A Cyprus holiday is the perfect blend of culture, sea and fun

A Cyprus holiday will take you south of Turkey and to one of the hottest islands in the Mediterranean sea. The heat is generally at its peak from June through to September, as are the daylight hours, but temperatures in the high 20s can still be found a couple of months either side this period, making it a failsafe getaway from the unpredictable UK climate during the spring and autumn.

Cities have an astonishing mix of old and modern architecture. Whilst you'd be hard pressed to tell some shopping centres and government buildings from their Western equivalents, there are mosaics that date back to the Roman period, and landmarks that hold much historical value for Christians and Muslims. Those not so interested in the island's historical side can of course pitch up at one of the fabulous beaches, often also boasting an array of watersports opportunities. For anyone looking for that perfect blend of sun, sea and culture, they needn't look any further than one of our Cyprus holidays.

Our Cyprus holiday destinations

Both Larnaca and Paphos embody everything that can make a Cyprus holiday an enjoyable and memorable one, each with its own distinct culture and history, attached to the kind of wonderful scenery you can expect as standard on such a beautiful island.

Currency

The currency was changed to the Euro (EUR) on 1 January 2008. Major credit cards are accepted at most establishments. Banks are open Monday to Friday.

Time

Local time is GMT +2
(GMT +3 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October).

Language

The majority of Cypriots speak Greek, and a small percentage speaks Turkish.  The Greek Cypriot dialect differs from mainland Greece.  English, German and French are spoken in tourist areas.

Electricty

240 volts AC, 50Hz.  
The UK-style three square-pin plugs are used.

Southern Cyprus Climate

Boasting a typically hot Mediterranean climate Southern Cyprus attracts thousands of visitors each year in search of guaranteed summer sunshine and cloudless blue skies.  The southern coast beach resorts all enjoy high temperatures during the peak summer months and up to an incredible 13 hours of sunshine a day making it an ideal destination for a beach holiday.  The central plains are equally as hot during daylight hours but after dark temperatures drop which produce mild and refreshingly cool evenings.  High season temperatures can reach 33c in coastal regions although the advent of cooling winds help reduce this.

The climate in the autumn and winter is warm with temperatures up to 18c in December and a creditable 5 hours of sunshine. This ensures a popular winter holiday destination where sunbathing and water sports can be enjoyed. Most rainfall occurs during midwinter but is not prolonged before blue skies and settled weather returns.  Springtime brings a freshness and colour to the landscape which attracts many nature lovers and for many is the best time to visit.

Tipping

A 10% service charge is levied in hotels and restaurants so a tip is not obligatory, but small change is always welcome. Taxi drivers and porters appreciate a small tip.

Communications

The international access code for Cyprus is +357. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom).