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Limassol Cyprus

Visit Limassol Cyprus …

… second largest city on the island of Cyprus!

Limassol  is one of the most popular holiday resorts on the island.

The old town has many shops and restaurants and historical sites.  Along the 3km seafront (often referred to as the tourist area),  are hotels, apartments, restaurants, shops, bars and nightclubs.

Limassol Cyprus Old Town

limassol castle old town cafesThe No 30 bus runs along the sea-front from the Amathus Beach Hotel to the Old Port and new harbor. It operates between 7.00am – 7.00 pm.

playing tavli in limassol, cyprus The area around the old castle is full of cafes and restaurants.  This is where you can enjoy a drink and meal and even a game of tavli.

Shopping in Limassol Cyprus

shops in limassol The old town is definitely the heart of this popular resort and a great place to visit.

There are many traditional restaurants and a lovely shopping center which includes a pedestrianized cobbled street of.  St Andrews Street runs parallel to the seafront  and has traditional shops such as the Nut Cracker House. 

  • If you are looking for trendy shops then head for Anexartiseas Street where you’ll find popular stores such as Zara and an indoor shopping center (Greek Agora = market) and  along the seafront is Debenhams.
  • Makarios Avenue (Leoforos Arhiepiskopou Makariou) is full of chic and trendy designer fashion shops,  crystal and Lladro porcelain shops.  If you like your clothes made to measure there are many excellent tailors and shoemakers in Cyprus.

Local Municipal Market

Limassol Municipal MarketThe daily municipal market is located behind the Central Bus Station on Georgiou Gennadiou street.

You can buy fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, honey and flowers and there are lots of spices to stock up with when you are there.

Outside are kiosks selling fresh bread and flowers.

The market closes around 2ish.


Limassol Bus Station

Limassol Bus Station To visit some of the surrounding places of interest take a bus from the Central Bus Station on Georgiou Gennadiou in the Old Town.

If you prefer the freedom of having a car  it’s a good idea to hire a car online before you arrive.


Limassol Attractions

kolossicastle Kolossi Castle (west of the city – 20 min drive) was once the headquarters of the Crusaders. This is where the famous Commandaria wine originates.

In 1191, Richard the Lionheart stopped of at the island on his way to the Crusades. He married Queen Berengaria of Navarre at Limassol Medieval Castle and crowned her Queen of England.

Other popular local attractions include the temple of Apollo, Ancient Kourion, Amathus and the September wine festival.

More Limassol Attractions >>


Limassol Beaches

limassol beach near londa hotelThe local Limassol beaches are a mixture of sand and pebbles.

Many of the beaches are along the tourist stretch which is about 5 kilometers from Limassol old town.

Read More  >>


Limassol Wine Festival

limassol wine festivalThe internationally acclaimed Limassol Wine Festival is celebrated for a week at the end of August and first week of September.

It’s held in the Municipal Gardens overlooking the seafront in the gardens.  This is one of the best festivals in Cyprus and people come from miles around to enjoy the wine of the Gods.

Read More  >>


Limassol Beer Festival

The annual July Beer Festival is held at Molos Waterfront.  Entrance is free and visitors can enjoy the local KEO beer and imported Heineken, Becks, Amstel, Stella Artois, Budweiser and Hoegaarden.

There is live music and lots of great entertainment.


Limassol Carnival

Limassol_carnival_2015The carnival takes place 50 days before Easter in Cyprus and the first week is the last week you can eat meat (called Kreatini) and the second week is cheese week (called Tyrini).

This is one of the largest and most popular carnivals on the island during February.

Read More  >>

Where to Stay in Limassol Cyprus?


3 star Limassol Hotels


4 Star Limassol Hotels


5 Star Limassol Hotels


Limassol Apartments / Limassol Villas

Easter in Cyprus

Greek Easter in Cyprus  (Páscha)

Καλό Πάσχα!
Happy Easter

 Sunday  16 April 2023

Easter in Cyprus (Páscha – pronounced PA-ska in Greek), is the biggest celebration of the year and one of the best times to visit Cyprus.

In Greece and Cyprus, they go by the Julian calendar, and that’s why the Orthodox Easter is often later than in other Christian religions as it is this year.

Fasting before Easter in Cyprus is called ‘Apokria‘  – it begins on Green Monday (Kathara Deftera  – Clean Monday) and lasts for 40 days. It’s also a public holiday – people traditionally go on picnics, fly kites and spend time with their families.

During Lent (Saracosti) the forty-day period until Palm Sunday, no meat or dairy foods are to be eaten. Only olives, taramasalata, halva, vegetables, legumes and seafood. You can eat fish only on 25 March (Annunciation of the Virgin Mary) and Palm Sunday. Fasting continues for another week until Easter Sunday, making it 49 days.

Celebrating Easter in Cyprus

flaoune Holy Thursday – This is the day when flaounes and colored eggs are to be cooked. They dye eggs red, blue yellow and green and used to decorate Easter bread and pastries. The red eggs represent victory in life over death and the blood of Christ.

You can find flaounes and tsoureki in the local bakers and supermarkets or make them at home with the following recipes.

tsourekieasterbread

Flaounes Recipe  

Tsoureki Recipe


Holy Friday (Megali Paraskevi)

The Perifora Epitafios is a candlelit procession, with the funeral bier (coffin) covered with the Epitafio, a richly embroidered cloth. The streets are full of people joining in the procession to the church.

Easter Saturday in Cyprus

We hold the Resurrection mass at midnight. It’s a time for celebrating the Anastasis (resurrection) of Christ. People light candles and in a candlelit procession, walk through the streets saying, “Christos Anesti ” – Christ has risen, the reply is “Alithos Anesti ” – truly, he is risen.

After the celebrations and fireworks, everyone goes home to enjoy a special meal.

Breaking the Fast

red eggs for easter

The fast is traditionally broken when eating magiritsa, an Easter soup, often eaten with red hard-boiled eggs, flaounes and Greek tsoureki.

On Sunday afternoon, families and friends cook roast lamb in ovens or over barbecues. Chocolate Easter eggs are also enjoyed.

galombramacakerecipe Galombrama is great with coffee or tea, any time of the day.

The name of this cake translates to ‘Good Thing’ and as the name suggests, it is very good and easy to make   ~ Galombrama Recipe 

Happy Easter  (ΚΑΛΟ ΠΑΣΧΑ)


Where To Stay for Easter in Cyprus?

bookingBooking.com have many lovely hotels, apartments and  villas for your Easter in Cyprus.

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Apartments in Cyprus

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Hotels in Cyprus

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Cyprus Culture

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Cyprus Food

Cyprus Wedding

Your Cyprus Wedding on the Island of Aphrodite!

Cyprus Wedding

The island of  Aphrodite is  one of the most romantic destinations in the world, with year round sunshine and sun drenched beaches.  The people are hospitable and friendly,  so arranging a wedding in Cyprus is easy.

Planning Your Cyprus Wedding

ammos beach ayia napa

For a stress free wedding, why not hire a wedding planner ?   Cyprus Wedding packages  can include the flowers, cake, reception and even your wedding dress.   The wedding ceremony  can take place in various locations,  and as many  hotels have a private chapel overlooking the beach,  these are very popular.  You can also get married on the beach,  as in the photo above  ~ Ammos Beach Hotel in  Ayia Napa.

Planning Your Cyprus Wedding with Olympic Weddings…

cyprus weddingOlympic Weddings have a lot of experience planning Cyprus weddings in stunning locations and  can help choose the right wedding package for you.  Reception venues range from traditional tavernas,  hotels, sophisticated yachts or  lavish fine dining.

nissi beach resort olympic holidays Nissi Beach Resort  in Ayia Napa is well known for its stunning  sandy beaches and sparkling blue sea. The hoteloffers an exotic setting for  weddings from a small intimate affair to a grand celebration.   The resort has earned a reputation as a true paradise location, with palm trees and  waves gently crashing against the shore, outdoor wedding ceremonies are very popular.

Planning Your Cyprus Wedding in Ayia Napa

Olympic Lagoon Resort 3The Olympic Lagoon Resort is ideally situated on the outskirts of Ayia Napa, just over the road from a beautiful sandy beach.

The popular Olympian Gardens venue, is in a quiet area of the hotel grounds, in the midst of lush greenery, in a custom-designed outdoor wedding venue, with romantic waterfalls next to a small, charming cave where the bride and groom exchange their vows.

Read More ~ Olympic Lagoon Resort >>

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Planning Your Cyprus Wedding on Paphos Beach

paphos lighthouse beachFor those who desire nothing more than to get married on the beach, the Paphos Lighthouse Beach is one of the only beach wedding venues in Paphos, located on the otherside of the harbor with stunning photo opportunities.

Read More ~ Paphos Beach Lighthouse   >>

*****

Planning Your Cyprus Wedding in Paphos

Alexander the Great wedding venueBuilt on an archaeological site, the Alexander the Great Hotel offers history and spectacular views of the harbor.  Elegance and style are combined effortlessly to give you the impressive Alexander & Roxanna Wedding Venue.

The elevated location of the Wedding Garden includes a scenic, private terrace for the actual wedding ceremony. A romantic bridge over a small man made lake, with a waterfall surrounded by tropical gardens, leads to a secluded terrace, perfect for hosting an intimate wedding celebration.

Read More ~ Alexander the Great Wedding

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Planning Your Cyprus Wedding in Pissouri

cyprus weddingThe Columbia Beach Resort overlooks the Mediterranean Sea in Pissouri and is close to the beach where the Aphrodite Greek Goddess of Love,  is said to have emerged from the sea.

Weddings can take place on the lawn with views of the sea or outside the quaint chapel in the hotel grounds. Afterwards there are a number of beautiful venues to choose for your wedding reception.

Read More ~ Columbia Beach Resort >>

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Planning Your Cyprus Wedding in Larnaca

Palm Beach Hotel & Bungalows 5The Palm Beach Hotel & Bungalows is situated on the serene Mediterranean coastline laced gently with palm trees and spiced with an abundance of color, the ideal location for your wedding in Cyprus.

Choose from a civil wedding ceremony in front of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, or an Anglican wedding ceremony in the small, intimate hotel chapel, surrounded by exotic gardens.

Palm Beach Hotel & Chapel

*****

Note: You can also enjoy the luxury of a villa with private swimming pool, many of the large villas are next to each so a perfect base for your wedding in the sun.

Cyprus Wedding3 / 4 bedroom villas (Sleeps  6 – 8)

Thalassines Beach Villas

Self-contained villas just a few yards from a secluded beach in Ayia Napa.  Each villa has its own private pool and roof terrace with views of the Mediterranean. Spacious seating areas, satellite TV, kitchens, cutlery, a refrigerator,  tea/coffee maker and free Wi-Fi

Villas in Ayia Napa >>

Apollo Heights at Aphrodite HillsAphrodite Hills leisure resort has an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts and soothing spa.  The  Village Square provides a plethora of shops, restaurants and even a wedding chapel.

Read More >>

For more ideas check out Cyprus Holiday Villas >>

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Holiday Villas

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Honeymoon in Cyprus

Cyprus Wedding Hotels

Cyprus WeddingThe Mediterranean Beach Hotel offers panoramic views of the sea and caters for weddings and conferences . With 6 restaurants, live entertainment, an outdoor pool (all year), a garden, terrace and sun terrace.

Rooms come with flat-screen LCD TVs and satellite channels, balconies or terraces with views of the hills, the sea, the pool or the gardens.

*****

Royal Apollonia LimassolOn the beachfront of Limassol Town is the luxury Royal Apollonia Hotel. With views of the Troodos Mountains, or the Mediterranean Sea, rooms come with satellite TV, coffee maker and minibar.

Dining options include the Japanese a la carte restaurant, the Greek Dionyssos restaurant and Cos’altro Italian restaurant. The beachfront Thalassaki restaurant serves lunch.

More Romantic Cyprus Hotels >>

Cheap Cyprus Holidays

Looking for Cheap Cyprus Holidays?

Shop around and you will find some great deals, for example there are  cheap flights with budget airlines such as Ryan Air and Easy Jet or try one of the package deals with Olympic Holidays or Jet2holidays.

Cheap Cyprus Holidays

lordoshotelapartmentsRenting an apartment can be the best option,  especially if there are a lot of you.  The Lordos Hotel Apartments are located between the town center and tourist area (next to Debenhams Olympia).  Great if you want to do some shopping and just a few minutes walk to the beach.

Restaurants and nightlife are on your doorstep and a supermarket is next to the hotel –  Fee WiFi and free private parking, air conditioning and fully equipped kitchenette.

Krasas BeachKrasas Beach Apartments in Larnaca, are opposite Finikoudes Beach and come with balconies overlooking the sea.

Features include open-plan kitchen with seating and dining area. Cooking equipment and washing machine, flat-screen satellite TV and bathroom with bath tub or shower and hairdryer.

Find out more ~  Larnaca Apartments >>

Most  apartments come with swimming pools, restaurants and cafes and many have shops on the complex.   Many apartments are close to the beach and some are  inland and often much cheaper than those in the top tourist resorts  ~ See Cyprus Villages.

Cheap Cyprus Holiday

Polis Apartments

Polis is in the district of Paphos and ideal if you want a relaxing holiday away from the crowds.

Astrofegia ApartmentsThe Astrofegia Apartments  are located in Agia Marina Chrysochous just 50 meters from the sandy beach.  They come with free Wi-Fi and various free recreational activities, such as canoe kayak.

Studios and apartments are air-conditioned and come with a balcony overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the garden or the mountain.

Polis Hotels >>
Cyprus Hotels >>


Cheap Cyprus Holiday

2 & 3 Star Hotels

There many excellent 2 and 3 star hotels in the center of Larnaca, close to the famous Finikoudes promenade and beach,  shops and restaurants.

saint elena boutique hotelThe Saint Elena Boutique Hotel is a new hotel located in Larnaca Town with an outdoor and indoor pool and bar.  There is air-conditioned accommodation with free WiFi access, free private parking, sauna, spa and wellness center.

Rooms are equipped with flat-screen, satellite TV, minibar and private bathroom with a hairdryer and free toiletries. Some come with a spa bath or classical furnishings.

Read More  ~ Larnaca Hotels  >>

Lowcostholidays 3 star Hotels in Cyprus  >>


Cheap Cyprus Holidays

Popular Cyprus Resorts

There are many seaside resorts to choose from and the lively resorts of Limassol and Ayia Napa are  popular choices.  For a more laid back holiday many people choose the resort of Larnaca.

Akamas-coastline Paphos has always been a popular resort and the towns of Polis and Latchi are also very popular.

You will find many lovely apartments and hotels which are not too expensive. They are close to the lovely Akamas Peninsula, once the playground of the beautiuful Greek goddess Aphrodite.

The resorts and towns of Cyprus offer a lot of affordable accommodation. Renting an apartment is a good way to live like a local.

Fruit and vegetables are very cheap, especially if bought from local markets so get to know where they are.  Also the local supermarkets and bakery.


Cheap Cyprus Holidays 

Are villas cheap in Cyprus ?

Renting a villa can often work out cheaper than staying in a hotel or apartment, especially if there are a lot of you.

city centre garden house larnakaCity Centre Garden House is surrounded by a garden and located in the center of the Larnaca with free parking.

Features include free WiFi, a flat-screen TV with CD/DVD player and air conditioning. There is a well-equipped kitchen, and an open-plan seating and dining area ~  Villas in Larnaca >>

Find out more ~ Cyprus Holiday Villas


 Cyprus Package Holidays

Book Your Holiday in Cyprus…

booking…and follow in the footsteps of Aphrodite and visit the village of Kouklia (Palaipafos – Old Pafos) where the Sanctuary of Aphrodite once stood. This area of Paphos was the playground of the lovely goddess and is known as Aphrodite territory.

Cyprus is a year round destination and an ideal location for holidaysweddingshoneymoons and romantic holidays in the sun.

Read More >>

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Cyprus Holidays

BEST Cyprus Holidays!

Cyprus Holidays on the island of the Goddess Aphrodite…

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Your Cyprus Holidays

Year-round sunshine, sandy beaches, fantastic food, drinks, lots of attractions and things to do – sounds too good to be true doesn’t it? Cyprus is the ideal location for holidays in the sun for all the family.



Booking.com

The kids will love  the waterparks  –  you can go snorkelling and scuba diving and explore the wreck of the Zenobi off the coast of Larnaca. If you’re  a beginner,  you can learn from the experts or just enjoy the lovely beaches of the island.

troodosmountainsWith Cyprus holidays you are assured of a lovely climate, excellent hotels, good food and drinks.

You can go hiking, swimming, cycling,  and you can even  ski on the Troodos Mountains, then swim in the sea, on the same day during early spring.


Romantic Cyprus Holidays

asimina suites hotel The island of Aphrodite Greek Goddess of love and beauty is the perfect romantic getaway in the sun.

Balmy nights scented with jasmine and wild flowers, make this a very popular holiday destination for honeymoons and weddings.

Read More  >>


Cyprus Holidays  – Traditional Villages

redbluedoorThere are many lovely village houses inland or near the coast. They are a combination of traditional and modern and many include swimming pools.

The RedBlueDoor in the village of Lefkara offers fully equipped stone houses featuring stylish furnishings, well equipped kitchen and dining area, spacious living room with comfortable sofas and satellite TV.

Read More ~ Cyprus Villages


Cyprus Holidays for Golf

cyprusaphroditehills

Cyprus is the ideal location for golf – Aphrodite Hills Golf Club is an 18 hole integrated golf resort situated to the east of Paphos.  The setting is stunning, overlooking the legendary birth-place of Aphrodite.

Apollo Heights at Aphrodite Hills Apollo Heights is a complex of fully equipped villas and apartments where guests can enjoy the multi-level, infinity swimming pool, 18-hole golf course, tennis court, spa centre and a wide choice of bars and restaurants.

Read More >>


Cyprus Holidays – Spa Breaks in Cyprus

cyprus aphrodite hill spaThere are a variety of spas where you can enjoy year-round warmth, sparkling blue sea and the sun-drenched beaches of Cyprus.   With the exception of the Aphrodite Hills Resort, many of  the spas are located in luxurious hotels  so you don’t have far to go  to relax.

Read More >>


Cyprus Holidays – Mountain Walking

troodos mountainsThis island has some of the most lovely mountain walks where you can walk in the footsteps of the lovely goddess who is patron of the island.

Read More  >>

Cyprus Resorts
Accommodation in Cyprus

Book Your Romantic Holiday in Cyprus…

booking…and follow in the footsteps of Aphrodite and visit the village of Kouklia (Palaipafos – Old Pafos) where the Sanctuary of Aphrodite once stood. This area of Paphos was the playground of the lovely goddess and is known as Aphrodite territory.

Cyprus is a year round destination and an ideal location for holidaysweddingshoneymoons and romantic holidays in the sun.

Read More >>

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Cyprus Villas 

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About

I’ve lived and worked in many Mediterranean countries with amazing year-round climates which I love and always come back to.

The wonders of Greek Mythology are present in Cyprus  – Athens has the goddess Athena, goddess of wisdom and war and patroness of the city. Cyprus has Aphrodite, the goddess of love.

We only live once, so why not enjoy it? If we can’t live in a beautiful country, then the next best thing is to enjoy one of these magical places for a couple of weeks each year. The weather in Greece and Cyprus is glorious and something well known is the Mediterranean diet, so if you want to stay young and healthy, this is the place to live.

With such an abundance of fruit and veggies at affordable prices, a wonderful climate, is it any wonder so many people are now desperate to find a place here? Many people enjoy traveling and experiencing new countries and cultures, others enjoy surfing the web from the comfort of their home. If you come to Cyprus, I hope you have a great time!

 

Cyprus Key Facts – Travel, Language, Culture

Essential Cyprus Key Facts…

Cyprus Key Facts –  as with all countries, it’s good to know the essential information about Cyprus before you arrive.

Due to it’s strategic position in the Mediterranean, this lovely little island  has witnessed many troubles and invasions over the years.

The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia which is the last divided city in Europe and it has remained like this since the Turkish invasion of 1974.

Cyprus Key FactsThe northern part of the island – Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) – is not recognized by the UK, EU or UN, or by any other country except Turkey.

  • From the map below you can see the line that divides the two parts stretching from Morphou then through Nicosia and onto Famagusta.
  • Patrolled by United Nations troops and at the time of writing (March 2013) there are 5 active checkpoints which can be used for crossing the green line.


View Larger Map

Cyprus Key Facts – The Language of Cyprus

Before the invasion of 1974 the people of the island lived side by side and the main languages spoken were Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot. Similar to Greek but with a heavier accent – rather similar to the difference between English and Scottish.

  • Today the main language spoken in southern Cyprus is Greek Cypriot, with some Turkish and English which used to be a second language for many people.
  • French was also taught in schools so most people were highly skilled in languages.
  • There are many Russian and Polish people living here now so street names are also in Russian as well as English.
  • For those visiting the island whose first language is English, I highly recommend the Michel Thomas method of learning Greek .
  • Even if you speak just a little Greek it will be greatly appreciated by the locals.
  • Travel inland and you may need to take a phrase book if your Greek isn’t that good.

Cyprus Key Facts – Size and Location of Cyprus

Cyprus is at the crossroads of Africa, Asia and Europe and has an exciting mix of east and west which is reflected in the cultural traditions and lifestyle.

  • It is the third largest Mediterranean Island after Sardinia and Sicily.
  • It covers an area of 9,250 sq km (3,572 sq miles) and the coastline stretches for approximately 400 miles.

Cyprus Key Facts – Cyprus Currency

  • Since January 2008 the Euro replaced the Cyprus pound and is the official currency.
  • In the northern part of the island the currency is the Turkish Lira.

Read More >>


Cyprus Key Facts – Politics

Just like other western democracies where human rights and political freedom are pivotal,  Cyprus has a presidential system of government.

  • The President is the head of State and elected for a five year term.
  • The legal system is based on English law and Cyprus is a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth and the Council of Europe.

Cyprus Key Facts – Timezone

  • Cyprus Time is GMT +2 hours
  • When you arrive here at 8.00pm the UK time is 10.00pm +2 hours
  • Clocks go back and forward just as they do in the UK.

Cyprus Key Facts – Telephones & Sim Cards

Phones and Sim Cards

With Cyprus public pay-phones you can use coins and cards.

The dialing code from the UK to Cyprus  is + 357

Read More  >>

 


Cyprus Key Facts – Electricity

  • Electricity supply is 230 volts, a.c. 50 Hz.
  • Sockets are usually 13 amp, square pin in most buildings. Most hotels provide adaptors upon request.
  • Adaptors can be purchased from supermarkets, grocery shops and electrical shops.

Cyprus Key Facts  – Cyprus Culture

Cypriots used to enjoy one of the highest standards of living in the EU, and unemployment was low.  However, since the economic crisis things are not so good and unemployment is now very high and Eurozone finance ministers are set for fresh talks on a “bailout” for Cyprus – (see Cyprus Currency) and  Cyprus Culture.


Legal System in Cyprus

The legal system is based on the British legal system which Cyprus inherited from the UK as a result of British Colonial rule.

Public Holidays

All public services, private businesses, banks and shops are closed on public holidays. However, in the coastal resorts many shops and some services remain open. Banks are closed on Easter Tuesday but not on Christmas Eve.

  • January 1st – New Year’s Day
  • January 6th – Epiphany Day
  • March 25th – Greek National Day
  • April 1st – National Anniversary Day
  • Easter in CyprusGreen Monday (50 Days before Greek Orthodox Easter) Good Friday (Greek Orthodox Church) Easter Monday (Greek Orthodox Church) Pentecost – Kataklysmos (Festival of the Flood)
  • May 1st – Labour Day
  • August 15th – Assumption of the Virgin Mary
  • October 1st – Cyprus Independence Day
  • October 28th – Greek National Anniversary Day
  • Christmas in Cyprus
  • December 24th – Christmas Eve
  • December 25th – Christmas Day
  • December 26th – Boxing Day

Weather in Cyprus
Cyprus Travel
Cyprus Property

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Cyprus Villas

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Getting Here

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Best Holidays

Accommodation in Cyprus / Cyprus Airport Transfers

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Apartments in Cyprus

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Romantic Cyprus

Romantic Cyprus ~ Island of Aphrodite

aphroditeRomantic Cyprus is the perfect location for a holiday, honeymoon or wedding in the sun.

Sparkling blue sea, sun-drenched beaches and at night you can wine and dine under the moonlit sky, with the scent of jasmine  in the night air.

There are lovely hotels and villas, delicious food and drinks and  wonderful beaches.  You can have fun scuba diving, snorkeling and lazing in the sun.

Romantic Cyprus Walks

Romantic Cyprus - Aphrodites Rock, Petra Tou Romiou
Aphrodites Rock, Petra Tou Romiou

Follow in the footsteps of  Aphrodite and discover the walks she once enjoyed with her lover, Adonis.

The nearby village of Kouklia (Palaipafos – Old Pafos) is where the Sanctuary of Aphrodite once stood.

This area of Paphos (once the capaital of Cyprus) is full of the myths and legends of the beautiful goddess and known as Aphrodite territory.

Nearby is Petra Tou Romiou, the birthplace of the lovely goddess. This is a popular place to visit and many decide it’s an excellent place for tying the knot and have their wedding on the beach.

Apollo Heights at Aphrodite HillsLocated in the Kouklia area, Apollo Heights is a complex of fully equipped villas and apartments. They open onto furnished verandas and patios with views over the Mediterranean Sea, pool or a golf course.

Features include fitted kitchen, a living room with satellite LCD TV. Bathrobes, slippers and free toiletries. Free Wi-Fi and on-site parking.

Guests can also enjoy the multi-level, infinity swimming pool, 18-hole golf course, tennis court, spa centre and a wide choice of bars and restaurants.

Aphrodite Hills Resort >>


Romantic Cyprus

Akamas Peninsula

Akamas-coastlineDuring the Spring the Akamas Peninsula is a blanket of flowers and many people enjoy one of the Cyprus walking holidays.

You can relax and enjoy the peace and tranquility of this stunning location.

Walk in the footsteps of the lovely goddess on the Aphrodite and Adonis trails in one of the most stunning locations on the island.


Romantic Cyprus

Platres Village (Troodos Mountains)

Cyprus is the island of love and the perfect place to enjoy mountain walks. The village of Platres is a popular place to come for honeymoons.  During the summer there are three open-air swimming pools where you can unwind, relax and enjoy the lovely scenery.

forestparkhotelplatresYou can even ski during the month of March on the Troodos Mountains.  The  Forest Park Hotel is in the heart of the beautiful mountain resort of Platres.

Features include 3 restaurants, 2 bars, library, TV, Tennis Court, table tennis, games room, sauna, Jacuzzi.  A breakfast terrace and gardens plus indoor and outdoor heated swimming pools.

Platres Village   >>

There are many more lovely Cyprus villages where you can stay and enjoy the real Cyprus.


Romantic  Cyprus Hotels

Cyprus is well know for it’s lovely hotels and there are many Cyprus resorts to choose from.

napa mermaid hotel ayia napa cyprusThe newly renovated Napa Mermaid Suites are within easy reach of the nightlife of Ayia Napa and the hotel is perfect for holidays, weddings and honeymoons.

The hotel is set  in a peaceful location with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

More Romantic Cyprus Hotels    >>


Romantic Cyprus Villas

Thalassines Beach Villas

3 / 4 bedroom villas (Sleeps  6 – 8)

This family-run property offers self-contained villas a few yards away from a secluded beach in Ayia Napa.

Each villa has its own private pool and roof terrace with views of the Mediterranean.

The villas come with spacious seating areas and satellite TV, cutlery, a refrigerator and a tea/coffee maker can be found in the kitchens.

Rates & Reviews : Thalassines Beach Villas

More Cyprus Villas  >>

Cyprus Wedding
Honeymoon in Cyprus

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Cheap Flights

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Apartments in Cyprus

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Luxury Cyprus Hotels

Cyprus Festivals

Cyprus Festivals & Events

Cyprus Festivals on the island of love are full of wine, music, greek drama and fun and something the entire family will enjoy.

They are an integral part of the culture and tradition of Cyprus and an important part ofevery day life and often associated with religion.

  • Carnival
  • Kataklysmos (Festival of the Flood)
  • ‘Anthestiria’ (the Spring Flower festival)
  • ‘Panigiri’ (saint’s name day)

Greek Orthodox Easter and Christmas are important religious festivals celebrated by in all towns. The major festival at Christmas is held in Nicosia in Eleftheria (Freedom) Square.

The following are some of the main festivals celebrated throughout the year. There are more events and concerts which are posted under Cyprus Events 2014 which is a calendar of monthly events.

January

Epiphany

The children of this sun-drenched island love this religious festival as part of the celebrations is diving into the cold sea and retrieving the cross the Priests throw in to bless the sea.


February/ March

Cyprus Festivals ~ Limassol Carnival

limassol_carnival_2016Carnival time is celebrated throughout the island with parades and floats, much fun and joviality.

Lemesos (Limassol) Carnival is the largest and most colorful of all carnivals in Cyprus and lasts for an amazing eleven days.

Read More  >>


March / April / May

Cyprus Festivals ~ Greek Easter

springflowersOf all Cyprus festivals, Greek Orthodox Easter is the most important festival in the Greek calendar and a wonderful time to visit Cyprus and it falls either in March, April or May.

The religious celebrations begin on Good Friday with Christs death and burial. On Saturday at midnight the mass celebrates Christ’s resurrection.

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May

Cyprus Festivals ~ Anthestiria (Flower Festival)

anthestiriaDuring  the month of May the  island is ablaze with flowers.  Flower Festivals are held all over the island with parades and flower filled floats which focus on Ancient Greece.  Anthestiria comes from the Greek word anthos that means “flower”.

The festival  has it’s roots in the ancient festival held in Athens in honor of Dionysus, the god of wine and fertility.  Anthestiria was also the carnivals of souls, plants and flowers to celebrate the re-birth of man and nature.


June

Cyprus Festivals ~ Shakespeare at the Ancient Curium Amphitheatre

The hot summer month of June is when the works of Shakespeare are performed for three days at the open-air ancient amphitheatre of Courion.

Tthe next production for 2015 is The Merry Wives of Windsor

FRIDAY 26TH, SATURDAY 27TH AND SUNDAY 28TH JUNE 2015

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July & August

Cyprus Festivals ~ Ancient Greek Drama Festival

If you like Greek tragedies and drama then don’t miss these spectacular performances which are held throughout the months of July and August at Kourion Ancient Theater in Limassol, Ancient Odeon in Paphos and Makarios III Amphitheater in Nicosia.

The festival is organized by the Cyprus Tourism Organization and the Cyprus Theater Organization.


Koumandaria Festival

The month of July also celebrate the Cypriot wine Koumandaria which was first produced during the time of  the Crusades.

The villages of the Kourris Valley are the main wine producing regions of Cyprus  and celebrations are held in  Alassa, Agios Georgios, Doros, Laneia, Monagri and Silikou.


SETEMBER ~ Cyprus Festivals 

Limassol Wine Festival

Cyprus Festivals - Limassol Wine FestivalThis amazing event attracts thousands of people from all over the world.

Very romantic location in Limassol Municipal gardens,  not far from the seafront.

The wine of the gods is great for all to enjoy.

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Cyprus Festivals 

Pafos Aphrodite Festival

A highlight of the year is the Pafos Aphrodite Festival of international opera.

Held every year in September under the stars at The Medieval Pafos Castle in Pafos Harbor.  For each performance there are 2,500 seats

Cinderella (17th Pafos Aphrodite Festival)

From: Friday, September 4th, 2015
Until: Sunday, September 6th, 2015
Time: Starts at 20:00
Where: Medieval Paphos Castle

Cost:  €25 / €40 / €50 / €70

www.pafc.com.cy


Cyprus International Film Festival / CYIFF // Διεθνές Κινηματογραφικό Φεστιβάλ Κύπρου

The Cyprus International Film Festival (CYIFF) is held in two venues in Pafos.

The Neapolis University and Technopolis 20 Cultural Center.

Openair festival screenings will be held in old Nicosia at CVAR/Severis Foundation with free entrance.  CΥIFF is Cyprus’ first international film festival to offer new and upcoming directors the opportunity to showcase their talent in front of a jury of internationally acclaimed cinema experts, directors and actors.

First feature films compete for the Golden Aphrodite award and first short films compete in the CYIFF Got Talent category.

Organisers: C.I.F. Cultural International Film Festivals & CINE@ART Cultural Company
Website: cyprusfilmfestival.org


Limassol Children’s Festival

The Limassol International Children’s Festival is held in Limassol Municipal Gardens. There is face painting, trampolines, clowns, songs, dances concerts, exhibitions, art works, table games and a puppet show.

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Cyprus Kypria Festival

This cultural event has grown over the years and is an important festival in Cyprus.

The event is organized by the Cultural Services of the Ministry of Education and Culture and in 2013 starts on 3 September until mid October.

Kypria Program of Events in Greek and English
 


 October Festivals

 Cyprus Festivals ~ Afamia Grape Festival

The Square, Koilani Village – About 30km north of Limassol Town

Celebration to mark the end of the grape harvest. Enjoy wine tasting and the traditional sweet palouze – grape blancmange which is made from grape juice and cornflour. There will be open-air markets and tradtional folk dancing.

 OCHI DAY – 28 October  (Public Holiday)

Greek National Day is celebrated every year as it marks the day when Greeks said NO (ochi) to Mussolini on October 28, 1940. The Greek Prime Minister Ioannis Metaxas’ rejected the ultimatum made by Mussolini and since 1942 the day has been celebrated as a public holiday with parades. Many places will be closed.


Cyprus Festivals ~ December

Christmas in Cyprus

christmasstarThis is one of the most celebrated of Cyprus festivals and a joyous time of the year and a great time to visit the island.

The weather in Cyprus is normally very warm and the traditional trimmings include Christmas pud.

All the cities and villages have traditional Christmas trees in squares or on promenades by the beach and the shops are ablaze with lights and seasonal food and gifts

Read More ~ Christmas in Cyprus  >>


 Public Holidays

All public services, private businesses, banks and shops are closed on public holidays. However, in the coastal resorts many shops and some services remain open. Banks are closed on Easter Tuesday but not on Christmas Eve.

  • January 1st – New Year’s Day
  • January 6th – Epiphany Day
  • March 25th – Greek National Day
  • April 1st – National Anniversary Day
  • Easter in Cyprus – Green Monday (Clean Monday) – 50 Days before Greek Orthodox Easter / Good Friday (Greek Orthodox Church) Easter Monday (Greek Orthodox Church) Pentecost – Kataklysmos (Festival of the Flood)
  • May 1st – Labour Day
  • August 15th – Assumption of the Virgin Mary
  • October 1st – Cyprus Independence Day
  • October 28th – Greek National Anniversary Day
  • December 24th – Christmas Eve
  • December 25th – Christmas Day
  • December 26th – Boxing Day

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Christmas in Cyprus

Christmas in Cyprus in the Sun!

Enjoy Christmas in Cyprus …

christmas in cyprusForget about grey skies, rain and snow and enjoy a traditional Christmas, with all the trimmings,  in warm and sunny Cyprus.

There are many lovely hotels to choose from close to the beach or inland where you can celebrate Christmas in style. During the day you can relax and chill out on one of the many lovely beaches or hire a car and explore the island.   At night you can visit  one of the many bazooki clubs or visit one of the concerts which feature top Greek and Cypriot singers.

pomegranates for christmasOver the Christmas period pomegranates are eaten and used for decoration.  Pomegranates symbolize  joyous times, good fortune, fertility and prosperity.

If you want to escape the cold and enjoy the sun, book your flight and hotel as early as possible and you can enjoy a magical Christmas in Cyprus.

Eating Out for Christmas in Cyprus ?

Some restaurants do remain open but you have to book a table well in advance.  This also applies to many of the large hotels which offer traditional Christmas Day Dinner and New Year’s Eve meals and entertainment.

four-seasons-limassolThe Four Seasons Hotel in Limassol offer a gala  menu for Xmas Eve and New Year’s Eve and features a variety of restaurants and bars, free WiFi and free private parking on site.

londahotelThe Londa Hotel in Limassol also offer a gala menu for Christmas and the New Year and features the Caprice restaurant on the terrace overlooking the sea.  Free WiFi and free private parking on site.

Christmas in Cyprus

 Greek Cypriot Christmas Traditions

Christmas is celebrated as a religious holiday and on Christmas Eve everyone goes to church.  Many of the children go from house to house singing seasonal carols (kalanda in Greek).  Cypriot families celebrate the 12 days of Christmas which end with the feast of Epiphany on 6 January.

Goblin-like spirits known as kallikantzeri make a lot of mischief during the twelve days of Christmas.  Most people protect themselves from these spirits by wrapping a sprig of basil around a cross and then sprinkling it with holy water.  The water is then sprinkled in each room throughout the 12 days of Christmas.


Christmas in Cyprus

Greek Cypriot Christmas Food 

After the long 40 days of fasting, Greek Cypriots celebrate the birth of Christ in style. Many of the food for Christmas in Cyprus has a religious significan.  Christopsomo bread (Christ Bread) are  traditionally eaten on Christmas Eve all over Greece and Cyprus. Similar to brioche,  it contains nuts and raisins and candied peel.

Main meals such as stuffed turkey (Γαλοπούλα γεμιστή), chicken, pork and roast lamb are traditionally eaten on Christmas day.  Kotopoulo me Bizeli (chicken with peas) and pork with peas is another traditional dish at this time of year.


Traditional Greek Christmas Cakes & Desserts

kourabiedes greek shortbreadEnjoyed throughout the festive season with favorites such as kourabiedes (Κουραμπιέδες) – small almond cakes coated in icing sugar one of the most popular.

Amongst our favorites are Melomakarona (Μελομακάρονα) or (Finikia – Φοινίκια).

greek honey cakes - melomakaronaThese small cinnamon and orange flavored cookies are drenched in a honey syrup with walnuts.

These cakes are all easy to make or you can buy them in bakeries and supermarkets.


Greek Cypriot New Year in Cyprus

Vasilopita - greek new year cakeChildren receive their presents on New Year’s Day as this is the day of Ayios Vasilis (St Basil) the Greek Santa Claus.

When all the children have gone to sleep the Vasilopita (cake with a coin inside) and a glass of wine are placed by the Christmas Tree.

Ayios Vasilis (St Basil) drinks the wine and blesses the cake and places presents around the tree. In the morning the cake is cut and the one who finds the coin will be lucky all year.


6 January EPIPHANY

Happy New Year!

Where To Stay for Christmas in Cyprus?

Hotels in Cyprus  Cheap Flights

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You can find many excellent hotels, apartments and villas by using this link to Booking.com. 

Kαλά Χριστούγεννα

(Kala Christougena – Happy Christmas)

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