Cyprus holidays: our travel guide
Cyprus is the most easterly island in the Mediterranean and one of the warmest: ancient mosaics in Paphos, mountain villages in the Troodos and a sea that stays warm enough to swim well into autumn.
Cyprus
Photo: George Lemon / Unsplash
Cyprus: when the rest of the Mediterranean cools down
Cyprus lies in the far east of the Mediterranean, south of Turkey and west of Lebanon. That makes it one of the warmest destinations in Europe, with a season that runs from spring to late November. Many visit in October, when the summer heat has eased but the sea is still warm.
The island is divided. The Republic of Cyprus in the south is in the EU and uses the euro, while the north is under Turkish Cypriot administration. The capital, Nicosia, is split between the two. Most visitors stay in the south, in Paphos, Limassol or Ayia Napa.
Cyprus is one of the countries in Europe we cover.
Petra tou Romiou
According to myth, Aphrodite rose from the sea here. Photo: Stijn te Strake / Unsplash
Things to do in Cyprus
Paphos: the ancient mosaics in the archaeological park and the Tombs of the Kings, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Aphrodite's Rock: the sea stack where, according to myth, the goddess rose from the foam, between Paphos and Limassol.
The Troodos Mountains: villages, vineyards and small painted churches, several of them on the World Heritage list.
The Akamas peninsula: wild nature and boat trips to the Blue Lagoon in the far north-west.
Ayia Napa and Cape Greco: white beaches, clear water and cliffs in the east.
Nicosia: the divided capital, with an old town inside Venetian walls.
The coast
Photo: Datingscout / Unsplash
Where to stay in Cyprus
Paphos: history, relaxed hotels and an airport nearby.
Limassol: a city, a seafront promenade, a marina and restaurants.
Ayia Napa and Protaras: the best sandy beaches and the most going on.
Polis and Latchi: quiet, close to Akamas.
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Anassa
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Anassa: the village hotel near Akamas
A luxury hotel built like a white village running down to the sea, near Polis and the Akamas peninsula. One of the best-known hotels on the island.
Book your stay: See rooms at Anassa
Amara: luxury on the Limassol seafront
A modern luxury hotel by the sea in Limassol, for those who want city and beach in one stay.
Book your stay: See rooms at Amara
Almyra, Paphos
Photo: Hotels.com (Expedia Group)
Almyra: by the harbour in Paphos
A seafront hotel a few minutes from the harbour and mosaics of Paphos. Good for couples and families alike.
Book your stay: See rooms at Almyra
When is the best time to visit Cyprus?
April to June and September to November are often best. Summer is very hot, especially inland. In autumn the sea is still warm, which makes Cyprus one of the best places for sun in October and November. See where is hot in October and in November.
Frequently asked questions about Cyprus
Where is the best place to stay in Cyprus?
Paphos suits history and relaxed hotels, Limassol a city and promenade, and Ayia Napa and Protaras the best sandy beaches. Polis and Latchi are quiet and close to the Akamas peninsula.
Is Cyprus warm in November?
Cyprus is one of the warmest places in Europe in autumn, and the sea stays warm longer than in the rest of the Mediterranean. Many still swim in November, though evenings get cooler.
What currency does Cyprus use?
The Republic of Cyprus uses the euro, and cars drive on the left.
What is Cyprus famous for?
Beaches with clear water, ancient mosaics in Paphos, the villages of the Troodos Mountains and the myth of Aphrodite, said to have been born from the sea off the island.
What are the best beaches in Cyprus?
Nissi and Fig Tree Bay in the east have pale sand and clear water. Around Cape Greco there are cliffs and small coves, and the Akamas peninsula is wilder.