The lovely island of Cyprus (Κύπρος or Kypros in Greek, Kıbrıs) lies in west Mediterranean Sea. The island position makes it a real gate between the Western and Eastern culture. Cyprus is not only famous for its splendid and uncontaminated beaches, but also for the wild nature and the ancient traditions.



Nicosia (232 702 in 2005)


9 250 km²


793 963 in 2009


77,3 /km²



Time zone

+ 2 GMT, + 3 GMT when winter time applies


Greek and Turkish are the official languages. English is spoken.


Christian Orthodox and Muslim.

Entry requirements

A valid identity card would be sufficient for citizens of the European states, but a distinction must be made: neither passport nor visa is necessary in the Republic of Cyprus, but if you want to enter the so called Turkish Republic of North Cyprus, a passport is necessary (even though the authorities generally ask only the identity card). At the Turkish-Cypriot border a special visa shall be issued to tourists. Most of the European driving licenses are accepted.

Travelling with pets


Health and safety

Both private and public health structures are generally aligned with the European standards. No vaccination is required, however, as a precaution it is recommended to drink only bottled mineral water without ice.
It is also advisable to bring the magnetic card for health assistance. As for safety, be aware that transit is forbidden in the military zones . The so called “buffer zone” can be accessed only upon showing of passport or identity card.


Cyprus is a sunny island for most of the year, and enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, with hot dry summers and mild winter, with few rain.

Form of government

Since the summer of 1974, the island has been divided into two areas: the Republic of Cyprus in the south, and the Turkish Republic of Cyprus in north. These two areas are separated through the so called Buffer Zone. However, it must be said that the Republic of Cyprus is the only acknowledged governmental authority.


The country’s economy is pretty dynamic. Before the island’s division the economy was largely based on agriculture, with a poor manufacturing industry. Today the building industry is gaining more and more importance. The state economy is deeply bound to tourism, in particular archaeological and seaside tourism.


Voltage: 230/240 V, frequency 50 Hz. Sockets are of British kind. It is advisable to bring an adapter.

Post offices, banks and telephone

In the main cities and tourist areas post offices are open Monday to Friday from 7.30 am to 13.30 pm (or 14). On Thursday opening hours are generally extended to 18 pm. Banks are open Monday to Friday from 8.30 am to 12.30 pm. On Monday they often open in the afternoon from 15.15 to 16.45. Mobile phone coverage is good.
Country code:
Emergency number: 112 [nggallery id=63]