If you are traveling to the Republic of Cyprus for reasons other than immigration and your visit does not exceed three months, you may need a travel visa. This visa allows a single stay or multiple visits, with the total duration not exceeding three months within any six-month period starting from the date of the first entry.
A multiple-entry visa can be issued for frequent travelers (e.g., business visits). It is normally valid for one year and, in exceptional cases, up to five years.
If you pass through the international transit area of a Cypriot airport without entering the country, you may require an Airport Transit Visa. This is an exception to the typical visa-free transit rules.
Note: Flight crew who are citizens of a Contracting Party to the Chicago Convention are exempt.
If you travel from one country to another and must pass through the Republic of Cyprus, you may require a Transit Visa. It can be issued for one or several transits, with each transit lasting no more than five days. Entry to the final destination must be guaranteed.
A group visa may be issued for 5 to 50 people traveling together. The group must enter, stay, and depart together. The group leader must have an individual passport and, if required, an individual visa.
Cyprus has no train network. Transportation is provided by buses, taxis, or service taxis. Buses stop early in the evening, so many travelers prefer renting a car for flexibility.
Hiring a car is the most convenient way to explore Cyprus, especially remote areas. It is recommended to book online in advance and purchase a Cyprus road map or review local driving rules.
If you don’t wish to rent a car, you can book an airport transfer online. This avoids searching for public transport or negotiating taxi prices. Transport services stop early in the day, so pre-booking is recommended.
Buses connect major towns and airports with regular hourly routes. There is no service on Sundays except for local inter-city and rural buses. These are inexpensive and usually:
Service taxis (shared taxis) hold up to eight passengers and must be booked in advance by phone or in person.
Once the journey begins, travel is fast since it is primarily on the motorway.
In case of emergency, immediate assistance is available through the following telephone numbers. English is spoken.
Government hospitals and most private clinics are located in urban areas, while health centres, sub-centres, and dispensaries serve rural regions. Government hospitals and several private clinics include Accident and Emergency Departments.
Emergency medical treatment is provided free of charge to international tourists at Government Hospitals. Out-patient and in-patient treatment is available at prescribed fees. Visitors may also use private insurance if it covers their stay in Cyprus.
Most common international medicines are available in Cyprus. Local newspapers list night-duty pharmacies and doctors on call during weekends and public holidays.
Pafos: 1436
The majority of doctors speak English. Typical visiting hours:
Cyprus is free from dangerous infectious diseases, and there are no vaccination requirements for international travelers. The climate is considered excellent for health and is suitable for travel year-round.
Chemists (Pharmacies) Opening Hours
Pharmacies are open during normal shopping hours. Details of pharmacies open at night, on public holidays, and on Sundays are listed in daily newspapers. They can also be reached via:
Health food stores offering high-quality health products, supplements, and cosmetics can be found in all towns, and similar products are also sold in pharmacies and major supermarkets.
Food safety and water quality in Cyprus are strictly monitored by the Ministry of Health and local authorities. Food and water are considered high quality and safe, with no waterborne diseases.
Tap water in homes, hotels, restaurants, and public buildings is safe to drink. District Water Boards work closely with government health services to ensure safety and prevent contamination.
Crime rates in Cyprus are very low. Police are available to assist residents and visitors, and English is widely spoken. For emergencies, call 199 or 112.
Halloumi is the most famous Cypriot cheese, now popular across Europe and the Middle East. Its high melting point allows it to be fried or grilled without losing its shape, making it unique. It has a mild salty flavor and a slightly rubbery texture. Traditionally made from goat and sheep milk and set with rennet, Halloumi is often served grilled or cold alongside watermelon, commonly enjoyed as an appetizer or dessert.
Koupepia, similar to Dolma, are vine leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice, onions, tomatoes, and herbs. They are a traditional village dish popular in Cyprus, Greece, Turkey, and the Middle East. They are often prepared in large quantities and can be frozen for later use. Cypriots also stuff vegetables such as peppers, tomatoes, onions, courgettes, and courgette flowers.
Cypriot souvlaki consists of small charcoal-grilled pieces of meat served inside a thin, large pita bread that contains a pocket for the ingredients. It includes fresh salad and is often made with pork, lamb, or chicken. Vegetarian options, such as mushroom or halloumi, are also popular. Unlike the Greek version, Cypriot souvlaki rarely includes sauces; instead, it is served with lemon quarters, pickled green chili, and piccalilli.
Sheftalia are traditional Cypriot sausage parcels made from minced pork or lamb mixed with parsley, onion, salt, and pepper, wrapped in caul fat. They are charcoal-grilled for about 30 minutes and are often served inside souvlaki pitas.
The Cypriot version of Pastitsio is a beloved traditional dish especially popular during Easter. It is made with large pasta tubes, minced pork, and béchamel sauce. Grated anari cheese is usually sprinkled on top for added crispiness. Cooked in a large oven pan and cut into square portions, the dish is typically served with a side salad.
Loukoumades are small deep-fried dough balls soaked in honey and coated with crushed nuts, sesame seeds, or cinnamon. Often referred to as honey doughnuts, they are light, airy, and popular in villages and specialty coffee shops across Cyprus.
Okra is baked with tomatoes and onions until soft, then added to lamb or other meat to absorb the flavors. Nutritious and warming, this dish is perfect during the cooler months.
This protein-rich vegetarian meal includes caramelized onions, rice, and brown lentils. It is often served with olives, Cypriot fried potatoes, and smoked sausages.
Louvi is a staple Cypriot dish made with black-eyed beans, vegetables, olive oil, salt, and lemon. It is low in fat and high in carbohydrates and protein. The beans thrive even in hot and dry conditions. Louvi is commonly served with tuna, cucumber, and tomato.
Koubes originate from the Levant and are torpedo-shaped croquettes with a bulgur shell and a minced meat filling seasoned with Middle Eastern spices. Served with lemon wedges, they are popular snacks available in local bakeries throughout Cyprus.
Days are warm and evenings cooler. Wear medium-weight and summer clothing, with light woollies or long sleeves for the evenings. This is an ideal season for nature lovers, with green landscapes and blooming flowers.
These are the warmest months. Light summer clothing is recommended. Conditions are perfect for swimming and all beach activities.
Days remain warm, with cooler evenings in October. Wear lightweight clothing during the day and medium-weight clothing for the evenings. Swimming and water sports are still excellent.
Days are pleasantly warm. Medium-weight clothing and light woollies are suitable. Outdoor dining, sunbathing, swimming, and most outdoor sports can still be enjoyed.
Winter for locals, autumn-like for visitors. There may be occasional rain, but plenty of sunshine. Winter clothing is recommended, though heavy coats are not necessary. Outdoor activities and excursions remain enjoyable.
Occasionally warm days with almond trees in bloom. Evenings can be cold. Winter clothing is appropriate. Conditions are ideal for skiing in the Troodos Mountains.
Moderate weather with nature at its peak. Wear winter clothing with some medium-weight layers. A great month for outdoor activities and long countryside walks.