Sunny beaches, painted mountain churches and long meze lunches.
Cyprus is the sunniest island in the eastern Mediterranean, with ancient sites, beaches and pine-covered mountains. Paphos has UNESCO-listed Roman mosaics and the Tombs of the Kings, Kourion's theatre looks over the sea, and the Troodos Mountains shelter frescoed Byzantine churches. The island has been divided since 1974, and crossing points in Nicosia connect the two sides of the capital.
Days are built around the sea and the table: halloumi, souvlaki and long meze spreads, often with local wine. There are no trains, so a hire car is the easiest way to explore. April, May, October and November are ideal, warm but not scorching; July and August are very hot, and winter is mild enough for hiking and sightseeing.
Best time to visit Cyprus
April, May, October, November.
Places to visit in Cyprus
Paphos: A seaside town on Cyprus's west coast, with Roman mosaics, royal tombs and the legendary birthplace of Aphrodite.
Ayia Napa: A beach resort on Cyprus's southeast coast, known for pale sand, sea caves and nightlife.
Nicosia: The island's capital, ringed by Venetian walls, with museums, old markets and a Green Line running through its centre.
Troodos Mountains: Cool pine-covered mountains in the island's centre, with hiking trails, wine villages and frescoed churches.
Essentials
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: Greek in the south, Turkish in the north; English widely spoken
Plugs: Type G, 230 V
Driving: Left side
Time zone: UTC+2
Tipping: Around 10% if service isn't included
Getting around: No trains; buses link towns, but a hire car is easiest
Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking