Cyprus Tourist

Welcome to Cyprus Tourist, a simple orientation guide for people planning a holiday on the island or moving here for the first time. Cyprus is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean, warm and sunny for much of the year, and easy to explore in a week or a lifetime. Whether you are arriving for a beach break in Ayia Napa, a quiet spring in the Troodos mountains, or a permanent move to Limassol or Paphos, a little local knowledge goes a long way.

The island is compact. You can drive from Larnaca to Paphos in under two hours, so many visitors base themselves in one town and take day trips to others. The main coastal cities each have a distinct character: Larnaca is relaxed and close to the busiest airport, Limassol is the largest and liveliest, Paphos leans toward history and calmer resorts, and Nicosia, the inland capital, is the working heart of the country. Ayia Napa and Protaras in the far east are the summer nightlife and beach hubs.

Below are our orientation pages. Each one gives you the essentials without the hard sell — what to expect, how things generally work, and where to check official information before you book or travel.

Guides and sections

• Hotels and accommodation — regions, types of stay, and seasons.
• Taxis and airport transfers — getting from Larnaca or Paphos airport to your resort.
• Car hire and driving — driving on the left and what to know before you rent.
• Restaurants, bars and clubs — meze, tavernas and where to go out.
• Weddings and honeymoons — an overview of getting married in Cyprus.
• Emergency telephone numbers — who to call and how to confirm current numbers.

Cyprus rewards a little planning. Book accommodation early for July and August, carry a light layer for cool evenings even in summer, and keep some cash for small tavernas and village kiosks. For official tourism information, seasonal events and destination details, the national tourism board is the best starting point: Deputy Ministry of Tourism — Visit Cyprus.