Cyprus is a popular tourist country in the Mediterranean. However, despite the attractiveness, when planning to visit this magnificent island in every respect, I would like to first find out what the weather is like in Cyprus now, how much the time difference is, whether the flight is long and much more.

mediterranean island weather

The climate and weather of Cyprus favor excellent and healthy recreation and life. The life expectancy of Cypriots is much higher than that of residents of many Western countries. Some dangerous infectious diseases have not even been heard of here. All this is due to the subtropical Mediterranean climate, characterized by dry, hot summers and mild, warm winters.

Even The water temperature in Cyprus is distributed fairly evenly over the months, without sharp jumps and drops. Therefore, many tourists, accustomed to frosty and harsh winters in their homeland, swim freely in the sea even in the coldest period on the island. Under the definition of Cypriot cold falls the period from December to April. At this time, the lowest air temperatures are +10ºС during the day and +5ºС at night, water temperatures are +15ºС, and the highest air temperatures at the same time are +21ºС during the day, +15ºС at night and +19ºС the water temperature can reach.

Throughout this period, the number of sunny and clear days is the same as cloudy, it often rains in winter, many resorts are closed, but tourists can be found everywhere. Some, having chosen sunny days, swim in the sea or in a warm pool and sunbathe, others prefer a rich excursion and entertainment program, and still others rush to the mountains, where it is a little colder and you can ski and get to know the island from a completely new side.

In summer, during the hottest months air temperature during the day can exceed +35ºС, but such temperatures are quite easy to tolerate, because the percentage of humidity is relatively low. The only advice that can be given to all tourists traveling to Cyprus in the summer is to stock up on sunscreen and protect yourself and your children from direct sunlight. The water temperature in summer is very pleasant and comfortable for swimming + 25ºС - + 28ºС. And the fact that the waters of Cyprus are the cleanest and receive the highest awards and prizes for safety and environmental friendliness from year to year is another reason for such a high popularity of Cypriot resorts, compared to other resorts in the Mediterranean.

The most ideal time to visit the island for the purpose of a resort holiday is still considered the end of spring - the beginning of summer and the velvet season. But everyone has their own views on the rest and their time limits. If there is an opportunity in winter to escape from the cold to a warm country that is spoiled by the sun and bathes in its rays all year round, then there is no reason not to do it.

When you find out what the weather is now in Cyprus, you can safely pack your suitcase. Take the necessary documents, money, phone, camera and other equipment, travel first aid kit and the most necessary things on the road and for life on the island. Are you going there in the winter and don't know if you should take bathing suits? Of course, take. Whenever you go to this sunny island, no matter what the water temperature is now in Cyprus, you can always sunbathe or swim at least in the pool.

How to get to Cyprus, time difference

The most popular and easiest way to get to Cyprus is by plane. Here tourists are accepted by two airports in Larnaca and Paphos. A direct flight from Moscow to Larnaca takes from 3.5 to 4.5 hours. It takes a little longer than flying to Turkey, but less than to Egypt. A flight with transfers will take significantly longer, but may be slightly cheaper.

From Larnaca airport to Limassol or Nicosia can be reached for 7-8 euros. From countries that have ferry links with Cyprus - Greece, Egypt, Italy - can be reached by water.

Cyprus has one time zone. The island lives according to Eastern European time - GMT + 2. At the end of March, on its last Sunday, in Cyprus, the clocks are moved forward by 1 hour. And at the end of October, they go back 1 hour. Thus, Moscow time difference with Cyprus is 2 hours in winter and 1 hour in summer. When it's 9 o'clock in Moscow, in Cyprus, in any of its cities - 8 o'clock in the summer and 7 o'clock in the winter.

Knowing the time zone of Cyprus and your city or country, you can easily calculate the time in Cyprus now, or at any other time. And so that the flight and the time difference do not play a cruel joke with you, prepare yourself in advance for this event. And upon arrival, after a short rest, try to get as many positive emotions and impressions from this fascinating and wonderful island as possible.

Cyprus is a paradise that gave people love, because it was here that the goddess Aphrodite was born. She came out of the sea foam, illuminated by bright sunlight, to the sonorous singing of birds. Everything here seems to be filled with her presence: blue skies, fragrant plants, quiet starry nights. Cool forests beckon in their shade, golden beaches fill with joy and health, delicious aroma spreads everywhere from citrus orchards.

Everyone who goes to the island is interested in the time difference with Cyprus. Indeed, for a comfortable rest, it is important that the body adapts easily. Going on a trip, it is better to ask in advance what time zone the resort is in.

Time difference vs Cyprus

Everyone knows that a day consists of 24 hours. In accordance with this, our entire planet is divided into the same number of time zones. The belt system also contains 24 meridians. The zero zone, from where the countdown begins, is called its longitude equal to zero. Having studied the map of time zones, we can conclude that Cyprus has +2 hours relative to Greenwich Mean Time.

So, for people traveling Moscow-Cyprus, the time difference will be only one hour. This has a very positive effect on the state of the body. Moscow tourists do not have to adapt at all. The flight in comfortable conditions takes only four hours, so on the first day, without wasting time recovering from the trip, you can plunge into this exotic world, and the hourly difference with Cyprus does not affect your well-being.

General description of the island

Cyprus is famous for its beautiful landscapes. Echoes of ancient Byzantine culture are everywhere observed here. Once upon a time, the island was part of Byzantium, Turkish, British and Arab conquerors dominated here at one time. The ancient castle of Colossus testifies to Byzantine rule. Left-hand traffic confirms that the island was once conquered by the British.

The vast territory of the island is occupied by mountains, they are covered with gorgeous coniferous forests. They lost many traces of ancient monasteries and ancient cities. All tourists strive to visit these unforgettable places.

The capital of Cyprus is called Nicosia. On its territory there are many interesting historical monuments. The largest resorts of the island are the cities of Paphos, Larnaca, Ayia Napa and, of course, Protaras. All of them are located in the south of the island. are distinguished by a high level of ecology, have EU awards. Tourists vacationing here can go on an excursion to Israel, Egypt or the island of Rhodes.

Climate

Tourists are interested, of course, not only in the time difference with Cyprus, but also in local natural conditions. A mild Mediterranean climate prevails here. The weather is always warm, in summer the unobtrusive sun warms the air up to 35 degrees, but there is no sultry heat, as the sea breeze pleasantly brings coolness. In winter, the temperature does not fall below 15 degrees.

Doctors believe that Cyprus is a place with a healthy climate. Those who suffer from thyroid diseases often recover without any medication after living on this island for a year and a half. The time difference with Cyprus for the inhabitants of Central Russia is absolutely not noticeable, it is also an important factor for restoring health, because the body does not need additional strength to adapt.

The sea and the sun

All beaches in Cyprus are municipal, most often you have to pay for beach equipment. The best beaches are in Ayia Napa. The picturesque Nissi Beach is also attractive with its snow-white sand, nearby there is a small island in the water. Popular in Cyprus Sandy Bay, Golden Sands. The beautiful pebble beach of Petra tou Romio stands apart. The longest beach in Cyprus is Lady's Mile, it is located west of Limassol and is very popular with the local population. Beach parties are very often held on Governor's Beach. Finikoudes and Mackenzie are popular in Larnaca. Often, hotels in Larnaca, Paphos and Limassol provide their guests with free beach equipment, but this is very rare in Ayia Napa and Protaras.

Where to stay

The time difference with Cyprus is easily determined. Knowing that Cyprus is located at +2 hours from the Greenwich meridian, being at any point, you can calculate the time of arrival on the island. It is worth noting that there are many hotels on the island that accept guests around the clock. The categories of service here are different, from two stars to five. Two-star hotels are of a quite decent standard, they are equipped with air conditioning, although this is paid extra. You can often meet Russian-speaking staff in hotels. Breakfasts in 2 * hotels are continental, 3-5 * - a buffet is organized. Some hotels offer half board: lunch or dinner to choose from. Modern hotels of category 2-4 * offer an all-inclusive system. The higher the rating of Ayia Napa hotels, the more likely it is that the establishment has its own beach.

What to see

Nicosia is considered one of the most ancient cities in the world. Here you can see many architectural masterpieces that are thousands of years old. The gates of Famagusta are located in the old part of the city. Musical evenings and exhibitions are now constantly held here. Nearby, to the north of the gate, is the Byzantine church of Chrysaliniotissa, which houses a stunning collection of Byzantine icons. It should be noted that all historical sights are located here not far from each other, you can get around them all on foot.

For residents of Russia, the time difference with Cyprus is completely imperceptible, so many here easily wake up early and meet the dawn. Such beauty can only be seen in these heavenly places. The rising bright red sun, the snowy peaks of the mountains and the gentle rustle of the waves, at some point it seems that the goddess Aphrodite will now appear from the sea foam. Thousands of lovers strive to come to Cyprus to get into this magical atmosphere and receive the blessing of the goddess of love.

Entertainment

In the resorts of Cyprus, no one is bored. There are many activities on the beach during the day: paragliding, pleasure boats, banana rides, speed skiing, canoes, glass bottom boat cruises. Aquariums, dolphinariums, water parks are located everywhere on the coast. In Paphos, golf courses surprise even professionals with their comfortable arrangement. At night, dozens of clubs and bars are open for lovers of noisy parties and discos. Those who prefer a quiet, romantic environment can also find many restaurants with a cozy atmosphere here.

If you are going on vacation or on a business trip to Cyprus, you should find out in advance if there is a time difference with him and how big it is. Although being late, according to the good Mediterranean tradition, is not something supernatural and strictly punishable, the absence of even a hint of punctuality can hurt when concluding a deal. And if you do not take into account the time on vacation, you can be left without breakfast, not have time for an excursion, to the store, and even to your plane.

Cypriots live according to Eastern European Time (Eastern European Time or EET for short). This means that the local time zone is UTC+2 in winter and UTC+3 in summer. The practice of daylight saving time has been entrenched since the time of British colonization. Now the British officially control only about 2% of the island, but unofficially still continue to influence the internal politics of the state.

Banks, museums and government services on the island are open only on weekdays

Time difference in Cyprus

Today, the time difference with Cyprus near the capital of Great Britain is 2 hours all year round, because the Greenwich meridian (zero) has coordinated universal time (UTC + 0 in winter and UTC + 1 in summer). The difference with Moscow is 1 hour in summer and 2 hours in winter, as the capital of Russia is invariably located in the UTC + 4 time zone. It is noteworthy that there is no time difference with Ukraine at all.

• The time difference between Moscow and Cyprus is 2 hours in winter and 1 hour in summer
• With Yekaterinburg - 4 hours in winter and 3 hours in summer
• With Novosibirsk - 5 hours in winter and 4 hours in summer
• From Krasnoyarsk - 6 hours in winter and 5 hours in summer
• From Irkutsk - 7 hours in winter and 6 hours in summer
• With Vladivostok - 9 hours in winter and 8 hours in summer
• With Kiev - absent all year round

Daylight Saving Time Changeover

Cypriots switch to daylight saving time on the last weekend of March, on Sunday, at 3 am (1 am GMT). The hands move forward one hour. For winter time, the inhabitants of the island move on the last weekend of October, on Sunday, at 4 am (also at 1 am GMT). The arrows are moved back an hour.

Daylight saving time for Cypriots occurs on the last weekend of March

It is noteworthy that the closest neighbors (and direct tourist competitors) - Greece and Turkey - are in the same time zone - UTC + 2 in winter and UTC + 3 in summer. This is quite convenient for those who are going to visit three countries at once or go on a short cruise in the Eastern Mediterranean.

Helpful information

The working hours of all institutions in Cyprus are strictly regulated. So, government agencies, banks, museums on the island work only on weekdays, regardless of the season. Moreover, if from September 1 to June 30 they are open from 7:30 to 18:00 (lunch from 14:30 to 15:00), then from July 1 to August 31, during the holidays - only until lunch, that is, until half past two.

Private enterprises (including private banks) work according to their schedule, but also only on weekdays. From September 15 to May 31 - from 8:00 to 18:00, with a break from 13:00 to 15:00. From June 1 to September 14 - from 8:00 to 19:00, a break for a siesta - from 13:00 to 16:00. In restaurants, cafes, hotels, breakfast is served from 7:00 to 10:00, lunch - from 12:00 to 15:00, dinner - from 19:00 until closing or until the last visitor.

On weekdays, shops are usually open from 7:00 to 21:00

Shops are open from morning to evening, usually from 7:00 to 21:00 on weekdays and until 19:00 on Saturday. On Sunday, shops in Cyprus do not work. In addition, during the summer season they often close for a siesta (usually from 13-14 to 16-17). Before the big Orthodox holidays - Christmas and Easter - shops work according to a special schedule. So, in December they can work seven days a week until 20:00 and close on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve. For 10 days and up to Maundy Thursday, shops are open until 20:00 (excluding holidays). On Good Friday, trading ends at 18:00 and does not resume until Monday.

It is worth noting that seasonal sales are also regulated in Cyprus. No matter what the traders in the market say, trying to sell the goods, but officially sales on the island are held only in February and August.

Cyprus is one of the most beautiful islands in the Mediterranean and is a very popular holiday destination. Holidays in Cyprus are distinguished by the comfort of clean beaches, the charm of mysterious grottoes, a variety of marine flora and fauna, and a wealth of art monuments.

Regions and resorts of Cyprus

The territory of the island is divided into two regions. The Republic of Cyprus is located in the southern part, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is located in the northern part. Mostly tourists come to rest in the southern part of the island.

Tours to Cyprus especially loved by Russian tourists because of the lush beauty of nature, excellent service and the unique flavor of this island. Cyprus hotels meet the needs and preferences of various categories of tourists.

Fans of outdoor activities and nightlife can choose resorts such as Ayia Napa, Paphos and Limassol. Cyprus also has resorts where you can relax peacefully with your family, such as Larnaca and Protaras.

Climate and weather in Cyprus

The climate of Cyprus cannot be described as typically Mediterranean. Because the weather conditions here are significantly different from other countries in the region. Due to the low atmospheric pressure, a sharply continental climate dominates here. Summers in Cyprus are quite dry and hot, winters are quite mild.

The summer season starts from mid-May and ends in mid-September. Warm winter begins at the end of November and lasts until the beginning of March. Short spring and autumn are characterized by comfortable weather.

Holidays in Cyprus good at any time of the year, as here the sky is almost always clear. Daylight hours last in December 9.8 hours, and in June 14.5 hours.

The average daily temperature during the hot summer months ranges from 22-29°C. The average maximum temperature is 27-36°C. In winter in the central region of the island from 18°C, coastal areas up to 14°C. The sea temperature in the summer months in the coastal zone is from 22°C to 27°C, and in winter about 16-17°C.

Time difference between Moscow and Cyprus

Cyprus is in a time zone different from Moscow (UTC +2), but in fact the time difference is quite small - minus 1 hour.

Transport in Cyprus and airport transfers

Most tourists arrive in Cyprus by plane. Cyprus has two modern airports located in Larnaca and Paphos. The marine fleet carries out passenger transportation and cruises. Major ports are located in Larnaca, Limassol and Paphos.

Cyprus has an excellent road transport network, but there is no domestic air service and no railways. You can comfortably travel around the island by bus, taxi, and you can also rent a car. Driving in Cyprus is on the left.

Tours to Cyprus , as a rule, include a transfer or you can order it additionally. In this case, the hotel staff will meet you at the airport. You can also pre-order a transfer online.

A transfer from both airports to the nearest Limassol will cost about 55 euros, and to the farthest resort of Paphos - 125-150 euros.

Currency in Cyprus

The current currency in Cyprus is the euro, which was put into circulation on January 1, 2008. Before that, the Cypriot pound was the official currency on the island.

Do not forget to change Russian rubles on the territory of the Russian Federation, as they are not accepted in the banks of Cyprus.

Sights of Cyprus

Cyprus is the cradle of European culture. This island has a huge number of architectural monuments and other unique attractions. Let's name the most popular of them:

• Rocks of Aphrodite;
• Baths of Adonis;
• Monastery of Kykkos;
• The ancient city of Kourion.

What not to do in Cyprus

In Cyprus, it is strictly forbidden to take pictures and make videos in active temples, military personnel and strategic objects. It is not allowed to take any photo or video in the border area between North and South Cyprus.

10 things to do in Cyprus

1. Ayia Napa famous for its clean beach, which is worth a visit.
2. Step over the "Green Line" dividing Nicosia into two parts - the capital of the Turkish and Cypriot territories.
3. Taste the local Commandaria wine.
4. Taste the Meze dish, which is a set of appetizers for wine, served in a special sequence.
5. Go to the Shipwreck Museum, where the remains of a Greek ship from the era of Alexander the Great are located.
6. Swim in the bay of Petra tou Romiou to feel younger and more beautiful.
7. In winter, visit the Aliki salt lake to admire flocks of pink flamingos.
8. Climb the citadel of Othello near Famagusta, where the prototype of the jealous Moor, the Venetian governor, killed his wife Desdemona.
9. Visit the fortress of the Crusaders of St. Hilarion in the Turkish part of Cyprus.
10. Learn to dance a local dance.

Shopping in Cyprus

In Cyprus, you can buy locally good wine, prices for which start from 2 euros. You can bring delicious local sweets and spices as a gift to loved ones. The island has a large selection of fairly inexpensive souvenirs.

If we talk about larger purchases, then the prices for goods of such democratic brands as Mango, Zara, C&A and others are somewhat lower than in Moscow, but higher than in many countries of continental Europe.

Holidays and events in Cyprus

Southern Cypriots celebrate almost the same holidays as the inhabitants of neighboring Greece. In Greek Orthodoxy, Easter is considered the biggest holiday of the year, and Christmas is the second most important.

The largest secular holiday is October 1st - Independence Day of Cyprus.

Muslim holidays are celebrated in the northern part of the island.

Cypriot cuisine

Although most Cypriot dishes are similar to Greek and Turkish dishes, they have a special flavor.

The basis of the Cypriot cuisine is meat, poultry, fish, seafood and vegetables. Often, dishes are grilled outdoors and are richly seasoned with fragrant spices.

Once in Cyprus, it is worth trying dishes such as halloumi, keftedes, tarkhana soup, deep-fried kalamari, octapodi stewed in wine, sheftalles and others.

Cyprus Hotels

Cyprus Hotels are distinguished by excellent service, comfortable rooms with all amenities, depending on the category of hotel you choose. You can relax while enjoying the beautiful beaches and interesting excursions.

Many travelers are familiar with the concept of adaptation to the time zone. Often in the country where the tourist arrives, the time difference with his place of residence is several hours. Therefore, travelers cannot sleep at night, and in the morning it is impossible to get out of bed, although many interesting things are planned. Part of the time that could be usefully spent on city walks and excursions is lost. This is especially true if the trip is planned for only a few days. That is why this point should be taken into account when planning a vacation, and be sure to be interested in what time zone you will arrive in.

Cyprus: time zone

Time zones in the world are usually denoted using the term Coordinated Universal Time (Coordinated Universal Time), abbreviated as UTC. For example, in Iceland UTC+00:00 is accepted universal time, and Moscow time is UTC+03:00. This means that it differs from zero by 3 hours plus, and when in Iceland (in the whole country) it is 6 am, in Moscow it is 9:00.

Time in Cyprus is now defined as UTC+03:00 during summer. This means that it, like Moscow, is ahead of coordinated universal time by 3 hours. Only, unlike Russia, there are no numerous time zones in Cyprus, and it is very convenient to determine the time difference. All resorts will have the same time. This will not create confusion if tourists want to visit, for example, a museum in another city. You can just look at the schedule of his work, and not calculate the difference in time.

What time it is in Cyprus is easy to determine for Muscovites, as well as for everyone who lives in Moscow time. It is extremely convenient for them to set the time zone in Cyprus. No need to calculate the time when the plane lands in order to call relatives and not wake them up. Tourists are simply guided by their time, and they do not need to translate the clock. Also, you don’t have to adapt to the new time zone and get used to an early or, conversely, late rise, you can live as usual. There will be no reverse adaptation upon arrival home. And this is another argument in favor of a holiday in Cyprus!

It is more difficult for those Russians who live in a different time zone than Muscovites. What time it is in Cyprus now, they will have to figure it out. When in Cyprus, for example, 12:00, then:

• In Kaliningrad 11:00 (UTC+02:00),
• in Yekaterinburg 14:00 (UTC+05:00),
• in Irkutsk 17:00 (UTC+08:00),
• in Vladivostok 19:00 (UTC+10:00).

However, in Russia everyone is already accustomed to such a difference, and it will not be difficult to calculate it. The exact time in Cyprus can now be determined if we focus on Moscow time. In general, during the period of widespread use of the Internet, you can go to a convenient search engine and easily find out what the exact time is in any Cypriot city. Many travelers will have to go through a period of adaptation, especially those in whose region the difference with Moscow time is significant. But this is one of the features of vacation time, many people change their routine even without flights when weekdays end. So this is not a reason to deny yourself a long journey!

Summer and winter time in Cyprus

However, in Cyprus, local time is divided into summer and winter. In summer time corresponds to UTC+03:00, and in winter UTC+02:00. Summer time begins for the Cypriots on the last Sunday of March, when they set all their clocks forward one hour. Winter time in Cyprus begins on the last Sunday in October, when the clocks are turned back. Such order on the island is a necessity, otherwise it would have been dark there already at 4 pm in winter. In the summer, by the way, it also gets dark pretty quickly, sunsets can be seen even at 20:00. But at 6 in the morning you can go for a run along the seashore, it will already be light. Be sure to plan your trip for dinner at sunset and an early jog (and if you don’t like sports, then an early walk) along the seashore.

Most Russians travel to Cyprus from April to October, when there is summer time. There is no time difference with Moscow in Cyprus during this period. Therefore, Muscovites do not even have to translate watches (wrist or phone). And if you still want to visit the island in winter or early March, consider the time difference. Arrows will have to move back. Russians from other time zones will need to change the time on their phone or wristwatch. However, for most of them, the time difference will not be so large, and it will not require unpleasant adaptation.

Whatever time it is in Cyprus, summer or winter, you will still have a good vacation there. Look at the ruins of ancient cities, visit beautiful temples, see unique seascapes. But if you still want to swim in the cleanest bays and get a good tan, go to Cyprus during the beach season, preferably in May or September.