(Updated: July 17, 2019)
If you’re living abroad in Nicosia, Cyprus, you may be wondering where to go for groceries. Depending on where you live and if you have access to a car, here are some options for larger grocery chain grocery stores:
Alphamega
Now, Alphamega was a different story. We’ve been to two different locations, and both of them are quite large. Imagine a Super Target or Super Walmart or even a large Meijer that has the household goods, groceries, linens, toys, etc.
The first Alphamega was two stories, and it had a separate escalator for the shopping cart. The two-story Alphamega felt a bit tight on a busy Saturday morning. But the selection was much greater than LiDL. The prices, however, were a bit higher than even our local market. But at least you don’t have to have an extra euro coin or pay for plastic bags when checking out.
While Alphamega is not within walking distance from us, we like the appeal of Alphamega’s larger selection of products. And with a car, we’ll definitely be getting some of our groceries there.
(Note: There is also Carrefour, but we haven’t had the opportunity to truly walk around its space. So I didn’t include this larger chain into the review. Perhaps another time.)
Website: https://www.alphamega.com.cy/en/
Carrefour (no longer available)
I didn’t get a chance to shop at Carrefour during our time in Cyprus. It was driving distance away. However, by the time we settled into our daily expat routine, I had settled on shopping at the local grocery store by the house because it was within walking distance and at the Alphamega.
You may find that going to a Carrefour more convenient for you. However, upon further search, it looks like the company was either sold or closed down in 2017.
Supermarket CY
When there is one closed down store, another appears. And that seems to be the case with SupermarketCY. If you need groceries and want to purchase online, you can get your needs like Amazon’s PrimeNow app for groceries.
If you get a chance to try this online store, share a comment about your experience.
Website: https://www.supermarketcy.com.cy/en
LiDL
The first time we went to LiDL was our first time going to a larger supermarket. WHen we walked in, we were quite pleased with the various cheap products offered in the store.
But having gone into another LiDL at a different location, we quickly realized that LiDL wasn’t for us. Yes, they have incredibly low prices on just about everything and anything you can imagine. And their store layout looks similar to one another, so you can easily find what you are looking for, once you get a sense of the store’s footprint plan.
Additionally, also bring a euro coin to insert into the shopping cart. Otherwise, you won’t be able to use the shopping carts. This too must also help curb overhead costs, which saves the shopper money. And don’t worry, once you put the shopping cart back, the euro coin spits back out and into your pocket.
It just wasn’t worth it to drive to LiDL when we can get all the same things at our local supermarket. It made more sense to save on the gas and to get some exercise picking groceries three times a week than to make a driving trip to a LiDL that was a bit far away.
Website: www.lidl.com.cy
Local Grocery Stores
One of the bext things about living in Cyprus is going to local shops in your neighborhood. You support your local community and get to know the people. It’ll take some time, but eventually, you’ll get you to know the staff. And they will get to know you. Isn’t that what community is all about anyway?
Have you been grocery shopping in Cyprus? What’s your experience been like? Share in the comments below.
