You might think that choosing when to visit Cyprus, a Mediterranean island known for its gorgeous beaches, is an easy task. However, before booking your trip to Cyprus, it’s essential to consider a few things to make the best out of your holiday.
We’ve already done the work to help you choose when to visit this beautiful island! Below, you’ll find everything you need to know, from weather to activities for each season and month, for a smooth and unforgettable trip to Cyprus!
When is the best time to visit Cyprus/
I may be biased, but Cyprus is an excellent destination all year round. But still, this can depend on an individual’s preference and travel style.
So, let’s explore some of the most popular reasons people choose a holiday destination.
Best time to visit Cyprus for a beach holiday
Undoubtedly, one of the main reasons Cyprus is a popular destination is the good weather and, specifically, the hot summers. So, it’s no surprise that summer is the peak season in Cyprus.
Most tourists love the scorching temperatures, which can best be enjoyed at the island’s seaside areas like Ayia Napa, a coastal city on the eastern side of the island.
Ayia Napa is famous for its gorgeous beaches with soft golden sand, beach bars, the natural beauty of Cape Greco National Park, and its underwater sculpture park.
Best time to visit Cyprus for fewer visitors
The best time for a peaceful holiday away from massive crowds is during the off-season, from November to April when the island experiences milder temperatures but more affordable flights, hotel prices, and fewer crowds.
Due to Cyprus’ Mediterranean climate, the weather is still pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°C (36° to 59°F), perfect for exploring Cyprus’ landmarks, attractions, and beaches without feeling overwhelmed by the masses.
Best time to visit Cyprus for an adventure
The best time to visit for a fantastic beach experience is during the very long summer months. I think Paphos in October is fantastic and lots of people still swim in December!
So ideally, June to October – Cyprus is warmer longer and later in the year than the Greek islands.
However, Cyprus has so much more than just lovely beaches. From hiking trails and folk mountainous villages to ancient cities and a treasure trove of historical landmarks, Cyprus has plenty of places to visit and experience.
So, if you’re looking for an adventurous holiday in Cyprus, the autumn months of September to November offer clear skies, sunny days, and warm weather, and you can still swim in the Blue Lagoon.
Best time to visit Cyprus for events and festivals
In Cyprus, you’ll notice that the spring months feature lots of festival and ritual events. For instance, Easter is a huge celebration most Cypriots enjoy through different activities.
Orthodox Easter is of course a lot longer than just a day. Its a series of ritual days and celebrations, such as Carnival, Clean Monday, Holy Week, and Kataklysmos. It is usually celebrated at the beginning of June.
So to experience the locals celebrating the religious and cultural traditions, the months of March to June are an ideal time to visit Cyprus.
Best season to visit Cyprus
Cyprus in Winter
One might think that the winter months don’t offer much to visitors to Cyprus, but you’dll be surprised by the island’s stunning wintry landscapes, beautiful Christmas decorations and traditions, and exciting winter activities.
Cyprus is characterized by its mild winters. The average daytime temperature is around 17°C/63°F, while the average nighttime temperature is about 8°C/46°F.
aaif you’re looking for winter activities like skiing and snowboarding, Troodos Mountains, the highest in Cyprus, gets plenty of snow that you can experience through its popular ski resort, Cyprus Ski Club.
So, Cyprus’ winter can offer both a sunny day at the beach and an exciting day in the snow!
Cyprus in Spring
As winter fades away, Cyprus comes to life with vibrant hues of blossoms.
The temperatures increase significantly, with the high average temperatures between 18°C and 28°C (64°Fand 82°F).
Therefore, spring is an excellent time to visit the island’s charming villages and outdoor markets.
During the spring months, Cyprus puts on dozens of events where you can taste traditional foods, participate in immersive local festivals, and witness Cyprus’ glorious wild flowers.
Cyprus in Summer
Cyprus’ summer is the best season for sunseekers. With Cyprus’ Mediterranean climate, expect a dry and hot summer.
The average high temperatures range around 35°C/95°F, and the average lower temperatures are between 25 – 30C (77F° – 86°F). But. the high temperature can often exceed 40°C/104°F.
But even if you don’t love the sun’s scorching heat, Cyprus has plenty of gorgeous beaches like Nissi Beach and Fig Tree Bay for a refreshing dip and water parks to enjoy a family day out.
Cyprus in Autumn/Fall
Summer lasts until late September in Cyprus.
From October onwards, the scorching heat gives way to milder temperatures around 27°C/81°F.
From vineyards and olive groves to golden sandy beaches and rolling hills, Cyprus’ autumn offers plenty of places to visit, see, and experience.
It’s a good time to hike or take a jeep safari in the Akamas Peninsula, a protected reserve on Cyprus’ western coast, and home to sea turtles.
Fall/Autumn is the perfect season to wander through charming mountainous villages where cozy taverns serve hearty traditional dishes and local wines, and back on the coast, the beaches offer a peaceful holiday.
The Best Time to Visit Cyprus By Month
Here’s what’s going on across each month in Cyprus.
Things To Do in Cyprus in Winter
December
December in Cyprus is much like in other countries. It’s all about Christmas celebrations, fancy decorations, street markets, and festive food.
All major cities are adorned with bright lights, while several towns and Old Town Nicosia transform into Christmas villages with markets selling arts and crafts, local fresh produce, and traditional foods and beverages.
January
Although January is rather cold, the temperatures are still quite mild, allowing you to easily hike across Cyprus’ wintry landscapes on the Troodos Mountains, stroll along the coastline, or visit Nicosia, the last divided capital in the world.
If you’re a history lover, January is the perfect time to explore ancient sites like Kourion and Paphos Archaeological Park or museums like the Cyprus Museum and Pieridis Museum. You’ll have many of these sites almost to yourself!
February
February’s mild winter temperatures of 10 to 15 degrees Celsius (50 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit) make it a great month to explore Cyrpus’ countryside through exciting road trips.
For instance, take a day trip to the village of Omodos and experience the traditional winemaking process firsthand while exploring the historic wine press house.
Otherwise, enjoy outdoor activities like cycling, horseback riding, and golfing.
Things To Do in Cyprus in Spring
March
March is a wonderful time to visit Cyprus, as the island blooms with vibrant colors and offers an array of activities for all interests.
Carnival is celebrated across Cyprus from the 60th to the 50th day before Easter and is most extravagant in Limassol (Lemesos). You can find more information on the annual festival on the Limassol city website.
So, in March, you can join the playful parades with colorful costumes and fancy masks and celebrate alongside the locals.
April
In April, temperatures increase significantly, offering beach activities to hiking to scenic drives.
For instance, this month is perfect for leisurely walks through picturesque villages like Lefkara and Kakopetria, exploring the Akamas Peninsula nature reserve, swimming in hidden coves, and seeing the colorful blossoms of the Troodos and Paphos regions.
May
May is the beginning of peak season in Cyprus, meaning temperatures rise significantly, with the average daytime temperature at 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).
May is also the month of Easter festivities.
So join the Cypriots’ celebrations of the Holy Week and Easter through events like candlelight processions and the midnight mass, or learn more about Easter customs and other traditions at one of the many museums on the island.
Things To Do in Cyprus in Summer
June
Another fun festival and public holiday in Cyprus is Kataklysmos in June.
Most people spend the day on the beach.
Apart from Kataklysmos and beach holidays, June is a fantastic time of the year to explore Cyprus’ many historical and cultural sites like Kykkos Monastery, and Salamis in northern Cyprus since the hea tis not yet scorching, and you can still easily explore the outdoors on foot.
July
If you are looking for a beach holiday and soak up the hot Mediterranean Sun, July is the best month for a trip to Cyprus.
Frankly, there are plenty of places one could recommend for a Cyprus trip in July.
The most popular and beautiful spots for the perfect beach holiday are Agia Napa and Protaras, while Limassol is an excellent choice for a luxurious summer holiday by the beach.
But if you prefer to also experience Cyprus culture and history while enjoying the beach, Paphos gives you access not only to some of the most famous ancient sites in Cyprus but also to the Troodos Mountains, home to charming folk villages.
August
August is the hottest month in Cyprus, so it’s another excellent time to visit if you wish to soak up the sun.
In additionally to the beach vibes, August is an excellent time to experience Cyprus’ crazy nightlife either by indulging in delicious cocktails at a live music bar, immersing in fun beats at a beach club, or enjoying a pint of local beer at a cozy pub.
However, be aware that August is often the busiest month, especially during the week of the Assumption of Virgin Mary celebrations, since even locals travel to the more tourist spots for holidays.
Things To Do in Cyprus in Fall/Autumn
September
Early September is much like July and August, as the weather is still warm and the beaches are still crowded. But by the end of September, the weather gets cooler, ushering in the off-peak season.
Nevertheless, during this month you can still enjoy plenty of sun and sea. Also, September offers the unique opportunity to experience the annual wine festivals taking place across the island.
Specifically, you can celebrate the grape harvest season by attending the Limassol Wine Festival or the Commandaria Festival at one of Cyprus’ picturesque wine villages.
October
One of the top things to do in October is to explore the island’s picturesque villages and immerse yourself in authentic Cypriot culture.
For instance, October offers the opportunity to explore Cyprus’ natural beauty, such as Laranca’s salt lake, Aphrodite’s Rock, also known as Petra tou Romiou, Aphrodite’s Baths, Adonis Baths Waterfalls, and Millomeris Waterfalls.
For adventure enthusiasts, diving excursions are also a popular choice, as the clearer waters reveal the vibrant marine life that Cyprus is famous for.
November
Much like October, November is an ideal time to visit Cyprus as the summer crowds have diminished and cooler temperatures make outdoor activities more pleasant.
For instance, wander through the cobblestone streets of Lefkara to discover traditional crafts, local cuisine, and charming architecture, or visit Kalopanagiotis to explore cultural sites like the Monastery of Ioannis Lambadistis.
November is the perfect time to indulge in outdoor activities like hiking to marvel at the beautiful autumn foliage and admire the mountain vistas.
