Cyprus is known for its natural and climatic conditions, allowing guests to choose this island in the Mediterranean for vacation and comfortable living.
The sun loves this island, there are about 320 sunny days with clear skies in a year.
Among European destinations, Cyprus is the only country, where the sea is warm for the longest period of time, from the end of May till November.
The island enjoys a subtropical Mediterranean climate with a hot summer and a mild, relatively rainy winter. The temperature in the winter varies between 13 and 15°C, in the summer it can reach 30-35°C. In general, the climate in Cyprus is considered to be the most healthy and abundant on the planet.
Throughout the year there is about 375mm of precipitation, on the plains there it ranges from 300 to 500mm, in mountainous regions in the western part of the island – around 500-700mm, and closer to mountain peaks it is about 1000mm.It usually rains from late October to April, whereas snow can only be seen in the Troodos mountains.
When talking about the cities, Nicosia gets the least precipitation, while Kyrenia gets the most. The humidity level is in general 60-80% in the winter and 40-60% in the summer. Winds are usually light, but significantly pick up during the winter season. This climate is favorable for cultivating various types of crops, besides, the soil is also quite rich and fertile on the island.
Seasonality on Cyprus: comfort throughout the year
Mach – May
In Spring the island filled with flowers. Towards mid-February, the mountain slopes are covered with a bright green carpet, while the blossoming almond trees announce that Spring is just around the corner. During the first half of March the weather is still quite cool.
After the second half of March and up until mid-May Spring fully comes into power, illuminating everything with vibrant colors. On average the temperature during the day in April-May can reach up to 25 °C. It is the perfect time for long walks and hiking in the hills and mountain trails of the island. It is not yet hot, while the ruins of ancient cities are dotted with scarlet poppies and anemones.
In April, the weather is unpredictable and the water in the sea is cool. But some days in May can be really resort-like and warm, and the sea – great for swimming.
June – August
The summer on the island starts from mid-May, bringing about heat, cloudless skies and a refreshing breeze from the sea. This is the time of high temperatures and almost clear blue skies. During the summer months, coastal regions enjoy an average temperature of 32°C, regions in the central part of the island— 36°C, but on certain days, the temperature can exceed even 40°C. July and August are particularly hot on Cyprus. The “coolest” place on Cyprus during the summer is the west coast, in the region of Paphos, where the temperature is 2-3 degrees lower than in Larnaca and Limassol. During this season is perfect for swimming, sun tanning, doing water sports and other activities, whether it is sailing or diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
September – November
Autumn on Cyprus is the traditional time of wonderful weather, with sunny and bright days, when the water is especially comfortable for swimming. On average, the temperature during the day in the coast areas is at about 30°C, gradually decreasing to 23°C towards November.
Even in mid-November on Cyprus you can feel the warmth of the summer, and if the Autumn has been truly warm, you can swim in the sea until the end of November. If, however, it is already cold in November, the end of the swimming season is a bit earlier – around the middle of the month.
In October and November, the mountain slopes of Troodos change their color, while the vineyards turn burgundy and gold, against the backdrop of clear blue skies. Excursions to villages and wine tasting become even more attractive and comfortable.
December – February
The cold season usually starts on Cyprus during the second half of December and lasts till mid-March. During this time, the daytime temperature in coastal regions is at around 17°C, while at night-time it is usually around 9°C. For Cypriots, this is the beginning of the short season for heating their homes. The character of Cypriot winters is uncertain: sunny days are frequently interrupted by long-awaited rains. It is in the winter that the majority of the annual precipitation of Cyprus is produced, which is what the future crops depend on.
During this season, other Mediterranean resorts are usually closed. But Cyprus has its own rules! This island is an international business center, as well as a treasure trove of numerous historical monuments and museums.
The beginning of January marks the first signs of Spring – orchids start blooming. Starting from February, the slopes and the plains of Cyprus come to life with a green carpet of fresh plants.
Troodos mountains are covered in snow from January to March. There is enough snow to enjoy winter sports, while in the Olympos mountain vicinity there are winter resorts.