowing, and the ancient amphitheatre at Kourion is just spectacular. You’ll feel like you’re in an episode of a historical drama.
What to know How to Plan or Save for a Trip? Here are our best:
Just a Quick Word on Safety
The Czech Republic is a very safe country, so you can relax. The main thing, like in any big European city, is to watch out for pickpockets in super-crowded areas (looking at you, Charles Bridge). Just keep your bag zipped and be aware of what’s going on around you. Also, avoid those shady money-changing booths with the “0% commission” signs. It’s a trap! Their rates are awful. Use a proper bank ATM instead.
Slow Down and Soak It In
If I could give you just one tip, it would be this: don’t over-schedule your days. The best memories I have are from the moments I wasn’t rushing. Sitting at a quiet café, stumbling upon a hidden garden, or just watching the trams go by from a park bench. That’s where you’ll find the real heart of Czechia.
So there you have it, my top Cyprus travel tips learned from experience. We’ve all been there… that feeling of arriving somewhere new and wanting to make the most of every second. I hope this guide helps you do just that. By being prepared with a few of tips, you’re setting yourself up for a proper adventure! 🌍 ✨
What Are Your Thoughts?
Have you been to Cyprus? What are your top tips for a first-time visitor? Share your experiences and any questions you have in the comments below. 👇🗣️
Adventure on,
The Travel Tinker Crew 🌍✨
Simliar Articles:
- Cyprus Charming Villages: Discover True Island Life
- Why Flying Is Still the Safest Way to Travel
- The World’s Weirdest: Outlandish Travel Facts
Recommended Websites and Resources:
Your Questions, Answered (FAQs)
Is Cyprus expensive for tourists?
It can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want it to be. You can eat delicious meals in local tavernas for a very reasonable price, and supermarkets are great value. Accommodation and tourist-centric restaurants in prime locations will cost more, especially in peak season. Overall, it offers better value than many other Mediterranean destinations.
Can you drink the tap water in Cyprus?
While the tap water in Cyprus is officially safe to drink, it’s highly chlorinated and can have a mineral taste that many people don’t enjoy. Most tourists (and many locals) prefer to drink bottled water, which is inexpensive and sold everywhere.
What language is spoken in Cyprus?
The official languages are Greek in the south and Turkish in the north. However, English is spoken so widely that you will have absolutely no problem communicating. It’s taught in schools and used in business and tourism, making it incredibly easy for visitors.
Do I need a visa to visit Cyprus?
Cyprus is part of the European Union. If you are an EU, UK, or US citizen, you do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. For other nationalities, it’s essential to check the entry requirements with the Cypriot embassy in your country before you book.
Is Cyprus safe for solo female travellers?
Yes, Cyprus is generally considered a very safe destination for solo female travellers. The crime rate is low, and the culture is friendly and respectful. As with any destination, it’s wise to take standard precautions: be aware of your surroundings, don’t leave drinks unattended, and let someone know your itinerary.
Travel Planning Resources
Ready to book your next trip? These trusted resources have been personally vetted to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Book Your Flights: Kick off your travel planning by finding the best flight deals on Trip.com. Our years of experience with them confirm they offer the most competitive prices.
Book Your Hotel: For the best hotel rates, use Booking.com . For the best and safest hostels, HostelWorld.com is your go-to resource.
Find Apartment Rentals: For affordable apartment rentals, check out VRBO. They consistently offer the best prices.
Car Rentals: For affordable car rentals, check out RentalCars.com. They offer the best cars, mostly brand new.
Travel Insurance: Never travel without insurance. Here are our top recommendations:
- EKTA for Travel Insurance for all areas!
- Use AirHelp for compensation claims against flight delays etc.
Book Your Activities: Discover walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more on Get Your Guide. They have a vast selection of activities to enhance your trip. There is also Tiqets.com for instant mobile tickets.
Book The Best Trains: Use Trainline to find the most affordable trains or Rail Europe for rail passes!
Need More Help Planning Your Trip? Visit our Resources Page to see all the companies we trust and use for our travels.
You May Also Like
Save this post (pin it)
Share this post
Note: This post contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we get paid a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Author
Nick Harvey
Hi, I am Nick! Thank you for reading! The Travel Tinker is a resource designed to help you navigate the beauty of travel! Tinkering your plans as you browse!
Welcome!
It's Lovely to Meet You!
Get Social
Popular Posts
Join the Travel Tinker Family
Sign up with your email to receive step-by-step planning checklists, free guides, and a wealth of money-saving tips to help you plan your trip like an expert!
Search Flights
Find Accommodation
Other Resources
Destinations
Get Your Free Travel Starter Kit!
Sign up with your email to receive step-by-step planning checklists, free guides, and a wealth of money-saving tips to help you plan your trip like an expert!