Adjusting to life in Cyprus involves more than finding the right property – it also means understanding where and how to shop. Whether you’re looking for reliable supermarkets, household essentials, or specific tech items, the island offers a range of shopping options to suit different needs and preferences.

Below we outline the key retail choices across Cyprus, helping you make informed decisions about where to source daily necessities, specialist goods, and everything in between.

Contents

• Supermarkets in Cyprus
• Discount stores
• DIY and hardware stores
• Tech stores
• Pharmacies
• Shopping malls
• Online shopping
• Fruit and vegetable shops

Homeware shopping in Cyprus

Supermarkets in Cyprus

To settle in and experience local life, familiarizing yourself with the best shopping spots is essential. Cyprus offers a diverse selection of supermarkets, with popular chains like Alpha Mega and Lidl available in larger towns.

Alpha Mega is a favorite among both expatriates and locals, featuring an extensive selection of British and Cypriot products that help expats feel at home. This supermarket essentially functions as a mini department store, including hardware items and personal care appliances from well-known brands such as Braun and Molineux.

Standard operating hours for supermarkets in Cyprus are generally from 8:30 AM to 7 PM, although they close on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. Some stores have started opening on Sunday mornings, though this remains a subject of debate due to church influences.

Prices in Cypriot supermarkets are often reasonable compared to the UK, with Lidl closely reflecting their UK pricing. It’s important to note that fresh meat, fruits, and vegetables are priced by weight rather than per unit. Supermarkets typically have sales twice per year, during which food prices see discounts. Nowadays, these supermarkets are well-lit and air-conditioned, some even featuring a café for shoppers.

Discount Stores

Discount stores gained popularity in Cyprus following the financial crisis of 2013. These stores offer everyday dry goods such as cereals and cleaning supplies at lower prices than traditional supermarkets. Check these stores for British brands that might be familiar to you.

If you are a practical sort, there are plenty of hardware stores where you can get your DIY goods

DIY and Hardware Stores

Initially family-run businesses originating from carpentry and construction, DIY and hardware stores in Cyprus have evolved significantly. You can now find large stores selling everything from single screws to planks of wood, similar to UK chains like Wickes and B&Q.

Many of these stores offer free delivery services to your home. Plus, there’s an IKEA store in Nicosia, providing the same selection as its UK counterparts.

There are many places across Cyprus where you can buy the latest phone or laptop

Tech Stores

When it comes to technology shopping, Cyprus has only a couple of dedicated stores for computers and tech products, mainly located in Limassol and Nicosia, like Stefanis.

Additionally, electronics retailers such as MegaElectric stock a wide range of tech products, though it’s important to note that technology tends to be priced higher than in other countries.

Whatever your medical needs, Cyprus’s pharmacies are ready to cater

Pharmacies

You may find the prevalence of pharmacies in Cyprus surprising; they offer a wide range of British and local medicines. Despite this broad selection, prices tend to be high due to partial government regulation.

Pharmacies normally operate from 8 AM to 1 PM and reopen from 3:30 PM to 7 PM in winter, and from 4:30 PM to 7 PM in summer.

Find the latest in fashion at Cyprus’ shopping malls

Shopping Malls

Cypriot shopping malls are modeled after those in the UK and Europe, making them great places to explore. You can find popular clothing outlets such as Zara and Mango, alongside familiar coffee chains like Caffé Nero for a pleasant break.

Major malls are located in Limassol, Paphos, and Nicosia, frequently hosting kids’ activities and other entertainment.

These malls often remain open on bank holidays, typically operating from 9 AM to 9 PM.

Anything you can’t find in a local store, you will be able to buy online

Online Shopping

If you prefer to shop online, platforms such as Amazon and eBay deliver various products directly to your door, facilitated by local couriers. However, be cautious of customs restrictions on certain electrical goods, which may not be shipped to Cyprus through these platforms.

Cyprus’ towns and cities are filled with stores stocked with fresh produce

Fruit and Vegetable Shops

Fresh produce is abundant in local fruit and vegetable shops, offering everything from staple potatoes to exotic pineapples. While once the only source for produce, many supermarkets now offer equally high-quality fruits and vegetables.

Prices can vary, increasing during high-demand periods such as Green Monday, which marks the beginning of Lent.

If you want to know about your new life in Cyprus, book a free consultation with one of our experts today.