The island of Aphrodite is traditionally associated with beaches, warm sea and hot sun. Autumn and winter on the island open up new facets of holidays, allowing you to discover the culture, nature and traditions of Cyprus.
The mild climate, pleasant temperatures and reduced tourist traffic make this an ideal time to travel. So what to do in Cyprus in the off-season? Here are some interesting ideas.
Hiking and trekking
Autumn and winter are the best times to explore nature trails. Comfortable temperatures (around 15-20°C) allow you to enjoy long walks. The nature of the island comes alive at this time: the mountains are covered with greenery and the valleys are filled with new colours: yellow mina flowers reign in the fields, lavender and lush hibiscus blossoms adorn the gardens.
Recommended Trails:
- The Caledonia Trail in the Troodos Mountains leads to a waterfall amidst a pine forest. The trail is notable for its steep ascents and descents, but the cool forest and scenic views of the Caledonia Falls more than reward the effort. Route Reference.
- The Aphrodite Trail on the Akamas Peninsula in Paphos offers spectacular views of the coast and bays. The trail passes the ruins of the Righenas Tower and a legendary 500-year-old oak tree. Trail Link.
These trails will give you peace and a chance to savour the natural beauty under the gentle winter sun of Cyprus. Make sure you've stocked up on provisions and fuelled your car if you're heading far from civilisation. Even if you're walking around in a T-shirt and shorts during the day, the thermometer can drop dramatically below 8-10 degrees Celsius at night. You can also find a list of impressive routes on our hiking blog.
Historical discoveries
Cyprus is an island with a centuries-old history, where literally every corner keeps traces of ancient civilisations. In autumn and winter, when there's no scorching sun, it's particularly enjoyable to explore its cultural heritage.
Main sites:
- Ancient Kourion near Limassol. Built by the Mycenaeans in the 12th century BC, the city-state sits on a 70-metre cliff. Here are preserved amphitheatre, Roman baths and amazing mosaics, testifying to the high level of ancient art (on the map).
- Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the Tombs of Kings and the Archaeological Park with mosaic houses (on the map).
- Larnaca's museums, including the recently renovated Archaeological Museum (on the map), which houses unique finds. Stroll along the Phinikoudes promenade in the centre and visit the Medieval Fort (on the map) and the Municipal Museum (on the map), which always has a noteworthy collection of contemporary art on display and admission is free.
- Ayia Napa's outdoor contemporary sculpture park is ideal to visit in winter. The international art collection grows throughout the year, so there's always a chance to see something new and cutting-edge (on the map).
Walking around these places will allow you to delve deeper into the island's history. Nearby you will find cosy cafes and restaurants with local cuisine.
Food and wine tours
Autumn is grape and olive harvest time, which makes gastronomy tourism particularly interesting. You will be able to taste the best wines of Cyprus and local specialities.
We advise you to visit:
- Wineries where you can taste Commandaria, one of the oldest wines in the world.
- Markets in the villages selling fresh honey, olive oil and traditional sweets.
- Local tavernas offering dishes made from the freshest produce: kleftiko, souvla, halloumi.
These are not just tastings, but a real journey into a world of flavours and aromas. You will be pleasantly impressed by the hospitality and sociability of the local population.
Winter holidays in the Troodos Mountains
Even in sunny Cyprus you can find snow in winter! Keep an eye on the weather forecasters. The Troodos Mountains turn into a fabulous winter destination, where you can stroll through snow-covered forests or even try winter sports. Mount Olympus has ski resorts and the villages have cosy taverns where you can warm up with hot mulled wine, chocolate and, of course, Cypriot coffee.
Visiting traditional villages
In autumn and winter, Cypriot villages become especially cosy and attractive to tourists. Each village has a unique atmosphere, revealing the traditions and crafts of the island.
Recommended:
- Lefkara, famous for lace and silverware. It is always crowded and fun.
- Kakopetria in the Troodos Mountains, with its cobbled streets and traditional architecture.
- Fini, where you can taste honey and see the process of cooking traditional dishes.
These places give you a better understanding of the soul of Cyprus, and it's also, well, beautiful!
Birdwatching
Cyprus is an important point on the migration routes of birds, especially in autumn and winter. Many species can be seen here at this time, including pink flamingos and waterfowl.
Best sites:
- Larnaca's Salt Lake, where flocks of pink flamingos congregate in winter. Amazingly, these birds can sense the approach of rain hundreds of kilometres away and come to Cyprus during the rainy season.
- Lake Oroklini, located in the village of the same name near the centre of Larnaca, attracts ducks and other waterfowl. This place is ideal for quiet nature observation.
For bird watching, take binoculars or a lens with good magnification so as not to disturb the birds and enjoy the moment to the full. Birdwatching spots are equipped with special observation points with a roof, benches inside and comfortable viewing windows, allowing you to comfortably enjoy nature in any weather.
Spa holidays and wellness programmes
Autumn and winter in Cyprus are the perfect time to rejuvenate. There are plenty of spas and resorts on the island where you can relax and undergo wellness treatments.
Busy places:
- Four Seasons Spa in Limassol - a place for total relaxation with sea views.
- Anassa Spa in Paphos offers treatments based on natural oils and algae.
- Ayii Anargyri Spa Resort in Paphos, uses healing waters from natural springs.
Christmas festivals and fairs
Autumn in Cyprus flows smoothly into the magical period of Christmas festivities. From mid-November onwards, the island is filled with an atmosphere of anticipation as houses, shop windows and streets are decorated with garlands, Christmas trees and festive lights. Town squares are transformed into fairgrounds where you can feel the real holiday spirit.
What to visit:
- Christmas fairs in Nicosia and Limassol, where you'll find delicious sweets, mulled wine, handmade souvenirs and live music.
- Festivals of Light, where the main square of each town is decorated with a multitude of light installations.
- Larnaca and Paphos, where family-friendly events take place, from concerts and street performances to workshops for children.
- Go ice skating! The malls of Nicosia and Limassol have ice rinks all year round, but for some reason we skate closer to Christmas.
A particularly colourful element of the Christmas atmosphere is home decoration. Cypriots decorate their houses with love: from glowing reindeer and angels on the facades to huge Christmas trees in the gardens. A stroll through these streets is a special treat and is especially memorable for children. Christmas in Cyprus is not only cosy and joyful, but also an opportunity to feel the warm family holiday spirit that reigns in every corner of the island.
Cyprus in autumn and winter is an opportunity to see the island from a new perspective. Mountain trails, ancient ruins, cosy villages, gastronomic discoveries and nature reserves make for an enriching holiday.
and nature reserves make for a rich and unforgettable holiday. Without heat and fuss, you can savour every moment, feel the atmosphere of tranquillity and discover the cultural and natural wealth of the island.
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