This Cyprus travel guide covers the essentials for planning an easy trip. Cyprus is one of the easiest short-haul trips from Israel: a flight of well under two hours, no time-zone adjustment to worry about, and a mix of beaches, mountains, and old towns that suits everyone from couples to large families. This guide covers what you actually need to know about the Greek (southern) side of the island before you book.
What Is “Greek Cyprus”?
Cyprus is politically divided between the Republic of Cyprus in the south (Greek-speaking, and the part most Israeli travelers visit) and the Turkish-administered north. When people say “Greek Cyprus,” they mean the Republic of Cyprus — an EU member state with the euro as its currency.
Main Cities in This Cyprus Travel Guide
Larnaca
Home to Cyprus’s main international airport, Larnaca combines a central beach promenade with easy access to the rest of the island — a natural base for short trips.
Paphos
On the western coast, Paphos is known for its archaeological sites, dramatic coastline, and relaxed, scenic pace — popular with couples and longer stays.
Limassol
Cyprus’s second-largest city has a modern marina, a long promenade, and a livelier, more cosmopolitan feel than the smaller resort towns.
Nicosia
The capital and the island’s only major inland city, Nicosia is also the last divided capital in Europe, with a walled Old Town worth a half-day visit even if you’re based on the coast.
Cyprus’s Beaches
Cyprus’s coastline is one of its biggest draws, with clear water and a good mix of lively resort beaches and quieter coves. Blue Flag beaches are common along the southern coast, and options range from family-friendly shallow bays to more dramatic, rockier spots near Paphos.
Ayia Napa and Protaras
These two resort towns on the southeastern coast are built around Cyprus’s best beaches, with Ayia Napa known for its nightlife and Protaras offering a quieter, more family-oriented version of the same coastline.
The Troodos Mountains
Inland from the coast, the Troodos range offers hiking trails, traditional mountain villages, and a completely different side of Cyprus — it’s also home to several UNESCO-listed painted churches and, in winter, some light skiing.
Cyprus with Children
Cyprus is a reliably easy family destination: short flight time, calm beaches in several areas, family-oriented resorts (especially around Paphos and Protaras), and enough variety — beach days, boat trips, water parks — to fill a week without kids getting bored.
Shopping in Cyprus
Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos all have central shopping streets and malls, while local markets are worth a visit for Cypriot products like halloumi cheese, olive oil, and local wines and spirits.
Best Time to Visit Cyprus
May, June, September, and October offer the best balance — warm enough to swim, without the peak-summer heat and crowds of July and August. Winter stays mild on the coast and brings light snow to the Troodos Mountains.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cyprus
Do Israelis need a visa for Cyprus?
No — Israeli passport holders can enter Cyprus (an EU member state) without a visa for short tourist stays.
What currency is used?
The euro, since Cyprus is part of the eurozone.
How long is the flight from Israel?
Around an hour and a half to two hours, depending on the departure airport.
Is Cyprus a good choice for families?
Yes — the short flight, calm beaches, and family resorts (particularly around Paphos and Protaras) make it one of the easiest short-haul family trips from Israel.
In Summary
Cyprus packs an unusual amount of variety into a short flight: beach resorts, a mountain range, a divided capital, and enough history and nightlife to suit almost any type of trip. Whether you’re planning a long weekend or a full week, it remains one of the most convenient destinations for Israeli travelers.
