10 Things to Know Before You Go to Cyprus

With approximately 2 million tourists visiting the island of Cyprus each and every year, do you really need that much convincing? However, aside from the sun-kissed beaches, delectable cuisine, and sunsets to die for, there are some safety, cultural, and historical aspects about the country that will help make your trip run smoother.

Here are 10 things we consider must-know before you visit Cyprus…

1. Cyprus is the Birthplace of Aphrodite

That’s right; Cyprus is the mythical birth place of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and passion. Before she reached goddess status, Aphrodite was a beautiful young girl who was born and lived on the island, near Paphos, the capital city of western Cyprus. Paphos also has some historical treats in store. It’s home to the cliff side Tombs of the Kings (dating back to fourth-century BC), and it also houses many archaeological remains of various villas, palaces, theaters, fortresses, and the once famous island baths from the roman period.

Aphrodite's rock cyprus — Cyprus is the birth place of Aphrodite which is the Greek goddess of love and passion.

2. Patriarchal Society

Women in particular should keep in mind that the island of Cyprus and its inhabitants are not only very religious—most also worship the Muslim faith, which means men hold most of power positions and political positions in this largely patriarchal society. For example, only males can become religious functionaries (in both Muslim and Christian faiths) and run for political office. Women generally hold jobs of lesser status and are responsible for managing the household. Marriages were still arranged up until the last decade.

man voting cyprus — A patriarchal society in Cyprus means that traditional gender roles often favor men in leadership, decision-making, and authority within families, workplaces, and politics. While societal norms are evolving, some cultural practices still reflect these traditional roles, particularly in rural areas.

3. Cyprus Currency

The currency largely in use in the Republic of Cyprus is the Euro. The majority of Cyprus adopted this as their official currency as of January 1, 2008 in lieu of the previously used Cypriot Pound. However, Northern Cyprus uses their own currency—the new Turkish lira. Most banks across the country will provide exchange for all major cash or traveler’s check currencies, including Euros, US dollars, UK pounds, Turkish Lira, and Cyprus pounds.

euros — Credit cards are commonly accepted in most areas of southern Cyprus, especially in urban and tourist locations. In Northern Cyprus, cash transactions are more common, though larger establishments often accept credit cards.

4. Visa Requirements

Visas are not required for tourists to enter the country of Cyprus. However, you will require a photo passport that is valid for 3 months time beyond your stay. There are a few countries exempt from the passport requirement, including Nationals from Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Iceland, who only require a national identity card for entry; United Nations issued with a Laissez-passer passport if they hold a previous entry permit from the Immigration Office of Nicosia; Nationals of Egyptians and Israel with proper travel documentation, and Cypriot nationals and Nationals of the Turkish Republic of North Cyprus and Macedonia.

cyprus passport stamp — Travelers entering Cyprus visa-free must carry a valid passport (or national ID for EU/EEA citizens), proof of accommodation, return or onward travel tickets, and sufficient funds for the duration of their stay.

5. Driving Laws in Cyprus

Driving is Cyprus follows the British UK standard of keeping to the left hand side of the road. Many North American travelers have outspokenly complained about the poor road quality and driving standards in Cyprus as many roads are dirt covered, uneven, and winding in nature.

driving cyprus — In Cyprus, people drive on the left-hand side of the road, following the British system. This can be an adjustment for visitors from countries where right-hand driving is the norm.

6. Electrical Conversion

The travel adapter needed to plug in electrical devices in Cyprus is the UK output with the 3-pins, and 240 standard voltages. North Americans may need a European 3-prong adapter to charge cell phones, camera batteries, and etc.

power outlet — Cyprus uses Type G plugs, which have three rectangular prongs arranged in a triangular pattern. These are the same plugs used in the UK.

7. Political Climate of Cyprus

Since 1974, Northern and Southern Cyprus have remained divided in the wake of the Turkish invasion of the north in reaction to a military coup supported by the Athens government. Now the northern part of the island is largely inhabited by Turkish Cypriots; while a southern portion (two thirds) is inhabited by Greek Cypriots. The divide is located at Morphou through Nicosia to Famagusta, physically separated by a United Nations (UN) Buffer Zone referred to as the “Green Line”. Today, the long standing political dispute between North and South Cyprus continues. However, the tension has eased significantly and border crossings are quite smooth.

muslim flag northern cyprus — Cyprus is a divided island with two main political entities: the Republic of Cyprus, which controls the southern part of the island, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which is recognized only by Turkey.

8. Social Drinking

Getting socially inebriated or public binge drinking and carrying on in an embarrassing fashion is largely frowned upon and considered shameful in Cyprus. You must remember that certain portions of Cyprus are Muslim while other portions are largely Greek Orthodox. The island also has a strict zero tolerance regarding drug use.

Wine — Cypriots enjoy a variety of alcoholic beverages, including wine, beer, and spirits. The island is known for its Commandaria wine, one of the oldest sweet wines in the world. Zivania, a strong Cypriot spirit made from grapes, is also popular in social settings.

9. Language Spoken

The official languages of Cyprus are both Greek and Turkish. Obviously, due to the border division of the country, Greek is largely spoken in the southern portion of the island and Turkish is largely used on the northern part of the country. As a former British colony, English is also widely spoken in the country, and you will find most official documents as well as street signs are usually in Greek or Turkish and English (depending on what side of the island you are on).

cyprus flag — Cyprus has two official languages: Greek and Turkish. Greek is predominantly spoken in the southern part of the island, which is controlled by the Republic of Cyprus, while Turkish is the main language in the northern part, controlled by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC).

10. Dress Etiquette

Attire in Cyprus is similar to most European conventions. However, you must remember that when entering a sacred place of worship men are expected to wear long pants and long sleeved shirts while women are expected to wear long skirts and have their arms covered. If it is hot, wear a long sundress and be sure to bring a wrap or sweater to cover your shoulders when entering tourist areas that demand modest dress.