The popular Mediterranean beach resorts of Greece and the Republic of Cyprus have long been chosen by tourists from Europe, including Russian travelers. When choosing to relax in Cyprus or Crete, potential tourists consider many parameters: visa regime and flight prices, the state of hotels and the popularity of attractions.
Criterias of choice
Any trip to Europe usually begins with obtaining a visa for a Russian tourist. In this sense, those who choose Cyprus are a little more fortunate. Obtaining an entry visa to the island has a simplified procedure, in contrast to obtaining a Schengen visa. Residents of Russia can become the holder of a visa to Cyprus absolutely free of charge and within 24 hours. To obtain a visa to Greece, you will need a standard package of documents for Schengen, unless you are going to visit its resorts by arriving by ferry from Turkey. In summer, the Greek islands are allowed visa-free travel for their passengers.
Flights is the next concern of the traveler and the difference in their prices between Cyprus or Crete is not too significant:
- A ticket from Moscow to Heraklion in Crete in the high season will cost about 20 thousand rubles. Charters spend about 4 hours in the sky in this direction.
- Russian airlines, including low-cost airlines, will help to get to Larnaca airport in Cyprus. The price of the issue is from 18 thousand rubles. Travel time is about 3 hours 40 minutes.
Hotels in Cyprus and Crete are very similar to each other. They are designed in authentic local traditions, fit the world standards of the star classification system, and the staff guarantees a very decent level of service. Hotels on both islands offer various food systems, but the all-inclusive favorite of the Russian tourist is also present in Cyprus or Crete.
The climate in the resorts of the two islands is very similar, and the swimming season on their beaches begins in the second half of May. By mid-June, the water in the sea warms up to + 25 ° С, and in the air thermometers often show + 30 ° С. You can comfortably sunbathe and relax on the beaches of the two islands until the end of October.
Cyprus or Crete beaches?
Cretan beaches are many tens of kilometers of perfectly clean white sand and blue sea. The island has both noisy public and quiet secluded places for recreation, and therefore all tourists will like it here, regardless of preferences and preferences. For those who prefer to meditate under the lapping waves, Crete offers several wild beaches, which are rarely visited by an organized tourist. The winds prevailing in Crete make it easy to endure even intense heat and help surfers catch a good wave.
Cyprus is an island of diverse beaches ranging from east to west from white sandy to rocky pebble. The most suitable resorts for families with children are Larnaca and Limassol. Ayia Napa will appeal to noisy youth, while Paphos will appeal to respectable adult travelers.
