Cyprus: What to see and do?
Cyprus is a sunny island in the eastern Mediterranean! With its unique blend of cultures, breathtaking scenery and rich history, Cyprus is the perfect destination for travellers in search of unique discoveries.
To begin your journey, be sure to visit the capital, Nicosia, a meeting point between East and West. Explore the old town, where you can admire the Venetian ramparts and Gothic churches. Don't miss the UN buffer zone, which has divided the city in two since partition in 1974, a unique opportunity to see the reality of the island's political situation.
Next, head to the Paphos region, known for its fascinating archaeological sites. Don't miss the House of Dionysus, with its mosaics dating back to Roman times, and the Tombs of the Kings, an impressive complex of tombs carved into the rock. If you're a nature lover, head for the Akamas Gorge, where you can wander through lush vegetation and enjoy some incredible scenery.
For beach lovers, the south coast of Cyprus offers a wide choice of seaside resorts. Limassol, the island's second largest city, is renowned for its lively nightlife and superb beaches. Protaras, meanwhile, is famous for its fine sandy beach and crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkelling.
If you're a nature lover, don't miss the Cape Greco nature reserve, located between Ayia Napa and Protaras. Here you can go hiking, snorkelling and even bungee jumping off the cliffs! And don't forget to visit Troodos National Park, where you can wander through pine forests and marvel at waterfalls and lush green valleys.
Now let's talk about how to get around Cyprus. Unfortunately, there are no trains on the island, but don't worry, there are plenty of other ways to get around. Local buses, run by Intercity Buses, are an affordable and convenient way to travel between towns. They serve all the main destinations and offer a frequent service.
If you prefer freedom, you can opt to hire a car. The main rental agencies are located in the major cities and airports. Just make sure you familiarise yourself with local driving rules and drive carefully on mountain roads.
Finally, for environmentally conscious travellers or those wishing to meet local people, car-sharing is also an option to consider. Vivanoda lists all the car-sharing offers that will enable you to find drivers willing to share their journey with you and help you discover the island's hidden treasures.
Cyprus is a destination that offers a multitude of unique experiences. Whether you're interested in its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes or idyllic beaches, you won't be disappointed. Don't forget to plan your itinerary in advance and choose the means of transport that best suits your needs. Enjoy your trip to Cyprus!
Cyprus: How to get around the country?
During your stay in Cyprus, it's important to know how to get from one town to another so you can explore all the treasures the island has to offer. Fortunately, there are a number of practical and efficient modes of transport available to help you travel with ease and peace of mind.
One of the most popular options for getting around Cyprus is to hire a car. This gives you total flexibility to discover all the picturesque corners of the island at your own pace. Several car rental companies such as Hertz, Avis and Europcar are available in the main cities of Cyprus. It is advisable to book a car in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure you find the right vehicle for your needs.
If you do not wish to hire a car, another practical option is to use the services of a taxi. Taxis are readily available in all towns and cities in Cyprus and can be a quick and comfortable way to get around. Taxi fares are regulated and it is advisable to ask the driver for the estimated cost of your journey before you get in. There are also online taxi booking apps, such as Bolt and Uber, which offer similar services with fixed and transparent prices.
As far as public transport is concerned, Cyprus has a well-developed bus network linking the island's main towns. Public buses are managed by the public organisation "Cyprus Public Transport" and offer regular and affordable journeys. Bus timetables can vary according to the season, so it is advisable to check in advance. Another interesting alternative is to use the minibus service called "Interurban Buses", which offers journeys between towns and villages.
Finally, for the more adventurous, it is possible to travel between certain towns in Cyprus by ferry. Several shipping companies offer crossings linking the port of Limassol with various neighbouring islands, such as Rhodes, Athens and Haifa in Israel. Ferries offer not only a convenient way to travel to other countries, but also a unique maritime experience.
Here are some tips for getting from one city to another in Cyprus:
- Be sure to check public transport timetables in advance, as they can vary depending on the season.
- If you plan to hire a car, remember to familiarise yourself with the local driving rules and check that your driving licence is valid in Cyprus. It's also a good idea to use a navigation app or have a road map to hand to avoid getting lost.
- Finally, always allow extra time to get to your destination, as traffic conditions can vary.
Getting from one city to another in Cyprus is therefore relatively easy, thanks to the variety of modes of transport available. Whether you choose to hire a car, take a taxi, bus, tourist train or ferry, you'll have the freedom to discover the wonders of this Mediterranean island.
Cyprus: When to visit?
Cyprus, situated in the heart of the Mediterranean, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. To choose the best season to travel to Cyprus, it is important to take into account various factors relating to the weather and climate.
The best time to visit Cyprus is undoubtedly spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During this period, temperatures are pleasantly mild, fluctuating between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. What's more, the days are sunny and rainfall is less frequent. This makes it ideal for exploring the island, hiking in the mountains or enjoying Cyprus's magnificent beaches.
In summer (June to August), Cyprus experiences extremely high temperatures, which can reach 40 degrees Celsius. July and August are particularly hot and the climate can sometimes be stifling. If you can stand the heat well, this is your chance to enjoy Cyprus's superb beaches. However, it is essential to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Winter (December to February) is considered the worst time to travel to Cyprus. Although temperatures remain relatively mild, between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius, there is often heavy rainfall. The days are shorter and the sea can be cold for swimming. However, if you're looking for low fares and a more peaceful experience, winter can be a good time to visit Cyprus.
Spring and autumn are the best seasons to travel to Cyprus, with pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Summer is ideal for lovers of intense heat and the beach, while winter offers lower prices but less favourable weather conditions.
