Polis Travel Guide
Polis Travel & Tourism Information
Located on the northwest coast of Cyprus, Polis is a charming small town that offers a relaxing and authentic Mediterranean experience. With its crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches, and rich cultural history, Polis has become one of Cyprus's most popular travel destinations. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of what to expect when visiting Polis, including transportation options, accommodation choices, top things to do and see in the area, food and drink recommendations, shopping tips, and practical information for visitors.
Explanation of Polis as a Travel Destination
Polis is often called the "unspoiled jewel" of Cyprus due to its unspoiled natural beauty and peaceful environment. The town offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Cypriot culture while providing modern amenities catering to tourists' needs. Unlike other popular tourist destinations on the island, such as Ayia Napa or Paphos, known for their buzzing nightlife scenes or luxury resorts, Polis offers a more laid-back atmosphere that attracts travelers who seek tranquility.
The town's main attraction is undoubtedly its beaches: from golden sandy beaches like Latchi Beach with its clear waters suitable for swimming or water sports activities to secluded coves accessible only by boat like Fontana Amorosa Bay near Akamas Peninsula National Park - there is something for everyone. Beyond its natural beauty lies an impressive history too; the area around Polis has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was once an essential center for copper mining during Roman times.
Overview of What The Guide Will Cover
This guide will cover everything you need to know about planning your visit to Polis. We'll start with transportation options from major airports such as Larnaca International Airport or Paphos International Airport. We'll provide tips on when to visit and the best time of year to get the most out of your trip.
We'll also explore accommodation options, including hotels and resorts, vacation rentals, apartments, and budget-friendly options. Once you've sorted your travel and accommodation arrangements, we'll dive into all the exciting things you can do in Polis.
From exploring the stunning Akamas Peninsula National Park or visiting the historical Paphos Archaeological Park to sampling traditional Cypriot cuisine at local restaurants or shopping for souvenirs at local markets. We've also included some practical information you need to know before visiting Polis, such as healthcare facilities available in the area or language tips to help you get around without hiccups.
Whether it's your first time visiting Cyprus or you're a seasoned traveler, our travel guide has everything you need for an unforgettable experience in Polis. So sit back, relax, and start planning your trip today!
Practical Information for Visitors
When traveling to Polis, it's essential to have a basic understanding of the local currency and language and information about healthcare facilities in case of emergencies.
Currency Exchange Rates
The official currency of Cyprus is the Euro (EUR). Several foreign exchange offices are located throughout Polis where visitors can exchange money.
It's recommended to compare rates before exchanging large sums of money. ATMs are also widely available in Polis, with most accepting international debit and credit cards.
While many Polis establishments accept credit cards, smaller shops and restaurants may only accept cash. Carrying some cash when exploring the town is always a good idea.
Language Tips
The official languages of Cyprus are Greek and Turkish. However, due to its popularity among tourists, English is also widely spoken and understood in Polis. Visitors should have no trouble communicating with locals using English. However, it can be helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Greek or Turkish as a sign of courtesy.
Some useful phrases include:
-
Hello - Γεια σου (ya-soo) / Merhaba
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Thank you - Ευχαριστώ (ef-har-i-sto) / Teşekkür ederim
-
Excuse me - Συγνώμη (sig-no-mi) / Affedersiniz
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Where is...? - Πού είναι…; (pu-e-ne) / ...nere?
Healthcare Facilities
In medical emergencies, several healthcare facilities are located in and around Polis. The main hospital in the region is Paphos General Hospital, which is located about 40 minutes away by car. There are also several private clinics and pharmacies located in Polis.
It's important to note that medical treatment can be expensive in Cyprus for those without travel insurance. Visitors should ensure that they have adequate coverage before traveling to Polis.
Visitors can visit a local pharmacy where the pharmacist can provide advice and over-the-counter medication for minor ailments or injuries. Pharmacies are usually open from Monday to Saturday between 8:00 am and 1:00 pm and from 3:00 pm to 6:30 pm.
Conclusion
Summary of key takeaways from the guide
Polis is a hidden gem along the coast of Cyprus that offers visitors unparalleled natural beauty and cultural experiences. This travel guide has covered everything you need to know about traveling to Polis, from transportation options and accommodations to things to do and places to eat. One of the main takeaways from this guide is that Polis has something for everyone.
Whether looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a historical journey through ancient ruins, this town has it all. With its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, charming villages, and delicious food options, it's no wonder why Polis is quickly becoming a popular destination among travelers.
Another important takeaway is that Akamas Peninsula National Park is not to be missed. This park offers some of the most stunning landscapes in Cyprus and should be on every traveler's itinerary when visiting Polis.
Additionally, it's recommended to try traditional Cypriot cuisine while in Polis. From meze platters filled with local delicacies like halloumi cheese and olives to fresh seafood caught right off the coast, your taste buds will thank you for indulging in these culinary delights.
Recommendations for first-time visitors
For first-time visitors to Polis, it's recommended to plan your trip during the shoulder season (May/June or September/October) when there are fewer crowds but still great weather. Renting a car is also highly recommended as it will allow you to explore more of what this beautiful region offers at your own pace.
When it comes to accommodations, there are many great options available depending on your budget and preferences. From luxury hotels with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea to cozy apartments in the heart of town - there's something for everyone.
Many visitors find it helpful to bring comfortable walking shoes as there are many historical sites and nature trails to explore in Polis. Don't forget your swimsuit too, as the beaches are a highlight of any trip to this area.
Final thoughts on why Polis is worth visiting
Polis is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique travel experience with natural beauty and cultural experiences. From the stunning views of Akamas Peninsula National Park to the delicious cuisine and charming villages, there's something for everyone in this hidden gem along the coast of Cyprus.
Whether traveling solo, with friends or family, or on a romantic getaway - you'll fall in love with everything Polis offers. So pack your bags, book your trip, and prepare for an adventure you won't soon forget!
Polis Photos
How to get to the Polis
To get to Polis, Cyprus, you have several options depending on your starting point and preferences. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to reach Polis.
From Paphos Airport
- By Bus:
- Take bus 613 from Paphos Airport to Paphos Market bus station (€1.50, about 20 minutes).
- Then take bus 645 from Paphos to Polis Chrysochous (€1.50, approximately 45-60 minutes).
- Total journey time: About 1.5-2 hours
- Total cost: €3.00
- By Taxi or Private Transfer:
- This is the quickest and most convenient option.
- Journey time: Approximately 40-45 minutes.
- Cost will be higher than public transport but offers door-to-door service.
- By Rental Car:
- The drive from Paphos Airport to Polis is well-signposted and takes about 40 minutes.
- This option offers flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.
From Other Locations
- From Larnaca or other parts of Cyprus: You can take a bus to Paphos and then connect to Polis using the 645 bus route.
- From Antalya, Turkey: While not the most convenient route, it's possible to reach Polis from Antalya via a combination of bus, catamaran, and driving, taking approximately 13h 56m.
Bus Services in Polis
Polis is served by several bus routes connecting it to nearby villages and attractions:
- 622: Polis Chrysochous - Baths of Aphrodite
- 623: Polis Chrysochous - Neo Chorio
- 645: Polis Chrysochous - Paphos (Karavela)
- Various other routes connecting Polis to surrounding villages
However, it's worth noting that public transport to villages around Polis can be infrequent, with some routes operating only twice a day.
Tips for Travelers
- Best Time to Visit: Consider visiting during the shoulder season (May/June or September/October) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
- Car Rental: Renting a car is recommended for exploring the region, including the beautiful Akamas Peninsula National Park.
- Accommodation: Polis offers various accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy apartments, catering to different budgets and preferences.
- Local Attractions: Don't miss the Akamas Peninsula National Park, Latchi Harbour, and the opportunity to try traditional Cypriot cuisine.
Polis, known for its unspoiled beauty and relaxed atmosphere, offers a more authentic Cypriot experience compared to busier tourist destinations. Whether you choose public transport, private transfer, or self-drive options, the journey to Polis is part of the adventure, offering scenic views of the Cypriot landscape
Beach Weather
Climate Overview
Polis experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The average annual temperature is 19.0°C (66.3°F). Here's a breakdown of the seasons:
Summer (June to August)
- Hottest months with average highs around 89°F (32°C) in August
- Very little rainfall, clear skies, and arid conditions
- Can be muggy and crowded with tourists
Winter (December to February)
- Coolest months with average lows around 45°F (7°C) in January
- More cloudy and windy conditions
- Highest chance of rainfall, especially in December
Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November)
- Mild temperatures and pleasant weather
- Less crowded than summer months
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Polis depends on your preferences:
- For beach and water activities: June to August offer the warmest temperatures and water conditions, with August having an average water temperature of 82°F (28°C). However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time.
- For comfortable sightseeing and outdoor activities: May, October, and November provide pleasant temperatures between 20°C and 26°C (68-79°F). These months offer a good balance of nice weather and fewer crowds.
- For budget travelers: The off-season (winter months) can offer lower prices, but some attractions may have reduced hours.
- For nature lovers: Spring (March-May) is ideal for hiking and enjoying blooming flowers in the surrounding areas.
- For avoiding crowds: April-May and September-October (shoulder seasons) offer a good compromise between weather and tourist numbers.
Overall, the period from late April to mid-June and September to October tends to be the most favorable for general tourism, offering pleasant weather and avoiding the peak summer crowds. However, if you're primarily interested in beach activities and don't mind the crowds, the summer months of June to August would be your best bet.
Remember to consider your specific interests and tolerance for heat or crowds when planning your visit to Polis. The town's charm and beautiful surroundings can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering its own unique experiences.
Sights
The top sights and activities to enjoy in Polis, Cyprus are:
Explore the Akamas Peninsula National Park
- This stunning natural area offers hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife. The Aphrodite Trail and Adonis Nature Trail are popular hiking routes.
Visit Latchi Harbor and Beach
- Enjoy fresh seafood at the harbor restaurants and relax on the nearby municipal beach, which is accessible for people with mobility issues.
See the Baths of Aphrodite
- This legendary site is where the goddess Aphrodite is said to have bathed. It's surrounded by beautiful nature.
Go on a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon
- Take a cruise from Latchi harbor to the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling.
Visit the Marion-Arsinoe Archaeological Museum
- Learn about the area's ancient history through exhibits from the ancient cities of Marion and Arsinoe.
Relax on local beaches
- Enjoy beaches like Latchi Beach, Aphrodite's Beach, and Asprokremnos Beach.
Explore Polis Town Center
- Wander the pedestrianized town center with its restaurants, bars, and shops. Visit historic churches like Agios Andronikos and Agia Kyriaki.
Try water sports
- Latchi Watersports Centre offers activities like scuba diving, jet skiing, and parasailing.
Visit nearby villages
- Explore charming villages in the Polis region like Kathikas, Neo Chorio, and Droushia.
Enjoy local cuisine
- Try traditional Cypriot dishes at local tavernas and restaurants, especially fresh seafood in Latchi.
Go camping
- There's a campsite near Polis beach for those who enjoy outdoor accommodations.
Take in the sunset
- The Polis region, especially areas like Akamas Peninsula and Latchi Beach, offers beautiful sunset views.
These activities showcase Polis' blend of natural beauty, history, and traditional Cypriot culture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more relaxed and authentic Cyprus experience.
Food
Polis, Cyprus offers a rich culinary experience that blends traditional Cypriot cuisine with Mediterranean flavors. Here's an overview of the food scene and notable dining options in Polis.
Traditional Cypriot Cuisine
Polis is known for its authentic Cypriot dishes, which are a must-try for visitors:
- Meze: A lavish feast of over 20 local delicacies, including hot and cold appetizers and main dishes.
- Fresh Seafood: Given its coastal location, Polis is renowned for excellent fish and seafood dishes.
- Grilled Meats: Traditional tavernas often serve various grilled meats as part of their meze or main courses.
Notable Restaurants
- The Old Town Restaurant
- Polis Herb Garden Restaurant
- Christos Karouzis Restaurant
- Rating: 4.8/5
- Offers affordable dining options.
- Parea Taverna
- Rating: 4.9/5
- Popular for its traditional fare.
- FB Page.
- Arsinoe Fish Tavern
- Specializes in fresh fish and homemade food cooked in traditional Cypriot style.
- Moustakallis Tavern
- Located in the center of Polis, known for great meat meze and friendly staff.
- Website; Menu (PDF).
Dining Experiences
- Waterfront Dining: Restaurants like Molos in Latsi offer romantic dinners by the pier with a wide range of dishes including traditional Cypriot and international cuisine.
- Farm-to-Table: Some tavernas, like Kalimani in nearby Steni, use homegrown, chemical-free ingredients sourced directly from their own fields.
- Fusion Cuisine: Restaurants like Akakiko offer Asian fusion cuisine, adding variety to the local food scene.
Local Specialties
- Fresh Fish: Especially in Latsi harbor restaurants.
- Grilled Halloumi: A popular Cypriot cheese often served as an appetizer or in salads.
- Souvla: A traditional Cypriot meat dish, usually pork or chicken, cooked on a long skewer over a charcoal barbecue.
Dining Tips
- Many restaurants offer complimentary desserts or drinks after meals, a common practice in Cypriot hospitality.
- For the best seafood, consider dining at the fishing port of Latchi, just outside Polis.
- Some high-end restaurants, like those in luxury hotels, may be seasonal, so it's worth checking opening times if visiting outside peak season.
Polis offers a range of dining options from traditional tavernas to more upscale restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets. The emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and traditional cooking methods ensures an authentic Cypriot dining experience for visitors.
Shopping
Shopping options in Polis, Cyprus.
Town Center Shopping
Polis has a charming town center with various shopping opportunities:
- Pedestrianized Area: The town center features pedestrianized streets with souvenir shops, restaurants, and bars.
- Traditional Square: The central square is surrounded by sandstone buildings and offers a mix of shops and dining options.
Local Shops and Boutiques
Several small, local shops and boutiques can be found in Polis:
- That Nice Shop: Rated 4.7/5, located at 11 Griva Digeni.
- Bags Of Fun Vintage Gifts: Rated 4.8/5, offering vintage gifts at 2 Ay. Nicolaos.
- La Petite Boutique: Rated 5/5, located on Archiepiskopou Makariou III 6.
- Rose Petal Boutique: Mentioned as one of the top shopping spots in Polis.
- Blue Oyster Gifts: Another popular gift shop in the area.
Markets and Supermarkets
- Papantoniou Supermarket: A large supermarket rated 4.5/5, located at 8, Mariou 25.
- The Arches Market: Rated 5/5, found at 4 Archbishop Makarios III Street.
- Indoor Market: There's a regular indoor market selling local meat, fruit, and vegetables.
- Small Market: Sometimes there's a small market through an arch on Archbishop Makarios III Street, near the town center.
Specialty Shops
- Glykis Special Building Materials: For those interested in construction or home improvement.
- Exhibit at Poliscentre: Offers a variety of items and hosts market nights.
Shopping Areas
- Polis Town Square: Rated 4.5/5, a central location for shopping and dining.
- Latchi Harbour Market: Located in nearby Latchi, this market offers a wide variety of goods including crafts, clothing, wines, jewelry, food, and more.
Shopping Tips
- Most everyday items can be found in Polis, with larger supermarkets stocking a wide range of products.
- For a more extensive shopping experience, Paphos (about 30-40 minutes drive) offers additional options.
- Local villages around Polis may also have unique shops and markets worth exploring.
- The area is known for its traditional products, so look out for local specialties like handicrafts, wines, and foods.
Overall, while Polis is not a major shopping destination, it offers a mix of traditional and modern shopping experiences, with an emphasis on local and boutique stores. The town center and nearby markets provide opportunities to find unique gifts, local products, and everyday necessities.
Hotels near Polis
Polis offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Whether you're looking for a luxurious stay in an award-winning resort or a budget-friendly option like camping, there is something for everyone in Polis. When planning your next trip to this charming town on the northwest coast of Cyprus, consider the many options available for accommodations to make your stay as comfortable and memorable as possible.
Hotels and Resorts
- Natura Beach Hotel And Villas
- Rating: 4.2/5 (278 reviews)
- Price: $111
- Address: E704 21, Poli Crysochous 8820, Cyprus
- Anassa Hotel
- Rating: 4.5/5 (708 reviews)
- Price: $607 (luxury option)
- Address: 40, Alekou Michailidi road Neo Chorio, 8852, Cyprus
- Souli Beach Hotel
- Rating: 4.3/5 (338 reviews)
- Price: $88
- Address: E713, Neo Chorio 8852, Cyprus
- Aphrodite Beach Hotel
- Rating: 4.6/5 (586 reviews)
- Price: $96
- Address: Rigenas 62, Poli Crysochous 8831, Cyprus
Vacation Rentals and Apartments
- Bougainvillea Hotel Apartments
- Rating: 4.7/5 (21 reviews)
- Address: Verginas 13, Poli Chrysochous 8830, Cyprus
- Odysseas & Eleni Hotel Apartments
- Rating: 4.6/5 (36 reviews)
- Price: $55
- Address: Vasileos Filippou 8, Polis, 8830, Cyprus
- Kozis Hotel Apartments
- Rating: 4.6/5 (46 reviews)
- Price: $60
- Address: stasiikou 22, Poli Crysochous 8830, Cyprus
- Stunning Polis Penthouse
- Rating: 4.7/5 (34 reviews)
- Price: $90
- Features: Private roof hot tub, close to beach, free WiFi
- Follow The Sun Hotel Apartments
- Rating: 4.2/5 (219 reviews)
- Price: $81
- Bay View Apts.
- Rating: 4.7/5 (94 reviews)
- Address: Gregori Afxentiou Str. 26 P.O. Box 6630 8820, Poli Crysochous, Cyprus
Budget-Friendly Options
- Airbnb Rentals
- Various options available from $20/night
- Cheap Hotels on Booking.com
- A range of budget-friendly hotels with amenities like WiFi and convenient locations
- Vrbo Holiday Rentals
- 31 houses and 45 apartments available, offering a variety of amenities
Additional Information
- The cheapest hotels in Polis start from around $43 per night.
- Popular budget-friendly options include Souli Beach Hotel, Mariela Hotel Apartments, and Natura Beach Hotel and Villas.
- For those looking to save money, consider staying in nearby areas like Paphos, which offers additional budget options such as Sofianna Resort & Spa, Louis Ledra Beach, and Avlida Hotel.
When choosing accommodation in Polis, consider factors such as proximity to the beach, included amenities, and your budget. The town offers a range of options from luxury resorts to budget-friendly apartments, catering to various preferences and travel styles. Booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, is recommended to secure the best rates and availability.