+ 1h

Nikosia (Lefkosia / Lefkosa)

Greek

• 240 volts
• A travel plug adapter for type G sockets is required.

Banks

8.30 am–12.30 pm; from 8.15 am in July and August
3.30 pm–5.30 pm (Mon–Fri, October–April)
4.00 pm–6.30 pm (Mon–Fri, May–September)

Shops

7.00 am–9.00 pm (Mon–Sat; opening hours may vary by one or two hours depending on the type of shop and location)
11.00 am–2.00 pm / until 10.00 pm (Sun; depending on the type of shop and location)
From June to September, some shops may optionally close between 2.00 pm and 5.00 pm.

In most tourist areas of Cyprus, shops and supermarkets remain open until late at night and are also open on Sundays.

Cyprus observes a combination of Christian, national and cultural holidays throughout the year.

• 1 January: New Year’s Day (Protokhroniá)
• 6 January: Epiphany (Theofáneia)
• Clean Monday: date varies each year (Kathará Deftera)
• 25 March: Greek Independence Day (25i Martíou)
• Good Friday (Megáli Paraskeví), Easter Sunday (Kyriakí tou Páscha) and Easter Monday (Deftéra tou Páscha): dates vary each year
• 1 May: Labour Day (Ergatikí Protomagiá)
• Pentecost: date varies each year (Agíou Pnévmatos)
• 15 August: Assumption of the Virgin Mary (Koímisi tis Theotókou)
• 1 October: Independence Day (Iméra tis Anexartisías)
• 28 October: Ohi Day (Epéteios tou Óchi)
• 25 December: Christmas Day (Christoúgenna)
• 26 December: Boxing Day (Sýnaxis tis Theotókou)

The following documents are required for entry into Cyprus:

• A valid Swiss identity card or a valid Swiss passport is required.
• No visa is required.
• Minors: minors travelling alone, with only one parent or without their parents are advised to carry a travel authorisation. Further information: travel authorisation for travelling with children.

Last updated: April 2024

Coastal regions (Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos)

• Winter, from December to February: average temperatures range from 8°C to 17°C, with mild weather and occasional rainfall.
• Summer, from June to August: average temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C, with high humidity and occasional heatwaves that can push temperatures above 35°C.
• Spring and autumn: average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, with pleasant conditions that are ideal for outdoor activities.

Inland region (Nicosia)

• Winter: average temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C, with cooler nights and occasional frost. Rare snowfall may occur at higher elevations.
• Summer: average temperatures range from 30°C to 40°C, with very hot days, particularly in July and August.
• Spring and autumn: average temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C, with warm days and cooler evenings, ideal for exploring the city and surrounding area.

Mountain regions (Troodos Mountains)

• Winter: average temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C, with snowfall and opportunities for skiing at the highest elevations.
• Summer: average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, considerably cooler than the rest of the island and offering welcome relief from the heat.
• Spring and autumn: average temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C, with mild conditions and opportunities to enjoy the rich flora and fauna of the mountain landscapes.

The ideal time to visit Cyprus

• Beach holidays: May to October.
• City breaks: throughout the year, with spring and autumn particularly recommended.
• Hiking: March to May and September to November.
• Winter sports: December to February in the Troodos Mountains.

• Mobile phone use in Cyprus may incur roaming charges. It is advisable to check the applicable charges before travelling and, where appropriate, purchase a special roaming package to reduce costs.
• Free Wi-Fi is now available in many hotels, restaurants, cafés and public areas.

• Paphos Archaeological Park: a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for the exceptional mosaic floors found in its Roman villas.
• Kykkos Monastery: the wealthiest and most magnificent monastery in Cyprus, famous for its icons, splendid architecture and valuable religious artefacts.
• Troodos Mountains: offering breathtaking scenery, picturesque villages and numerous hiking trails, ideal for nature lovers and walkers.
• Hala Sultan Tekke: a beautiful mosque on the shores of Larnaca Salt Lake and an important Islamic pilgrimage site.
• Tombs of the Kings in Nea Paphos: an impressive necropolis known for its underground burial chambers and elaborate architectural features.
• Limassol Marina: a modern marina and leisure district offering a wide variety of restaurants, cafés and shops.
• Aphrodite’s Rock (Petra tou Romiou): a mythical location believed to be the birthplace of the goddess Aphrodite.
• Nicosia (Ledra Street): the divided capital offers a unique combination of historic architecture and vibrant urban life.
• Choirokoitia: one of the most important prehistoric sites in the eastern Mediterranean and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Akamas Peninsula: renowned for its natural beauty, with unspoilt beaches, clear waters and rich biodiversity.

Travel inspiration

Be inspired by our articles and discover Cyprus’s most fascinating destinations:

Cyprus in May: Where sunshine and culture blend perfectly

Cypriot cuisine combines Greek, Turkish and Middle Eastern influences and is characterised by fresh ingredients and a wide variety of flavours. Some of its highlights include:

• Halloumi: a distinctive cheese that is ideal for grilling.
• Meze: a varied selection of small dishes, similar to appetisers.
• Souvla and souvlaki: popular grilled meat specialities.
• Moussaka: a layered dish made with potatoes, aubergines and meat.
• Tzatziki: a refreshing yoghurt and garlic dip.
• Sheftalia: flavourful grilled meatballs and a popular barbecue speciality.
• Lountza: smoked and cured pork loin, often served grilled.
• Kleftiko: slowly cooked lamb that is aromatic and tender.
• Afelia: pork marinated in red wine and coriander and served roasted.
• Cypriot potatoes: crispy baked potatoes flavoured with lemon and herbs.
• Loukoumades: sweet dough balls soaked in honey.
• Anari: a fresh, soft cheese often served with honey as a dessert.
• Commandaria: a traditional sweet dessert wine.
• Cypriot coffee: strong coffee traditionally prepared in a cezve.

Taverns and mezedopoleia are traditional Cypriot restaurants serving a variety of simple and authentic dishes. Their warm and welcoming atmosphere provides the perfect opportunity to discover the local cuisine.

In Cyprus, as in many other countries, politeness and mutual respect are highly valued. The following etiquette tips will help you behave appropriately during your stay:

• Greetings: a friendly verbal greeting such as “Kalimera” (“Good morning”) or “Kalinichta” (“Good night”) is customary. Handshakes are common when meeting someone for the first time.
• Saying please and thank you: “Parakalo” (“please”) and “Efcharisto” (“thank you”) demonstrate good manners and are greatly appreciated in Cyprus.
• Clothing: wear appropriate clothing, particularly when visiting religious sites. Shoulders and knees often need to be covered when entering churches or monasteries.
• Dining etiquette: sharing food with others is customary, particularly when enjoying meze, a selection of small dishes. Wait until the host begins eating.
• Smoking: smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces. Observe local smoking laws and regulations.
• Tipping: a tip of 10–15% is customary in restaurants, provided that service is not already included in the bill. A small tip is also appreciated for other services, such as taxis.
• Other: punctuality is appreciated, although a certain degree of flexibility is common for social appointments.

Drinking water quality

• Tap water is considered safe to drink in most parts of Cyprus. Water quality is regularly monitored and meets European standards.

Vaccinations

• No compulsory vaccinations are required for entry into Cyprus.
• Make sure that you and your children are up to date with the standard vaccinations recommended in the Swiss vaccination schedule issued by the Federal Office of Public Health.
• Vaccination against hepatitis A is recommended for travellers. Vaccination against hepatitis B is also recommended for longer stays or in cases of particular exposure.

Other

• During the hot season, the Mediterranean climate can place considerable strain on the body, with extreme temperatures exceeding 45°C and significant differences between daytime and night-time temperatures, particularly in mountainous areas.

• Medical care in Cyprus is of a good standard. To receive free treatment at public health centres, take your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), issued by your health insurance provider.
• At Cypriot pharmacies, which can be recognised by the green cross, medicines from almost all major brands can be purchased upon presentation of a medical prescription.
• Local newspapers and online sources provide information about pharmacies that are also open in the evenings—until 10.00 pm in winter and 11.00 pm in summer—as well as at weekends and on public holidays.

• Due to the military escalation in the region, developments remain uncertain. Travel disruptions, such as temporary airspace closures, delays and cancellations, are possible. Check the latest information regularly and follow the instructions of the local authorities. Last updated: 9 March 2026
• Entering the buffer zone between the southern and northern parts of the island is prohibited.
• Cyprus is generally considered a safe travel destination with low crime rates, particularly in relation to serious crime.
• Keep a close watch on your personal belongings, especially in busy tourist areas and on public transport, to avoid pickpocketing.
• Despite increased security measures, there remains a risk of terrorist attacks.
• Minefields dating from past conflicts remain in the border areas between the Republic of Cyprus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. Although the situation is stable, particular caution is required when visiting these areas. Travellers should remain informed about the current political situation and must not leave marked paths.
• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

Last updated: March 2026

• A Swiss driving licence is accepted for car hire.
• Most car hire companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 and, in some cases, over 70 are often charged an additional fee. Check the conditions of your car hire company before booking.
• Traffic drives on the left-hand side of the road.
• Seat belts are compulsory in both the front and rear seats, and motorcyclists are required to wear a helmet.
• A CH sticker, high-visibility vest and warning triangle are compulsory.
• Using a mobile phone while driving is strictly prohibited in Cyprus, including while the vehicle is stationary with the engine running. The phone may only be held once the vehicle has been completely switched off.
• Double yellow lines along the edge of the road indicate no stopping, while a single yellow line indicates no parking.
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.5‰. For drivers who have held their licence for less than two years, the limit is 0.2‰.

Public transport in Cyprus is mainly based on buses, as there are no long-distance or regional trains and no metro systems. Public buses are operated by the organisation Cyprus Public Transport.

• City buses: larger cities such as Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos have well-developed urban bus networks connecting the main districts, attractions and often the beaches. In some holiday regions, services also run until late in the evening during the summer.
• Intercity buses: intercity buses provide connections between cities and larger villages. They are a practical and affordable way to explore the island.
• Interurban Buses service: provides connections between cities and villages.
• Shuttle buses: these provide connections between all major cities and the airports in Larnaca and Paphos.
• Timetables and frequency: buses generally operate daily, although the frequency depends on the route and time of day. Services may be reduced at weekends and on public holidays.
• Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver, from ticket machines or at sales outlets. Single tickets, day passes and weekly passes are available and allow unlimited travel within the selected zone.

Cyprus has three airports, but only one offers direct connections to Switzerland:

• Larnaca International Airport (LCA): direct flights to Zurich, Geneva and Basel.
• Paphos International Airport (PFO): no direct connections to Switzerland.
• Ercan Airport (ECN, in northern Cyprus): no direct connections to Switzerland.

Flights are operated by various airlines, including Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS), Condor, Edelweiss Air and easyJet, providing convenient travel options from Switzerland.

00 41 (omit the zero from the Swiss area code)

• Single emergency number: 112
• Fire brigade: 199
• Police: 155
• Forest fires: 177
• Fire brigade: 199

Prodromou / 2 Dimitrakopoulou Street
2nd floor
1090 Nicosia
Tel. +357 22 466800
Email: nicosia@eda.admin.ch

• Cyprus is divided into two parts: the Republic of Cyprus in the southern part of the island and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus in the northern part.
• The island’s de facto division and its particular legal situation mean that the Swiss Embassy in Nicosia has very limited ability to provide assistance or support to Swiss citizens in emergencies in the northern part of the island.
• In the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC)”, insulting or criticising its political leaders, as well as expressing opinions on political issues, may constitute a criminal offence.
• Photographing uniformed personnel and military installations is prohibited and may result in arrest. Pay attention to warning signs and, when in doubt, refrain from taking photographs.
• Carrying weapons and self-defence sprays is prohibited and may result in criminal penalties.
• Drug laws are very strict.
• Cyprus is located in an earthquake-prone region. Earthquakes or volcanic eruptions in the Mediterranean may trigger tsunamis capable of affecting all Mediterranean coastlines.
• There is a risk of forest fires during the summer.