The Island Of Cyprus

The third largest island in the Mediterranean, Cyprus is immersed in 9000 years of legend and history. Standing as it does, at the crossroad of Europe, Asia and Africa, it has had a tumultuous history. The Myceneans Achaeans brought their civilization here, establishing the first Greek roots 3,000 years ago. Many others passed through including Phoenicians, Assyrians, Egyptians, Persians, Romans, Crusaders, Venetians, Ottomans and the British. The apostles of Christ walked this island.

The splendour of Byzantium, founded by Constantine the Great at Constantinople, encompassed the island of Cyprus. Here are prehistoric settlements, ancient Greek temples, Roman theatres and villas, Early Christian basilicas, Byzantine churches and Venetian fortifications.

Some of Europe’s finest archaeological treasures are to be found on the island, award-winning hotel resorts, an alluring culture and a famously delicious cuisine influenced from both the Mediterranean and the Middle East. 340 days of sunshine every year make Cyprus the ideal holiday destination - superb mountain scenery, tranquil forests, coastlines and sandy beaches and the warm blue sea. The countryside is serenely beautiful throughout the year.

For more information on the island you may visit the Cyprus Tourism Organisation web pages. 

Tourism Information

Location

Situated at the northeastern end of the Mediterranean Basin, Cyprus is the third largest island with an area of 9.251 square kilometers (3.572 square miles).

Language

Greek is the mother language in Cyprus. English is spoken almost everywhere. French and German are also widely spoken.

Government & Regime

Cyprus is an independent sovereign republic with a presidential system of government.

Currency

The currency of the republic is the Euro, which is divided into 100 cents. 
All major credit cards are accepted at most places.

Banking

Banking hours for the public; Monday – Friday 08:30 - 13:30. 
Centrally located banks provide afternoon tourist services from Tuesday to Friday. 
Banks at the Larnaka and Pafos International Airports provide services throughout the day, as well as a night service for most flights. 
Banking facilities are also available at the Lemesos Harbour.

Value-Added Tax

There is V.A.T. on the purchase of all goods and services at the standard rate of 15%.

Time Zone

Two hours in advance of Greenwich meantime.

Electricity

The electricity supply in Cyprus is 240V, 50Hz. Plugs are usually 5amp, or 13amp, with square pins in most buildings.

Passports & Visas

Please visit our Shipping-Visa information page.

Business/Shopping Hours

Winter period (Oct 01 - Apr 30):
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 08:00-13:00 / 14:30-17:30
Wednesday, Saturday: 08:00-13:00

Summer period (May 01 - Sep 30):
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 08:00-13:00 / 16:00-19:00
Wednesday, Saturday: 08:00-13:00

Climate

A varied topography features sandy beaches, rolling agricultural fields, wild cedar forests and rugged mountain landscapes. Average winter temperatures in the low 60’s F (17°C) and summer in the high 80’s F (32°C). Cyprus averages 340 days of sunshine a year.

Cyprus enjoys an intense Mediterranean climate with long dry summers from mid May to mid October and with winters from December to February, which are separated by short autumn and spring seasons. Summer is a time of high temperatures with cloudless skies, but the sea breeze creates a pleasant atmosphere in the coastal areas. Winters are mild, with some rain and snow on Troodos Mountains.