Welcome to Cyprus

Traditions run deep in Cyprus, where food, folk customs, family ties and a rich history bind the Greek and Turkish Cypriot societies together. The outdoors is a huge draw, thanks to the gorgeous Mediterranean climate.

There’s scuba diving and kite-surfing, hiking and biking – and even winter skiing. Marvel at the well-preserved relics of the Neolithic and Bronze age, as well as Lusignan, Venetian and Ottoman architecture. And eat to your heart’s content – hummus, kebabs, halloumi and baklava reflect a multicultural palate, influenced by Turkey, Greece and the Middle East.

Unique Facts

• Cyprus is the island of love – it’s said that Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, was born and rose up from the foam off what is now called Aphrodite’s Beach.
• Paphos is an entire town with World Heritage status – its archaeological site dates back to the 4th century BC and includes ancient tombs, fortresses and palaces.
• The world’s oldest wine label is from Cyprus – it’s the Cypriot dessert wine, Commandaria. It is believed to have been named by Knight crusaders in the 13th century and was loved by King Richard the Lionheart of England.
• Cyprus is in the world’s top 10 wreck diving sites. The wreck of the Zenobia, a cargo ship sunk in the 1980s, is here, off the coast of Larnaca.
• The Roman mosaics that once decorated the homes of the island’s most wealthy colonists were discovered in 1962 and are considering some of the world’s best.

Language

Cyprus’ official languages are Greek and Turkish.

When To Go

The best time to go to Cyprus is May and June

Airports

Larnaca International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None for stays of 90 days or less

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Cyprus: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive the Hepatitis A. Some travelers should receive the Hepatitis B and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: type G. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

Euro

Getting Around

Be aware that road conditions may differ significantly from those in the United States. Modern highway link Cyprus’ major cities. Secondary and mountain roads tend to be narrow, widing and less maintained than main highways.

There are few public buses and no rail lines. Taxis are available throughout Cyprus.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license and an international driving permit are required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Nicosia
Metochiou & Ploutarchou Street
2407, Engomi
Nicosia, Cyprus
Telephone: +(357) 22-393939
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(357) 22-393939; wait for the recorded message then dial 0
Fax: +(357) 22-266640
consularnicosia@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

Cyprus Tourist Information Office
Vasileos Pavlou Square
Larnaca, Cyprus
Tel: +357 24 654322

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

General Emergency: 112

Safety and Security

The crime rate is low in Cyprus. Take standard safety precautions. Do not leave belongings unattended. Avoid “night clubs” (topless bars), as they reportedly employ women trafficked to Cyprus for sexual exploitation.