Guide to Cyprus in Russian. My guide to Cyprus. These are the prices from local rental companies

When and why is it WORTH going to Cyprus?

All the chic of a classic Mediterranean resort will be revealed to you as soon as you step off the plane. In the vast majority of cases, you will be greeted by the sun, because there are only 20-30 cloudy and rainy days in Cyprus a year. Emerald mountain slopes or peaks sparkling with snow, depending on the season, descend to a bizarre coastline that twists and turns, forming either long beaches or small coves. Unusual gray-blue sand volcanic origin gives way to rocky rocks, and in the Ayia Napa area it acquires a golden color. The eye rejoices now in palm trees of all kinds, now in majestic evidence of ancient civilization, now in beautiful grottoes and caves. And how many flowers there are here!

Flowering begins in January, and by mid-March the entire island seems to be covered with a multi-colored blanket of flowering plants, shrubs and trees. This is a great time to visit Cyprus. True, the water in the sea is still cool and count on sea bathing Worth it only for those who are not afraid of freshness. But this time is ideal for excursions to the legendary historical places, and in corners of amazingly beautiful nature. You can also swim in the indoor pools on site. Moreover, living in them will cost you less than during the season.

A season starts in Cyprus from the end of April. In May, you will definitely not exhale when entering the sea - the water will already have warmed up enough. The last spring months and June– one of the best periods of the year to visit Cyprus to soak up the beach and the sea waves. July and August can be quite hot, sometimes above 40 and below 50 in the plus. And although all rooms are equipped with air conditioning, those who do not like or cannot tolerate heat will not be very comfortable relaxing at this time.

But in September Another pleasant season begins - in Ukraine it is called velvet. The sea, warmed by the summer sun, remains warm for a long time; it can only be relatively cool outside in the evenings, and during the day +20 +30 degrees. The grape harvest has just ripened, and guests of the island are greeted with young, invigorating wine. Such beauty in Cyprus can continue until November, so the swimming and beach season here is almost the last to close in the region. Turkey has already removed the sun loungers from the beaches and folded up the umbrellas, and in Cyprus, it seems, winter is not going to come.

But she will definitely come, soft and pleasant, to give nature a little rest before the next season of a riot of colors and harvest. Snow falls in the mountains, over which skiers race with pleasure. Throughout the winter there is a great opportunity to combine a seaside holiday with winter sports. And the bravest ones, having descended from snowy slopes, can also get into the sea, because the water temperature rarely drops below +18 degrees. January and February receive most of the year's rainfall, but the sun never leaves this land for long. You can exchange the dull winter landscapes of your hometowns for a few days of warm winter in the Mediterranean, pamper yourself in spa and thalassotherapy salons (prices for these services fall several times in winter), stroll along the seemingly toy-like streets of cities, and sit in taverns.

O Cypriot taverns! It is well known that the Greeks love and know how to eat delicious food. They also happily treat their guests to the richness of their cuisine and the gifts of nature. To experience Cypriot cuisine, order the meze first. This is the name of not one dish, but a whole series of small plates and gravy boats with various snacks, spices, meat or fish dishes. Don't miss the cheese, feta and halloumi, try the local wines, liqueurs and beer. Those with a sweet tooth will also enjoy a wide variety of desserts, cakes, jams and oriental sweets. Cyprus stands at the intersection of sea routes from Europe to Asia and, as a “customs interest”, has taken on the traditions of the cuisines of many peoples of these two parts of the world.

I will please the fans active recreation– Cycling tourism is very developed in Cyprus. Firstly, you can rent any iron horse without any problems. Secondly, there are well-developed routes of varying difficulty. If you want, move along the coast from the village to the village; if you want, go to the mountains in less tourist areas to get acquainted with the traditional way of life in Cyprus.

Numerous holidays will also help you to join the Greek Cypriot culture. There are more than 40 of them a year. They are held on various occasions - both religious and natural weather, for example, a festival of flowers or grapes. IN holidays Colorful processions, cheerful carnivals, and crowded celebrations are organized, accompanied, of course, by abundant food and traditional drinks. Therefore, when going to Cyprus, do not forget to ask which holiday, or maybe more than one, falls during your vacation, and do not deny yourself the pleasure of participating in the fun.

One of the advantages of a trip to Cyprus is that Ukraine has concluded a simplified agreement with this country. visa regime. You can easily obtain a visa even within one day. Therefore, if you have a few free days or a profitable last-minute trip turns up, feel free to throw your things in your suitcase and go to Cyprus. You will never regret this vacation.

How to choose the RIGHT resort in Cyprus

One of the youngest, but already widely known resorts Ayia Napa called the second Ibiza.

And well deserved. All conditions have been created here for a fun, 24-hour youth holiday. It feels like there is a constant celebration going on in the city. Discos and bars attract guests from the streets. Party planners are constantly coming up with something new, and you are sure to find all the latest entertainment options in Ayia Napa. Small orchestras often play on the streets of the city, and dances begin - and sometimes end - to open air. Even if you come to the resort alone, you will not be bored - you will quickly find company. Ayia Napa is popular not only among Ukrainian and Russian youth; young Finns, British, Spanish, and French like to come here. This is a very democratic resort, in the good sense of the word. Vacationers are also democrats, and the word “youth” is used here not for those who are “up to ... twenty years old,” but for everyone who does not feel the burden of years and is happy to have fun without stopping.

Ayia Napa is proud of the most best beaches in Cyprus. Wide coastline covered with fine golden sand. The entrance to the sea is gentle and quite far from the depths. Also, the traditional northeast winds in Cyprus do not blow here. All this makes Ayia Napa attractive for family vacation with children. The infrastructure is also ready to welcome little travelers. The resort is home to one of the best water parks in Europe, WaterWorld. All the design of this big aquatic center transports visitors into the atmosphere of myths Ancient Greece. If your child has a birthday during the holidays, there is no better place to celebrate it! When your soul requires solitude, especially with your lover, you can go to Ayia Thekla beach. It is very small and almost always deserted, but opposite in the sea rises a romantic island that you can swim to on your own.

For active tourists would be a great place to live Larnaca. This city has an international airport and roads from various parts of the island reach it. Therefore, it is convenient to make any excursions from here.

Larnaca is famous for its magnificent promenade, lined with orderly rows of majestic palm trees. Many cafes and restaurants offer their visitors to enjoy this very view: a palm alley, and behind it an unforgettable blue seascape interspersed with white yachts. The nightlife here is also active, and during the day there are almost always some kind of city holidays and festivals. The main resort area is located slightly away from the city center, but is easily accessible by taxi.

The main beach of the city is protected from waves by stone embankments. That's why the water here is calm. But in rocky areas, watch your step carefully - there may be sea urchins there. The beaches of Larnaca have grayish sand mixed with small pebbles. 25 kilometers of coastline allow all vacationers to sit comfortably and swim without jostling each other. Larnaca is ideal for a vacation for almost all categories of travelers: those who will hang out at night in clubs, those who, having rented a car, are going to explore the entire island, families with children, young people, and people of advanced age.

Will not let your guests get bored and Limassol. Every third tourist in Cyprus rests here, so Limassol has created conditions for a pleasant pastime for a wide variety of travelers: convenient roads to different corners countries, day and night entertainment, reputable restaurants, museums and historical sites. A whole series of amusements have been created for children, there are three water parks, an amusement park, and a zoo. People from Limassol also love festivals. In September you can attend a festival of young wine, which lasts more than one day. And if your vacation falls at the end of February, go to Limassol for a two-week carnival, which is filled with balls, parades and costume processions. This resort is also convenient because it has the most large number Russian-speaking workers in hotels, shops and restaurants. The beach has very beautiful gray-blue sand of volcanic origin with pebbles. The gentle entrance to the sea is ideal for children.

If you also want to take a break from the noise of cities and the bustle of people, then it’s difficult to find best place, how Pathos.

This ancient city, which was the capital of Cyprus during the period of Roman rule, has now become a lovely and picturesque heritage of ancient eras and modern respectable resorts with some of the best hotels in Cyprus. The leisurely, languid atmosphere of the classic Mediterranean reigns here. Sipping black aromatic coffee, you admire the beautiful harbor and ancient fortress, sitting in one of the many taverns. Scattered throughout the city historical monuments, included by UNESCO in the list of world cultural values, so lovers of antiquities will have something to see.

There is a varied selection of beaches: some prefer soft sand, others prefer rocky shores. The resort is not focused on children's holiday, so many hotels do not offer any special services. Rocky shores make access to some beaches difficult with small travelers. Many are attracted by the title of “the pole of the north of Cyprus”. Of course, there are no frosts here, but in summer the temperature in Paphos is several degrees lower than in other resorts, which makes it more favorable for relaxation during this hot season. The resort, not without reason, claims to be an elite resort. Newlyweds and lovers also like to come here on vacation, because not far from Paphos, according to legend, the most loving goddess Aphrodite emerged from the foam of the sea.

A relaxing holiday attracts guests and Protaras.

It also has one more big advantage - its fine sandy golden beaches are ready to compete for leadership with the beaches of Ayia Napa. It’s not surprising: after all, the local “Ibiza” is not far away and you can easily go there if you want noisy parties. In Protaras, the most that awaits you are folklore evenings. The flat terrain and gentle entrance to the sea create pleasant conditions for relaxing with children; it is not for nothing that Cypriots themselves love to come here with families. Hotels also adapt to specific needs and offer many services for families. A little further from the coast, the bottom topography becomes rocky and is replete with underwater caves. They attract divers and sea hunting enthusiasts.

These are just the main resorts where Cyprus offers its guests a holiday.

How to choose the RIGHT hotel in Cyprus

If we talk about " average temperature according to the ward”, then hotels in Cyprus are pleasantly distinguished by a good level of service, comfort, convenience and all the necessary services. 2-4 star hotels have fairly strict criteria. "Kopeck piece"- These are mainly small city hotels, accommodation in which does not include meals, even for an additional fee, since there are no on-site restaurants. Minimalism and asceticism reign in everything here, but you will most likely find air conditioning in the room, but not a full bathroom. But there are also exceptions. For example, hotels Larco (Larnaca) and Cactus (Larnaca) They even offer an all-inclusive meal plan. Guests are accommodated with all amenities in Cornelia (Ayia Napa).

And now in "three rubles" You can definitely take a bath or at least stand in the shower! And you will definitely be able to eat at the hotel, since there is a restaurant. You will find many good hotels in this category in Limassol. For example, Park Beach Hot l with good conditions for children, Navariia Hotel next to tourist center or Arsinoe, across the road from the sandy beach. An inexpensive three-ruble note can also be found in respectable Paphos ( Cynthiana Beach, and in popular Larnaca ( Beau Rivage) and, of course, in the fiery Ayia Napa ( Stamatia, one of the best hotels in this category Nissiana).

Well, four stars have everything you need for comfort and relaxation, an expanded list of services, food, swimming in the sea and in the pool. Large selection of good ones "fours" Protaras suggests. Almost everywhere there are spacious apartments for your large family. For families with children, as well as for amateurs have a relaxing holiday hotels are oriented against the backdrop of beautiful nature. For example, Grecian Park located on the mountainside, allowing you to enjoy magnificent sea views directly from your balcony. For younger travelers there is a mini club, swimming pool and children's playground. You will most likely enjoy the welcoming atmosphere in Tsokkos Gardens and convenient location in the center of the resort Odessa Hotel. Larnaca will not disappoint with its choice of four-star hotels. One of best options will Palm Beach . If you don't want to live in a multi-story building, try staying in a bungalow ( Princess Beach Hotel ). A good combination of service and cost can be found in Sandy Beach.

"Five"- this is an increased level of all the services of the “four” and also what the owners’ imagination and funds were enough for. Five-star hotels are very different, so when choosing, you need to pay attention to the full list of amenities offered both in the room and on site. The most luxurious hotels, as you already understood from the previous issue, are located in Paphos. Magnificent hotel Elysium invites you to plunge into a fairy tale - it is more like medieval castle than for a hotel. A huge selection of services awaits guests Annabelle Hotel. But we must take into account that the best hotels in Paphos were built based on the taste of the respectable European public, who do not favor the beaches with their attention, but prefer to spend time by the pool. Therefore, five-star hotels often have very inconvenient access to the sea and a poorly cultivated coast, such as, for example, a beautiful one in all other respects Coral Beach. In Paphos it often happens that the beach is much more accessible near the middle “three”. But not only at this resort you can find luxury holidays. One of the best hotels in Cyprus is located in Limassol. Superbly equipped sandy beach, rich territory, variety of restaurants are complemented by high quality service and exceptional attention to the needs of guests in Four Seasons Hotel. You will feel no worse in the only five-star hotel in Larnaca Golden Bay.

During the non-swimming season, I advise you to choose hotels with good spa complexes and thalasso treatments. Regardless of what the purpose of your holiday is, you will certainly not refuse to pamper yourself with relaxing, rejuvenating or healing programs. Moreover, in winter it will not cost much. A unique beauty and health center operates in Le Meridien Limassol Spa & Resort 5*(Limassol).

It’s not for nothing that Cyprus is called the island of love. And the birth here of the most loving goddess Aphrodite is rather not a cause, but a consequence of an atmosphere filled with love and harmony. Against the backdrop of such landscapes with blue skies and turquoise seas, you want to love, love and love again. That’s why newlyweds love to come here so much. Honeymoon or even the wedding ceremony itself, held in Cyprus, will be the subject of your pride, wonderful memories and stories to your grandchildren. Many hotels in Cyprus offer special programs for lovers. I suggest you take a closer look at the hotels Adams Beach Hotel 5* (Ayia Napa), Aeneas Hotel 5* (Ayia Napa), Lordos Beach 4* (Larnaca), St.Raphael 5* (Limassol), Anassa Hotel 5* (Paphos) , Azia Beach 5* (Paphos), Constantinos The Great Beach 5* (Protaras).

How NOT to SPOIL your holiday in Cyprus - simple rules

It’s not even worth talking about crime - its level is extremely low. Of course, you need to be smart about storing money in a hotel (it’s better to use a safe) and not throw personal items on the street. If you do lose something, do not delay in contacting the police - the application must be submitted within two days. But otherwise Cyprus is very calm and friendly. At any time of the day or night you can walk wherever you want, alone, alone or in company. The police are loyal to vacationers, they know their job and fulfill their duty, but at the same time they do not find fault and limit themselves to comments.

Claims may arise against you if you decide to commemorate the border between Turkish and Greek Cyprus. This is not worth doing. In state museums, filming is also prohibited without special written permission. Churches can be photographed inside if there is a corresponding sign and only without flash.

You will make your life much easier if you take some simple household items from home. Firstly, complete protection against mosquitoes. Take both a fumigator and creams or sprays. Secondly, put some rope in your suitcase. For what? Stretch it out on the balcony to dry things, otherwise this process takes a very long time in the bathroom. If your hotel has no more than three stars, you should arm yourself with your own beach towel. For a comfortable stay on the shore, buy bedding so as not to pay every day for sun loungers if the hotel does not provide them for free. You don’t have to bring an adapter for the socket; it is rented at the reception and sold in all stores.

Cyprus – beautiful country, which you can inspect yourself by renting a car.

All the largest rental companies from Europe have branches here and have their own companies. The traffic rules are almost identical to those in Europe; even a small amount of alcohol in the blood is allowed. Only the traffic is on the left, the steering wheel is on the right. It can be scary when you’re not used to it, but you quickly get used to this “mirror” movement. The main thing is not to rush. And no one will rush you; rented cars have red license plates. So the Cypriots simply go around the confused guests of the island. The most pleasant thing is to ride between cities, go deep into the country, but you should not cross the border with the Northern part. You can't drive this car there anyway. It is better not to leave in cities during rush hours, as long traffic jams form and there are significant problems with parking.

The bus network is poorly developed; there are only a few flights a day between cities, and not even on Sunday. If you do not have your own transport, it is better to use a taxi. Although they are not cheap, to be honest. The rules for communicating with taxi drivers are also international: find out in advance how much a trip to your desired location may cost, ask to turn on the meter, if there is no meter, which is common in villages, agree on the cost of services before boarding. It is possible to save on your trip by using the services minibus. Find out about it at the reception. The minibus will pick you up at your hotel, pick up all the fellow travelers who have reserved seats along the way, and then move in the right direction. The journey will be longer, but the price is lower than a regular taxi.

In summer, the sun in Cyprus is very active. Use sunscreen and remember that Cypriots prefer to relax rather than work during hot hours, so shops close during the day for a long siesta. Banks generally prefer to work only in the first half of the day at any time of the year. Tipping is accepted and expected everywhere. In restaurants, a 5-10% surcharge is usually already included in the bill, but the waiter should still leave a few coins. It is good form to thank the taxi driver, maid and porter.

What you can SEE in Cyprus

I admit honestly: to ruin your holiday in Cyprus you have to try very hard. Try purposefully and scrupulously to violate international law and the most common hotel rules, be rude and swear, swim in the sea while drunk and do other unthinkable things. But you and I are cultured and law-abiding people, which means we have absolutely nothing to fear.
Of course, you should start getting acquainted with the country from its capital – Nicosia.

This is a city with a difficult fate, considered one of the oldest on earth. Evidence of the first human settlements here dates back to the 7th century BC! And now Nicosia is the capital of two states at once - the Republic of Cyprus and the unrecognized Republic of Turkey Northern Cyprus– and is divided by a border. Old town was surrounded by a fortress wall, which was started by the Venetians in the 16th century, completed by the Turks, and rebuilt by the British. Now both the walls and the bastions located on the Greek part have been restored and serve as a real decoration of the city. Inside the fortress you can see most of the historical attractions: the Church of Chrysaliniotissa and a dozen other equally famous cathedrals, the Gates of Famagusta, Freedom Square, the Bastion D'Avila. A walk through the narrow streets among the elegant houses will not be at all tiring and will bring real pleasure. History buffs will enjoy the exhibitions at the Nicosia Municipal Museum and the Cyprus Museum. And you can complete your acquaintance with the capital in the Municipal Park, which is laid out on the site of the old fortress moat.

On the site of modern Larnaca there was a city even more ancient than Nicosia. It is believed that Kition was founded by the grandson of Noah in the 10th century BC. Of course, since then neither accurate evidence nor buildings in good condition could be preserved. But being at the excavation site, you feel some kind of magical effect of antiquity. Also, little remains of the ancient city of Amathus: only fragments of houses and the restored sanctuary of Aphrodite. The material memory of the other is much better preserved ancient city- Curion. According to legend, it was founded by the Greeks who returned from the Trojan War approximately 1200 BC. Here you can see the most beautiful mosaics on the site of baths and houses, the House of Gladiators and Achilles, the sanctuary of Apollo Hylates and, of course, the magnificent Greco-Roman amphitheater. It, like 22 centuries ago, hosts performances and concerts. Be sure to visit the Archaeological Museum of Kourion, where finds made during excavations are exhibited.

Of course, the main ancient celebrity in Cyprus is Aphrodite. Off the coast of this particular island, the beautiful goddess emerged from the foam of the sea. The exact location is also known; it is located near Paphos. I won’t even advise you to visit it, because, in my opinion, not a single guest of Cyprus has yet been able to avoid getting to know this place. Following the legends, we find ourselves in the baths of Aphrodite. In a small rock grotto, the divine maiden loved to take sea treatments. Tourists are now prohibited from swimming there, but it’s a pity, they say, the local waters give endless youth. Note: no one forbade washing your face! Finally, it is worth visiting the remains of the majestic Temple of Aphrodite, built in 12 BC. Oh, and what rumors about him were circulating even in the time of Homer! They say that in honor of Aphrodite, women were supposed to give their love to a stranger in this place. Of course, Christianity eradicated this custom a long time ago, but hold your wives' hands. Just in case.

Cypriot residents accepted Christianity long before it became a world religion. This is evidenced by numerous early Christian symbols found during excavations, as well as a large number of ancient temples. The most famous place Christian pilgrimage in Cyprus is the Kikko Monastery. He keeps a miraculous relic - an icon of the Mother of God, painted by the Apostle Luke from life. Another shrine attracts women to the monastery: a belt that helps cure infertility. Almost every ancient church on the island there are holy relics (the Stavrovouni Monastery is part of the holy cross, the Chrysoroyatissa Monastery is another icon of Our Lady of Luke, the Ayia Napa Church of the veil of St. Veronica) or unique architectural monuments(Asinou Church, Panagia Angeloktistos Church and Agios Antonios Church with well-preserved ancient frescoes, Church of St. Lazarus with baroque wooden iconostasis).

Let's take a break from religious architecture and plunge into the world of the Middle Ages, which also did not bypass Cyprus. Surrounded by citrus orchards and cypress alleys stands the 15th century Kolossi Castle. The walls are more than two and a half meters thick and the height of the donjon is 22 meters. In the basements of the tower, deep wells were dug to supply the garrison with water and cellars for wine were equipped. The famous Commandaria wine, which Cyprus is proud of, was born here. From the roof of the donjon you can admire the picturesque surroundings. The old fortress also attracts history buffs in Limassol. Richard the Lionheart himself was married in it. However, any ancient sea city had a fortress. How else can you protect your lands?! The lands were captured anyway, and the invaders began to carry out security service in the fortresses. The walls and guides in the fortresses of Paphos and Larnaca will tell you about the turbulent history of war, victories and defeats, construction, destruction and reconstruction, prosperous trade and periods of desolation.

Useful information about Cyprus for tourists

General information about the country

English language is the second official language and will be widely used in circulation. Knowledge and use of French and German are increasing.

Visa and official organizations in Cyprus and Russia
Russian citizens require a Cyprus visa to visit Cyprus, which can be applied for at the Consulate of the Republic of Cyprus in Russia. Entry is possible with Schengen visas.
( ...)

Banks open to serve the public from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Some banks in tourist areas open after lunch.

Currency and traveler's checks
Since 2008, the official currency in Cyprus is the euro. There are no restrictions on the import of cheques, traveler's checks and other financial documents.

Electrical voltage: 230 volts. Three-pin sockets with grounding.

Medicines
All types of medicines and medical supplies are available in pharmacies throughout Cyprus.

Vaccinations: not required.

Telephone: Essentially Cyprus automatic international telephone communication with 206 countries of the world. Mobile communications available almost anywhere on the island.

Antique items
It is prohibited to lift archaeological treasures from the bottom of the sea or remove them from the territory of Cyprus without special permission from the competent authorities.

Religious features
Visitors to Cyprus must respect religious traditions. Visiting monasteries and churches in shorts and low-cut clothing is prohibited.

Holidays: January 1 and 6; March 25; April 1; May 1; August 15; October 1 and 28; December 25 and 26. The dates of the other 4 public holidays vary each year: Green Monday (50 days before Greek Orthodox Easter), Friday and Monday of Easter and the Great Flood.

Store opening hours
WITH May to September: 08.00-13.00 16.00-19.00
from October to April: 08.00-13.00 14.30-18.00
Shops are closed on Sundays and on Wednesdays and Saturdays after lunch.

Climate: moderate with many sunny days throughout the year.
( ...)

Be careful when swimming on the west coast of Cyprus, for example, on Agios Georgios beach near the village of Peyia (near Paphos).
Sea near west coast Cyprus is known for its strong underwater currents.

How to get to Cyprus

Two international airport in Larnaca and Paphos.

Two seaports in Limassol and Larnaca.

Two yacht harbors: in Larnaca under the management of K.O.T. and private in Limassol.

30 direct flights connect Cyprus with most countries in Europe and the Middle East, which guarantees air connectivity with the whole world.

Many will remember how several years ago Channel One regularly aired the “Cyprus in your heart” advertisement. Footage from beautiful girl in an airy dress on the seashore abruptly gave way to the ruins of ancient Greek buildings, then to a luxurious spa area and again to the beach. How not to pay attention to such attractive views? The ad worked. And now Cyprus is one of the most popular destinations among Russian tourists. This year alone, the country took fourth place in the ranking of the online travel agency OZON.travel.

The territory of the island is historically divided into two parts. In the south is the Republic of Cyprus, and in the north is Turkey. The Turkish part does not attract tourists as much due to the turbulent situation and the lack of such a rich history as in the south. Therefore, our guide will be dedicated specifically to the Republic of Cyprus.

What to visit

Like Cyprus, it is full of various myths and wonders. If you want to experience the culture Ancient world, go to ancient churches or the remains of cities.

Archaeological Park Kato Paphos

An open-air museum, the main part of which is excavations ancient city Nea Paphos receives hundreds of interested tourists every day. In addition to the excavations, on the territory there is a House of Mosaics, where images of Theseus, Achilles and other heroes of the Iliad are displayed. Here you can ride charming donkeys, which are the symbol of Cyprus. Local residents offer this service in almost all places where tourists appear, and, by the way, they earn quite a bit of money from those for whom this is truly exotic.

Kato Pafo is on the list World Heritage UNESCO.

Petra tou Romiou

The second name of this place is Aphrodite's Rock. It was here, according to legend, that the goddess of love emerged from the sea foam. You are unlikely to be able to swim, since the sea in the vicinity of the rock is quite dangerous, but tourists appreciate this place for the abundance of traditional taverns overlooking the birthplace of Aphrodite.

Lefkara village

Almost every travel company invites you to visit a traditional Cypriot village. This is quite interesting, because despite the fact that there are few real locals left in this village, and everything has long been converted for tourists, here you can see how the life and life of those who still run their own households and are a little isolated from tourist cities work.

The excursion program usually includes a visit to shrines, namely: the Church of the Holy Cross, where a piece of the Life-Giving Cross of the Lord is kept, the Museum of Folk Crafts, lunch or dinner and a walk through the charming streets of the village. Believe me, sometimes you can learn more interesting things while walking around the city than while visiting museums.

Lefkara, like Kato Pafo, belongs to UNESCO.

Nissi Beach

As for the beaches of Cyprus, they are all beautiful, so there is no point in going to the other end of the island for one day at sea.

If you decide to stay in the city of Ayia Nana, famous throughout the world for its long bar street, where the music does not stop from early evening until late morning, then Nissi beach will be the most convenient for you. You can get there from the center in 10 minutes and for 10 euros by taxi. In addition to the azure hue of the water, which creates the illusion of being in the Maldives, vacationers highlight the island, located ten meters from the main beach. There you can lay down a towel and enjoy sunbathing at a short distance from the main stream of people. There is also a cliff here that you can jump from.

Advice: if you have never done this or are prone to panic, then it is better to refrain. There are large rocks right above the cliff that can easily hit you if you don't push enough.

How to get around the island

The island itself is quite small, its length is only 225 kilometers, so you can travel around it far and wide. To do this yourself, rent a car. But be aware that Cyprus is a former British colony, so, like in the UK, you drive on the left.

The cost of renting a car for a day is 20-30 euros.

If a car is too commonplace for you, take a scooter, an ATV, or even the most popular look transport – . Sometimes renting a buggy can cost you 100 euros, but considering that this is the average cost of a one-day excursion, it is not that expensive.

We strongly recommend renting one of vehicles, because, as experience shows, the most interesting and fascinating places are not touristy at all, so finding them on foot will be quite difficult. Moving along the east coast of the island, you can visit Cape Greco National Forest Park, Konnos Beach and find many benches right next to the cliffs where you can take a break and enjoy the blue of the Mediterranean Sea.

What to eat

Make it a rule when visiting countries located by the sea to try local seafood. This is not only useful, but also interesting, because even the most banal shrimp dish, for example, in every country, and even in every city, has its own interpretation.

To try local cuisine, visit a small tavern. Just a small one, because most often such establishments are staffed by local residents who definitely know a lot about traditional Cypriot cuisine, and are not aimed at attracting tourists.

Having found such a restaurant, be sure to try the meze (sometimes meat and fish), the national kebab - souvlaki, moussaka, baklava and local vodka - zivania.

If you want delicious seafood with a modern twist, be sure to visit Ocean Basket in Ayia Napa. You definitely won't leave hungry.

Where to stay

In Cyprus, as in most European resorts, it is rare to find an all-inclusive service, especially in Ayia Napa. Small three-star hotels of the same type are more popular here. We can safely recommend one of them to you.

River Rock

The youth hotel was built in Napa exactly in the middle between bar street and the beach, which makes its location almost ideal, because you can walk no more than five to seven minutes from there to there. The hotel consists of two buildings. Each one has a swimming pool and a bar with refreshing drinks. In the main building there is a restaurant where you can try European and traditional dishes. This hotel is becoming an undoubted favorite for hookah lovers, because, despite the large number of young people and all kinds of clubs and restaurants, it is very difficult to find a good hookah.

The hotel rooms are similar to those in any other hotels: light design, bright accents, panoramic windows and balconies. But when booking a room in another similar hotel, you need to understand that you may not be lucky and will have to live in conditions that are not so modern. Apparently, travel agencies or hotel owners profit dishonestly from this, because they often ask to pay extra for room improvements, although this is not stated anywhere. There is no such risk at River Rock since the entire hotel is brand new. The reception desk is open 24 hours a day, which is important because, unfortunately, being in a foreign country, anything can happen.

What to bring

Olive

It's no secret that the first thing Cyprus is proud of is olives. Therefore, bring these fruits and oils from them to yourself and your loved ones. There are several types of them sold in stores: some are intended to be added to food, others solely for flavor. It’s better to check with store employees or look for ones that have a tag in Russian. And since the island has already “Russified”, there are many of them there, so you won’t get lost.

Pay attention to cosmetic products containing olive oil. Face and body creams will perfectly moisturize and restore your skin from dryness, because, whatever one may say, the sun and salt water do not have a positive effect on the condition of our skin.

Spices

Cyprus is also famous for its abundance of spices, so if you want to give your dishes a unique taste, be sure to bring yourself a couple. On store shelves you will find many different sets, including gift sets. Even if you've never used them in cooking and don't know what you can mix them with, don't be alarmed, each type usually comes with an insert detailing the origin of the product and a recommendation where you can add it.

Drinks

Due to the close proximity to Greece, both territorially and culturally, Metaxa is sold on every corner in Cyprus - a strong alcoholic drink, a mixture of brandy and wine, which all tourists love so much. You can try it in any restaurant, so if you like it, be sure to bring it home. This is a wonderful gift. And if you are worried about being overweight on the flight home, you can buy it at Duty Free, he's definitely there.

In Cyprus, many locals are involved in winemaking, so please yourself and your loved ones with a bottle of good wine. The most common varieties are: red - Mavro, Maratheftiko and Carignan and white - Xinesteri, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscat.

We hope your holiday in warm Cyprus will be a little better thanks to our tips!

Holidays in Cyprus are not only about warm seas and azure beaches, comfortable hotels and excellent service - it is a place of unusually rich and ancient history.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

Is the answer helpful?

Helpful advice?

Cyprus weather map:

Was this review helpful?

Autumn holidays in Cyprus

We spent a long time choosing where to go on a family vacation in the summer and, on the advice of friends, decided to choose Cyprus and did not regret it. Protaras, in my opinion, is ideal for a holiday with a small child: a small town, very quiet (there are not so many tourists and noisy entertainment, as for example in Pattaya). In the evening you can stroll along the main street; there are a huge number of different cafes, taverns and restaurants with cuisine to suit every taste and wallet size. We probably tried all the main dishes, the seafood here is simply amazing, the grilled fish was always fresh and flavorful. We also walked on the Protaras embankment; in the evening it’s picturesque, everything is lit up. I advise everyone to go to the aquarium; the child really liked the sea inhabitants.

When we got bored and wanted some entertainment, we went to Ayia Napa (we rented a car, but you can also public transport get there). There are many places for entertainment for every taste: all kinds of clubs, bars, discos, a water park, amusement park and carousels for children. If you have someone to leave your child with, you can go dancing - I really liked the Castle club, the DJ was on point, the sound was just bomb!

Separately, of course, I want to talk about the beach. He is simply above all praise: white sand, warm and clear water(for diving enthusiasts, in my opinion this is just paradise, and for beginners too), very clean. The sea is a beautiful turquoise color, at depth it turns into dark blue when you look from above - the view of this mixture of colors is simply...

Impressions from a holiday in August

August is the high season in Cyprus. In Ayia Napa, this is the time of the greatest concentration of vacationers. It seems that on local beach The whole world rushed in - so many people. The sea is teeming. Very comfortable water temperature for swimming. The sun shines here all year round, but in August it is especially active. The heat is incredible, 40 degrees during the day, and the nights bring no relief - damp stuffiness. In general the humidity is very high.

Youth recreation

The hot climate here is not suitable for every age, there is little natural shade, and sparse vegetation. In addition, Ayia Napa is a noisy place, young people are the main contingent here. Bars and cafes are primarily focused on this age category. Finding a quiet, secluded establishment is problematic, perhaps on the outskirts away from the center. Older people will probably not feel very comfortable finding themselves on the evening streets filled with crowds of merry, not always sober, groups. The atmosphere is the same on the beach: loud music can be heard from the cafes and eateries located along the entire perimeter from morning to evening, which made me extremely tired. They say that as the school year approaches, there are fewer young people and October is a quieter month in Ayia Napa.

What to take with you on vacation?

Products that protect the skin from burns, protective creams. Earplugs.

What to do at the resort?

The main entertainment here is relaxing on the beach; swimming, jumping from a cliff, riding aquabikes, catamarans, pedalos. For the fearless, there are parachutes attached to a boat, which pulls them along the sea. Of course there is no diving. underwater world poor Great water park. I really liked it there. Lots of attractions for children and adults. There is also a park of all sorts of carousels, turntables, and other things, but I don’t like such entertainment. Among the interesting things is a visit to a monastery from the Middle Ages. The place is atmospheric, purely Mediterranean architecture with Greek elements. This is where it is concentrated cultural life Ayia Napa hosts classical music concerts, exhibitions and festivals. On the territory there is a luxurious fig tree, rich, spreading, the oldest tree in Cyprus. Maritime Museum- for those who like to look at dead shells and skeletons of sea inhabitants. Ancient catacombs and caves of the early Christian period in the rocks, right on the seashore. It's worth watching. And I was also curious to see how real olives grow.) Olive thickets are not uncommon here.

The beaches are very good. Fine sand, shallow shallow bottom. You don't have to worry about the children. People sunbathe here in different ways: some take a sunbed, others sit right on the sand. Very crowded and noisy. You can look for a secluded place, but usually there rocky coast and not a very pleasant entry into the water. The sea is amazingly beautiful – bright blue, the water is clear and clean. Lots of places to eat, but nowhere to hide from the sun other than beach umbrellas.

The food is varied. Lots of seafood and meat dishes. Local cheeses. I didn't like the cheese, they fried it and served it with vegetables. A little expensive. Hamburger 4 euros is too much.

Pros of a holiday in Ayia Napa

Beautiful sea, unusual nature, rocks, historical monuments.

Disadvantages of holidays in Ayia Napa

Very expensive. Very noisy. Little greenery, no natural shade.

This trip will introduce you to ancient and early Christian cultural heritage Cyprus. You can visit the Medieval Castle of the Knights of Kolossi, built by the Byzantines in the 13th century. This is a magnificent example of medieval military architecture. Next we go to the archaeological park of Kourion, where you will see the Greco-Roman theater of great historical and cultural value, and the House of Eustolios with well-preserved mosaics and Roman baths. Our next stop is the birthplace of Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love and Beauty, who was greatly revered in ancient times in Cyprus. According to legend, it was in this great place she came ashore from the foam of the sea. You will have the opportunity to plunge...

You will visit the main Cypriot shrines, climb to the highest point of the island, and pass by picturesque villages.

We'll rise to the top high point Cyprus - the top of Olympus, where you can enjoy the beauty of the mountains and fresh air. Next we go to the famous Kykkos Monastery, where the miraculous icon of the Mother of God, painted by Saint Luke himself during the life of the Mother of God and blessed by her, is kept. In the monastery you can venerate the icon, submit notes, light candles for health and repose, pray for family and friends, and also get into a special room where the relics of saints are kept. After Kykkos, our path lies to the holy monastery of Trooditissa, a monastery, where, in addition to the icon of Panagia Trooditissa...

Ayia Napa - popular resort on east coast Cyprus. This is simply a Mecca for tourists who love to enjoy the generous sun and clear sea water during the day, as well as an active nightlife and celebrity appearances. We especially love the resort among young people. No wonder its name is mentioned in numerous Western European song hits.
However, people of all ages have a wonderful time here. Snow-white beaches Ayia Napa, located between picturesque cliffs, - perfect place for swimming, children's play, diving, boating and getting a flawless bronze sea tan. In the central part of the city there is a quarter with bars, discos and a variety of nightclubs, where life is in full swing all night long. For this, Ayia Napa received its second name - the Las Vegas of Cyprus. During the tourist season, the city hosts several fun festivals and carnivals.
This area is famous for its amazing beauty and mysterious story. Therefore, young couples often come here to get married and celebrate in one of the many city churches.

For most tourists, Larnaca becomes the first resort city where they get acquainted with the island of Cyprus. This is explained by the fact that many of them arrive in the country through Larnaca. At the same time, Larnaca is located closer to the middle south of Cyprus, next to Ayia Napa, which is the center of club life on the island.
Larnaca is the third largest city in Cyprus. At the same time, here you can surprisingly observe the connection between antiquity and modernity, which is reflected in the architecture of the city: ancient buildings are located in close proximity to modern buildings.
Larnaca attracts tourists with its numerous historical buildings and monuments. For example, it was in Larnaca, according to the Bible, that Saint Lazarus lived for a long time. After his resurrection by Jesus, he settled in Cyprus and lived here for 30 years. Lazarus became the first bishop of Larnaca.

Limassol (Limassol) is the second largest city in Cyprus, which is located in the south of the island. A major cultural, financial and economic center of the country, this does not prevent the city from being one of the best resorts in Cyprus; even in winter, tourist life does not stop or freeze here. At the same time, Limassol is the most Russian-speaking city of this island state.
Limassol is located on the shores of the Akrotirian Gulf, surrounded by the ancient cities of Kurona and Amathus, which is why the Byzantines called it the “New City”. Limassol is considered the most active and fun city in Cyprus, it is often called the Riviera of Cyprus. The city has first-class hotels, cafes and restaurants, bars and a wide variety of nightclubs. All this attracts tourists, especially young people, like a magnet. Almost all the attractions of the island have gathered in Limassol and its surroundings, and in the city itself there are museums of the ancient and ancient world. At the same time, there is still a lot going on here. archaeological excavations, which you can look at. The medieval castle has also been preserved in Limassol, in its original Templar appearance. Excellent tourist excursions are organized here to the most vibrant tourist routes.
Limassol is divided into three main tourist areas, but all of them are located on the coast:

central area of Limassol,
Potamos Yermasoyias area (5 km from the center),
Amathus area (8 km from the center).

Nicosia is the capital of the island of Cyprus. The city is divided between the Greek and Turkish parts of the island. Despite this, Nicosia is administrative center both parts of Cyprus (actually, the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) and has a significant influence on all governance institutions. The city is located near a plain called Mesaoria.
There is only one river flowing in Nicosia - Pedieos. Most of the population lives in the Greek part of the city - about 300 thousand people, in the Turkish part - about 90 thousand. There is no divided capital anywhere else in the world. Many experts argue that this is not good for the island. The merger could provide a number of advantages for the island’s economy, and the significantly increased budget could be used to finance new projects and increase tourism
the island's potential to a new level. Cypriots have shown in practice that they can easily overcome all existing problems and adversities. They managed to competently develop textile, pottery, plastic production, food industry, built an endless series of stores, and are one of the main suppliers of copper.

Paphos is a beautiful port city in the southwest of the island of Cyprus, which was its capital during Roman rule. Here the Greek goddess of love and beauty Aphrodite emerged “from the foam onto the seashore.”
Paphos is comfortably located in a bay, which is reliably protected by mountains on the western side. This is a charming city that has a lot to offer a tourist: sea and beaches, cliffs and hills, ancient ruins and modern shops. Paphos, in addition to the desire to relax, allows you to immerse yourself in the history and former elegance of Paphos, and look at the modern infrastructure of the resort. The beauty of this city is impossible not to notice, which is probably why Paphos is included in the list of World Cultural and Cultural Heritage Sites. natural heritage UNESCO.
Paphos is divided into two parts: one - Kato Paphos (lower Paphos) - lies near the coast in resort area, and the second is Ktima ( upper city) is actually the urban area itself, which is located a few kilometers from the sea.
Paphos, in the upper part of the city, harmoniously combines quaint quarters built in classical style and trendy modern shops. Most of Paphos' administrative buildings are located here.
And in the lower part, in Kato Paphos, its own little life is seething, centered around picturesque bay, where you can see pleasure yachts and many fishing boats that fill this bay. This part of Paphos is a small paradise for tourists, because it is here that you will find most of the attractions, all kinds of souvenir shops, comfortable hotels and cozy restaurants, bars, discos, without which it is impossible to imagine any tourist center in our time.

The glorious city of Pissouri is located on the Greek part of the island of Cyprus between, no less famous cities, Paphos and Limassol. This magnificent, originally Greek village is famous for its beaches. Beaches have a special mysterious aura. There is always an atmosphere of calm and comfort there. Here on Pissouri Beach everyone will feel at home. This quiet place Suitable for those who have long been tired of endless work and routine everyday life. The area smells of antiquity. Everything is surrounded by vineyards and mountains.
In Pissouri, as in Sochi, you can tickle your nerves by climbing up the mountains along the serpentine road. Adrenaline in the blood is guaranteed to jump. Well, this will only benefit typical office workers. New experiences are useful for everyone. In addition, you will definitely not see such a landscape that Pissouri and its surroundings will present to your eyes anywhere else. Rooftops, magnificent ascents and descents, an endless series of taverns and bars, an atmosphere of comfort and warmth - this is not all that Pissouri can please you with.
Tourists are also attracted by the central city fountain. A morning cup of coffee near this fountain is one of the local traditions. Very often at night, Cypriots gather in the square, sing songs, drink, and dance until the morning. After dancing, many go to drink coffee near the same fountain. “And so day after day? What next?” you ask. And then they go to work, because they have long learned that time is money.

The small resort town of Polis is located on the coast in the north-west of Cyprus. The beaches in the north-west of the island are very different from the south side; they are much calmer here. In addition, ancient monuments preserved from ancient times create favorable conditions for educational tourism, and the untouched nature will allow you to plunge into the incredible tropical world of the surrounding area.
The city's secluded beaches, separated by greenery, are ideal for family holidays or romantic evenings. From the central part of the city to the coastal strip can be easily reached on foot in just 10 minutes.
Around Polis there are wonderful plantations of almonds and tobacco. Polis cannot be called the main tourist center of Cyprus, because the life of the townspeople flows at its own leisurely pace. The main activities of the residents are farming and fishing. By the way, this is where the port for fishermen from neighboring settlements is located.
Polis is famous for its fishing fairs. The resort offers ample opportunities for have an interesting holiday: you can ride horses, splash in the clear sea waters, sunbathe, rent catamarans, travel around the area and, of course, pay attention to the Akamas Nature Reserve.

Protaras is the most comfortable resort located in Cyprus. Snow-white beaches, clean sea air, a calm, relaxing environment - these are the main advantages of this place. At the same time, the tourist infrastructure of Protaras is at the highest level, and is quite comparable with the more famous resorts of Cyprus. Thanks to all this, your stay here will be as comfortable as possible. Protaras attracts the attention primarily of those tourists who are looking for peace and relaxation during their holidays. There will be no noisy crowds, noise and hubbub, and no one will interfere with your enjoyment in solitude or during romantic date the beauty of the Mediterranean nature.
At the same time, Protaras is an ancient area that retains traces of the rich culture of the eastern Mediterranean. An inquisitive tourist will visit with interest both the ruins of the ancient polis and the medieval Orthodox church, towering above the settlement. Fans of Mediterranean cuisine will enjoy strolling through local restaurants and cafes, which are available in sufficient quantities in the Protaras resort, as there are many different hotels and inns for every taste and income. And yet, the main treasure of Protaras is the amazingly white beaches located on the shores of Fig Tree Bay. A favorable climate southeast coast The island will allow you to enjoy the sun and sea almost continuously, without fear of possible bad weather.

Famagusta is a famous resort. A huge number of people have visited here foreign tourists from all over the world. Many prominent businessmen have invested huge amounts of money in the construction of real estate, because there is always a demand for it at the resort.
At all times of its existence the city was seaport, and until 1974, part of the “Greek” Cyprus was also shopping center. On at the moment the city is part of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Now in one of the parts settlement Turkish troops and UN peacekeeping troops are based there. “Why did this happen? What happened,” you ask.
A conflict arose between Turkey and Greece over the territory of the island of Cyprus. It seemed that this conflict would not last long and no one thought that it would affect a city of this level, because oligarchs, bankers, and government officials bought villas here.
During one of the Turkish attacks, the city was shelled. A mass evacuation was carried out local residents. They were no longer able to return to their homes. Varosha, one of the most famous quarters, has been abandoned for about 40 years.