Where is Cyprus located, what country does it belong to? The best places to stay in Cyprus, photos, reviews from tourists. Official name: Republic of Cyprus Population of southern Cyprus

Tourists love holidays on the Mediterranean Sea. The most popular destination is, of course, Turkish hotels. But next to Turkey there is a small island of Cyprus - a small pearl of the Mediterranean.

Where is Cyprus? Usually people think that this is part of Greece, and this opinion is completely wrong. Cyprus is a small but independent country and has never been part of Greece. What sometimes leads to confusion is that people confuse Cyprus with the Greek island of Crete.

What is known about Cyprus?

Cyprus is an island in the Mediterranean Sea. It is located south of Turkey, north of Israel, west of Syria and Lebanon. After the islands of Sicily and Sardinia, Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Although it is geographically located in Asia, politically it is a European state.

Where is Cyprus on the world map? In which country? The Republic of Cyprus is an island state that does not have a land border with any mainland. According to official data, the Republic of Cyprus occupies 98% of the island's territory, the remaining two percent is occupied by the British military bases of Akrotiri and Dhekelia.

The nearby islands of Agios, Geronisos, Georgios, Kila, Glyukiotissa, Cordylia, Kiedes and Mazaki also belong to the Republic of Cyprus. The British base of Akrotiri is surrounded by Greek Cyprus, and Dhekelia also borders the UN buffer zone. This small part of the island's territory is under the sovereignty of Great Britain, but is not part of it. Cyprus gained independence in 1960.

Cyprus conflict

Despite the constitution, which guaranteed power-sharing between the Greek Cypriots and the Turkish Cypriot minority, the two groups clashed. The end result was Turkey's occupation of the northeastern part of Cyprus. In 1983, Turkey announced that the territory would now be called the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus". The narrow buffer zone between the two Cypriot ethnic groups is administered by UN peacekeeping forces.

The authorities of the Republic of Cyprus control 60% of the island's territory (ethnic Greeks live here), 38% of the territory is under the control of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (population - ethnic Turks). After the division of the island there was a large-scale relocation: Greek Cypriots moved to the south, Turkish Cypriots to the north. Both population groups live only in the city of Pyla under a UN-appointed administration.

The Turkish invasion in 1974 made the island famous. Where Cyprus is located and in which country is now known all over the world.

Story

Cyprus is located at the crossroads of three continents. Cyprus - what kind of country is it and where is it located? Historically, what a country it was! The island was influenced by the Romans, Egyptians, Persians, Turks and British. At one time it was part of Byzantium, Venice and the Ottoman Empire, and was a colony of Great Britain.

The climate in Cyprus is temperate, Mediterranean with hot summers and cool, wet winters.

Capital of Cyprus

The cities of Cyprus are filled with many attractions and historical monuments.

Nicosia is the capital of the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Nicosia is famous for the Gothic Hagia Sophia Cathedral and many fortifications. All attractions are concentrated in the Old Town. Walking through the narrow streets of the Old Town is a fascinating journey in itself, although many of the buildings are abandoned and are already beginning to collapse.

Major resorts of the Republic of Cyprus

Where is the island of Cyprus located, in which country? We already mentioned above that it is located in a country called the “Republic of Cyprus”, which is an autonomous state. The majority of tourists come to the island where Greek Cypriots live. After all, this is where popular resorts with developed infrastructure are located. The best places to holiday in Cyprus are the resorts of Protaras, Ayia Napa, Paphos, Larnaca and Limassol.

Limassol is the second largest city on the southern coast of Cyprus

This is a very noisy and fun resort destination filled with hotels, shops, bars, restaurants and nightclubs. Life in Limassol does not stop for a minute and is in full swing 24 hours a day.

Larnaca – a city of outstanding beauty

This is a resort city with numerous attractions, convenient embankments, picturesque views and excellent beaches. It is located on the southern coast of Cyprus and is the third largest city in the country. Larnaca International Airport is located on the outskirts of the city.

Paphos is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty.

The city is divided into two parts: Old and New Paphos. This historic site still retains its ancient charm and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Stunning beaches, parks, historical museums and vibrant nightlife make up modern Paphos.

Ayia Napa is a resort town in the eastern part of Cyprus

In the very center there is an ancient monastery, which nowadays functions as a museum. Cape Cavo Gkreko is located 10 minutes' drive from the city and is considered one of the most beautiful places in the area. The sandy beach and clear water attract many tourists.

Northern Cyprus

Where is Northern Cyprus and what territory of the island does it occupy? The border between the two states runs almost in the middle of the island. Ethnic Turks live in the northern part. Tourists are very fond of visiting Northern Cyprus due to the fact that a visa is not required for entry. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is recognized as an independent state only by Turkey. You cannot fly here on a direct flight, only in transit through any Turkish airport.

Famagusta – population is only about 50 thousand. It used to be a bustling seaside town that attracted thousands of tourists. After the Turkish landing, most Greek Cypriot residents fled their homes. The city was plundered by marauders. It is now considered a deserted "ghost" town with hundreds of abandoned houses and hotels.

Kyrenia is a city on an island under the de facto control of Northern Cyprus. Kyrenia has many historical castles and bastions. The famous Shipwreck Museum houses the oldest ship ever recovered from the seabed. To the east and west of the city there are clean sandy beaches. Some of them are modernly equipped, with many restaurants and cafes built on them, while others have much more modest conditions.

The island where Cyprus is located is a place of legends and fairy tales, the place where Aphrodite emerged from the foam. Cyprus is an island of sun, sea, love and tranquility. All beaches have been awarded blue flags for cleanliness and excellent service.

Based on reviews from tourists and travelers, we can say that the southern part of the island is more popular among vacationers. There are more hotels here, which means more choice when choosing where to stay. The entire coastline is dotted with restaurants, souvenir shops and various entertainment. In the northern part, the most visited resort is Kyrenia. This city attracts with its clean sandy beaches; people come here for a calm and quiet holiday.

Now you know what the island of Cyprus is, where it is located, in which country. Cyprus is a country itself, although it is divided into parts by warring ethnic groups.

The island of Cyprus is the third largest in the Mediterranean. It is located 75 kilometers from Turkey, 100 kilometers from Syria and 380 kilometers from Egypt.

The territory of the Republic of Cyprus occupies 60% of the island's area, 38% falls on the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and 2% of the territory is controlled by Great Britain. British military bases are located here "Dhekelia" And "Akrotiri".

The main population of the island are Greeks and Turks. The British, Russians and Armenians also live here. Turkish Cypriots live in the north of Cyprus, and ethnic Greeks live in the south.

There are two main religions here: Orthodox Christianity and Islam. The church plays an important role in the state and influences many aspects of the lives of citizens. In this small area there are more than 500 temples and 10 monasteries. In addition to Orthodox churches, there are also Catholic, Armenian and Maronite churches. Many also practice Judaism and other religions. The Republic of Cyprus has numerous regulations that guarantee protection to all religious groups.

Among the major cities of the island there are Larnaca, Limassol, Paphos, Ayia Napa, and the capital of the Republic of Cyprus is the city of Nicosia.

Climate and weather

The climate in Cyprus is subtropical and dry. Summers here are hot, and winters are mild and warm. The average January temperature is +12 ºС (in mountainous areas up to +4 ºС), and in summer the air warms up to +35 ºС. Due to the low rainfall and low humidity levels, the heat is quite bearable. Precipitation occurs only in winter (about 70-80 mm monthly).

The swimming season here opens in April, when the temperature reaches +20 ºС. In August, the water has the highest temperature of the year - up to +28 ºС. The best time to travel here is from April to May and from early September to late October. Fans of ski holidays can come here from November to February. Snow depth in the mountains Troodos sometimes it reaches 1.5 meters.

Nature

Mountains occupy most of the island's territory. In the east, the width of the mountain range Kyrenia reaches 25-30 km, in the west - 15 km. Highest point in the west ( Akromanda) is located at an altitude of 1023 meters. And the highest point of the entire island is Mt. Olympus. Its height is 1952 meters and it is located in the north of Cyprus.

The flora and fauna of Cyprus is quite rich and diverse. One of the rarest animals lives here - the mouflon, the Cypriot mountain sheep. Now he is under special protection of the state, and hunting him, of course, is prohibited. Many species of snakes, lizards and turtles can be found in Cyprus, especially in the areas where the ancient cities of the island were located. Being in a forested area close to water, it is quite possible to see a chameleon, tree frogs and other amphibians. The number of bird species in Cyprus is amazing, there are about 400 species here! Pelicans, swans, flamingos, and many other rare and exotic birds can be spotted.

Attractions

One of the main man-made attractions of Cyprus is Kykkos Monastery, which is located in the Troodos mountains, and is located at an altitude of 1250 m. This is the largest monastery in terms of area in all of Cyprus. It was founded in 1100 by the Byzantine Emperor Alexios Komnenos in honor of the Virgin Mary. The oldest icons in the world are kept here, including the icon of St. Luke. There is a museum at the monastery, where ancient manuscripts and other ancient things of cultural value for Cyprus are collected. It is not surprising that this place is the most popular for pilgrims in Cyprus and neighboring countries.

In addition to the Kykkos Monastery, there are nine other churches you can visit in these mountains. All icons, frescoes and drawings contained in them are recognized as UNESCO cultural heritage.

Sanctuary of Aphrodite, goddess of beauty and love, was found near the city Limassol, now in the ruins of the once existing city of Amathus. And the bath of the goddess is in the city Pathos. According to legend, it was here that Aphrodite emerged from the sea foam.

Not far from the island's capital, Nicosia, tourists always visit the village Ashina, where there is a church built back in the 12th century, as well as royal tombs and the ancient kingdom of Idalion.

Cities are also of great interest to tourists and foreigners Famagusta And Kyrenia. Famagusta is famous for the fact that the commander from Venice, Christopher Moreau, lived there. He was considered the prototype of Othello. And in Kyrenia you can see the ruins of the Gothic Abbey of Bellapais.

Monastery of St. Nicholas(or Monastery dedicated to cats), ruins of an ancient city Salamis, tomb Hala Sultan, Lazarus's grave and many other attractions can tell foreigners about the great culture and history of this paradise on Earth.

Nutrition

The culinary traditions of Greece and Turkey had a great influence on Cypriot cuisine. But, of course, there are national dishes here, for example, “ meze" or " mezedes" It is a set of 20-30 hot and cold dishes (vegetable, meat or fish) with various sauces. Cold appetizers, such as olives or salad, are served first, followed by hot dishes. These are followed by more serious treats: pork in red wine; lamb baked with potatoes; beef with herbs and vegetables and many other hearty dishes to choose from. The dessert menu includes only fresh fruit.

Cyprus is famous for its walnut dishes, as well as various types of cheeses, such as feta.

Sweets include Turkish delight, halva, baklava and rizogalo (rice porridge with cinnamon and sweets).

One of the most popular drinks in Cyprus is wine, especially red. The Zivania grape moonshine is also produced here. Its strength reaches 80º, but such a drink cannot be exported from the country - the permissible strength of exported alcoholic beverages should not exceed 50º. Cypriots readily drink Brandy Sur cocktails (with lemon juice, soda and bitters) and Carlsberg and Keo beer.

Here you can enjoy delicious coffee, which is brewed and served almost the same as Turkish coffee.

Accommodation

There are many hotels and inns in Cyprus with varying numbers of stars. All of them are equipped with the latest technology. Even in two-star hotels, tourists feel comfortable. The difference is in the food (some hotels have switched to an all-inclusive system, while some provide only breakfast) and distance from the sea. In every hotel, among the service staff there are Russian-speaking workers, so it will not be difficult to communicate. The hotels have everything you need for a good holiday.

The most popular are hotels with three star status. They are located near the sea, and the prices pleasantly please visitors. Among such hotels are Pierre-Anne, Golden Arches, Atlantica Sungarden Beach And Paschalia.

A good option for relaxation would be if you decide to rent an apartment. But keep in mind that this pleasure is not cheap. You will have to pay from 70 to 200 € per day. The price, of course, depends on the distance to the beach and the condition of the apartment.

Entertainment and relaxation

To get a closer look at the history of Cyprus, you can visit Archaeological Museum of Antiquities, which Cypriots are so proud of.

The village of Ahera attracts visitors very much " Ostrich Park" The park is located right on the farm where these birds are bred. Every day there are many tourists here who want to look at different types of ostriches.

The island also has a dolphinarium, an aquarium, two large water parks, and “singing fountains.”

Nightlife lovers will be pleased. There are many clubs, bars and restaurants here. The resort town is considered the center of club life Ayia Napa. It is always fun and noisy here, since this area is aimed mainly at young people.

In winter, the ski resort in the mountains is very popular Troodos. In addition to winter sports, safari tours are organized here. Their essence is that tourists travel by jeep to the most inaccessible and wild places on the island. Sea cruises from Cyprus to Egypt, Syria, Lebanon and Israel are very common. They usually last 3-4 days, and the cost of such trips reaches $300-350.

There are many diving centers on the coast where you can dive to great depths. In addition, there are other “sea” entertainment. Here you can go windsurfing, paragliding, canoeing, water skiing and various boats.

Cyprus is a place where riding clubs are found on every corner. Both professionals and beginners can get here. For the latter, instructors conduct special lessons, and then go on horseback rides together.

In a resort town Pathos There are three golf courses, the most popular game in Cyprus. The same resort has the best SPA centers where you can improve your health and simply enjoy relaxing treatments. Here they provide therapeutic seaweed wraps, aromatherapy, massages, nervous system restoration and many other programs for all categories of visitors.

Cypriots are very fond of holidays, and most of them occur in spring and summer. For example, the national holiday of Cyprus is celebrated in April, the “Water Festival” is celebrated in May-June. Many festivals are held here, including the Festival of Folk Dance and Ancient Greek Drama. They attract a huge number of visitors in every city on the island.

Purchases

Cyprus is not a place where you can spend hours shopping in world-famous boutiques and large shopping centers. Of course, there are some here, but prices for goods are very high, especially at the height of the tourist season. Of course, stores hold sales and discounts of up to 80%, when a branded item can be purchased for 1-30 €, but this happens at a time when the influx of tourists stops.

Among the most popular purchases are alcoholic drinks, primarily dessert wine. Commandaria", as well as liqueurs of various brands. In addition, foreigners are buying up sweets and many types of cheese. Jewelry, paintings, leather goods, and interior items are in great demand.

Tourists should be aware of non-standard opening hours for shops in Cyprus. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, stores are open until 14:00, and on Sundays they are closed at all. On other days between May and September they are open from 8:00 to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 19:00. From October to April - from 8:00 to 18:00 with a lunch break from 13:00 to 14:00. But during the tourist season, many shops and supermarkets are open every day without interruption.

Transport

Public transport in Cyprus presented by bus And minibuses. There are also intercity buses, but they run literally once a day. Public transport starts at 6:00 and ends at 18-19:00. The traffic interval is 20-30 minutes.

Minibuses are considered the most convenient form of transport, as they can be ordered by phone or stopped anywhere in the city. They travel not only around the city; you can go on excursions to several cities. The cost of travel from one city to another will be about 4 €. This is twice as expensive as traveling by bus, but cheaper than taking a taxi. The only drawback of minibuses is that they do not go to the airport. There are special buses for these services.

A taxi in Cyprus is expensive: you will have to pay a little over 3 € just to get in. For every kilometer, 0.6 € is added, for luggage weighing more than 12 kg - 1 €, and for an hour of waiting - almost 14 €. There is a night rate that starts at 20:30. During this time, fares increase by 15%, and on weekends and holidays prices increase even more.

You can use the service car rental. To do this, the driver must be over 25 and under 70 years old. Driving experience - at least three years. The rental cost will cost an average of 50 € per day.

Connection

The Internet today is available to most residents of the island. The main Internet service provider is a national company CYTA. Along with it there are several other commercial companies, for example, Primetel, which is also very popular in the country. With operator support Reliance Globalcom it plans to launch its own system, thanks to which Cyprus will be connected to European countries and many others.

As for telephone communication, it is very expensive here, so it is better not to call from hotels, but to use special pay phones. At banks, call centers and post offices you can buy cards and coins to make calls from such machines.

Safety

The island of Cyprus is one of the most peaceful and safe places in the whole world, even despite the resorts where nightlife predominates. All conditions have been created here for a safe holiday for tourists, and the locals are friendly and hospitable.

But this does not mean that you can forget about precautions. As elsewhere, it is better not to take large sums of money with you and not to wear a lot of expensive jewelry.

At any moment, if necessary, you can contact a police officer or get any other help by calling 112 and 199. These are universal numbers, but in different cities there are also local services, so you should immediately find out the phone numbers that may be necessary .

Business climate

Cyprus is one of the best places to start your own business. This is a state with a high standard of living. Favorable conditions for employment of citizens have been created here.

To begin with, a foreigner should clearly plan the infrastructure and think through everything down to the smallest detail. This is already half the success. The start-up capital required to open your own business is minimal. For example, to open your own cafe, you need about 2500 €. As for taxes, everything here is also simplified to the maximum. Income tax is 10%, which is considered the lowest in Europe, and there is no tax on business acquisitions at all.

In addition to a business plan for the development of your business, it is also necessary to have an alternative plan in case of unforeseen situations.

Once you start opening and registering your company, you will need a bank account for a certain amount. It is also necessary to contact specialists: lawyers and accountants. This is necessary in order to ensure the legality of the business and provide guarantees to both the state and the entrepreneur.

Real estate

Cyprus is an extremely attractive place to buy real estate, because housing prices here increase by more than 15% every year. Basically, foreigners buy housing to come and stay here for the duration of their holidays. The rest of the time they rent it out, receiving additional profit.

After purchasing an apartment, house or villa, the buyer and his family members receive the right to a residence permit. But before you buy a home, you need to obtain special permission from the authorities.

You should understand that the process of purchasing and registering a home will take a long time. But at the same time, this branch of business life is so developed in Cyprus that most of the entire procedure can be carried out via the Internet. Agents and realtors will provide all the necessary information. Payment can also be made online (by the way, it is accepted only in foreign currency). An apartment located a few steps from the sea will cost 3-4 thousand € per 1 m². Thus, a two-bedroom apartment will cost about 200,000 €. Depending on the condition of the apartments, apartments or villas and the distance to the sea, prices can reach several million euros.

• While on the island, do not be surprised if the locals give you something as a gift or treat you with something. They are very welcoming and generous and love to communicate with foreigners.
• Here you can drink tap water without fear for your health, not only in hotels, but also in all public places.
• In hotels, most sockets are three-phase, so in order to use “our” electrical appliances, you can ask for an adapter at the reception.
• When sightseeing, you should think about your wardrobe. That is, if you decide to visit temples and churches, make sure that your clothes cover your knees. Women are prohibited from entering the temple wearing shorts, short skirts, or bare heads.

In the territory of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, the Turkish lira is used, not the euro. But in the Republic of Cyprus you can pay in euros, pounds sterling or US dollars. There are many banks and exchange offices operating here. You should be careful when you decide to withdraw money from an ATM, as the commission reaches 3%. If you pay with a card in a supermarket, make sure there is a tax on this transaction in this store. Sometimes it is up to 7% of the purchase.

Visa information

When entering the country, a visa from the Republic of Cyprus is required. If it is available, movement between the two parts of the island is free. A visa for the unrecognized Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is issued upon entry. Insurance coverage may not apply to Turkish territory. If you only have a visa from the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, then you will not be able to enter the territory of the Republic of Cyprus.

The Embassy of Cyprus in the Russian Federation is located at: 121069, Moscow, st. Povarskaya, 9.

The Russian Embassy is located in Nicosia at the address: Gonia Agiou Prokopiou & Arch. Makariou 111, Egkomi, P.O.Box 21845, 1514 Lefkosia.

Have you been to Cyprus yet? We will help you make the right first impression of Cyprus in just 10 minutes! It's exciting and useful!

What kind of state is Cyprus?

Republic of Cyprus ( Greek Kipros, tour. Kibris, English Cyprus) is an island state in the Mediterranean Sea, a member of the European Union since 2004.

Political structure: The Republic of Cyprus is a presidential republic, has been a member of the European Union since May 1, 2004, and since January 1, 2008 has been part of the euro zone (the national currency, the Cypriot pound, was fixed at the rate of 0.585 pounds per euro).
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is an unrecognized republic by the world community (recognized only by Turkey).

Territorial structure: After the 1974 conflict, the once united state of Cyprus was divided into two parts: the southern, the Republic of Cyprus (57.6%), and the northern, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (36%). To prevent conflict, UN peacekeeping troops were sent to the island. To date, they occupy a buffer zone separating hostile territories (about 3.7% of the island’s territory). Another 2.7% of the territory was retained by Great Britain after Cyprus gained independence in 1960, and now there are two British military bases there.

Official languages: Greek (ROK) and Turkish (TRNC).

National currency: euro (ROK) and Turkish lira (TRNC).

Population: 839 thousand people (RoK, census from 2011) + 265 thousand people (TRNC, census from 2006).

Population

The population of the island is more than a million people, of which 839 thousand people live in the Republic of Cyprus: about 90% of the population of the republic are Greek Cypriots, the rest of the population are British, Russians and Armenians.

There are 265 thousand people in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, of which 1/3 are ethnic Turkish Cypriots, and 2/3 are immigrants from mainland Turkey.

Religion

The Republic of Cyprus is an Orthodox state. The Cypriot Orthodox Church is an autocephalous apostolic church. Religious traditions are very strong here, church holidays are public holidays, the first president of the Republic of Cyprus after the declaration of its independence was Archbishop Makarius III. There are more than 700 temples and monasteries in Cyprus. The most famous is the Kykkos Monastery in the Troodos Mountains. Also interesting are the small ancient churches of Troodos with wall frescoes (listed as a UNESCO world cultural heritage).

The majority of the population of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus preaches Islam.

Language

Official language of the Republic of Cyprus: Greek. As a legacy of British colonization, Cyprus inherited the ubiquitous English language, and thanks to the popularity of the resort among Russian-speaking tourists, you will be understood in Russian.

The official language of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is Turkish; in tourist areas they will speak to you in English and German.

Climate of Cyprus

The island's climate, combined with clean air and gentle warm sea, is ideal for relaxation at any time of the year. It is not for nothing that Cyprus ranks 31st in the world in terms of life expectancy.

The climate on the island is subtropical Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers (temperatures up to +45°, humidity 40-60%) and warm winters (temperature +12°... +20°, humidity 60 - 80%). In the Troodos Mountains, the temperature is much lower than on the coast, which allows local residents to take a break from the heat in the summer, and even go skiing and snowboarding in the winter! The wettest months are December and January; precipitation in the form of rain is possible on the coast.

The summer months are the best time for a beach holiday on the coast. Don't forget your sunscreen and your holiday will be perfect.

In almost any hotel, cafe or restaurant in the Republic of Cyprus, visitors are provided with free Wi-Fi; the password can be obtained from the staff. A free network has appeared on many beaches in Cyprus.
But some hotels have begun to charge for Wi-Fi in their rooms (you can connect to the network for free only at the reception desk). IN Over the past few years, the practice has spread in many low- and mid-budget hotels to provide paid access to Wi-fi (about 15-20 euros per day). Please check this point when booking to correctly calculate the cost of your vacation.

How much is Cyprus actually worth?

There is an opinion that Cyprus is an expensive resort. However, this is not at all true - there are plenty of opportunities to organize a holiday for every taste and budget!

The most expensive months for a holiday in Cyprus are July and August; prices traditionally increase during the May and New Year holidays.
But during the most comfortable time for a vacation - the second half of September, October, early November - you can find excellent discounts on package tours and hotel accommodations. The most expensive hotels are in Limassol and Ayia Napa, followed by Paphos and Protaras. The most budget holiday on the coast is in Larnaca.

The cost of a week's holiday in Cyprus during the season will range from 650 to 1000 euros for two (and higher, depending on the level of the hotel). In the off-season you can go to the sea for a week for 500 euros for two. Package tours include flights and hotel accommodation. Cheap tours, as a rule, do not include meals - please specify meals and airport transfers when booking.

If you are planning an independent holiday, you must provide for the following expenses:

Flight: depending on the season and airline, the cost of the flight will be from 200 to 600 euros per person round trip. Keep an eye out for special offers from airlines - with promotions from airlines you can fly to Cyprus for only 100 euros per person.

Accommodation: choose the conditions and price to suit your taste: a stay in an apart-hotel will cost you 30-50 euros for two (usually meals are not included), 4* hotels will cost from 100-120 euros for two per day (usually breakfast is included at default). Hotels on the first line, as a rule, offer their clients free sun loungers and umbrellas on the beach. But if you are vacationing in another hotel or apartment, prepare to pay from 6 to 7.5 euros per day for an umbrella and 2 sun loungers.

Nutrition: breakfast (English or continental) will cost you 4-6 euros per person; dinner in a restaurant - from 15-20 euros per person. An excellent option for an inexpensive lunch - traditional souvlaki (kebabs) in pita bread with vegetables will cost you 8-10 euros. If you are planning to stay in an apart-hotel and cook your own food (the best option for a holiday with small children), count from 5-10 euros per person per day (depending on your menu).

Trips: In Cyprus, you definitely need to travel, this is the only way you will get the most complete pleasure from your vacation! Excursion around the island will cost from 40-45 euros per person (depending on the route and size of the group), the cost of an individual excursion for a group of up to 4 people - from 120 euros (4.5 - 5 hours) to 180 euros (8-9 hours) and 240 euros (10-12 hours), lunch is paid separately. You can rent a car(20-40 euros per day depending on the class of car and season, at least 3 days; gasoline in Cyprus costs 1.25 euros per liter 95). The island has developed bus service— the fare is 1.5 euros on a city route and from 7 euros on an intercity route (buses run quite rarely, keep an eye on the schedule).

Entertainment: visiting the water park will cost 29-38 euros per adult and 16-25 euros per child; the cost for boat trips varies from 10-12 euros (1-1.5 hour walk) to 50 euros (5 hour trip with lunch and drinks), individual yacht rental from 200 euros for two (it is advisable to check in advance); the cost of entrance tickets to state museums is from 2.5 to 4.5 euros per adult; sea ​​attractions - from 7 euros (banana ride) to 40 euros (parachute flight).

Taxi (transfer): from Larnaca airport: to Larnaca hotel from 20 euros; to Ayia Napa from 40 euros; to Protaras and Limassol from 50 euros; to Paphos from 90 euros.

You can read more about how much food costs in stores and restaurant prices in the article Prices in Cyprus.

Transport in Cyprus

FLIGHTS

There are two airports in the Republic of Cyprus: in Larnaca (Hermes Larnaca International Airport LCA ) And in Paphos (Paphos International Airport PFO), which receive daily regular flights from Russia and Ukraine. You can get from Moscow to Cyprus by direct flights of Aeroflot (from Sheremetyevo SVO airport) and S7 (Domodedovo DME).

In addition, regular flights depart from Cyprus to Belarus, England, Germany, France, Greece, Israel, Syria, Libya, and Egypt.

The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus also has an airport near Nicosia (Ercan Uluslararasi Havalimani ECN). Since this airport is located on the territory of an unrecognized state, it cannot accept international flights; planes fly here only from Turkey. Tourists arriving at the airport of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus cannot enter the territory of the Republic of Cyprus.

Larnaca Airport offers direct transfers to Limassol and Nicosia. More information about the schedule of transfers to Limassol and Nicosia, respectively, can be found on the websites www.cyprusbybus.com and www.kapnosairportshuttle.com.

TAXI

A taxi will cost more than a bus, but it will take the passenger to the right place and at a convenient time. In the Republic of Cyprus, both taxi drivers and their cars undergo a fairly strict certification procedure, so you can use these services without fear. It is not customary for passing cars to “vote” here.

BUSES

Bus services connect the main cities of the Republic of Cyprus, in addition there are both urban and rural routes. This is an inexpensive and comfortable means of transportation (all buses are equipped with air conditioning), and although they run quite rarely (1 flight every 1-2 hours), they are on schedule (the current schedule can be obtained at the nearest bus station or on the website http://www.cyprusbybus. com/). Please note: the last flights depart quite early, and flights may be canceled on weekends and holidays! Payment is made in the bus upon boarding.

Airport transfers are usually included in the package tour price and are often provided by the hotel when booking independently (check when booking).
If you are staying in the cities of Paphos and Larnaca, you can use regular buses (cost 1.5 euros per adult, 0.75 euros for a child over 6 years old).

FERRY SERVICE

Ferries and cruise ships depart from the Republic of Cyprus from the port of Limassol and travel to the ports of Greece (Rhodes, Crete and mainland Piraeus), Bulgaria (Varna), Egypt (Port Said), Israel (Haifa), Syria (Latakia) and Italy (Ancocna). Also, liners cruising the Mediterranean Sea make a stop in Limassol.

In the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, two ports are connected by ferry to Turkey: the port of Kyrenia and the port of Famagusta. Please note that when arriving from Turkey to the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, you cannot enter the territory of the Republic of Cyprus.

Entertainment

Cyprus offers all types of water activities. Large water parks (the largest in Europe) have become very popular among tourists - WaterWorld In Ayia Napa and Fassouri Watermania in Limassol. There are smaller water parks in Paphos and Protaras that are perfect for visiting with children. Expect a full day at the water park - there are attractions for all family members and, believe me, you will want to come back!

The beaches offer a variety of water attractions - here you can ride a banana boat and water ski, rent a scooter or catamaran, and also take an unforgettable trip in a hot air balloon! In the sea harbors of resort towns you will be offered various programs of boat trips - fishing, a full-fledged trip with stops for swimming, watching the sunset.

The largest amusement park on the island - Paliasto Park- located in Ayia Napa. Every resort town in Cyprus has small amusement parks and slot machines. And in Protaras you can admire the unique Show of Dancing Fountains - Magic Dancing Waters- with a laser show and a real volcanic eruption!

Cuisine and traditions

The cuisine of Cyprus is quite simple - fresh vegetables and fruits, fresh meat and fish, the freshest bread and the inevitable olives) The national cuisine is Mediterranean.

Please note that in the mountainous regions meat cuisine is traditional, and in the coastal regions it is fish cuisine.
Cyprus has fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables all year round.

National regulations guarantee no additives or chemicals, so you can forget about the nitrate horror stories and enjoy your fresh fruit!

About half of the land in Cyprus is occupied by agriculture - there are fresh vegetables and fruits here all year round! Main crops: olives, grapes, citrus fruits, melons, wheat, potatoes, almonds, walnuts, pomegranates, beans, cherries, apricots and peaches.

The wines of Cyprus are known far beyond the island - many wineries produce red and white wines, the famous knightly wine Commandaria, as well as strong drinks - brandy and zivania.

Dairy products, in particular Cypriot cheeses, will delight the most sophisticated gourmet.

Cypriot cuisine is one of the pillars of Mediterranean cuisine, and one of the most interesting attractions of the island!

Emergency numbers:

• Single number 112
• Fire Department 199 Sea air has a very beneficial effect on our body, because it’s not for nothing that the sea is considered the best healer! The beach season lasts from May to early November, but even in winter the water temperature does not drop below +17..+18 degrees! The beaches of Cyprus are considered one of the best in Europe; in 2018, 63 Cypriot beaches were awarded the Blue Flag for cleanliness and amenities (the unrecognized republic of Northern Cyprus does not participate in the rating, otherwise there would be much more awards!).
  There is no heavy industry in Cyprus, therefore there are no harmful particles and compounds that poison us in large cities
  We can talk endlessly about the benefits of mountain air; when vacationing in Cyprus, be sure to go to the Troodos Mountains. The highest point of the island is Mount Olympus (1951 m).

  Convenience for tourists— Cyprus is simply created for relaxation! Moreover, for completely different holidays - each tourist can choose his own format.
  All cities and villages of Cyprus are equipped with the necessary infrastructure - shops and pharmacies, restaurants and cafes, banks.
  One of the legacies of British colonization is excellent roads connecting all settlements. The traffic is on the left, but you get used to it quickly. All signs are maximally adapted for the convenience of foreign tourists.
  An important aspect of a holiday in Cyprus is the absence of language barriers. Even if you don’t speak English (about 90% of Cypriots speak English), you will not be lost - many Cypriots speak Russian, in addition, many Russian-speaking citizens of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and the Baltic countries live and work in Cyprus. Coupled with traditional hospitality, this greatly simplifies your vacation and completely eliminates communication problems!

  Simplified visa regime— Cyprus is a member of the Schengen Agreement (you can come to Cyprus with an open Schengen visa issued by a third country), but issues a national visa. For citizens of Russia and Ukraine, the visa is free, you can get it using a simplified scheme - without leaving your home, in one day!

  Safety— Cyprus is one of the safest countries in the world.

  Cuisine of Cyprus- the cuisine of Cyprus is quite simple - fresh vegetables and fruits, fresh meat and fish, the freshest bread and the inevitable olives) The national cuisine is Mediterranean. Please note that in the mountainous regions meat cuisine is traditional, and in the coastal regions it is fish cuisine.
  Cyprus has fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables all year round. National regulations guarantee no additives or chemicals, so you can forget about the nitrate horror stories and enjoy your fresh fruit!
  I would also like to say something about Cypriot wine, because winemaking has existed on the island for more than 5 thousand years!

  Travel and attractions— Cyprus provides a lot of opportunities for curious tourists: exciting individual excursions on a variety of topics, simplicity and accessibility of independent road trips around the island. In addition, all cities of Cyprus are connected by regular bus routes - you can travel around Cyprus on your own without even renting a car!
  The variety of landscapes and attractions makes Cyprus very attractive to tourists. The main tourism destinations in Cyprus:
  - Troodos mountains. In addition to traditional villages, small waterfalls and stunning views, there are many naturalistic walking routes of low difficulty;
  - pilgrimage routes. The Orthodox churches of Cyprus attract pilgrims from all over the world. The ancient churches of Troodos deserve special mention; thanks to the preserved Byzantine frescoes, they are included in the UNESCO list of world cultural heritage.
  — archaeological parks, Neolithic and antiquity. Cyprus has preserved unique ancient cities and settlements, and the ancient mosaics of Paphos are also noted by UNESCO.
  - Northern Cyprus. Unique castles and fortresses of the Middle Ages, combined with a unique oriental flavor, attract a consistently high number of tourists.

  What is Cyprus famous for?

  The main attraction of Cyprus is clean and equipped beaches Mediterranean Sea, some of the best in Europe. In 2018, 62 beaches and one promenade in Cyprus were awarded the international Blue Flag award.

  Troodos Mountains- the mountain system of Cyprus with the highest point of 1952 meters (Mount Olmpus). In winter, snow falls in the mountains and there is one ski resort. The Troodos Mountains are a national nature park. Local forests are interesting for a large number of endemic plants, the most famous are the Cyprus cyclamen, golden oak, strawberry tree and Cypriot cedar. The most famous endemic - the inhabitant of Troodos - mouflon, is included in the international Red Book.

  Heritage of ancient civilizations. Archaeologists believe that the first people settled in Cyprus 10 thousand years ago - the most interesting archaeological parks of the Neolithic period (Khirokitia and Tenta, included in the UNESCO world cultural heritage list) and the ancient period (Kourion, Salamis, Paphos archaeological park, Kition) are open to visitors , Amathus, Tamassos, Soli). In the cities of Cyprus, archaeological museums are open all year round, presenting archaeological finds and ancient artifacts.

  Homeland of the goddess Aphrodite. It is believed that it was here, in Petra Tou Romiou Bay (between Limassol and Paphos), that the goddess of love emerged from the sea foam to then settle in Paphos. The cult of Aphrodite reigned on the island; the largest temples in Europe were built here. Currently, the ruins of temples can be seen in archaeological parks - the ancient city-states of Cyprus.

  Orthodox heritage and monuments from the period of the birth and formation of Christianity. The Republic of Cyprus is an Orthodox state. The Cypriot Orthodox Church is an autocephalous apostolic church. Religious traditions are very strong here, church holidays are public holidays, the first president of the Republic of Cyprus after the declaration of its independence was Archbishop Makarius III. There are more than 700 temples and monasteries in Cyprus. The most famous is the Kykkos Monastery in the Troodos Mountains. Also interesting are the small ancient churches of Troodos with wall frescoes (listed as a UNESCO world cultural heritage).

  Products, winemaking, agritourism. About half of the land in Cyprus is occupied by agriculture - there are fresh vegetables and fruits here all year round! Main crops: olives, grapes, citrus fruits, melons, wheat, potatoes, almonds, walnuts, pomegranates, beans, cherries, apricots and peaches. The wines of Cyprus are known far beyond the island - many wineries produce red and white wines, the famous knightly wine Commandaria, as well as strong drinks - brandy and zivania. Dairy products, in particular Cypriot cheeses, will delight the most sophisticated gourmet. Cypriot cuisine is one of the pillars of Mediterranean cuisine, and one of the most interesting attractions of the island!

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea after Sicily and Sardinia, located in its eastern part, 75 kilometers from the coast of Turkey and 105 and 380 kilometers from the coasts of Syria and Egypt, respectively. Cyprus, which has an area of ​​9,251 sq. km., stretches for 240 kilometers from east to west and about 100 kilometers from north to south. Cyprus is a fairly mountainous island with two more or less large mountainous regions. The Kyrenia Ridge runs right along the shore of the Mediterranean Sea in the north-eastern part of the island, and its highest point is Mount Akromanda (1023 meters). The western part of the island is occupied by the large Troodos mountain range, where the highest mountain of Cyprus is located - the local Olympus with a height of 1952 meters.

Cyprus is one of the most popular resort destinations in the Mediterranean, although the situation on the island itself is quite tense. The fact is that since 1974, as a result of the Turkish invasion, Cyprus has actually been divided into two parts - the Republic of Cyprus (where all the tourists go) and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The Republic of Cyprus owns approximately 60% of the island's territory, 36 percent is occupied by Turkish Northern Cyprus. Both of these parts are separated from each other by a buffer zone controlled by the UN contingent and occupying about 3.7 percent of the territory.

In addition, 2.7 percent of the island's area is the British military bases of Akrotiri and Dhekelia. The capital of both the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is located in the city of Nicosia (Turkish version - Lefkosa), divided by the so-called Green Line. About 300 thousand people live in the Greek part of the city, about 90 thousand live in the Turkish part.

The total population of Cyprus is 1,190,236 people, of which 864,236 people live in the Republic of Cyprus and 326,000 live in Northern Cyprus. More than 90 percent of the residents of the Republic of Cyprus are Greek Cypriots, the rest of the population is British, Russian and Armenian. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is home to Turkish Cypriots, Turks and some other nationalities. 77 percent of the population of Cyprus professes Greek Orthodoxy, 18 percent are Sunni Muslims, 5 percent are other branches of Christianity (Catholics, Maronites, Protestants, etc.).

Flight time:
(charter flights to Larnaca, 50 km)
from Moscow - 3 hours 40 minutes.
from St. Petersburg - 4 hours 25 minutes.
from Kazan - 3 hours 30 minutes.
from Yekaterinburg - 4 hours 30 minutes.
from Novosibirsk - 8 hours 20 minutes.

Current time in Nicosia:
(UTC +2)

The official languages ​​are Greek and Turkish. The majority of the population of the Republic of Cyprus speaks fluent English, which makes communication easier while holidaying on the island.

How to get there

How to get to Cyprus? There can be no two opinions - by plane, of course. There is no ferry service to the southern part of the island, and the northern part can only be reached by ferry through Turkey.

Despite the fact that Cyprus is a relatively small island, it has two air ports on the territory of the Republic of Cyprus and one in its northern part. If you choose a scheduled flight over a charter flight, in most cases you will land at Larnaca Airport. All major airlines are based here. The exception is S7, which flies to both Cyprus airports - Larnaca and Paphos. The airports are managed by a single company, Hermes, with Larnaca Airport handling three times the passenger volume and being larger itself. In 2017, it became the leader in speed of service among all EU airports.

A little advice: if you intend to live in the southwest of the island and are planning an independent trip, it makes sense to look for flights to Paphos - yes, tickets may cost more (however, this is not a fact), but the road to the place of your intended residence is much shorter. Otherwise, the next hour and a half spent in a taxi will be added to the time spent on the plane, as well as €95 for a one-way taxi trip.

If you want to fly directly to the northern part of the island, you have no choice: all planes landing in Northern Cyprus must one way or another take off from Turkey (the specificity of the political moment of a partially recognized state) and they all land near Nicosia - at the airport Ercan.

At the same time, be sure to keep in mind: having started your acquaintance with Cyprus from its northern part, you will not be able to move to the south - for such a trip you must have a Schengen visa or a national visa of Cyprus in your passport, which are not required to fly to the southern side - there is enough regular pro-visa (see). To feel freer, choose airports in the southern part of the island.

Ferry connections between Cyprus and other countries are carried out only from the North side and only with Turkey: thus, you can get to Kyrenia (Girne) from Tasucu (Silifke) (150 kilometers from Alanya, 100 from Mersin), and to Famagusta from Mersin.

In March 2019, the opening of a ferry service with Beirut (from Limassol) was disrupted: the Lebanese authorities did not agree on the route and postponed the decision for at least a year.

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Climate, weather in Cyprus

Despite the large amount of information on the Internet, the question about the weather in Cyprus remains open.

When does summer start in Cyprus? A good indicator that a pleasant warm summer has finally arrived in Cyprus are water parks that open in the middle (or last ten days) of April: many years of experience in their work shows that this time is already unconditionally suitable for permanent work, and suggests that there will be no surprises Businessmen (whose business, in general, consists of selling this weather) do not expect anything from the weather.

So, if you want real summer, come in mid-April, when the daytime air temperature at the beginning of the month reaches +25 °C, and by the end of the month reaches +28 °C. Water - up to +23 °C.

Cyprus spring- is fleeting and sometimes indistinguishable from “winter”: daytime temperatures from December to April can remain at the same level - about +22 °C (fluctuations from +13 to +22 °C). Well, and then, as already mentioned, summer comes suddenly.

Winter the temperature, of course, is unstable, and if the temperature reaches and, most importantly, stays above +20 °C, then the winter can be considered very warm (as it was in 2014), but in any case it rarely drops below +15 °C, and on average is +17…+18 °C. When visiting Cyprus in winter, don’t think that you won’t have to freeze: apartments in this southern country are not heated, expensive electricity is saved, and if you are unlucky, the temperature will be the same both outside and inside the apartment/hotel, so warm clothes are still needed will come in handy, especially if you go to the mountains, where there will be snow from the end of December to March, and daytime temperatures can remain at zero. But at this time it will be possible to go skiing in the mountains - equipment can be rented inexpensively on site.

Midsummer in Cyprus is hot. Hot air arrives in the third decade of June and lasts until mid-September. At this time, the daytime air temperature on the coast can reach +38 °C, but usually remains at +32…+36 °C.

One and a half autumn months from mid-September to the end of October are comfortable and pleasant +30 °C, with warm nights.

Then, until mid-November, only the evenings will become cold, and daytime temperatures will still reach +28 °C. December will lower the daytime temperature from +24 °C at the beginning of the month to +18...+20 °C at the end. January The average temperature will still drop, but nevertheless, until the middle of the month it can still rise to +20 °C. From the middle of the month “winter” comes: until the beginning of April, the temperature jumps from +13 to +22 in general, but more often it stays around +16…+18 °C.

Total number of sunny days in a year: at least 340, which means that the remaining 25 days of the year, being distributed from November to March (the time when rains occur), give approximately 5 rainy days per month. Abnormally rainy winters do occur, but are extremely rare.

Cities and regions

Main tourist cities of Cyprus

The Troodos Mountains are the largest of the island’s two mountain ranges, attracting not only the majority of tourists who decide to do something other than a banal swim in the sea, but also the Cypriots themselves, who escape the heat in the summer and go skiing in the winter (or just look at the snow), take a hundred selfies with a mug of mulled wine in your hands, and delight the children with sledding. The Troodos Mountains are a concentration of cultural, educational and natural sites: traditional villages, medieval monasteries, stunning landscapes, waterfalls and forests.

2. Pentadaktylos Mountains

The second mountain range of Cyprus, Pentadaktylos (or Beshparmak), is lower than Troodos, but is distinguished by especially beautiful steep cliffs, attracting not only with its unique nature, but also with several architectural attractions: medieval castles and Byzantine churches. The nature of the mountains will not disappoint hikers either: the views from the peaks will impress even experienced hikers.

3. Karpas Peninsula

Karpas is a specially protected area from human activity - a small nature reserve on the eastern edge of the island. The hilly terrain is covered with relict forest, beautiful deserted beaches meet a sea of ​​extraordinary transparency. The path to the peninsula is not close, but it is worth any time spent on it.

The Cavo Greco Nature Reserve is a small cape in the southeast of the island near Ayia Napa and Protaras, interesting for its expressive coastline - rocky shores, sea caves, wild beaches, stone arches over the water, and, of course, the Blue Lagoon - the bay with crystal clear blue water.

“Brilliant”, and this is how Kyrenia is translated - the most beautiful city of the island: the Venetian harbor has survived to this day, as has the largest historical site of the island - an ancient fortress, which dominates the entire embankment, on which there are numerous cafes and restaurants offering not only delicious food, but also an attractive view of the sea. The city is interesting both for its historical center and for the numerous attractions around it, including: Bellapais Abbey, Castle of St. Hilarion", Alagadi beach.

6. UNESCO cultural heritage sites

UNESCO protects 11 sites in Cyprus: the ancient city of Paphos, the Neolithic settlement of Khirokitia, and 9 Byzantine churches, which are of greatest interest for their frescoes of an extraordinary degree of preservation - they are of such great value that they are included in a special list - objects requiring special protection in the event of military conflicts .

Bellapais Abbey was once considered the most beautiful medieval Gothic building in the eastern Mediterranean: looking at the complex, partially destroyed by time (however, it preserved the three main rooms in almost original form), one can easily believe this fact. Not only the creation of human hands is beautiful, but also the natural environment: mountains meeting the sea, rocks rising high into the sky, harmoniously combined with the architecture of the monastery.

8. Sea caves and secret beach

Sea caves are the only place in Cyprus where seals still live - due to the proximity of the Akamas Nature Reserve and the relatively sparsely populated surroundings. The place is favored by photographers who have chosen snow-white rocks of unusual shape (the result of weathering) as the setting for wedding photo shoots.

The Akamas Peninsula is perhaps the most beautiful place in Cyprus: the untouched nature of the landscape reserve will not leave you indifferent - mountains, forests, roads running along the edge of steep cliffs, and, finally, the famous “Blue Lagoon” - a beach surrounded by wooded hills and water a thousand shades of turquoise and even gold. The easiest way to get to the Blue Lagoon is by pleasure boat from Latchi (travel time 1 hour).

10. Ancient city-states

The history of Cyprus has brought to us information about 13 city-states on its territory, and the ruins of most of them are available for visiting. Once on the island, you can’t help but visit the best preserved ones - Paphos, included in the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List, as well as Kourion and Salamis - it will take you several fascinating hours to explore them!

11. Mountain villages of Cyprus

The mountain villages of Cyprus - Kouklia, Lefkara and others - are the concentration of the entire centuries-old culture of the Cypriots: it was in the mountains, hiding from many conquerors, that they lived most of the history of the island. Now these historical and architectural monuments are the most interesting to visit: the quiet streets of medieval villages will not leave you indifferent, and the village cuisine is considered the most delicious on the island.

12. Venetian bridges

Venetian bridges are one of the most inaccessible monuments, but even more interesting - built by the Venetians in the 16th century, they were subsequently lost for a long time in overgrown dense forests, and now, surrounded by them, they look very unusual in the midst of almost wild nature. The bridges were built by the Venetians to transport copper ore from the mine to the port of Paphos.

The historical center of the capital lies not only within the boundaries of medieval stone fortifications, 5 kilometers long, but also within the borders of two states: the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (recognized only by Turkey, which does not negate the fact of the actual division of the island into two countries). One of the most interesting tourist attractions is border crossing, which brings vivid impressions of a sharp change in the cultural environment. It is on the Turkish side that you will find the three most interesting historical quarters of the ancient city: Arabahmet, Samanbahce and the Gothic center, with medieval churches, well-preserved remains of palace complexes, narrow streets winding between ancient houses, and, of course, large and small caravanserais. In the old part of the “southern” Nicosia, you will also not be left without impressions: the Famagusta Gate - the largest gate leading to the city, will surprise you with the size of the interior, where art exhibitions, conferences and concerts are now held, the pedestrian street Lidra will attract you with a large number of restaurants , clothing stores, the Laiki Getonia quarter is interesting not only for its cramped streets and cozy cafes, but also for a large number of inexpensive souvenir shops, the archaeological museum attracts tourists with an impressive collection of ancient artifacts, the motorcycle museum will be of interest to those who are interested in technology, and a small collection of Cypriot coins, visiting which, like the Famagusta gate, is free, will interest collectors, and, of course, a must-see is the small private museum Shacolas tower with an observation deck offering views of the entire city!

Where to go in Cyprus

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and Recreation

Transport

Private guides in Cyprus

Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with Cyprus in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.

Things to do

Cyprus is definitely a seasonal island: most tourists come to the island in the summer. Yes, yes, they are all “victims” of stereotypes - more often they consider it as a place for a beach holiday, while losing all opportunities for educational recreation.

Looking at Cyprus from the other side, you may be surprised - the excursion program is rich, and those who visit the island in winter - the best time for educational travel - discover that the sea is far from the most important thing, especially since summer excursions are associated with tiring heat, while winter ones provide an opportunity for thoughtful, measured, healthy rest. What to do in Cyprus in winter?

Of course, go to the mountains. The mountains are especially beautiful in winter: the waterfalls are full of water, the peaks are covered with snow, while in the sun-warmed valleys only the stones do not bloom! Walking along the mountain trails will bring extraordinary pleasure: clean air will allow you to explore the entire island from the heights of many observation platforms; lovers of alpine skiing can visit the ski resort.

Only in winter will you be able to calmly and leisurely stroll through the ancient cities - the unbearable heat will prevent you from doing this in the summer!

It is in winter that graceful flamingos fly to the island. The lake where they spend the entire season is literally a 20-minute walk from the center of Larnaca.

The calendar winter in Cyprus is more like spring - it is at this time of year that the nature of the island wakes up from the beginning (albeit rare) rains. The warm (sometimes even hot) sun on the coast, as well as the presence of snow in the mountains at the same time, allow you to both swim in the sea and go skiing in one day.

Getting around the country

For a traveler whose interests are not limited to the nearest beach and the pub around the corner, without a car in Cyprus it is rather difficult: buses move on highways, and the cities for an inquisitive traveler are not as attractive as the interior regions of the island. Considering that a Cypriot taxi is generally not a cheap pleasure: on average, each kilometer of travel costs 1€ - a rental car will be a reasonable, although not the only choice: those who want to see the true nature and history of Cyprus, and at the same time feel completely safe - they can use it.

Buses

Intercity bus service is not the best, but it is a necessary way to travel around the island: such trips have one advantage - they are cheap.

A trip along the longest two-hundred-kilometer route from Paphos to Ayia Napa will cost you an easy 9 €, and the price for routes between neighboring cities is no more than five. If you look at the map of the island, you will find that the distance between all neighboring cities of Cyprus is almost equal (and is about 50-60 km), therefore, the duration of the trip is the same - about one and a half hours. The longest route from Paphos to Ayia Napa will take about four hours.

If you don't mind wasting time, buy a day or week pass from the driver for 15 and 75 euros respectively - it will allow you to travel in any direction. Weekly passes for intracity routes range from 7 to 15 euros - and this is a really good way to explore the surrounding areas near major cities.

Taxi

Those who prefer relative freedom and speed of travel over short distances, do not want to stand around waiting for rare buses and do not dare to rent a car, can use taxi services.

The cost of a trip can be calculated either by a meter or declared fixed: in this case, the fixed cost is often not taken from the “ceiling”, but is the average for a specific route - this cost will be suggested to the driver by many years of experience.

During the season, when it is more profitable for the driver to wait for an expensive client and not carry a “cheap” one, the price for any short trip can be equal to 10 euros, regardless of the distance, as long as it does not exceed 5 kilometers. It’s easy to calculate the approximate cost: 1 € for each kilometer of travel, regardless of the distance - traveling within the city or between cities will be calculated the same.

Rent a Car

If you want absolute freedom and rent a car, then keep in mind that despite the apparent speed of getting used to driving on the left, your instincts can play a cruel joke on you at any moment: the most common mistake is unconsciously driving into the oncoming lane after a turn.

Finding a car to rent in Cyprus is easy: both global networks, such as Herz, Sixt or Avis, and small local offices will help you. The former have cars that are in better technical condition, but more expensive. The latter may sell you rubbish (they may not, it’s a lottery), but it’s inexpensive. In any case, the choice is yours.

Russians do not require international rights - this is a plus. Traffic in Cyprus is on the left, which seems like a disadvantage, but you quickly get used to this feature of the former English colony. On the third day of driving, driving on the left begins to seem logical; after a week, it becomes convenient. Red license plates adorning rental cars are an additional “fool-proof”: seeing such a license plate, Cypriots understand that the driver is a stranger who needs to be treated with leniency and consideration. In any case, do not skimp, take extended insurance, without deductibles and other petty savings.

At the same time, pay attention to some subtleties: insurance that works in the south does not work in the north. You'll have to fork out the cash and buy a separate policy. Three days of insurance - 20 €, a month - 35. A credit card is required - when the car is handed over to you, a certain amount will be blocked on it, depending on the class and current condition of the car. The proposed extended insurance costing 5 € per day will radically reduce the amount of blocking by a factor of 4. The rental service is neither expensive nor cheap. More expensive than in Spain, cheaper than in Italy. Central European price.

Getting hold of a car is not a problem in Northern Cyprus either. The rental cost is a little higher than in the south, but sometimes the cars are newer. There is only one unpleasant nuance - in a car rented in the north, you will not be able to cross the border of the Republic of Cyprus and the TRNC without the written permission of the rental office.

Features of driving in Cyprus

What do you need to pay close attention to while driving, besides the changing direction of movement? At high speed. When entering the motorway, you will notice a sign stating the MINIMUM speed limit of 65 kilometers per hour. That is, driving SLOWLY on the freeway is prohibited. Maximum speed 100 kilometers per hour. Additional restrictions may be established on roundabouts, exits and exits, you need to keep your eyes open, especially in Northern Cyprus: while in the Republic of Cyprus the speed is measured by police crews in strictly defined places marked with “Radar speed control” warning signs, in the north this function is performed automatic cameras installed almost everywhere.

There are warning signs, but they occur so often that sometimes you want to ignore them. This is reckless: fines for speeding in Northern Cyprus are depressingly high, with the size of the fine depending on how many km/h faster you are going. You won’t be able to come to an agreement with the camera (as well as with the police), it’s better to keep your eyes open. Tolerance (police leniency for speed violations) - 10% of the speed indicated on the sign. Keep in mind that additional kilometers per hour is not a permitted, but an acceptable excess, which is still a violation.

The quality of the road surface is excellent, navigation is excellent. The routes of Northern Cyprus, connecting Famagusta, Nicosia, Kyrenia and Morpha, are no worse in quality than those in the south. All roads in Cyprus, including motorways, are free.

Kitchen

In our humble opinion, it is impossible to die of hunger in Cyprus. Moreover, if you really don’t like local cuisine at all (which is nonsense, but it happens), you won’t be left without dinner.

First, keep in mind: Cyprus was a British colony for a long time; many dishes are still adapted to the tastes of the inhabitants of Foggy Albion. In particular, everywhere a huge plate of French fries will automatically be served with any dish. You don’t have to order an additional side dish, although in some places such an option exists. Salad as a separate dish can also be neglected. It is usually served as a “light warm-up” before the main course or as part of a side dish. Some unprepared organisms finish their meal on salad.

One of the characteristics of Cypriot cuisine, in addition to “variety” and “taste,” is “abundance”: you don’t have to order salad, soup, meatballs and compote at once - you simply won’t be able to eat it all. One main course will be more than enough. At the same time, one dish for two will still not be enough, then two dishes for three is just right: if in a restaurant you ask for an order to share, then the prepared dishes will be placed in the middle of the table, and they will bring you empty plates - this is absolutely normal and is practiced everywhere.

In large cities - Larnaca, Paphos, Limassol - the variety of restaurants is no different from that in any major city in the world: Japanese cuisine and all kinds of pizzerias are popular. Having a quick snack is also not a problem: in small kiosks and cafes they will prepare you a hot sandwich with lunza (dried meat) or gyros (meat in pita with fresh salad) in three minutes, accompanied by a rather large dish with French fries. Large supermarkets and shopping centers have the inevitable McDonald's or Taco Bell, but try to avoid these establishments: Cyprus has much more to offer.

Thanks to its geographical location, Cyprus is incredibly interesting from the point of view of a gourmet with a penchant for research: if you characterize Cypriot cuisine in a nutshell, it will be "simplicity" and "eclecticism". Cypriots have creatively rethought the culinary preferences of all cultures whose representatives have made their mark on the island. Arabic, Balkan, Greek, Turkish traditions and recipes are in use here.

Cypriots borrowed grilling from the Greeks and Turks, as well as the use of large amounts of yogurt, parsley, and garlic. From the Arabs - seasonings, but the food in Cyprus is much less spicy than is customary in the Arab world. Zira and hot pepper are used, but carefully and sparingly. The Italians taught the Cypriots to use fresh herbs: mint, coriander, tarragon, basil, cardamom and arugula. Finally, the British are not only about fish and chips, but also about Indian curry and ginger. Moreover, despite the centuries-long history of coexistence and interpenetration of two Cypriot communities, Greek and Turkish, the concept of “cuisine of Cyprus” is difficult to generalize: sometimes even dishes with the same name in the north and south differ quite significantly - both in the composition of the products and in the method of preparation , and in taste characteristics.

Cypriot cuisine is mainly meat. Primarily pork (on the Greek part) and lamb, poultry and sometimes rabbit, less often beef. But fish, strange as it may seem at first glance, is not particularly popular on the island. The fact is that the local population spent a long time in the mountains, hiding from the attacks of various colonialists, having lost contact with the sea. However, nowadays Cypriots enjoy eating tuna, sea bass, swordfish and squid. The basic rule when choosing fish dishes is that the simpler the preparation, the better: ideally, the fish should be freshly caught and grilled. In good taverns you will often be asked to choose your own fish.

And, of course, one of the unconditional Cypriot products - famous throughout the world halloumi cheese, which is not only fried and used in sandwiches, but also for making desserts.

The pantheon of iconic Cypriot dishes consists of such masterpieces as kleftiko, stifado, aphelia, sheftalia, kupepia, souvlaki, pastichio.

But the clearest showcase of all the diversity and impressions of Cypriot cuisine is the famous meze, which everyone who just wants to try it and those who have already tasted talk about with burning eyes: this tradition involves serving almost all the dishes from the menu presented in the tavern in full portions of each of them, for the price of one.

Don’t expect that when you go to the first cafe you come across by the beach, you will be amazed, conquered and forever in love with Cypriot cuisine. Miracles, of course, happen, but, as regular practice shows, masterpieces, especially culinary ones, do not lie on the road. They must be found by trial and error. The main advice is don’t be afraid to experiment.

And one last thing. Don't judge Cypriot taverns by their appearance. Sometimes, in the most unprepossessing-looking eatery, far from the main tourist routes, there may be no empty seats, which means a reputation and popularity among local residents that has been earned over the years. Do not leave! It makes sense to wait for a free table rather than look for a place where there are fewer people and be disappointed.

Purchases

Cyprus can be a good place for shopping - low taxes and import duties make the cost of expensive things lower than in other countries, and you can save thousands of euros on purchases from the luxury segment: products from famous brands such as Cartier or BVLGARI will cost much less on the island than in other European countries.

Purchasing items in the mid-price segment will give you the opportunity to save about 35% of the cost: for example, Samsonite suitcases, clothing from brands such as Zara, Oysho, Massimo Dutti will cost the same as prices in Russia during the sale, and the discount season in Cyprus will take up another 70% of their original cost.

By the way, sales seasons in Cyprus are determined by law: reducing prices at certain times of the year is not the will of the seller, but his responsibility. The summer sales season begins in July and lasts at least until the end of the month, or even until the last days of summer, and the winter season - immediately after the New Year holidays.

There are few home-produced goods on the island, and they are mainly represented by food products - cheeses, wines and traditional sweets. Industrial goods are not produced in Cyprus.

There are several grocery supermarket chains operating in Cyprus: Lidl, known to Europeans, the Greek Alfa Mega and Sklavenitis, Papantoniou, Athienitis and Metro. Most often, supermarkets are located on the outskirts of cities or even outside them: for Cypriots who own vehicles, visiting retail outlets does not cause difficulties, but for tourists, the most convenient way to get to stores is by taxi, since studying public transport route networks may be useless: more often It is impossible to get to shops by bus or such a trip will take too much time due to long waits at stops. In this regard, it is easiest for residents and vacationers in Paphos: in close proximity to the tourist center of the city there is one of the largest hypermarkets in Cyprus, on the ground floor of which there is a Sklavenitis grocery supermarket.

In the Northern part of Cyprus, the most famous supermarkets are Lemar and Tempo.

Connection

Mobile communications on the island are represented by three basic telecom operators and one virtual (MNVO). Basic operators: Epic (rebranding with enviable regularity and changing its third name (formerly MTN, formerly Areeba), state operator CYTA (in cooperation with Vodafone) and Primetel. Virtual operator - Cablenet (based on CYTA). The cost of services of all operators is approximately equal: according to the German statistical agency Statista, published in the magazine Der Spiegel, Cypriot mobile communications are the most expensive in the European Union: on prepaid tariffs (pay as you go) for 1 Gigabyte of data you will have to pay about 10 €, and this does not include time calls, which are paid separately at approximately 10¢. All three mobile operators have Russian-language pages and booklets on their websites with a full description of services and instructions. PrimeTel even has its own

Cyprus has very clean beaches, hotels with good service and an easy excursion. Entertainment includes mini-cruises, thalassotherapy and delicious Greek cuisine. The capital Nicosia, Paphos and Ayia Napa, Limassol and Protaras - all about Cyprus: weather, tours, reviews, maps and prices.

• Tours for May to Cyprus
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Perhaps the most adequate assessment of tourist Cyprus will sound like this: “strong Mediterranean goodness.” That is, this is a completely typical destination for a beach holiday, without any bright or unique “tricks”, but without any major drawbacks (unless, of course, you include fairly high prices as such). The island has a mild climate, hotel service is quite adequate to their level, and the beaches are very clean, with many Blue Flags - so tours to Cyprus are more than deservedly popular among travelers.

Time difference from Moscow

− 1 hour not in summer

• with Kaliningrad

• with Samara

• with Yekaterinburg

• with Omsk

• with Krasnoyarsk

• with Irkutsk

• with Yakutsk

• with Vladivostok

• from Severo-Kurilsk

• with Kamchatka

A daily flight to Larnaca from Moscow is operated by Aeroflot, and since 2016 also by the low-cost airline Pobeda. S7 Airlines flies from Moscow to Larnaca and Paphos three times a week. The journey takes about 4 hours.

From St. Petersburg, direct flights to Larnaca are operated by Rossiya Airlines on Thursdays and Sundays. During the summer season, there are additional charter flights, and the rest of the time it is easier to fly with a transfer in Moscow.

Also in summer there are charter flights from Yekaterinburg, Ufa, Rostov-on-Don, Moscow, Samara and other cities.

By sea

Cyprus can be reached by sea using regular flights and private ships from the ports of Greece, Egypt and Israel. From the Greek port of Piraeus, several transport companies operate regular ferry services to Limassol and back.

In particular, flights from Greece (including the islands), Egypt and other ports are operated by Cruise Cyprus (website in English). Cruise prices start from 250 EUR per person one way. Prices on the page are for December 2019.

Search for flights to Cyprus

Transport

You can travel around the island by intercity buses. From every major city, buses usually depart twice a day (morning and evening), except Sundays.

Travel cost: approximately 3 EUR for 50 km. There are single, daily, weekly, monthly and annual passes. All, except one-time, offer an unlimited number of trips. A single trip ticket from Limassol to Larnaca costs 4 EUR, a day ticket costs 7 EUR, a weekly ticket costs 33 EUR, and a monthly ticket costs 70 EUR. You can purchase them at bus stops or from the driver.

There are also single travel tickets valid on all intercity routes: for one day - 15 EUR, for a week - 75 EUR. More detailed information about fares, routes and stops can be found on the carrier’s website.

Public transport in cities

Large cities have municipal buses and minibuses. Travel time is from 4:00 (in some cities - from 6:00) to midnight. In major tourist cities, buses run 24 hours a day, but they have special night rates (but are cheaper than a taxi anyway). On Sundays and holidays, many drivers have a legal day off, but in tourist centers there are rare buses.

The ticket system is the same as for intercity buses. There are single, daily, weekly, monthly and annual passes. A single day ticket (from 4:00 to 21:00) costs 1.50 EUR, a night ticket (from 21:00 to 4:00) - 2.50 EUR. A daily weekly pass (there are no night passes) will cost 20 EUR, and a daily intercity pass (a one-day ticket that gives the right to travel on both intercity and city transport) will cost 15 EUR.

A taxi can be stopped on the street, called through the hotel administrator, or by phone from any store or restaurant. There are two tariffs: day (from 6:00 to 20:30) and night (from 20:30 to 6:00, 15% more expensive); The baggage transportation tariff does not depend on the time of day. It is better to agree on the price with the driver in advance, and a few words in Greek can reduce the price a little. The average cost of a taxi ride is 5-10 EUR for a 10-15 minute journey, depending on the city.

Car rental in Cyprus

Police, fire service, ambulance: 112, 199 (24 hours a day).

Information help desk: 191, 192 (24 hours a day).

Beaches

All beaches in Cyprus are municipal and free; you only have to pay for sunbeds and umbrellas (3-7 EUR per day). Some hotels provide beach equipment for their guests free of charge, but this is more likely to apply to the most expensive hotels. In city centers, hotels are separated from the beach strip by a highway.

Diving in Cyprus

Diving in Cyprus is not as spectacular as in the Red or Caribbean Seas, but also offers good opportunities for beginners and experienced divers. The flora and fauna of the Mediterranean Sea is not particularly diverse, but it is full of sunken ships, caves and other interesting objects. The best dive sites are located around Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca and Ayia Napa.

In Larnaca there is one of the most interesting diving sites in the world - the sunken Swedish ferry "Zenobia", which was wrecked in 1980. None of the crew members were injured, only the ferry itself and the trucks, which lie on the seabed at a depth of about 40 m. at a depth of 33 m in the same area rests the cruiser HMS Cricket from the Second World War, which sank to the bottom in 1947. A little deeper - at 50 m - there is a rock in the form of a mushroom Mushrooms Rock, and at 10 m in depth - Octopus Reef, where they live octopuses.

The Swedish ferry Zenobia, which sank in the waters near Larnaca, is one of the ten most interesting dive sites in the world.

In Paphos, divers will be interested in seeing the Greek ship Achilleas, which was wrecked in 1975 under unclear circumstances (depth 12 m), and a unique natural monument similar to an amphitheater (12 m). And just 5-10 m in these waters you can see Amphorae Reef - amphorae and other ancient pottery that sank along with Greek galleys.

In the waters near Limassol there are also many ships at different depths, from 7 to 23 m. There are caves that look like ancient tombs, where you can watch the cute fish living there (for example, Tombs caves at a depth of 12 m).

Ayia Napa has a very picturesque canyon (depth 25 m) with corals, caves and the remains of ancient Phoenician wooden ships.

Dive centers are located throughout the island. Beginners will first be offered diving in the pool, and then released into open water. Almost every major dive center has Russian-speaking instructors, so there will be no problems with communication.

Beginning divers undergo mandatory training, which includes instruction, a swimming pool and open water diving at a depth of no more than 10 m. The cost of one dive is from 50 EUR. The Open Water Diving program involves a training course lasting 4-5 days, from 5 dives in open water, and based on the results an international diver certificate is issued. Cost - from 250 EUR.

What to bring

Popular souvenirs: a figurine of Aphrodite, models of ships and dolls in national costumes. Fans of culinary delights can bring from Cyprus goat cheese “halloumi” (easy to transport), Cypriot sweets: Turkish delight, halva, “suzoukos” - almond grains in grape molasses, etc.

From October to April, shops are open from 8:00 to 18:00 (break from 13:00 to 15:00), and on Wednesdays and Saturdays after lunch they close completely. Shops are usually closed on Sundays.

Cuisine and restaurants of Cyprus

The island has mainly Greek cuisine, which differs from its mainland version in that it contains more seafood. Cypriot cuisine is based on meat, fish and vegetable dishes, and the main “culinary attraction” of the island is “mezze”: a set lunch that includes 20-30 dishes. Serving “meze” begins with appetizers, salads and vegetables and ends with meat and fish dishes, and each tavern has its own menu. Another popular Cypriot dish is souvlaki - kebab wrapped in flatbread. It is traditionally served without sauce so as not to overpower the taste of the meat. Also worthy of attention are “moussaka” - minced meat baked with vegetables and a sauce of sour cream and beaten eggs, and “kupelka” - cabbage rolls in grape leaves.

You should definitely try Cypriot feta and halloumi cheeses, as well as green walnuts in syrup. We should not forget about Cypriot wines, spirits and liqueurs, of which there are plenty on the island. The most famous wine is Commandaria. This is a type of Cahors, and it is best to purchase it at the Kykkos Monastery in Troodos. Beer lovers can recommend the foamy drink of two local brands - Keo and Carlsberg.

Those who like it stronger will appreciate the Zivania grape moonshine, the alcohol content of which can reach up to 80°. True, you can only bring home memories of tasting it: the export of drinks with an alcohol content above 50° from Cyprus is prohibited.

You can have an inexpensive meal at snack bars or kebab shops, of which there are plenty on the island. Lunch will cost an average of 5-8 EUR excluding alcohol. The most popular establishments are traditional Cypriot taverns. These are small family restaurants that are passed down from father to son, and the owner and his relatives usually work there. The menu is rarely extensive, but all the traditional local dishes are usually there. The portions are large, you can safely order one for two, and taverns often offer dessert or liqueur. Lunch in such a restaurant will cost 12-20 EUR with wine, dinner may be more expensive.

In hotels and restaurants, a 10% service charge is usually included in the bill. Therefore, tipping in Cyprus is optional, but small change is always gratefully accepted.

There are also classic restaurants on the island, and the most interesting of them are located near wineries. They offer Cypriot cuisine and local wine. The average bill will be higher than in taverns: from 25 EUR per person.

Halloumi is a divinely delicious Cypriot goat's milk cheese that everyone should try.

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Guides in Cyprus

Entertainment and attractions

Cyprus is a relatively small island, but it surprisingly houses a huge number of monuments of nature, culture, history and art from different eras. The ruins of Stone Age settlements, temples from the times of Ancient Greece, Roman theaters, ancient Byzantine monasteries, Venetian fortresses and Gothic cathedrals have been preserved here. And due to the compactness of the island, many of these attractions can easily be visited in one trip.

It is worth visiting the capital of Cyprus Nicosia, all the main attractions of which are collected in the old quarter of the city. These are the Byzantine Church of Chrysalinotissa and the Church of Trypiotis with the famous iconostasis, the Archbishop's Palace, the Cathedral of St. John, the Gates of Famagusta and the Venetian Wall.

On the Akamas Peninsula, the ruins of the ancient cities of Morion and Avagos, the monastery of Agios Georgios have been preserved, and the territory of Lara Beach Bay, located to the south, has been chosen by green and big-headed turtles. It is also worth visiting the Baths of Aphrodite, which is not far from Latchi Bay. Amathus is one of the oldest cities in Cyprus, the ruins of which are located on the seashore 5 km east of Limassol. Modern archaeologists have found here a basilica of the early Christian era, a sanctuary of Aphrodite, ruins of baths and aqueduct systems - of course, time, as they say, has not been kind to them, but even in this form they make an impression.

No less ancient, Kourion was one of the largest city-states of the island. To this day, Roman baths and rich houses, the sanctuary of Apollo of Hylates, an ancient theater and numerous mosaics have been preserved there. The Troodos Mountains are a nature reserve and ski resort. There are also numerous churches and monasteries, some of them are included in the UNESCO List of World Cultural Heritage and are under state protection.

Cruises from Cyprus

Mini-cruises from Cyprus are an opportunity to travel to Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Greece, or Lebanon while vacationing on the island. For example, a two-day cruise to Egypt includes a full-day trip to Cairo (with a visit to the Cairo National Museum) and a tour of the pyramids and papyrus factory on the second day.

During a cruise to Jerusalem and Bethlehem, tourists will see the Church of the Nativity and Grotto, built over the birthplace of Jesus Christ. After lunch at a local restaurant, the tour continues in the Holy City of Jerusalem with a visit to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Golgotha ​​and the Western Wall.

The cost of a two-day cruise starts from 300 EUR per person, this amount usually includes transfers from the hotel to the port of Limassol and back, necessary visas (not always), excursions with a Russian-speaking guide, full board, all entertainment on board the ships and accommodation in the chosen cabin categories.

10 things to do in Cyprus

1. Swim in Petra tou Romiou Bay, where, according to legend, the sea goddess Aphrodite emerged from the foam, and find eternal youth and beauty.
2. Go to a small winery to taste Commandaria and other wines.
3. Travel back to the Middle Ages in Kyrenia and visit the local Shipwreck Museum.
4. Have dinner in an authentic Cypriot tavern and drink a glass of liqueur with the owner.
5. Buy a hand-embroidered tablecloth in the village of Lefkara.
6. Dance all night until dawn in the discos of Ayia Napa.
7. Climb into the tower of the jealous Moor in Famagusta, where the supposed prototype of Othello, the governor of Cyprus, Christopher Moreau, lived in the 12th century.
8. Watch flamingos on the Aliki salt lake near Larnaca.
9. Ride a donkey named Hitler or Schumacher at the Dipotamos donkey farm in Ayia Napa.
10. Look from afar at the ghost town of Varos in Famagusta (you can go inside, but it’s very expensive - a fine of 500 EUR).

Holidays and Events

A separate reason for traveling to Cyprus is the endless holidays and festivals. In April, the country celebrates the National Day of Cyprus. In May-June, coastal cities celebrate “cataclysmos” - the festival of water and the global flood, and Limassol hosts a Folk Dance Festival. In July-August there is a Festival of Ancient Greek Drama: performances are given in the ancient amphitheater of Kourion, in the Paphos Odeon, Larnaca Fort and in the Monastery Square in Ayia Napa. The beginning of September brings an invigorating breath to the popular Wine Festival in Limassol, dedicated to the god of wine, Dionysus.