Languages

Greek and Turkish are the official languages of the Republic of Cyprus. English is widely spoken.

Local Time

Cyprus Time is GMT +2

What to wear in December

In December, Cyprus has mild winter weather. There are both sunny days and rainy/cloudy days. Temperatures are pleasant, averaging around 18 - 20 °C in the day and it gets cooler (8 - 10 °C) at night. Layers are key to coping with the variable temperatures. Be sure to pack a lightweight raincoat, and a travel umbrella. Recommended clothes are winter clothes, warm jackets but not heavy coats.

Currency

The currency of Cyprus is the Euro.

Currency Exchange

All banks operating in Cyprus offer foreign currency exchange services and quote the exchange rates of the Euro against all major foreign currencies daily. Foreign currency can also be exchanged at hotels.

ATMs and Credit Cards

All major banks in Cyprus have automatic teller machines (ATMs) in most towns and in the majority of the large villages. All major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.

Electricity supply

The electricity supply in Cyprus is 230 volts, a.c. 50 Hz. Sockets are usually 13 amp, with 3-point plugs, square pin. Many hotels provide adaptors upon request from the reception.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in all indoor public places and night clubs.

Opening hours

Shops normally open around 09:00 and close around 19:00 except Wednesday afternoon (up to 15:00 hrs). During the summer period June 15th – August 31st there is an optional three hour afternoon break from 14:00 - 17:00. Shops in tourist areas, large shopping centres and department stores may stay open on weekends and public holidays as well.

Banks are open on workdays (Monday to Friday) usually between 08.30 and 13.30. From October to April they are also open on Monday afternoon between 15.15 and 16.45. Banks are closed on weekends and public holidays. Some banks in central tourist areas are open in the afternoon specifically to provide services to tourists.
Restaurants and cafes have varying opening hours, but lunch is most often served between 12:00 and 15:00. Dinner is served from 19:00 until late in the evening.

Driving Side

Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. All the international road traffic signs are in use and placed on the left-hand side of roads and highways. On roundabouts, priority is given to the right side.

Emergency Number

Call 112, the EU-wide emergency number for police, fire department and ambulance.
Dial Code for Cyprus: +357
Telephone Directory Assistance: 11892, 11822, 11800, 11833, 11811.