+35799952599
+35799952599Christmas in Protaras: Cypriot Traditions & Things to Do in December
The Mediterranean shimmers under December’s gentle sun as the scent of cinnamon and honey wafts through Protaras’ streets. While Northern Europe shivers under snow, Cyprus celebrates Christmas with a unique blend of Orthodox traditions, warm sunshine, and seaside magic that transforms this corner of the island into something truly special.
If you’re wondering whether Protaras is worth visiting during the festive season, or what makes a Cypriot Christmas different from anywhere else in the world, you’re in the right place. This isn’t just another list of tourist activities. This is your insider guide to experiencing Christmas in Protaras the way locals do, while also enjoying everything this stunning coastal town has to offer in December.
How does Cyprus celebrate Christmas?
Before we explore what makes Protaras special during the holidays, it helps to understand how Cyprus celebrates Christmas. The island follows Orthodox Christian traditions, which means the festive season unfolds differently than you might expect.
The 40-Day Fast and the Feast
For devout Cypriots, Christmas preparations begin 40 days before December 25th with a period of fasting. This isn’t about deprivation; it’s about anticipation. The fast traditionally excludes meat, dairy, and eggs, making the Christmas feast all the more spectacular when it finally arrives.
On Christmas Day, families break the fast with a bowl of avgolemono (egg-lemon soup), followed by a magnificent spread featuring stuffed turkey with rice, raisins, and pine nuts, alongside traditional delicacies like koupepia (stuffed vine leaves), slow-cooked lamb, and plenty of Cypriot wine. The table groans under the weight of dishes passed down through generations.
Christmas Eve: The Night of Carols
The evening of December 24th belongs to the children. Groups of young carol singers, called kalandistes, roam neighborhoods carrying triangles and small drums. They sing traditional carols like “Kalanda” and “Kalispera Archontes” (Good Evening, Masters), songs that date back centuries and are sung only in Cyprus.
It’s customary to reward the carolers with small coins, sweets, or traditional treats like melomakarona (honey cookies) and kourabiedes (almond shortbread dusted with powdered sugar).
If you’re staying in Protaras during Christmas Eve, don’t be surprised if you hear these cheerful voices outside your villa or apartment. It’s one of the most authentic experiences you can have. The tradition creates a sense of community and joy that’s increasingly rare in our modern world.
Ayios Vasilis and New Year’s Day
While December 25th is celebrated as the birth of Christ, gift-giving in Cyprus traditionally happens on New Year’s Day, brought by Ayios Vasilis (Saint Basil). Many modern Cypriot families now exchange gifts on both days, blending tradition with Western influences.
On New Year’s Eve, families cut the Vasilopita, a special cake with a coin baked inside. Whoever finds the coin in their slice is believed to have good luck for the entire year ahead. It’s a moment of anticipation and excitement, especially for children gathered around the table.
The Extended Celebration: Until the Epiphany
Christmas in Cyprus doesn’t end on December 26th. The festive spirit continues through New Year and extends until January 6th, the Epiphany (Theofania).
This is when priests bless the waters by throwing a cross into the sea, and brave swimmers dive in to retrieve it. A spectacular tradition you can witness in nearby Ayia Napa’s harbor. The retriever is said to receive special blessings for the year.
What’s the Weather Like in Protaras During December?
One of Protaras’ biggest advantages during Christmas is the weather. While it’s not swimming-in-the-sea warm, December in Protaras offers something increasingly rare in Europe: genuine outdoor weather during winter.
You’ll need a light jacket for evenings and potentially a sweater during the day, but you can comfortably explore outdoors, dine on restaurant terraces, and enjoy beach walks. Many visitors from Northern Europe find this climate absolutely perfect for a Christmas escape: warm enough to be outside, cool enough to feel festive.
Similar to November’s pleasant conditions, December maintains that comfortable Mediterranean winter character.
What Can You Do in Protaras During Christmas?
Experience the Deryneia Christmas Village
Protaras’ neighbor, Deryneia, is officially designated as one of Cyprus’ Christmas Villages for the 2025-2026 season. Located just a 15-minute drive from Protaras, this village transforms into a festive wonderland from November 22nd through January 6th.
What You’ll Find:
Traditional Christmas market stalls selling local crafts, handmade ornaments, and Cypriot delicacies
Live music and cultural performances on weekends
Street food vendors offering loukoumades (honey puffs), roasted chestnuts, and warm glühwein
Activities for children including face painting, craft workshops, and visits with Santa Claus
Festive decorations illuminating the village’s charming streets
Local artisans demonstrating traditional crafts
Pro Tip: Visit on a Saturday evening when the village is most lively. The atmosphere peaks around 6-8 PM when locals mingle with tourists, children run through the streets with sparklers, and the smell of grilled halloumi fills the air. Park on the outskirts and walk in, as parking in the village center becomes difficult during peak hours.
Explore Cape Greco National Forest Park
December is arguably the best time to explore Cape Greco. The summer crowds have vanished, and temperatures are perfect for hiking without the intense heat.
Christmas-Season Activities:
Hiking the Nature Trails: The cooler weather makes the 2-3 hour coastal trails comfortable. The sea caves, natural rock bridges, and cliff-top views are spectacular under winter light. Look for the famous “Love Bridge” and the sea caves where you can hear the waves echo.
Cycling Routes: Rent bikes and explore the park’s designated cycling paths. Several rental shops in Protaras offer mountain bikes suitable for the terrain.
Picnicking: Pack a festive picnic with Cypriot meze and local wine. The park has designated picnic areas with stunning sea views, perfect for a Christmas Day alternative celebration.
The park remains open year-round, completely free, and offers some of the most pristine coastal scenery in Cyprus. It’s one of the best sunset spots near Protaras for capturing that golden winter light.
Beach Walks and Coastal Experiences
While it’s too cool for beach lounging and swimming in December (though some hardy souls do brave it), Protaras’ beaches take on a different, quieter beauty in winter.
Fig Tree Bay in December: The island’s most famous beach becomes peacefully serene. Walk the shoreline without summer crowds, collect shells, watch fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, and enjoy unobstructed views of the turquoise water.
Konnos Bay: This sheltered cove surrounded by pine-covered hills is breathtaking in winter. The contrast between the green hills, golden sand, and blue sea is more visible without hundreds of sun umbrellas. It’s about 10 minutes south of Protaras and worth the short drive.
These peaceful beach walks are perfect for couples seeking romantic moments, with the winter sun creating that soft, magical light.
Christmas Markets and Festive Events
While Protaras itself is quieter during winter, nearby cities host impressive Christmas markets worth the short drive:
Larnaca Christmas Market (30 minutes from Protaras): Usually held in early December in St. Lazarus Square with over 200 stalls selling handicrafts, artisan foods, and unique gifts. Entry fee is typically around €2.50 (free for children under 12). Expect live entertainment, children’s activities, photo opportunities with Santa, traditional Cypriot treats, and mulled wine. The market usually runs for one weekend, Friday through Sunday.
Christmas Wonderland at Larnaca Finikoudes (30 minutes from Protaras): This family-friendly amusement park with rides, games, and entertainment operates from late October through early January. Particularly suitable for children aged 3-8, featuring festive food stalls and sweet treats. Located right on the beachfront promenade, you can combine it with a seaside walk.
Traditional Cypriot Dining Experiences
Most restaurants in Protaras remain open during the Christmas season, offering both traditional Christmas menus and regular Mediterranean cuisine.
What to Try:
Traditional Christmas Lunch: Many tavernas offer special Christmas Day menus featuring roasted turkey or pork stuffed with rice, raisins, and nuts, alongside traditional sides like roasted potatoes with oregano and seasonal vegetables.
Fresh Seafood: The fishing industry doesn’t pause for Christmas. Enjoy fresh fish, octopus, and calamari at waterfront restaurants. December is excellent for grouper, sea bream, and red mullet.
Meze Experience: Order a full Cypriot meze (18-20 small dishes) to sample everything from halloumi and olives to slow-cooked lamb and village sausages. It’s the best way to try multiple traditional dishes.
Christmas Sweets: Don’t leave without trying melomakarona (honey-soaked spiced cookies) and kourabiedes (butter almond cookies with powdered sugar). Most cafes and bakeries make fresh batches daily during the season.
Restaurant Tip: Book ahead for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, as many locals also dine out during the holidays. However, be aware that some establishments close for December 25-26, so always confirm opening hours in advance. Waterfront tavernas generally have the most festive atmosphere.
Day Trips from Protaras
Protaras serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region during Christmas. Here’s a quick comparison of the best day trip options:
Why Choose Protaras for Your Christmas Holiday?
Authentic Cultural Experience
Staying in Protaras during Christmas gives you access to genuine Cypriot traditions. You’re not experiencing a manufactured “tourist Christmas.” You’re witnessing how real Cypriot families celebrate, from the carol singers to the family feasts to the religious services.
The proximity to Deryneia, a traditional village rather than a resort town, means you can easily slip between relaxing beach-town vibes and authentic village culture. Similar to the cultural festivals throughout the year, Christmas brings out Cyprus’ most authentic character.
Better Value for Money
December is low season in Cyprus, which translates to significant savings:
Villa and hotel rates can be 30-50% less than summer peak
Better availability with no need to book months in advance
More personalized service with fewer tourists
Car rental prices drop significantly, sometimes under €30 per day with full insurance
Perfect for Different Travel Styles
Families: Safe, shallow beaches for supervised winter beach play, plenty of outdoor space for children to explore, festive activities specifically designed for families, and villa accommodation or apartments providing space and kitchens for flexible meal times.
Couples: Quieter, more intimate atmosphere with stunning sunset walks along nearly empty beaches and cozy taverna dinners without crowds.
Solo Travelers: Welcoming local atmosphere, easy navigation, safe environment, and opportunities to meet both locals and other travelers in the more intimate off-season setting.
How Should You Plan Your Christmas Trip?
Protaras serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region during Christmas. Here’s a quick comparison of the best day trip options:
What Are the Best Christmas Itineraries?
3-Day Christmas Getaway
Day 1 (December 24, Christmas Eve)
Morning: Arrive and settle into accommodation, quick grocery shop if needed
Afternoon: Explore Cape Greco National Forest Park, short coastal hike
Evening: Visit Deryneia Christmas Village, experience carol singers back in Protaras
Day 2 (December 25, Christmas Day)
Morning: Leisurely breakfast, beach walk at Fig Tree Bay
Midday: Traditional Christmas lunch at taverna (pre-booked)
Afternoon: Relaxation at villa, pool time, reading by the sea
Evening: Light dinner
Day 3 (December 26)
Morning: Day trip to Lefkara Christmas Village
Afternoon: Wine tasting at local winery on return journey
Evening: Fresh seafood dinner at Ayia Napa harbor, explore the medieval monastery
5-Day Extended Christmas Holiday
Add to the 3-day itinerary:
Day 4: Larnaca Christmas Market and Christmas Wonderland (if dates align), explore Larnaca’s palm-lined Finikoudes promenade and St. Lazarus Church
Day 5: Ocean Aquarium Protaras, lunch at Konnos Bay, afternoon at different beaches (Sunrise Beach, Pernera), farewell dinner at favorite taverna discovered during the trip
Final Thoughts: A Different Kind of Christmas Magic
Christmas in Protaras isn’t about icy wonderlands, bustling European markets, or traditional winter scenes. It’s about something different: a unique fusion of ancient Orthodox traditions, Mediterranean warmth, family-centered celebrations, and the rare luxury of outdoor winter activities under blue skies.
It’s about morning walks on empty beaches where the only footprints are yours, afternoon hikes under winter sun, and evenings filled with the scent of honey cookies and cinnamon. It’s carol singers at your door singing songs their grandparents sang, traditional feasts in family tavernas where recipes haven’t changed in generations, and the peaceful rhythm of a coastal town that’s returned to its authentic self.
The Mediterranean doesn’t freeze in December. It simply slows down, breathes, and reveals its most genuine character. For travelers seeking something beyond the conventional Christmas experience, Protaras offers a holiday that’s both relaxing and culturally enriching, both familiar in its festive spirit and exotic in its Mediterranean setting.
Ready to experience Christmas in Protaras? Browse our collection of seafront villas and apartments featuring heated pools, full kitchens for preparing Christmas feasts, and stunning sea views for memorable holiday moments. December rates offer exceptional value. Book now to secure your Mediterranean Christmas escape and discover why so many visitors return year after year for this unique seasonal experience. Dont forget to use Promo Code BLACKFRIDAY10.
We can help
No, December is low season. You’ll find significantly fewer tourists than summer, creating a peaceful, authentic atmosphere where you can actually interact with locals and enjoy attractions without queues.
The sea temperature hovers around 19-20°C (66-68°F), which most people find too cold for comfortable swimming. However, many villas offer heated pools, and some brave visitors do swim in the sea. It’s refreshing rather than relaxing!
Most restaurants and shops operate normally throughout December, but many close on December 25-26. Always confirm opening hours in advance for these specific dates. Supermarkets also have reduced hours or close on Christmas Day, so stock up on December 24th.
Pack layers: light jacket for evenings, long-sleeve shirts, comfortable walking shoes, and sunscreen. The weather is mild during the day (16-18°C) but cools down at night (10-12°C). Bring a swimsuit for heated villa pools.
December is low season, so you have more flexibility than summer. However, Christmas week (December 23-27) can book up, especially popular villas. Booking 4-6 weeks in advance ensures good selection and rates.
While coastal Protaras doesn’t get snow, the Troodos Mountains (90 minutes away) often have snow in December and January. You can take a day trip to experience a completely different, alpine side of Cyprus.
Very much so. The calm beaches, outdoor spaces, villa accommodations with kitchens, and family-friendly activities make it ideal for children. Christmas Villages offer specific activities for kids, and the mild weather means children can play outdoors comfortably.
Protaras is quiet compared to summer. Most nightlife action happens in nearby Ayia Napa (15 minutes away), which maintains more energy even in winter. However, several bars and pubs in Protaras remain open for casual evening drinks.