Europe · Southern Europe

Cyprus

Republic of Cyprus

Flag of Cyprus
Local Time
--:--:--
UTC+02:00
🏛️ Capital
Nicosia
👥 Population
1,442,614
📐 Area
9,251 km²
💱 Currency
euro (€)
🗣️ Languages
Greek, Turkish
📞 Calling Code
+357
🕐 Time Zones
UTC+02:00
🌐 Region
Europe / Southern Europe

About Cyprus

Cyprus is the Mediterranean's third-largest island and one of its most storied destinations, where ancient mythology, millennia of civilization, and modern resort life converge beneath an almost perpetually blue sky. According to legend, this is the birthplace of Aphrodite, goddess of love — and standing at the rock-strewn shoreline of Petra tou Romiou where she supposedly rose from the sea foam, it's easy to understand why ancient Greeks chose this luminous, flower-scented island for their goddess. From Paphos in the southwest to the Troodos Mountains in the center to the walled old city of Nicosia, Cyprus packs extraordinary variety into a relatively compact landmass.

The island's complex history has left a layered cultural landscape unlike anywhere else in Europe. Crusader castles crown mountain peaks, Byzantine monasteries shelter priceless mosaics, and Venetian walls encircle the divided capital of Nicosia — the world's last divided capital city, split since 1974 between the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish-controlled north. This political reality makes for a genuinely unique travel experience: crossing the Green Line is straightforward for most nationalities, allowing you to explore two very different worlds within a single day's journey.

Beyond history and politics, Cyprus delivers exceptional Mediterranean pleasures. The beaches of Ayia Napa and Protaras shimmer with turquoise water and fine sand, the Troodos Mountains offer cool hiking trails through pine forests and traditional villages, and the vineyards of the Commandaria region produce one of the world's oldest wines still in production. Warm hospitality — expressed through generous home cooking and an unhurried pace of life — makes every visit feel like an extended invitation into Cypriot family life.

History & Background

Cyprus has been inhabited for at least 10,000 years, making it one of the ancient world's most continuously occupied territories. Copper was mined here as early as 3900 BCE — the very name "copper" derives from the Latin "cuprum," itself from "Kypros" (Cyprus). The island attracted successive waves of Mycenaean Greek settlers, Phoenicians, Assyrians, Egyptians, and Persians before becoming part of Alexander the Great's empire in 333 BCE. Roman rule brought prosperity and the magnificent mosaics now preserved at the Paphos Archaeological Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The medieval period shaped Cyprus profoundly: the Crusader king Richard I of England conquered it in 1191 during the Third Crusade, briefly making it his possession before selling it to the Knights Templar. The Lusignan dynasty ruled for three centuries, building the castles that still crown mountain passes today. Venetian rule followed until the Ottomans conquered Cyprus in 1571, ushering in three centuries of Ottoman control. British colonization began in 1878, and Cyprus gained independence in 1960. The traumatic events of 1974 — a Greek nationalist coup followed by Turkish military intervention — divided the island, a situation that persists to this day.

Culture & People

Cyprus straddles two worlds geographically and culturally: Greek Cypriot culture dominates the south, while Turkish Cypriot traditions prevail in the north. In the Republic of Cyprus, Greek Orthodox Christianity is the dominant faith and shapes the rhythm of daily life, from the ringing of church bells at dawn to name-day celebrations that are often bigger events than birthdays. The Cypriot character is famously warm and hospitable — the concept of "philoxenia" (love of strangers) runs deep, and it's common to be invited for coffee or a meal by people you've just met.

Folk traditions remain vibrant: the Carnival celebrations of Limassol, the colorful Anthestiria flower festival, and the wine festivals of September draw locals and visitors alike. Music, dance, and embroidery (particularly the distinctive lefkaritika lace of Lefkara village) are living artforms rather than tourist attractions. The island's division has created parallel cultural streams, with Turkish Cypriots maintaining distinct Ottoman and Anatolian traditions in cuisine, music, and architecture. Despite political tensions at the governmental level, ordinary Cypriots on both sides of the divide often express a desire for reconciliation and shared identity.

Food & Cuisine

Cypriot cuisine is a celebration of the Mediterranean table, built on fresh vegetables, olive oil, grilled meats, and dairy products made from sheep's and goat's milk. The most iconic experience is the meze — not a single dish but a sprawling procession of small plates that can include hummus, tzatziki, taramosalata, stuffed vine leaves (koupepia), grilled halloumi, fried calamari, souvlaki, sheftalia (herb-infused sausages), and a dozen more dishes arriving in waves over the course of two or three hours. Halloumi, the squeaky semi-hard cheese that grills without melting, originated here and remains one of Cyprus's most beloved exports.

Kleftiko — slow-roasted lamb sealed in a clay pot with herbs and lemon — is the quintessential Sunday dish, tender and fragrant after hours of cooking. Fresh seafood features prominently in coastal restaurants: grilled sea bass, octopus, and red mullet are staples. For dessert, look for loukoumades (honey-drenched fried dough balls), baklava, and the uniquely Cypriot glyka tou koutaliou — preserved whole fruits in heavy syrup served with cold water. Commandaria wine, produced in the Troodos foothills since ancient times, is a rich amber dessert wine worth seeking out.

Top Attractions

  • Paphos Archaeological Park — A UNESCO World Heritage Site containing extraordinary Roman mosaics, ancient tombs, and the remains of Paphos Castle right at the harbor edge.
  • Troodos Mountains and Kykkos Monastery — Cool forested highlands dotted with UNESCO-listed Byzantine churches and the magnificent 11th-century Kykkos Monastery, one of the richest in the Greek Orthodox world.
  • Nicosia (Lefkosia) Old City — Wander the last divided capital in the world, exploring the Venetian walls, the Cyprus Museum (outstanding ancient artifacts), and cross the Green Line for coffee in the Turkish quarter.
  • Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite's Rock) — The legendary birthplace of Aphrodite — a striking sea stack rising from luminous turquoise water on the southwest coast, especially beautiful at sunset.
  • Kourion Archaeological Site — A clifftop Greco-Roman city with a spectacularly preserved theater, House of Eustolios mosaics, and sweeping views over the Episkopi Bay.
  • Cape Greco National Forest Park — A dramatic headland of sea caves, sea arches, and crystal-clear water near Ayia Napa, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and coastal hiking.

Practical Travel Tips

  • Crossing the Green Line into North Cyprus is straightforward at designated checkpoints — bring your passport and check current crossing regulations, as they occasionally change.
  • Driving is on the left in Cyprus (a British legacy), which surprises many visitors; car hire is the best way to reach mountain villages and remote beaches.
  • Summers are extremely hot — schedule archaeological site visits for early morning or late afternoon and carry plenty of water.
  • Bargaining is not the norm in shops or restaurants, but it's acceptable when renting accommodation directly from owners, particularly outside peak season.
  • The euro is used in the Republic of Cyprus; the Turkish lira is used in the north — carry some of each if you plan to cross.
  • Many village tavernas close for a long lunch break (around 14:00–17:00); plan meals around local rhythms rather than expecting constant availability.
  • Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca, and Ayia Napa all have distinct characters — spread your stay across at least two areas to experience the island's full range.

Visa Overview

The Republic of Cyprus is a European Union member state. EU and EEA citizens can enter with a national ID card and stay indefinitely. Citizens of the United States, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Travelers entering North Cyprus (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) via a port or airport there first may face complications entering the Republic of Cyprus afterward — it is safest to enter via Larnaca or Paphos airports and cross overland. Always check the latest requirements with the Cyprus High Commission or embassy in your home country.

Getting Around

Cyprus has no rail network, so a rental car is by far the most convenient way to get around the island, especially for reaching mountain villages, remote beaches, and archaeological sites. Traffic drives on the left. Intercity buses connect the main towns (Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, Paphos) reliably and affordably, but services to villages can be infrequent. Taxis are metered in cities and reliable. Limassol and Paphos are connected by a well-maintained motorway. For North Cyprus, minibuses (dolmuş) and taxis are the main transport options.

Safety Notes

Cyprus is one of the safest countries in Europe for travelers, with very low levels of violent crime. The main hazards are traffic-related — the roads can be fast and driving standards variable, so exercise caution especially on mountain roads. Swimming at beaches without lifeguards can be risky during rough weather. The political situation between the Republic and North Cyprus is stable, and crossing is safe and routine for most nationalities. Petty theft is uncommon but possible in crowded tourist areas — standard travel precautions suffice.

Live Exchange Rates

Current exchange rates for currencies used in Cyprus.

euro (EUR) €
Updated: 2026-05-19
⌕
Currency CodeRate
1INCH 12.719841
AAVE 0.013073
ADA 4.630153
AED 4.275245
AFN 72.767920
AKT 1.444120
ALGO 10.840961
ALL 95.540192
AMD 428.435683
AMP 1,391.351192
ANG 2.097330
AOA 1,069.334827
APE 8.072169
APT 1.233038
AR 0.544912
ARB 9.960338
ARS 1,625.224634
ATOM 0.565826
ATS 13.760300
AUD 1.631096
AVAX 0.126134
AWG 2.083782
AXS 0.991396
AZM 9,895.091587
AZN 1.979018
BAKE 1,574.494356
BAM 1.955830
BAT 12.015718
BBD 2.328248
BCH 0.003064
BDT 143.051934
BEF 40.339900
BGN 1.955830
BHD 0.437711
BIF 3,468.011127
BMD 1.164124
BNB 0.001813
BND 1.490133
BOB 8.068364
BRL 5.832022
BSD 1.164124
BSV 0.077381
BSW 1,360.068155
BTC 0.000015
BTG 3.026186
BTN 112.208877
BTT 3,618,367.208370
BUSD 1.164714
BWP 15.826326
BYN 3.201329
BYR 32,013.286643
BZD 2.343073
CAD 1.600418
CAKE 0.823473
CDF 2,671.606325
CELO 14.466877
CFX 19.769429
CHF 0.914791
CHZ 23.676484
CLP 1,048.906162
CNH 7.920717
CNY 7.917988
COMP 0.052840
COP 4,422.669186
CRC 527.017785
CRO 16.658524
CRV 4.934030
CSPR 394.074736
CUC 1.164124
CUP 27.933206
CVE 110.270000
CVX 0.670727
CYP 0.585274
CZK 24.310690
DAI 1.164701
DASH 0.027140
DCR 0.069158
DEM 1.955830
DFI 1,185.497715
DJF 207.142880
DKK 7.472767
DOGE 11.161372
DOP 68.911305
DOT 0.932211
DYDX 8.048299
DZD 154.546792
EEK 15.646640
EGLD 0.296999
EGP 62.073954
ENJ 27.104245
EOS 14.390861
ERN 17.461859
ESP 166.386000
ETB 183.309146
ETC 0.130712
ETH 0.000546
EURC 0.999221
FEI 1.168565
FIL 1.206335
FIM 5.945730
FJD 2.566994
FKP 0.867911
FLOW 32.260973
FLR 139.360892
FRAX 1.172315
FRF 6.559570
FTT 3.602999
GALA 346.227130
GBP 0.867911
GEL 3.109939
GGP 0.867911
GHC 133,174.816643
GHS 13.317482
GIP 0.867911
GMD 85.997770
GMX 0.175946
GNF 10,211.445439
GNO 0.009842
GRD 340.750000
GRT 46.285535
GT 0.164092
GTQ 8.874559
GUSD 1.166721
GYD 243.472581
HBAR 12.932783
HKD 9.116588
HNL 30.968310
HNT 1.413524
HOT 2,933.999474
HRK 7.534500
HT 8.027900
HTG 152.369435
HUF 360.594057
ICP 0.450743
IDR 20,634.235099
IEP 0.787564
ILS 3.378669
IMP 0.867911
IMX 6.838533
INJ 0.223351
INR 112.208877
IQD 1,525.305687
IRR 1,534,502.357852
ISK 143.399116
ITL 1,936.270000
JEP 0.867911
JMD 184.079237
JOD 0.825364
JPY 185.018807
KAS 33.686095
KAVA 20.213361
KCS 0.145324
KDA 139.951058
KES 150.542667
KGS 101.833807
KHR 4,668.945917
KLAY 22.380303
KMF 491.967750
KNC 8.107927
KPW 1,047.688701
KRW 1,752.211164
KSM 0.233785
KWD 0.358365
KYD 0.968264
KZT 546.242207
LAK 25,534.475927
LBP 104,361.286311
LDO 3.268614
LEO 0.115399
LINK 0.120107
LKR 387.697935
LRC 71.830432
LRD 213.359216
LSL 19.381844
LTC 0.021438
LTL 3.452800
LUF 40.339900
LUNA 18.392672
LUNC 14,810.901040
LVL 0.702800
LYD 7.392049
MAD 10.713406
MANA 13.208947
MBX 29.729149
MDL 20.145268
MGA 4,871.095760
MGF 24,355.478798
MINA 20.378374
MKD 61.624206
MKR 0.000675
MMK 2,443.781720
MNT 4,166.375708
MOP 9.390086
MRO 465.444891
MRU 46.544489
MTL 0.429300
MUR 55.043312
MVR 17.979407
MWK 2,026.107900
MXN 20.144875
MXV 2.279599
MYR 4.626613
MZM 74,353.071058
MZN 74.353071
NAD 19.381844
NEAR 0.721463
NEO 0.402635
NEXO 1.308799
NFT 4,115,984.240292
NGN 1,596.087400
NIO 42.790414
NLG 2.203710
NOK 10.795641
NPR 179.618359
NZD 1.988361
OKB 0.014236
OMR 0.447801
ONE 567.925259
OP 9.067271
ORDI 0.279677
PAB 1.164124
PAXG 0.000257
PEN 3.983898
PEPE 316,112.789563
PGK 5.143240
PHP 71.839395
PI 7.669315
PKR 324.331945
PLN 4.242368
POL 12.806625
PTE 200.482000
PYG 7,085.373688
QAR 4.237411
QNT 0.015558
QTUM 1.289224
ROL 52,094.528786
RON 5.209453
RPL 0.670759
RSD 117.369513
RUB 84.369831
RUNE 2.601186
RVN 210.636634
RWF 1,702.081776
SAND 16.164975
SAR 4.365465
SBD 9.320167
SCR 17.090041
SDD 69,874.316979
SDG 698.743170
SEK 10.953320
SGD 1.490133
SHIB 201,965.108238
SHP 0.867911
SIT 239.640000
SKK 30.1260
SLE 26.664108
SLL 26,664.107791
SNX 3.758133
SOL 0.013696
SOS 665.222263
SPL 0.194021
SRD 43.334284
SRG 43,334.283928
SSP 5,488.412096
STD 24,764.114262
STN 24.764114
STX 4.873297
SUI 1.100235
SVC 10.186084
SYP 128.677201
SZL 19.381844
THB 37.974084
THETA 5.896554
TJS 10.836029
TMM 20,414.202997
TMT 4.082841
TND 3.380742
TON 0.578521
TOP 2.769361
TRL 53,064,818.051885
TRX 3.263779
TRY 53.064818
TTD 7.896305
TUSD 1.165542
TVD 1.631096
TWD 36.830286
TWT 2.436256
TZS 3,029.074551
UAH 51.386242
UGX 4,387.230213
UNI 0.329697
USD 1.164124
USDC 1.164516
USDD 1.165316
USDP 1.165702
USDT 1.165189
UYU 46.662312
UZS 14,006.770047
VAL 1,936.270000
VEB 60,223,171,250.4368
VED 602.204845
VEF 60,220,484.498490
VES 602.204845
VET 172.818622
VND 30,651.856834
VUV 138.221011
WAVES 3.062902
WEMIX 4.309414
WOO 68.931611
WST 3.137378
XAF 655.957000
XAG 0.015295
XAU 0.000256
XAUT 0.000256
XBT 0.000015
XCD 3.151690
XCG 2.097330
XCH 0.419422
XDC 37.448638
XDR 0.851629
XEC 158,699.650058
XEM 1,749.154817
XLM 7.929546
XMR 0.003012
XOF 655.957000
XPD 0.000831
XPF 119.331742
XPT 0.000591
XRP 0.842216
XTZ 3.404634
YER 277.783163
ZAR 19.381844
ZEC 0.002033
ZIL 296.096586
ZMK 22,001.938891
ZMW 22.001939
ZWD 421.296440
ZWG 30.162708
ZWL 75,368.289311

No currencies match your search.

Cities in Cyprus 87
Browse all cities and towns
Acheritou Achna Ag. Epifanios Soleas Agia Anna Agia Eirini Lefkosia Agia Marina Xyliatou Agia Varvara Agioi Vavatsinias Agios Amvrosios Lemesou Agios Epifanios Agios Georgios Agios Georgios Lemesou Agios Ioannis Agios Theodoros Larn Agios Thomas Aglangia Ammadies Ampelikou Anafotida Angolemi Apliki Oreinis Arsos Lemesou Engomi Fyllia Hlorakas Kalo Chorio Larnacas Kalo Chorio Lefkas Katokopia Kosi Lefka Lefkosia Limassol Livadia Lefkosias Mandria Lemesou Margo Masari Menogeia Nicosia Paphos Pergamos Petra Polystypos Prastio Avdimou Pyrga Larnacas Vasa Koilaniou Xerovounos Αγία Νάπα Άγιος Αθανάσιος Άγιος Δομέτιος Αγιος Ιωάννης Αγρού Αγιος Κωνσταντίνος Αθηένου Αραδίππου Βάσα Κελλακίου Γέρι Γερμασόγεια Γεροσκήπου Δάλι Δερύνεια Δήμος Δρομολαξιάς-Μενεού Δρομολαξιά Έμπα Επισκοπή Κάτω Πολεμίδια Κίτι Κοινότητα Παλαιόμυλου Κοινότητα Τρεις Ελιές Κοινότητα Φοινιού Λακατάμεια Λάρνακα Λατσιά Λεμεσός Λευκωσία - Lefkoşa Μέσα Γειτονιά Ξυλοφάγου Ορόκλινη Πάνω Λεύκαρα Παραλίμνι Πάφος Πέγεια Πόλις Πρωταράς Στρόβολος Τραχώνι Τσέρι Ύψωνας Χλώρακας

Visa Requirements

Check what visa a citizen of Cyprus needs to enter any country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capital of Cyprus?
The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia.
What currency does Cyprus use?
Cyprus uses the euro (€) as its official currency.
What language is spoken in Cyprus?
The official language(s) of Cyprus include Greek, Turkish.
What is the population of Cyprus?
Cyprus has a population of approximately 1,442,614 people.
What region is Cyprus in?
Cyprus is located in Europe, specifically in the Southern Europe subregion.
What is the international calling code for Cyprus?
The international dialing code for Cyprus is +357.
What time zones does Cyprus observe?
Cyprus observes the following time zone(s): UTC+02:00.
What is the current time in Cyprus?
The local time in Cyprus is currently --:--. This time applies to the primary time zone.
What is the total area of Cyprus?
Cyprus covers a total area of 9,251 km².
How many states or provinces does Cyprus have?
Cyprus is divided into 7 states or provinces.
What are the public holidays in Cyprus in 2026?
You can view the complete list of public holidays for Cyprus in 2026 on the Holidays 2026 page.
What are the visa requirements for citizens of Cyprus?
Visa requirements for citizens of Cyprus vary by destination. Use our Visa Requirements Checker below to look up requirements for any destination country.