Introducing Cyprus
Floating on the waters of the European Mediterranean, but pointing longingly towards the shores of Syria, Turkey and Lebanon, Cyprus is an odd mixture. It is a kaleidoscopic blend: its cultural influences are dominated by Western Europe, but its geographic proximity to Asia and Africa gives it more than just a hint of the East. Long coveted by mainland Greece and Turkey, this small island has its own definite and beguiling character.
Whether you know it as the ‘island of sin’ (or ‘fun’) thanks to wild stories from Agia Napa; the country that entered the EU only as a half; or, as the tourist brochures love to point out, ‘the island of Aphrodite’, Cyprus both confirms and confounds the stereotype. Parts of Cyprus have been overrun by keen developers who (depending on who you’re talking to) have either ‘sold the country’s soul’ or ‘are bringing great wealth to the island’. Whatever the truth, in the tourist centres of places like Pafos, Agia Napa or Lemesos (Limasol), you might feel as if you’ve entered a sunny, scorching Essex suburb with lobster-red Brits letting it all hang loose with a lukewarm can of Foster’s in tow. But if curiosity draws you out of the cities, you’ll discover the small villages of the Akamas Peninsula and the heavenly golden beaches of the Karpas (Kırpaşa) Peninsula. Walk the gorgeous Troödos and Kyrenia (Girne) & the Northcoast and inhale the scent of the citrus groves of Morfou (Güzelyurt), or climb to the medieval castles with their shimmering island views. Wander through the sea of wildflowers covering the island in spring, and Cyprus will take your breath away. With good walking shoes, a swimsuit and some sunscreen in your bag, you can have a trip you’ll remember for years.
Sights in Cyprus
Activities in Cyprus
Lefkosia (Nicosia)
If you get tired of the coast’s lazy, beach-bum lifestyle, and even if you don’t, make sure you spend some time in the country’s capital, known officially (and to Greek speakers) as Lefkosia.
Tours in Cyprus
Pafos
Linked by a road artery, Kato Pafos (Lower Pafos) and Ktima (Upper Pafos) form an interesting whole.
Cyprus destination guides
Lemesos (Limassol)
Lemesos, still known to many as Limassol (Limasol in Turkish), is one of Cyprus’ most underrated cities.
Hotels in Cyprus
Budget Hotels & Hostels in Cyprus
Guesthouses and B&Bs in Cyprus
Apartments in Cyprus
Larnaka
Larnaka is a rugged, charming town, with a melancholy and seductive character.
Entertainment in Cyprus
North Nicosia (Lefkoşa)
The northern half of Cyprus’ capital, known as North Nicosia (Lefkoşa), is a dizzying labyrinth of narrow, old streets, punctuated by wonderful architecture.
Shopping in Cyprus