The world is a book, and he who does not travel reads only one page," said Saint Augustine.
And it is hard to argue with him. Perhaps that is why many people prefer to spend their holiday money on the unforgettable emotions and impressions of visiting a new country, rather than on buying another car or a few trinkets.
Anyone who has been to Cyprus knows that holidays here are a pleasure. Luxurious beaches, beautiful nature, interesting excursions to ancient ruins, walks along picturesque streets, delicious food - the list goes on and on. One thing is for sure: exorbitant prices in high season make Cyprus inaccessible to many foreigners. A comfortable holiday on the island of Aphrodite in the year 2024 for little money - this is fantasy, many will say. But no, it is quite realistic and achievable! Of course, if you approach it with intelligence and plan everything in advance. Better still, use our handy tips and tricks!
Book your plane tickets early
The island is very small. There are only two airports in Cyprus - Paphos and Larnaca. So it is not worth worrying about where your plane lands or which one is closest to the hotel, apartment or villa you have rented for your holiday. It is better to look at the airline and the dates of your trip. You should start monitoring tickets at least 2 months in advance to get the best deal. Do not forget the existence of low-cost airlines such as Wizz Air or Ryanair, which often have promotions and special offers on their websites. We advise you to book your return flight as well. This will give you an extra discount.
Choose the "right" place for your holiday
Mention Cyprus and Limassol, Paphos, Larnaca and Ayia Napa come to mind. However, holidays in at least the first two towns are not exactly democratic. In recent years, so many migrant workers have arrived that there is no place to lie down on the beach in high season, and a table in a decent restaurant has to be booked a week or even two in advance. This, of course, has had an effect on prices, which have soared.
And in general, is it worth spending a long-awaited holiday in a stifling city? Isn't that what you were running away from? Maybe it's better to rent accommodation in the suburbs or in a picturesque village, like the locals do. EVERYTHING will be cheaper! If you want to be closer to civilisation, check out Pissouri, Paramali and Episkopi near Limassol, Zigi and Pervolia near Larnaca, Peyia and Geroskipa near Paphos. Paralimni is ideal for party people - it's not far from Ayia Napa and rental prices are much cheaper. Nature lovers will enjoy one of the many campsites in Cyprus. The largest is in Polis, in the eucalyptus forest of Limni, right on the beach. There is a kiosk and a small bar next to it.
Forget about taxis
Instead of taxis, take public transport or hire a car directly from the airport. Buses run 24 hours a day between the airport and the city. Shuttle fares range from €1.50 to €16 one way for adults, depending on the distance, compared to €50-60 for a taxi. The local bus market is monopolised by four main companies: Kapnos Airport Shuttle, EAL (Limassol Bus Company), Cyprus Public Transport and OSYPA (Paphos Transport Organisation). In most cases, buses from Larnaca and Paphos airports will take you to a specific point in the city. From there you have to walk. Hiring a car is therefore not a bad option for those used to travelling in comfort.
Good roads, with improved surfaces and no traffic jams along the way, allow you to visit a lot of interesting things in a short time, whether it is a famous landmark or a picturesque village in the mountains. And in everyday life, a car is much more convenient. That is why there are so many car hire companies in Cyprus to suit all tastes. On average, you can rent a car in Cyprus from €30-40 per day in the low season and from €50 per day in the high season.
Accommodation in Cyprus
Looking at the cost of short-term holiday rentals in Cyprus in the high season can be daunting. In Limassol, something more or less bearable starts from 100-150 euros per day. And even then, these options are disappearing quickly. The fate of a person who does not hustle, who does not know the local peculiarities - it is from 200 euros and more. If you are looking for accommodation that is twice as cheap as in Limassol, look in Larnaca or Paphos. And even better, as mentioned above, in the suburbs. For example, in the village of Pissouri. Prices there are twice as low as in Limassol. The village is touristy, picturesque, close to the sea. But if you rent accommodation here, you should be aware that the only creatures you will come into contact with are mosquitoes and numerous caterpillars. During the day, you can walk around the village for half an hour and not meet a single living soul. Despite its tourist status.
Cyprus has also had an extensive holiday rental market for many decades. It is geared towards tourists from European countries. So you can consider the options of renting a flat or house absolutely calmly: it is a common practice for Cyprus. Apart from renting apartments and flats, renting private houses is common in Cyprus. It is convenient for a family with children who do not want neighbours. The proximity to the sea is less important than the infrastructure: shops, clinics, entertainment centres. Apart-hotels are also suitable for families with young children. They are equipped with a small kitchen, so you can save on cafes and cook for yourself. You can find reasonably priced options from 50 euros a day.
Travel independently
Before you travel, find out as much as you can about the area where you want to stay. There are many interesting places within walking distance of resorts: castles, museums, shrines, parks. Plan what you would like to do on your own for a few days in Cyprus, make a programme of walks. Expenses will be low: a few euros for a bus ticket and a few more for a museum. Many nature trails on the island are specially equipped for independent tourism. Strange as it may seem, the Cypriot tourist industry does not promote them much, so the routes are not well known. From the mountain paths of Troodos to the paths along the rocky coastline, there are many prepared routes on the island. You can choose between a leisurely 2-3 kilometre stroll or a few days of serious walking.
Don't pay too much for the beaches
You may not have realised it, but all beaches in Cyprus are free. However, you will definitely be charged for sunbeds and umbrellas. Unless, of course, you know the main tourist trick. The locals almost never holiday at the popular beaches. They literally walk a few yards away and find a good spot where there are no crowds and you can lie down on your own mat.
Communication and Internet
It is pointless to spend money on local SIM cards in Cyprus. Internet is expensive here and there is not much of it. But there is Wi-Fi almost everywhere. The whole coast is dotted with restaurants, cafes, bars and tavernas. Once you enter an establishment, you will be given a password that will always work. This allows you to make calls using various messengers, all you need is a cup of coffee. No one will chase you away for hours. I have even worked remotely for 4 hours at a time. Minimum - 3 euros - and high-speed Internet in your pocket. Some cafes have Wi-Fi all the way to the sea.
Markets and shops
If you rent an apartment, you can eat at home, at least some of the time. This means that you do not always have to go out to eat, which is much cheaper. In Cyprus, there are usually fairs or market days twice a week in the larger towns. You can learn all this from the locals who go there for a few days to buy their groceries. Everything is much cheaper than in shops and supermarkets. Especially fruit, vegetables, cheese, fresh seafood and extra virgin olive oil.
Where to eat
There are many tavernas of all kinds in Cyprus. Eating out is not cheap, but you can afford it. The portions are also very large. One is enough to feed two people. And do not hurry to order dessert. In tavernas for "their own", Cypriots usually bring a compliment at the end of the meal. It is usually a free dessert in the form of fruit or sweets.
Cyprus also has good quality fast food. Even if you turn up your nose at the word 'fast food', try the local gyros - 5 euros and you're full for the day!
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