Hey fellow nomads! If you’re looking for a affordable and sun-soaked backpacking adventure, Cyprus is the perfect destination! I recently spent three weeks exploring this beautiful island on a budget of less than $15 per day, and I’m excited to share my tips and tricks with you.
Accommodation:
To save money on accommodation, I opted for hostels and budget-friendly guesthouses. Some great options include:
- Nicosia Hostel (Nicosia) – $10 per night
- Kipi Village (Larnaca) – $12 per night
- Souli Beach Hotel (Paphos) – $15 per night
Food:
Eating out in Cyprus can be expensive, but I found some affordable options:
- Street food: Try traditional Cypriot dishes like halloumi cheese, souvlaki, and sheftalia (sausages) for $5-7.
- Markets: Visit local markets like the Nicosia Municipal Market or the Larnaca Market for fresh produce and bread.
- Supermarkets: Stock up on groceries at affordable supermarkets like Lidl or Carrefour.
Cyprus street food is a delicious and affordable way to experience the island’s culinary delights! From traditional souvlaki and sheftalia (Cypriot sausages) to halloumi cheese and fresh fruit, there’s something for every taste bud. Be sure to try a traditional Cypriot pita, filled with juicy meat, crispy vegetables, and tangy tzatziki sauce. And for a sweet treat, indulge in some loukoumades (deep-fried dough balls drizzled with honey) or baklava ( layers of flaky pastry, nuts, and honey). With prices starting from just €2-3, you can enjoy these tasty street food options without breaking the bank. So, be sure to come hungry and try some of the amazing street food Cyprus has to offer!
Transportation:
To get around Cyprus, I used a combination of public transportation and hitchhiking:
- Bus: $2-5 per ride
- Hitchhiking: Free! (Just be sure to follow safety guidelines)
Attractions:
Cyprus is home to many free or low-cost attractions:
- Beaches: Enjoy the stunning beaches like Nissi Beach, Fig Tree Bay, and Coral Bay.
- Hiking: Explore the scenic trails like the Caledonia Waterfalls hike.
- Ruins: Visit ancient ruins like Kourion, Aphrodite’s Rock, and the Tombs of the Kings.
Nightlife:
Bars:
- Try traditional Cypriot bars like “Ta Karamanlidika Tou Fani” in Nicosia or “The Old Mill” in Paphos for affordable drinks and a cozy atmosphere.
- Enjoy a cold beer or a glass of wine for €3-5.
Clubs:
- Dance the night away at clubs like “Diva” in Ayia Napa or “Club Deep” in Larnaca for €10-15 entry.
- Look for happy hour deals or discounts for students and young travelers.
Beach Parties:
- Enjoy free beach parties at popular spots like Nissi Beach or Fig Tree Bay.
- Bring your own drinks and snacks to save money.
Tips and Tricks:
- Drink at local bars instead of touristy areas.
- Look for happy hour deals or discounts.
- Share a bottle of wine or a pitcher of beer with friends.
- Dance the night away at free beach parties!
Budget Breakdown:
- Accommodation: $10-15 per night
- Food: $5-10 per meal
- Transportation: $2-5 per ride
- Attractions: Free or $5-10 per person
Total: Less than $15 per day!
Itinerary:
Day 1-3: Nicosia
- Take the bus from Nicosia to Larnaca ( $2)Stay at Kipi Village ( $12 per night)Visit the Church of Saint Lazarus and the Larnaca FortEnjoy the beach at Finikoudes
- Take the bus from Larnaca to Paphos ( $3)Stay at Souli Beach Hotel ( $15 per night)Explore the ancient ruins of Kourion and the Tombs of the KingsVisit the stunning beach at Coral Bay
- Take the bus from Paphos to Ayia Napa ( $3)Stay at Napa Plaza Hotel ( $12 per night)Enjoy the beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlifeTake a boat tour to the Blue Lagoon ( $20)
- Take the bus from Ayia Napa to the Troodos Mountains ( $2)Stay at a traditional mountain lodge like the Troodos Hotel ( $15 per night)Hike to the Caledonia Waterfalls and explore the scenic villages
Tips and Tricks:
- Research and book accommodation in advance to save money.
- Try traditional Cypriot cuisine at local tavernas.
- Hitchhike with locals to get a true Cypriot experience.
- Explore the island’s many free attractions and beaches.
With these tips and tricks, you can have an amazing backpacking adventure in Cyprus on a broke budget. Happy travels!
