Cyprus
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General Travel Guide: The Island of the Gods and Love
Welcome to Cyprus, the island where Aphrodite was born. It is a place where legend and reality merge under the warm Mediterranean sun. Here, the ruins of ancient civilizations rest alongside vibrant coastal cities, and tranquil mountain monasteries contrast with the energy of its famous beaches. From the stunning mosaics of Roman times to the breathtaking sight of divided Nicosia, Cyprus offers a journey through millennia of history. But it is also a destination for the senses: the taste of grilled halloumi, the aroma of coffee in a stone village and the sensation of turquoise waters. Prepare to discover an island of captivating beauty and hospitality that will make you feel at home.
Capital
Nicosia
Population
1.260.138
Langue
Griego, Turco
Sites du patrimoine de l'UNESCO
3
Indices de voyage
📊Indices de voyage
Le meilleur de Cyprus
Expériences uniques
Cross the Green Line in Nicosia
Live the unique experience of crossing on foot the 'Green Line' that divides the capital. Walking along Ledra Street, the main pedestrian crossing, allows you to explore both sides of the city: the Republic of Cyprus to the south and the area occupied by Türkiye to the north. It is a fascinating and sobering look at the island's complex modern history.
Follow in the footsteps of Aphrodite
Visit Petra tou Romiou, the legendary rock where, according to mythology, the goddess Aphrodite emerged from the sea. Swimming around the rock is said to bring eternal love and beauty. The mythological route can be completed with a visit to the Baths of Aphrodite, a natural grotto on the Akamas Peninsula.
Enjoy a 'Meze' Feast
Meze is not a dish, it is a culinary and social experience. It consists of a succession of up to 20 small dishes that fill the table, from sauces and salads to grilled meats and fish. Ordering a meze in a traditional tavern is the best way to taste the diversity of Cypriot cuisine.
Explore the Troodos Mountains
Escape the heat of the coast and enter the cool pine forests of the Troodos Mountains. The region is home to charming stone villages such as Omodos and Kakopetria, the imposing Kykkos Monastery and ten painted Byzantine churches, declared World Heritage Sites for their colorful frescoes.
Sail to the Blue Lagoon
Take a boat from the port of Latchi to reach the Blue Lagoon, on the Akamas Peninsula. This protected bay boasts the clearest, turquoise waters on the island, perfect for swimming and snorkeling in a pristine natural environment. It is an image of a Mediterranean paradise.
Live the 'Siga-Siga' in a 'Kafenio'
Adopt the local rhythm of life, 'siga-siga' (slowly, slowly), sitting in a 'kafenio' (traditional cafe) in a town square. Ordering a Cypriot coffee or an iced frappe and spending time playing tavli (backgammon) or simply watching life go by is immersing yourself in the authentic culture of the island.
A Mediterranean Feast with a Flavor of History
Cypriot cuisine is a delicious fusion of Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern influences. It is based on fresh and seasonal ingredients, with olive oil, fresh herbs, vegetables, legumes and grilled meats as the protagonists. Eating in Cyprus is a social, generous and flavorful event.
Cypriot cuisine is a delicious fusion of Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern influences. It is based on fresh and seasonal ingredients, with olive oil, fresh herbs, vegetables, legumes and grilled meats as the protagonists. Eating in Cyprus is a social, generous and flavorful event.
The 'Meze': A Banquet to Share
Meze is the ultimate expression of Cypriot cuisine and hospitality. It is a marathon of small dishes that arrive on the table, offering a complete sample of local gastronomy. There are meat, fish or mixed mezes, and they are ideal for sharing.
Halloumi: The National Treasure
This semi-hard cheese, traditionally made from a mixture of sheep and goat milk, is Cyprus' most famous product. Its peculiarity is that it does not melt when cooked, which makes it perfect for the grill or frying pan. Its salty flavor and 'squeaky' texture are unmistakable.
Plats Iconiques
Souvla and Souvlaki
Both are grilled meat skewers, but 'souvla' consists of large pieces of lamb or pork cooked slowly on a rotating spit, while 'souvlaki' are smaller pieces of meat served in pita bread with salad.
Kleftiko
A tender lamb dish that melts in your mouth. Traditionally, it is cooked very slowly for hours in a sealed clay oven, with bay leaves and oregano, allowing the meat to cook in its own juices.
Sheftalia
A homemade skinless sausage, made from minced pork, onion and parsley, wrapped in caul (the membrane that surrounds the lamb's stomach). It is grilled and is juicy and full of flavor.
Moussaka
A classic of Greek and Cypriot cuisine. It is a cake baked with layers of minced meat, eggplant or zucchini, and potato, covered with a creamy bechamel sauce.
Stifado
A rich and aromatic beef or rabbit stew cooked slowly with red wine, vinegar, lots of onions and spices such as cinnamon and cloves.
Koupepia
The Cypriot version of 'dolmades'. They are tender grape leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, minced meat, tomato and fresh herbs.
Boissons typiques
Commandaria
Considered the oldest named wine in the world, it is a sweet, amber dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes. It has a rich flavor, similar to raisins and figs, and is perfect to accompany desserts.
Zivania
A powerful grape pomace brandy, clear as water. This traditional spirit, often called 'Cypriot whiskey', is a popular digestif and not for the faint of heart.
Cypriot Coffee and Frappé
Cypriot coffee ('Kypriakos kafes') is strong and is prepared in a 'mbriki', served with the grounds. In summer, the king is the 'frappé', an instant coffee shaken with ice, sugar and milk that is drunk very cold.
Brandy Sour
Considered the unofficial cocktail of Cyprus. It is a refreshing blend of Cypriot brandy, lemon, Angostura bitters and soda.
Que voir par thème
The wealth of Cyprus lies in its incredible diversity, with options for every type of traveler. Next, we suggest you explore the island through different themes.
Dream Beaches and Coves
The east coast, around Ayia Napa and Protaras, is home to famous beaches such as Nissi Beach, with its lively atmosphere, and family-friendly Fig Tree Bay. The west coast offers options such as Coral Bay and the pristine Blue Lagoon in Akamas, accessible by boat.
Ancient History and Archeology
Cyprus is an open-air museum. The Paphos Archaeological Park, with its Roman mosaics, is a World Heritage Site. Don't miss the ancient amphitheater of Kourion, the Tombs of the Kings and the Neolithic settlement of Choirokoitia.
Mountains, Monasteries and Charming Towns
The Troodos Mountains are the green heart of the island. Here you can visit the ten painted Byzantine churches (UNESCO), the opulent Kykkos Monastery and traditional villages such as Omodos (famous for its wine) and Lefkara (famous for its lace).
Nicosia: The Last Divided Capital
Explore the only divided capital in the world. Within its Venetian walls, Nicosia's old town offers museums, churches and the opportunity to cross the 'Green Line' to the northern side for a unique cultural and political experience.
Nature and Hiking
The Akamas Peninsula is a nature lover's paradise, with hiking trails offering spectacular views and the opportunity to see endemic flora and fauna. Cape Greco National Park, near Ayia Napa, also has trails, cliffs and sea caves.
Myths and Legends
Follow in the footsteps of the goddess Aphrodite. Visit her birthplace in Petra tou Romiou, bathe in the Baths of Aphrodite grotto in Akamas, and explore the Sanctuary of Aphrodite in Kouklia to immerse yourself in the island's mythology.
Conseils de voyage
Driving
Remember that Cyprus drives on the left, a legacy of British rule. Renting a car is the best way to explore the island freely, but it requires an adjustment period.
Internal Transportation
Apart from car rental, there is an intercity bus network that connects the main cities and is quite economical. Within cities, local buses are the main public transportation option.
Language
The official languages are Greek and Turkish. However, English is spoken fluently by the vast majority of the population, especially in tourist areas, so communication is very simple.
Tips
In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often included in the bill. If it is not included, or if the service has been exceptional, a 5-10% tip is appropriate. In taxis, the fare is usually rounded.
This guide is just the beginning of your adventure on the island of Aphrodite. Each region, each town and each beach has its own personality waiting to be discovered. We invite you to explore further to plan an unforgettable trip, full of sun, history and hospitality that will steal your heart. Καλό ταξίδι (Kalo taxidi)! (Have a good trip!)
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