I’ve always had a soft spot for Greece, so it’s no surprise I decided to take a solo trip to Cyprus! My eyes were set on heading to the Mediterranean island for clean beaches, interesting history, and the freshest seafood I could imagine, and I wasn’t disappointed. Yes, the expansive stretches of golden sand stole my soul, but I couldn’t become a beach bum when ancient tombs and archaeological sights were waiting to be explored!
I'm Lucy, a solo travel expert who has been solo travelling the globe for a decade to over 50 countries. I share my solo travel tips and expertise in these solo travel location guides to help you feel confident to try travelling solo to your dream destinations.
The city of Paphos proved a real gem on my solo Cyprus trip, showcasing endless hikes and trails, the Kato Paphos Archaeological Park, and the stunning Avakas Gorge. Choosing to head to the island off-season, I wasn’t met with swathes of tourists in queues, but rather a relaxed atmosphere, melting me into one of the most tranquil parts of the world.
When you begin your journey to solo travel Cyprus, you’ll be met with a blend of Turkish and Greek culture– an infusion of energy, and incredible cuisine. It was impossible to wipe the smile off my face with such friendly locals and backpackers lining the streets. As a solo female, I felt safe for the entirety of my trip and met so many other travellers walking various trails and leaning into Cypriot nightlife.
Planning a solo trip to Cyprus? Here's where you'll find:
- Everything You Need To Know Before A Solo Trip To Cyprus
- How To Get To Cyprus As A Solo Traveller
- Tips For Finding Cheap Flights To Cyprus
- Do I Need A Visa For My Trip To Cyprus?
- How Do I Book A Solo Trip To Cyprus?
- How To Book Hostels and Hotels in Cyprus
- Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Cyprus
- SIM Cards in Cyprus
- Is Cyprus a Good Place to Travel Solo?
- How Much Does A Solo Trip To Cyprus Cost?
- Is Cyprus Safe For A Solo Female Traveller?
- Best Places For Solo Travel In Cyprus
- How Do I Make Friends When Solo Travelling Cyprus?
| Essentials for Cyprus |
| Find cheap flights to Cyprus |
| Find hotels or hostels |
| Find activities and tours for Cyprus |
| Get an eSIM for Cyprus |
Everything You Need To Know Before A Solo Trip To Cyprus
Warm temperatures, turquoise waters, and green mountains are the foundation of Cyprus, but don’t get sucked into only exploring the shore! Fascinating sights await around the island like the city of Kourion and Tomb of the Kings. Be prepared for crowds when visiting during high season as you’ll likely have queues to battle with and trouble getting the perfect Insta pic!
If you want to meet other people, you’ll have no trouble when visiting a beach bar or restaurant. Even though I explored during the off-season, I made friends with other travellers, lots of whom I met in hostels. Cyprus is both Greek and Turkish so underlying tension exists throughout the island, but this shouldn’t be an issue for the solo backpacker. The first challenge you’ll have to overcome is planning how to reach the island!
How To Get To Cyprus As A Solo Traveller
Flights are often the biggest budget buster along with accommodation, and flights to Cyprus aren’t the cheapest. It takes a few hours to reach the island from the UK and there are various routes to take. Prices vary between different airports but Larnaca and Paphos are the most popular options.
Larnaca | Paphos | |
Departure | LHR London Heathrow | LHR London Heathrow |
Layover | N/A | OTP Bucharest Otopeni |
Arrive | LCA Larnaca | PFO Paphos |
Duration | 4 hr 40 mins | 7 hr 5 mins |
Cost | £155 | £172 |
The price difference between airports may only be marginal, but it’s worth recognising the various prices. Do you have a plan for your trip? If so, why not arrive at the airport nearest where you plan to kickstart your solo adventure? That way, you can lean into the peaceful Cypriot way of life and not be stressed about making it to your first planned location. Travelling off-peak and cutting flight costs is even better so you can save money for entry fees, mouth-watering food, or handmade trinkets to take home.
Tips For Finding Cheap Flights To Cyprus
Sourcing cheap flights is a game-changer. I used to feel tears fill my eyes when looking at flight prices but this isn’t the case anymore! It may have taken nearly 10 years of solo travelling the world to find the best ways to get cheap flights but we’re here. Read my entire breakdown of finding the best flight deals, and check out some key ones below:
Be Flexible
I know what it feels like to settle on exact arrangements for your solo trip to Cyprus but this isn’t always beneficial. Keeping flexible and searching various date ranges, airports, and locations can uncover cheaper prices and add a touch of spontaneity to your trip too!
Set Up Flight Alerts
Let’s be honest, it would take days to scan the web for the best flight deals. Why do all the hard work when flight alerts take moments to set up and give you a nudge when new deals become available? Receiving notifications about flights saves you the fuss of having to search for prices yourself, and you’ll be the first to know when unbeatable deals become available.
Use Comparison Websites
If you take one tip away about finding flight deals, let it be to use a comparison website! I’ve put my faith in Skyscanner for the last few years and always grabbed flights for an absolute bargain. I love how easily I can input the date ranges and locations I’m looking for and choose the ‘flexible’ option to see what’s available for other dates. It’s fast and simple, saving pennies and time that can be spent planning activities instead!
Do I Need A Visa For My Trip To Cyprus?
As a tourist, you can travel visa-free in Cyprus for up to 90 days. You need to have a valid passport with validity for at least 3 months after your departure date from the island and a blank page for stamping. Stays longer than 90 days require a visa from the Cypriot authorities. Cyprus isn’t part of the Schengen area so visits don’t count as part of the 90/180-day Brexit rule (I’m surely not the only one jumping for joy about this!). Find out more information by visiting the UK GOV website here.
How Do I Book A Solo Trip To Cyprus?
Ancient ruins, delectable gastronomy, sweeping sandy beaches, and a mild climate make Cyprus a jewel for travellers. Any type of trip will promise life-long memories, but it can be difficult to find a balance between planning vital aspects like flights and accommodation with being spontaneous and allowing for plans to be made in-country. What type of solo Cyprus trip are you looking for?
Entire Planned Trip
Planning the whole of your trip to Cyprus means having control over pretty much everything you’ll be getting up to! This is a great idea if it’s your first overseas trip, and Jet2 has some incredible package holiday deals to help you get the most out of your solo adventure. Make sure you remember to use code SOLO30 to get £30 off your solo trip!
Group Trip
Is one of your goals to meet other backpackers on your trip? If your answer is yes, have you considered booking a group trip? These are great to meet other travellers while doing fun things like hiking, touring attractions, or sharing meals. I’ve met so many wandering spirits on my travels over the last decade, some on the same group tour as me!
Flight and One Night Accommodation
Does nothing fill your soul more than freedom and spontaneity? If this sounds like you, why not leave some plans for when you arrive in Cyprus? Arranging just your flights and first night of accommodation is exhilarating and means diving straight into the unknown on your trip. I wouldn’t say this is wise for unfamiliar travellers, but those with more experience can grow even more by leaving their plans open and adapting on the island.
How To Book Hostels And Hotels In Cyprus
Browsing the web for the best accommodation can take hours– trust me. To save money and time when looking for places to stay in Cyprus, use Booking and Hotels.com for the best boutique hotels and unique accommodations. For budget travellers and backpackers, check out Hostelworld. These websites are included in my list of ways to find cheap hotel deals as they scan the web for you, taking moments to produce results that would’ve taken hours to find.
Hostelworld is home to affordable, flexible accommodation around the world, and they have awesome options for Cyprus. By staying in hostels more than hotels, you can save a surprising amount and immerse yourself in the community of travellers staying at your hostel. For occasional treats or when you fancy a taste of luxury, Booking is the only place to go for indulgent hotels at affordable prices.
Currency, Plugs, And The Best Ways To Get Around Cyprus
Since 2008, the euro has been Cyprus’ currency, with card and cash being acceptable payment methods. In the northern Turkish part of the island, the currency is Turkish Lira, so you may need to take both currencies depending on your travel plans. Wherever I travel, I take cash and a prepaid travel card with the correct currency. Packing both means I have a backup way to pay if one gets lost or stolen. I understand how stressful packing can be, especially if you’re using a backpack and trying not to overload yourself. Check out my packing guide to help make things easier.
Cyprus uses type G plugs which are the same as the UK, so don’t worry about bringing adaptors unless you’re travelling to the island from elsewhere. And for getting around Cyprus after you land? Buses will quickly become your bestie unless you want a more immersive experience like a push bike or motorbike rental.
Best Travel Insurance For A Solo Trip To Cyprus
I thrive on adventure, but when it comes to my well-being, I don't compromise. If you need travel insurance for a solo trip to Cyprus, SafetyWing's Nomad Insurance provides coverage in 175+ countries, and you have complete control over when your policy starts and stops at any time. They've recently expanded coverage to include adventure sports and electronics theft too. Think of it as your safety net, if something goes wrong its great to have back-up in case you get sick, injured or your kit gets damaged. I know how frustrating travel can be sometimes, so it's good to know that when things go wrong I've got a good insurance policy in my corner.
They also cover:
- Meals & accommodations if you have a travel delay over 12 hours
- Emergency dental care up to $1000
- Medical care including prescriptions, emergency care and hospital stays
- Coverage for lost checked luggage
- Flights home if something bad happens
- Continued coverage for visits back home
- Coverage for motor accidents
- Coverage for injuries from leisure sports & activities
Read my full blog post on Choosing Travel Insurance for Solo Female Travellers
Best eSIM For Travelling To Cyprus
With a range of flexible eSIMs, Holafly is my top choice for travelling anywhere– Cyprus included. I’ve relied on Holafly to keep me connected globally for years, and it’s been a joy to speak to family abroad and not be hit by hefty roaming charges. The company has a few options for eSIMs in Cyprus starting at just £4 for 7 days of data. I love the freedom of switching off from social media and my phone but I still need the option of connecting. With Holafly, I can manage my data usage, choose the most appropriate eSIM, and use it right away by activating the eSIM on my phone.
My number one solo travel safety hack is eSIMs – they're a lifesaver for solo female travellers who want to feel confident when travelling alone. Why does this make solo travel safer? Because the second you touch down in a new destination you have access to the internet and can text/make calls. An eSIM is invaluable for solo travellers to be able to navigate & look up directions, find their hotel, book an Uber and stay connected with friends and family. Holafly are my go-to eSIM provider and I have a special discount code ABSOLUTELYLUCY for 5% off at Holafly – get yours now to prepare for first time solo travel.
Read my full blog post on the Best eSIM For Solo Female Travellers To Beat Roaming Charges for more information.
Is Cyprus A Good Place To Travel Solo?
Cyprus is a haven for travellers, but what if you’re travelling alone? It’s the ideal destination for solo travellers with a mild annual climate, an abundance of things to do, accommodation for every budget, and lots of other tourists. Even though I set out as an alone traveller, I quickly encountered other solo females and friendships blossomed.
Like any location, it’s also worth trusting your gut, staying cautious and limiting any risks of danger. I usually don’t go around at night alone and stay for long periods in places without a signal unless I’m with people I trust. Taking precautions keeps danger far away so you can enjoy Cyprus stress-free.
Should I Go To Cyprus On My First Solo Trip?
If you want to escape the bustle of day-to-day life and melt into relaxation, a solo trip to Cyprus might be your answer. With great tourist infrastructure, friendly locals, a cuisine for the soul, and popularity with backpackers, Cyprus is an epic destination. The island is a welcoming chapter one for travellers on their first solo trip.
Speaking Greek isn’t a must, but learning a few words and phrases can enhance your experience and connections with locals. Paphos was one of my top spots as it had such a friendly vibe and was perfect for unwinding and regaining energy for another day of sightseeing. The walkability of the city means it doesn’t take too long to get from place to place and restaurants and cafes line the streets wafting mouthwatering scenes into the air.
Ayia Napa is the resort town to explore for solo travellers looking for nightlife and a buzz of people. Energy flows throughout the town to the beat of music and the backdrop of crystal blue water and fluffy white sand. Meeting people when you solo travel Cyprus will be a breeze and help boost your confidence on your first trip.
Is Cyprus Expensive For A Solo Traveller?
Cyprus is thankfully less expensive than the UK, meaning Brits can venture to the island and get a decent amount for their money. Costs can rack up quickly, so it’s best to arrange a budget so you’re not left with empty pockets after only a few days. Cut spending by booking off-peak, staying in hostels, limiting restaurant visits and unnecessary spending. Following a daily budget means you have plenty to enjoy spending but enough to see you through your whole trip.
How Much Does A Solo Trip To Cyprus Cost?
Cyprus is in the middle between cheap and expensive, but it’s simple to reduce costs. Use comparison websites to uncover the best flight and accommodation deals and travel off-peak. One of the joys of Cyprus is the amazing weather it has nearly all year round, so you don’t just have to visit during summer. Using public transport and choosing activities wisely can also cut costs without sacrificing.
One Month in Cyprus
One Way Flight | £160 |
Accommodation | £300 (hostels) |
Food | £250 (limited restaurant visits) |
Activities | £300 (depending on activity type) |
Transport | £200 (buses) |
Total | £1210 |
The figures above roughly estimate what a budgeted solo Cyprus trip can cost. Choosing to stay in less luxurious accommodation and cooking from scratch often may seem like a big sacrifice, but this can be the difference between affording entry to museums and ancient sights or several bus fares around the island. Check out this blog for more of my money-saving hacks for travel.
Is Cyprus Safe For A Solo Female Traveller?
I rank Cyprus highly for the safety of solo female travellers. Yes, I was occasionally met with a stare or two from older Cypriot men, but their expressions quickly changed to smiles as I smiled at them. I think the looks were more about inquisitiveness over intimation and I didn’t feel uncomfortable.
I also keep very aware of my surroundings when I travel, keeping an eye on the time so I know when night will start drawing in, avoiding drinking too much alcohol, and saving the address of the hostel I’m staying at in my phone or as a Google Maps pin so I can always find my way back. Read this blog for more of my solo travel tips.
Crimes against tourists are rare in Cyprus, but pickpocketing and petty theft happen, especially in tourist areas. Keep valuables close and out of sight and only buy tickets to attractions from a legitimate staff member on the door. Better still, planning parts of your trip means you can buy tickets online, beating queues and scammers on the day!
Which Part Of Cyprus Is Best For Solo Female Travellers?
My time in Cyprus went by far too quickly. I was heartbroken to leave with so much of the island left undiscovered, but I guess this gives me the perfect excuse to return one day! For the solo female traveller, a few locations jump out, but it has to be a Paphos that takes the ultimate spot.
Paphos
Paphos is a hotspot for archaeological sites and wilderness surrounding the ancient port city. I found myself hiking jaw-dropping trails such as the Aphrodite Nature Trail which takes walkers through the Akamas Forest Nature Trail parallel to the glistening ocean. Paphos is such a fusion of nature, history, and culture it’s impossible to get stuck with nothing to do! Don't forget to check out Hotels.com for some great boutique hotel options.
- Hotel: Veronica Hotel
- Hostel: 777 Beach Guesthouse
- Best things to do in Paphos
Where Are The Best Places For Solo Travel In Cyprus?
Selecting the best places in Cyprus for solo travellers took me a while! I loved every spot in Cyprus and would return in a heartbeat to smell the salty air and taste Cypriot cuisine, but for now, writing this blog is enough to transport me! I’ve chosen six unmissable locations for your solo trip, so remember to bookmark this blog to keep a note of them!
Larnaca
The south coast of Cyprus is home to the port city of Larnaca, boasting a gorgeous palm-tree-adorned seafront, historic Old Town, and Larnaca Salt Lake providing an expansive habitat for wildlife. Faros Beach is a must for escaping the crowds while still making the most of the clean water, soft sand, and soundtrack of crashing waves. Don't forget to check out Hotels.com for some great boutique hotel options.
- Hotel: San Remo Hotel
- Hostel: Past or Tail
- Best things to do in Larnaca
Limassol
Limassol is a blue-flag beach haven, offering tourists endless golden beaches and palm trees at every corner. Hiking here is a wonderful experience through vineyards but one of the most outstanding trails is the Artemis Nature Trail which circles Mount Olympus. Don't forget to check out Hotels.com for some great boutique hotel options.
- Hotel: Alasia Boutique Hotel
- Hostel: Bee Hostel
- Best things to do in Limassol
Nicosia
Looking for a taste of Cypriot country life? Nicosia is your answer. In the city, visit key sights like the Cyprus Museum, Shacolas Observatory, and the Nicosia Open Market to scrub up on the island’s history and dive into the culture. The capital city of Cyprus has a bustling charm, but the outskirts are far calmer, with vast green spaces creating a safe nest for wildlife. Don't forget to check out Hotels.com for some great boutique hotel options.
- Hotel: Semeli Hotel
- Hostel: Urban Habitat Hostel
- Best things to do in Nicosia
Protaras
If there’s one thing Protaras is known for, it’s magnificent clear water and white sand beaches. Fig Tree Bay is one of the town’s most popular resorts, with amenities, soft sand, and gentle waves for an idyllic day trip in the sun. There’s nowhere better for water sports, and if you’ve ever wanted to scuba dive, this is the dream location to venture beneath the water. Don't forget to check out Hotels.com for some great boutique hotel options.
Troodos Mountains
The Troodos Mountains are an integral part of Cyprus, home to 10 Byzantine churches and other religious structures. Recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the history of the buildings in the mountains is surrounded by epic scenery and valleys spanning miles. The best way to explore? Grab your hiking boots and get up close to everything the mountains offer. Don't forget to check out Hotels.com for some great boutique hotel options.
Kyrenia
I’ve seen a lot of castles and historical buildings from the rustic castles of England to Europe’s opulent Basilicas, but Kyrenia Castle left me speechless. Visitors can tour the castle and learn even more from the shipwreck museum with tours taking place inside the grounds. If castles aren’t your thing, it’s still worth heading to Kyrenia for its stunning harbour and Alagadi Turtle Beach where female turtles lay their eggs. The baby turtles hatch in late summer and make their way into the sea to the awe of spectators lucky to witness the magical event. Don't forget to check out Hotels.com for some great boutique hotel options.
How Do I Make Friends When Solo Travelling To Cyprus?
Jetting off to a new country on a solo trip is a spectacular achievement, but sometimes travelling alone can be lonely! Making friends is the best way to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation and is something I always do no matter where I travel!
Once you’ve passed the first conversation with someone new, you’ll have more confidence, be able to relax and start enjoying the excitement that comes with new friendships. Find out more ways to get the most out of your solo trip to Cyprus by reading How to Prepare for First Time Solo Travel
Don’t Let Shyness Win
I know the feeling when your legs go to jelly and your stomach fills with butterflies when thinking about talking to somebody for the first time. But the only way to overcome this fear is to dive in! Don’t let nerves get the better of you. Instead, lean into new opportunities when they present themselves. So, when you’re heading for a drink at the hostel bar and spot someone sitting alone, why not introduce yourself and strike a convo?
Look Up From Your Phone
Ahh, our phones. They give us comfort, instant access to the internet, and the perfect way to hide our feelings, but they don’t perform well when trying to make friends in person. Instead of hiding behind your screen when nervy butterflies hit, take a deep breath and trust yourself! You’ve made it to another country solo and now is the easy part of bonding with other like-minded people and creating friendships.
Use Conversation Starters
Knowing exactly what to say to someone new can be tricky, so I rely on conversation starters when I’m a little rusty. Think of questions like ‘have you travelled here before?’ or ‘what are you thinking of doing tonight?’ Or even; ‘do you have any recommendations for activities here?’ It doesn’t have to be complicated, but the right open-ended question will help inspire an energetic conversation so you can relax into budding friendships.
