Cyprus is a popular destination for winter sun, combining the mild Mediterranean weather and a slower, more relaxed pace than visiting during peak season.
With beautiful coastal towns that stay lively, clear days for outdoor activities and a landscape offering sea views to mountain villages within a short drive. Keep on reading to find out why Cyprus should be on your list of potential winter sun destinations…
Mild Winter Weather Without The Long Haul
You can fly to Cyprus in just a few hours from many European cities, so you don’t have to worry about long journeys. Shorter flights means less travel fatigue, and more time enjoying your holiday.
The daytime temperatures in the winter usually sit between 15 and 20°C, so you can enjoy any activities without the intense summer heat. The nights are cooler though, so make sure you pack the right things for the evenings, keep reading to find out what I’d suggest.
The Troodos Mountains are a good option for visiting, as you can hike green trails, see waterfalls after winter rain or even find pockets of snow on the highest peaks.
Visiting during the winter will mean you get to avoid the crowds during the summer. Museums, archaeological sites, and coastal towns feel calmer, and there will still be local festivals and markets you can enjoy.
Quieter Beaches And Coastal Walks In The Off Season
Beaches near Kourion and Petra Tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock) have fewer sunbathers, so you can walk along the sea cliffs and spot the ruins without the crowds.
You can take coastal hikes between Kourion and Limassol for views of cliffs and old mosaics. The trails stay open in the milder weather, so Cyprus hiking is calmer and more pleasant than it is in the busy summer months.
Visit Kolossi Castle, and then take a wall along the nearby shoreline, with short walks linking the historical sites so you can enjoy the heritage and the sea air all on the same excursion.
The Tombs Of The Kings will have fewer tour groups, so you get more space to look at the stonework and coastal views without people getting in the way when trying to take pictures, although you’ll need a jacket, as the winter coastal winds can be cool.
Great Value On Flights Hotels And Car Hire
As with any vacation, save money by booking a Cyprus package holiday deal that includes flights, hotels and car hire all in one. Packages tend to be cheaper than booking each part individually, and will also cut down the time it takes hunting for deals.
Flights to Paphos are usually cheaper in the winter months, as there’s less tourist demand and more airline promotions running, so you can find lower fares, and more flexible ticket options. If you opt for a mid-week departure day, you’ll get the best prices.
Hotels drop their rates in the low season, so you can get higher-quality rooms or food packages for the same budgets, and winter rates for care hire is also usually lower, especially if you can book in advance.
What To Pack For Cyprus In Winter
You definitely need to pack layers, as the days can be mild but the evenings cool. Opt for a mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve tops, plus a warm cardigan or hoodie. If you are going to be next to the coast, bring a lightweight jacket.
If there is going to be rainy periods, having a waterproof jacket means you can still explore without being confined to your hotel room.
Closed shoes with a good grip are best for the wet streets, rocky ruins or muddy trails, and bring some warmer socks for any chilly mornings.
You can always bring accessories like a wrap scarf, which you can tuck into your bag without taking up too much room, and you can wear it around your shoulders if you do get cold.
Hi, my name is Gemma, and I’m the owner of MakeupMuddle.com. I’m a true beauty obsessive, and love writing about anything to do with beauty – I have been a beauty writer since 2012.