Cyprus Travel Guide

Is Cyprus Worth Visiting?

Cyprus is one of those places that quietly gets under your skin and it slowly draws you in each time you go.

Where is Cyprus?

Cyprus is an eastern Mediterranean island split between Greek south and Turkish north. Geographically it is between Europe and Asia and this is reflected in its warm hospitality. It offers beaches, history and very different travel experiences depending on where you go. This guide explains the differences in the two sides, the costs, safety and whether Cyprus is worth visiting.

Cyprus is a small, sun-drenched island but it packs in more than you might expect. With a history stretching back thousands of years and the world’s only divided capital, it’s far more than just a beach destination. Yes, the coastline is tempting. However for those willing to look beyond it, there’s easily enough here to keep you interested for much longer. I have lived here on and off since 2010 and am passionate about introducing people to the best parts.

Who Cyprus suits?

Cyprus suits couples of all nationalities looking for an easy, sun-filled break with more to it than just a beach. It works well for those who like to travel independently, take things at their own pace and mix some light exploring with time to relax. Distances are short, the pace is manageable and there’s enough history, villages and sunshine to keep things interesting without feeling rushed.

It is less suited to families or those wanting a high-energy, activity-packed holiday. Outside the main resorts, things can feel a little quiet and getting around without a car can be limiting. The beaches are sandy and the water warm, so if you can entertain yourselves, you won't be disappointed.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

Cyprus gets between 320 - 340 days of sunshine per year. July and August are notoriously hot and are school holidays (so busy). Personally, my favourite times are April and May when the island is green. This is a great time for walking, cycling and exploring mountain villages. September - October are also lovely as the water is still warm, so perfect for swimming, turtle watching and exploring. December to February can be sunny, but without central heating, the evenings can be quite chilly and more of the restaurants and bars are closed. So choose your timing depending upon your preferred activities.

How long to stay in Cyprus?

A week is long enough for a beach holiday and would allow a visit to a couple of beaches and a bus trip to another location. With a hire car and flexible accommodation, it is easy to spend two weeks in Cyprus.

North vs South

South Cyprus

1. Explore the south coast, from Ayia Napa in the east, through Larnaca, Limassol, through to Pafos and up to Polis and the Akamas peninsular in the West.
2. Explore the Troodos Mountains with the gorgeous white villages, lovely walks and cycle tracks and tiny museums and World Heritage churches.

North Cyprus

1. Travel to the north of the island (by car you will need additional insurance), over the Kyrenia mountains and visit the abbey, the castles and the lovely harbour in Kyrenia.

Each of these options are quite different from the others, all offering an insight into the various aspects of Cyprus life, all need car hire. My preference would be to split time between the Troodos mountain villages and North Cyprus, a week in each. It’s a more varied and rewarding way to see the island and better suited to the more independent traveller.

Is Cyprus Expensive?

North Cyprus is cheaper than the south in all aspects. Fuel and accommodation is cheaper as the turkish lira has reduced in value dramatically over the years. Hoteliers prefer euros and cash is rarely used now, except for low value items.

Most hotels try to charge european prices, so it is worth shopping around for smaller or local hotels. Off season, or accommodation out of the popular main resorts will be lower priced also. Away from central Kyrenia and Nicosia, the local turkish cafes and restaurants are more reasonably priced.

Beaches in the north have been less commercialised than in the south with sun beds and umbrellas a relatively new addition.

In South Cyprus, you are less likely to find cheaper accommodation and should expect to pay £80 - 120 per night for a 3 * hotel in high season. The restaurants and cafes are nearly all geared towards tourists and sunbeds are available at most beaches.

Is Cyprus Safe for Tourists 2026

The usual rules apply. Don't walk in dark areas late at night. Don't leave valuables in open view. Avoid protests or political marches. Otherwise, Cyprus (north and south) enjoys a relatively low crime rate compared to other European countries.

With regard to issues between north and south Cyprus, these are religious and political differences and will not affect foreigners or tourism. As with all foreign travel, if you treat the locals respectfully, you will be treated well.

Is Cyprus Worth Visiting?

Pros

1. Great weather for 9 months of the year
2. A variety of activities available
3. Safe country to visit
4. 3 airports Larnaca, Pafos and Ercan (north)
5. Beautiful beaches
6. Hospitable welcome for tourists

Cons

1. Car rental necessary for more than one week
2. Walking and cycling routes not easily available
3. Slow pace of life
4. Few activities for children

Is Cyprus Worth Visiting?

In response to the above question, if you like poking around old villages, clambering up the occasional hill, and convincing yourself that cycling in the heat is a good idea, Cyprus will suit you down to the ground and you’ll probably want to stay longer than planned.

Maybe your ideal holiday involves sunshine, a comfy sunbed and a steady supply of good Mediterranean food? In this case, you’ll also be perfectly happy here.

However, on holiday with energetic children and already think 25 degrees sounds borderline unbearable, you might want to look elsewhere, Tenerife perhaps?