Many people assume the summer months are the best time to visit Cyprus. But the truth is, there are so many other things to do in Cyprus outside of the beautiful beaches, making it a fantastic year-round island.

I’ve traveled a lot around Cyprus, both on vacation and for 3 months as a digital nomad. I went from September to November, and it’s a fantastic time of year to enjoy the Island. There are hiking trails, amazing beaches, beautiful towns, villages, and cities to explore, as well as many festivals throughout the year.

The best time to travel to Cyprus will really depend on what you’re looking to do there. So, have a read of this blog post, and hopefully, it’ll help you decide the best time for you to book your trip to Cyprus.

Quick Look: Best Time to Go to Cyprus
For Beaches: June to September
For Hiking: September and October
For Fewer Crowds: April to May
For the Best Weather: June
For Festivals and Parties: March and September

Overall Best Time To Visit Cyprus – June

June is the best time to visit Cyprus. It’s one of my favorite months of the year on the island. The weather is hot and consistently sunny. The beaches are getting busier but are not yet crowded and there’s a lot going on.

June is one of the driest months in Cyprus, and the average temperature is around 23°C to 28°C (73 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit).

As well as being a great time to visit the beach, it’s also the perfect month for the mountains. It’s before the peak summer months, which can be unbearably hot, and is a great time to head into the mountains on a wine tour or for some hiking in the cooler mountain temperatures.

For me, June is the best month to visit Cyprus and enjoy all the incredible things to do on the island.

Peak Season in Cyprus – June to September

The peak season in Cyprus is from the end of June until the start of September. During these months, the temperatures are at their highest and can reach an average of 34°C (93 degrees Fahrenheit).

As well as the high temperatures, this is the busiest time of the year on the island. It’s peak holiday time and so the hotels in the popular resorts of Paphos and Protaras are full and prices are at their highest.

The beaches are also busiest at this time with both tourists and locals. The first two weeks of August are an unofficial holiday in Cyprus, where smaller businesses close down and families head to the beaches.

After that, many Cypriots consider the summer to be over and the beaches become less busy, although tourist numbers remain high.

If you’re a sun worshipper then this is the best time of year to visit as you’re almost guaranteed sun and clear skies every day.

Shoulder Season in Cyprus – May to June and September to October

For me, the best time to travel to Cyprus is on either side of the peak season. Here, the temperatures are slightly cooler but still consistently sunny and warm.

The beaches are less crowded during the shoulder season. Before the peak season, there are fewer tourists, so you’ll find spaces on any beach you visit. After the peak season, many locals no longer spend the days on the beach, and so again you’re always sure to find a lounger.

You’ll also find that, while hotels remain popular during the shoulder season, the prices are lower than during the peak school holiday season and you can grab yourself a bargain either before the peak season begins, or after it ends.

Off Season in Cyprus – November to April

While November to April is classed as the off-season in Cyprus, the weather during this period can still be very favorable.

December to February are the most unsettled months. The average temperature is around 10°C (50 degrees Fahrenheit) and there are more frequent rainstorms during this period. That said, the weather is still more consistent than in other countries in Europe, and this time of year is ideal for hiking.

At either end of the off-season, in November and March/April, you can get some gloriously sunny weather. It’s more of a gamble as the weather is less certain than the rest of the year, but, if you want to avoid the crowds entirely and are equally happy on the beach as you are visiting cities and the mountains, then the off-season could represent excellent value for money.

When to Visit Cyprus For Beaches

If you want the best time to go to Cyprus for beaches, then consider visiting in the shoulder and peak seasons. Particularly from June to September, when the sun is at its hottest and the beaches are at their best.

The weather during this period is most consistent, with regular sunny days and high temperatures. While it’s the most popular time of the year for tourists and locals to be at the beach, it also means all beach facilities are operating.

Beach bars, water sports, parties, and excursions are all operated regularly during this time and so nearly every beach will have facilities for you to enjoy.

Fig Tree Bay and Nissi Beach, on the East Coast, are especially beautiful at this point in the year. During the peak season, you may struggle to find a spot if you arrive late, but outside of peak season, they are excellent places to visit.

If you want to guarantee yourself a lounger during peak season in August then arrive early. Outside of August, you’re unlikely to struggle to find your own spot on the beaches.

When to Visit Cyprus For Festivals and Parties

Cyprus hosts some of the most fun festivals I’ve been to in Europe, and so if you’re in Cyprus during a festival, I highly recommend you head along and join in.

As a predominantly Christian country (and here, I refer to the Republic of Cyprus), the major Christian holidays are accompanied by big celebrations in Cyprus. One of my favorites, and the most famous, is the Limassol Carnival.

The Limassol Carnival takes place 12 days before the start of Lent (so the exact date changes every year but it’s roughly around the end of February). It’s a 10-day celebration in the style of a folk festival. Think of lots of costumes, parades, food and drinks, and parties!

The Limassol Wine Festival also takes place in September each year in Limassol Municipal Gardens. The festival celebrates the history of wine-making in Cyprus. You’ll have the opportunity to try lots of different Cypriot wines from various producers. This is accompanied by great food, music, and entertainment.

Visiting whilst these festivals are being held can be some of the best times to visit Cyprus, as they are a lot of fun, and you get a real sense of life on this magical island.

When to Visit Cyprus For Cities

If you prefer exploring cities to lounging on the beach and want to know when to visit Cyprus, then consider the extremes of shoulder season.

I suggest April and May, or October and November, as some of the best times to explore Cyprus’ cities. At this time, the sun is still shining, and the temperature is pleasant and warm without being too hot.

The conditions mean you can stroll around the cities during the day and really soak up the atmosphere comfortably.

This is especially true for Nicosia. The divided capital is a fascinating city to visit and a walking tour of the city and the Green Line is a must to learn more about Cyprus. It’s a big city to explore (being the capital) and it’s also in-land.

Many of Cyprus’s cities, such as Limassol, Paphos, and Larnaca, are on the coast and so you can escape the heat in the sea. Not so in Nicosia, so if you want to base yourself in Nicosia then consider going in April/May or October/November.

When to Visit Cyprus For Historical Sites

Many of the best historical sites in Cyprus are located in or close to coastal towns and cities. This means you can combine a beach holiday with trips to these sites if you wish.

If you’re heading out to Cyprus for a summer holiday, then you can arrive in peak season and still be able to explore some of the best historical sites in Cyprus.

For example, the Tomb of Kings is located close to the popular coastal city of Paphos and Kourion (an ancient city-state), is located along the coast of Limassol. It overlooks one of the best beaches in Cyprus.

If you want to explore the historical sites outside of the peak tourist season, then the best time to visit Cyprus is May/June and September/October when the temperatures and tourist numbers are lower.

When to Visit Cyprus For Fewer Crowds and Cheap Prices

The best time to visit Cyprus for fewer crowds is April/May and September/October. The temperature is still warm and consistent enough to let you do everything you might want to do.

The beaches will be much less crowded and you’re almost guaranteed to be able to hire a lounger on any of the beaches in Cyprus that you visit.

Equally, accommodation is much cheaper outside the peak summer season. You can expect to pay 30% less during this period than during the summer holidays in July and August. This is particularly so in the popular tourist destinations of Paphos and Protaras where you’ll find an abundance of hotels and apartments near the beach.

Despite this, the bars, restaurants, and cities are still bustling with locals and tourists. There’s a great balance between good prices and lower crowds, while still a fun and enjoyable atmosphere.

When to Visit Cyprus For Hiking

There are some incredible hiking opportunities in Cyprus. The best time to visit Cyprus and take advantage of some of these excellent trails is in May and September/October.

During these periods, there’s still a low chance of rain with consistent sunny days and temperatures. The temperature by the coast is still high enough to spend a day at the beach, and further inland, where the majority of the hiking routes are, is cooler than the coast and so perfect for hiking.

If you’re heading to Cyprus for some hiking, then I definitely suggest a trek through the stunning Akamas National Park. Here, you’ll see some amazing views over the national park and the peninsula, as well as plenty of wildlife.

If you prefer the mountains, then head for the Madari Circular Loop. The route loops around Mount Olympus through the beautiful and peaceful pine forests below and is one of my favorite hikes in Cyprus.

The Best Time to Visit Cyprus By Month

Having considered the various seasons on this Mediterranean island, let’s take a look at each month, in turn, so you can decide on the best time to visit Cyrpus for your next trip!

Cyprus in January

Despite being in the middle of the off-season, January in Cyprus can be a lot of fun if you aren’t looking for a beach holiday.

Weather in Cyprus in January

The weather in January is some of the most unsettled that you’ll experience in Cyprus. That said, the Mediterranean climate means that the weather is still much better than elsewhere in Europe.

Expect comfortable temperatures for the time of year, between 10 and 15°C (low 50s degrees Fahrenheit). There will be rainy days, but showers tend to be short and sharp, with the sun reappearing soon after.

The coastal cities of Limassol, Paphos, and Larnaca have some of the warmer temperatures accompanied by a cool breeze. Temperatures in Nicosia are likely to be a degree or two warmer as it’s inland and sheltered from the coast.

If you head into the Troodos Mountains, temperatures can drop close to freezing, with snow in the ski centers at the top of the Mountains.

Things To Do in Cyprus in January

Epiphany, on 6th January, marks the end of the Christmas period and is often accompanied by processions in the major cities and local villages.

If you want to try skiing in Cyprus, then January is definitely the month to do it. Head up to the Cyprus Ski Club for the totally novel experience of skiing on a Mediterranean island.

The temperatures also make this an ideal time of year to tackle some of the longer hikes in Cyprus and to visit the historical sites. You’ll have some of them to yourself and can enjoy very pleasant temperatures for walking and exploring.

Cyprus in February

The weather in February improves from January, with fewer rainy days and slightly higher temperatures.

Weather in Cyprus in February

The weather in Cyprus in February is similar to that in January, although it becomes slightly more settled.

You’ll get fewer rainy days in February and the weather day to day is more consistent. The temperatures are around the same as they are in January, (perhaps a little higher as the month goes on).

You’ll get plenty of sunny days down by the coast, and the tops of the Troodos Mountains are still covered in snow. This is the middle of the skiing season in Cyprus, so head up the mountains if you want to see snow here.

Things To Do in Cyprus in February

As with January, if you want to experience skiing in Cyprus, then head up to the top of the Troodos Mountains in February. Of course, the skiing isn’t going to rival established resorts in France or the US, but the novelty of seeing snow on this Mediterranean island is worth the trip.

Depending on when Easter falls in any given year, the incredible Limassol Carnival often starts at the end of February. This consists of 10 days of processions, parties, food, and drinks in the coastal city of Limassol.

Cyprus in March

The weather in Cyprus starts to change in March with sunnier days, less rain, and lots of festivals to look forward to.

Weather in Cyprus in March

The weather in Cyprus in March marks the start of the run toward summer. It’s a great time to visit Cyprus for those that want sunny days and cool weather perfect for hiking in Cyprus or visiting the historical sites.

It’s still too cold to swim in the sea, for most people, but the ambient temperature is much more pleasant in March. The temperature in the day is around 15°C (mid to high 50s) with highs close to 20°C. The chance of rain is much less too, with an average of 4.5 days of rain in March.

Cyprus feels like it’s coming alive in March. The days are sunnier, there’s much less rain, and there’s a buzz around with lots of things to do during this month.

Things To Do in Cyprus in March

Some of the best festivals in Cyprus take place in March. In particular, look out for the Limassol carnival. It’s held 12 days before the start of Lent so it varies each year, but it usually starts toward the end of the month.

March is also an excellent time of year to explore some of the hiking trails in Cyprus. The lack of rain dries the trails out, and the sun and pleasant temperatures make for excellent hiking conditions.

Cyprus in April

The build-up to summer continues into April. The temperature continues to climb, the days get longer, and rainy days are very few and far between.

Weather in Cyprus in April

If you’re looking to avoid the peak crowds that descend on Cyprus in the summer, then April could be a good option.

The daily temperatures are still increasing, with the average in April pushing up to between 15-20°C (60-65 Fahrenheit). Highs reach into the low twenties (low 70s Fahrenheit) making for some lovely beach days.

In the mountains, the snow is on its way out and the Troodos Mountain trails are opening up as a result. It’ll still be 10°C or so cooler up in the mountains, so if you head up to hike, or to visit some of the amazing villages in Cyprus, be sure to pack an extra layer.

Things To Do in Cyprus in April

April is an important time of year in the Christian calendar, with Easter often taking place in April. You can expect lots of parties and celebrations in the main cities and the villages. The Limassol Carnival often extends into April, too.

Cyprus National Day is on 1 April and is a celebration across the country. Expect smaller businesses to be closed, but lots of parties and things to see during this period.

The weather in April also marks the start of the wine season, with the vines being pruned. It’s a fantastic time to visit some of the wineries in Cyprus and see the hive of activity that accompanies the start of the growing season.

Cyprus in May

One of my favorite times to visit Cyrus is at the start of the shoulder season, in May. The weather is consistent and warm, and the main attractions in Cyprus are open and less busy.

Weather in Cyprus in May

The weather in Cyprus in May is some of the best in my opinion. There are long, sunny days with very little rainfall and clouds in between.

The average temperature in May climbs to the early 20s°C (high 60s, low 70s Fahrenheit) with highs pushing the mid-to-high 20s°C (late 70s Fahrenheit). The evenings are warm and bright, and it’s amazing beach weather.

Up in the mountains, the temperatures are cooler but still pleasant for walking around. So, if you want to combine a hiking holiday with some downtime on the beach, May is the perfect month to book your trip to Cyprus.

Things To Do in Cyprus in May

At the start of the shoulder season, a lot of the tourist attractions and beach bars are opening up. The crowds are starting to build at this time of year, but are nowhere near as busy as during the peak summer months.

The weather in Cyprus in May is a fabulous time for those that want to tick off some of the best things to do in Cyprus. The weather and the sea are warm enough for some lazy beach days. But the temperature is still pleasant enough to explore some of the amazing historical sites like the Tomb of Kings in Paphos.

It’s also a great time of year to head into the mountains on some of the day tours of the Cypriot villages. It’s a pleasant temperature to explore the local villages like Lefkara or Omodos.

If you’re in Cyprus in early May then look out for Anthestiria, the national flower festival. Towns and cities celebrate this Greek festival in honor of Dionysus. It takes place on the first Sunday in May, and you can expect to see floats and parades of fresh flowers and costumes – it’s really beautiful.

Cyprus in June

June is approaching peak season, and it’s a popular time to visit Cyprus. You get the best of the weather before it becomes super hot and crowds begin to increase before reaching their peak.

Weather in Cyprus in June

June is shoulder season in terms of weather and perhaps tourist numbers. But it signals the start of locals heading to the beaches at weekends and during public holidays. It’s a popular time to visit Cyprus.

The average daily temperature sits at around 25°C (77 Fahrenheit) with highs reaching the early 30s (87 Fahrenheit). Rainy days are a thing of the past, and you can expect consistently hot and sunny days in June.

Inland cities like Nicosia are still pleasant at this time of year, although getting hotter. So if you’re staying in the capital, you may want to stop for a few more cooling frappes (iced coffee) than usual. The mountains are warming up and so you can expect temperatures in the high teens/low 20s°C (68 Fahrenheit) during the day.

Things To Do in Cyprus in June

The weather in June is excellent for ticking off many of the beachside things to do in Cyprus.

The beaches are busier but not too crowded at this time of year. The sea is warm, so it’s perfect for a boat trip, a snorkeling tour, or indulging in some water sports at the beach.

One of my favorite things to do in June is to head to Akamas National Park. The weather in Cyprus in June is at its best to take advantage of the many things to do here. Head to Blue Lagoon to swim in some of the clearest water on the island. While temperatures are climbing, it’s still pleasant enough to hike Avakas Gorge and explore the hidden Lara Beach.

If you prefer to stay closer to the cities, the water parks are open at this time of year and I recommend taking advantage of the smaller crowds to enjoy a day at one of the parks in Cyprus with shorter queues.

Cyprus in July

July is the start of peak season in Cyprus. The temperatures are at their highest and so are the tourist numbers. It’s one of the most popular times to be on the island.

Weather in Cyprus in July

The weather in Cyprus in July is super hot, so it’s the time of year of choice for sun worshipers and beach lovers.

The temperatures will be in the mid-30s°C (mid 90s Fahrenheit) and so it’s perfect weather for relaxing around the pool or by the beach. It’s good to be by the coast in the peak summer months because inland cities such as Nicosia can get very unbearably hot.

The Troodos Mountains, as always, offer cooler temperatures, although even at this altitude it’s probably too hot to be setting off on any long hikes. Instead, explore some of the local villages or relax with a cool glass of white wine at one of the excellent wineries in Cyprus.

Things To Do in Cyprus in July

Given the high temperatures, most of the best things to do in Cyprus in July center around the beach or water. You’ll find the beaches in Cyprus are at their busiest, with both locals and tourists flocking to the coast to escape the heat.

If you want to visit the most popular beaches in Cyprus, then head down early to grab your space on the sand. Alternatively, head to the water parks in Cyprus for a fun day of adrenaline rides and relaxation.

Boat tours are another option in July, with tours operating from Protaras Pier or Paphos harbor.

Cyprus in August

As with July, August is a peak month in Cyprus. Temperatures remain high and the beaches remain popular with tourists flocking in for the summer sun.

Weather in Cyprus in August

The weather in Cyprus in August is a continuation of July. Expect clear skies, no rain, and high temperatures. It can get humid in Cyprus in August, so you may find the heat sticks around long after the sun has set.

That said, Cyprus is set up for the sun and the heat, so expect many bars and restaurants to have air conditioning and open-air dining to keep you comfortable.

As with July, the beaches are very popular at this time of year and a great option for cooling off. I recommend staying in one of the coastal cities, such as Paphos, Limassol, Larnaca, or Protaras at this time of year so that you’re close to the sea and are more likely to feel a little sea breeze.

Things To Do in Cyprus in August

The start of August is an unofficial summer holiday in Cyprus, and so in some towns and cities, you may find that some local stores and restaurants are closed. This is less evident in the main tourist spots of Paphos and Protaras.

However, there are still many amazing things to do in Cyprus in August. As with July, water-based activities are good options for keeping cool. There are lots of incredible tours and things to do in Paphos and Protaras. A boat trip to the Blue Lagoon in Akamas National Park is an excellent option if Paphos is your base.

Cyprus in September

September is another of my favorite months in Cyprus. It’s still busy, although tourist numbers are diminishing as kids go back to school.

Weather in Cyprus in September

The weather in Cyprus in September is still suitable beach weather, although without the searing heat that you can experience in July and August.

The average daily temperature is in the mid-to-high 20s°C (77 Fahrenheit) which is still a lovely temperature for the beach. The sea is warm too after a long summer of sun.

There’s still very little to no rainfall at this time of year. The temperature in Nicosia is still high but not oppressive, so it’s a good time to visit. Equally, the Troodos Mountains are cooling off too, so it’s a pleasant temperature to explore some of the local villages.

Things To Do in Cyprus in September

In September, the vast majority of the tourist attractions remain open. They’re much more pleasant without the large crowds. So I recommend taking the opportunity to visit the historical sites or the water parks, which can become crowded in the peak season.

September is also a lovely time to head into the Troodos Mountains. The hiking is excellent at this time of year. Just check the weather before you go and take plenty of water. Caledonia Falls is one of my favorite places to go, and the hike is beautiful.

Equally, if you love a water park as I do, then take the opportunity to visit in September. Most water parks close in late September, so it’s an awesome time to visit with fewer crowds before they shut for the season.

You’ll also get plenty of beach days at this time of year. Many locals consider the end of August as the end of summer, so you’ll find a lot more space on the beaches in September.

Cyprus in October

October marks the end of shoulder season in Cyprus. It’s still an excellent time to visit Cyprus, with good temperatures and warm seas lingering after the summer sun.

Weather in Cyprus in October

The temperature drops from its summer peak in October, but it’s still very warm. It’s perfect for beach days, but also for visiting the main Cyprus attractions.

The average temperature in October is in the low to mid 20s°C (70-75 Fahrenheit). The sea remains warm after having been heated throughout the summer, so beach days are definitely possible.

Nicosia is much more pleasant to visit in the shoulder season when the lower temperatures make the narrow streets of the old town a joy to explore.

Up in the Troodos Mountains, the temperatures are around 20°Cduring the day (70 Fahrenheit); an ideal temperature to explore the villages, vineyards, and hiking trails nestled in the mountains.

Things To Do in Cyprus in October

Shoulder season is my favorite time of year, and the weather in Cyprus in October means that nothing is off-limits.

The beaches are much quieter than during the peak season. Head to Fig Tree Bay and Nissi Beach to enjoy these beautiful beaches without the summer crowds.

Day trips are an excellent choice at this time of year. I love winery tours and food tours into the Troodos Mountains. Alternatively, head to the capital Nicosia and explore the old town and learn about the Green Zone. It’s a great month to visit.

Cyprus in November

The weather in Cyprus in November is more changeable than in the summer. You’ll still get some good weather but with a few more overcast days.

Weather in Cyprus in November

November isn’t a bad month to visit Cyprus at all. It’s still warmer than many parts of Europe, with average daily temperatures around 15°C (60 degrees Fahrenheit).

The weather is more changeable in November. You’ll get hot sunny days when the temperature is much higher, and it feels like summer. But you may also get overcast and windy days. You’ll likely see some rainy days, although often in Cyprus, rainstorms are short and sharp before the sun returns.

Overall, November is much less for beach days and more for exploring the historical sites or hiking in the mountains.

Things To Do in Cyprus in November

In November, you’ll find that some of the popular tourist attractions are closing down for winter.

The water parks will be closed and there will be far fewer boat trips available. The historical sites will still be open, as will many of the bars and restaurants.

Tours into the Troodos Mountains are very popular at this time of year due to the cooler weather. Also, many of the wineries are finishing their grape harvest, so these are popular places to visit in November.

Cyprus in December

December is very much off-season in Cyprus. However, Cyprus still boasts higher temperatures and lower rainfall than many places in Europe, so it’s a good option for a winter getaway.

Weather in Cyprus in December

The weather in Cyprus in December is much cooler than the rest of the year. Average temperatures are in the low-to-mid-teens (50s Fahrenheit). There are more unsettled days in December with cloud cover or even persistent rain.

That said, the average number of rainy days in December in Cyprus is just over 7 which is favorable compared to mainland Europe.

Things To Do in Cyprus in December

December is not only the middle of the off-season in Cyprus, but it’s also the Festive period. In Cyprus, Christmas is celebrated, although most Cypriots do so by spending time with their families.

Therefore, you’ll find fewer tours available, and many local restaurants closed for significant periods during December.

However, the historical sites will remain open, and it’s a fantastic time to explore these away from the crowds. Also, the hiking in December is very pleasant with the lower average temperatures.

If you want to escape the masses and enjoy some of the warmer weather on offer in Europe in December, then Cyprus is a great option.

In Conclusion

There are some fantastic things to do in Cyprus, and for me, the best time to visit is in the shoulder season (May & September-November). It’s the best time to visit Cyprus to get out and explore and experience more than just the beaches.

If you’re heading for an all-inclusive beach holiday, then peak season may be the best time to travel to Cyprus for you, as the weather is fantastic. Perfect pool and cocktail weather.

I hope what this article shows, is that there really is no such thing as a bad time to visit Cyprus, it’s a fantastic year–round island.