Exploring Cyprus in Autumn: Weather, Activities, Costs, and Top Resorts

Autumn in Cyprus offers a splendid backdrop for a rejuvenating getaway. They are often referred to as the “velvet season.” This time of year ushers in milder temperatures and more budget-friendly options.

Cyprus isn’t just a summer destination for lounging on sunbeds; it boasts a delightful climate that welcomes visitors year-round. This Mediterranean gem offers a plethora of unique attractions and activities that are accessible throughout the year.

SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER: IDEAL FOR CYPRUS EXPLORATION

Officially, Cyprus’ tourist season runs from May to October, with September and October being the pinnacles. This “velvet season” offers a respite from the scorching heat, and prices tend to drop with fewer tourists.
Autumn in Cyprus may feel like an extension of summer, particularly in September and October. Expect European summer weather, with daytime temperatures between +25° and +28°C. The warmest region is Larnaca, where temperatures can climb up to +32°C.
Precipitation is rarely a concern in autumn, with occasional brief showers followed by sunshine.

ENJOYING THE AUTUMN SEASIDE

September and October are ideal for swimming, as the sea retains warmth, gradually cooling to around +25°C. For the more adventurous, swimming can extend into mid-November. Storms are a rarity during this period, ensuring calm and clear waters along the Cypriot coast.

Swimming in November is possible, but windy and rainy days can make it less appealing. Nevertheless, it remains relatively warm when the weather cooperates, with water temperatures around +20°C. Larnaca, Ayia Napa, and Protaras boast the warmest waters during this time.

THINGS TO DO IN AUTUMN

  1. Beach Escapes: Autumn is perfect for achieving that gorgeous tan. The gentle sun is less likely to scorch your skin compared to the summer months, making the island’s beaches even more enjoyable.
  2. Exploring Excursions: Take advantage of the cooler weather to explore Cyprus’ attractions through excursions. Lower autumnal demand often leads to reduced rental car rates, allowing you to venture beyond your hotel and the beach.
  3. Hiking Adventures: Cyprus offers numerous hiking trails, both inland and along the coast. Every stone seems to have a myth or legend associated with it. From short half-day walks to multi-day treks, you’ll encounter panoramic viewpoints and stunning waterfalls, which are particularly impressive in autumn.
  4. Winery Tours: Cyprus has a rich wine-making tradition, with renowned varieties like Commandaria. Explore the charming villages on a wine tour, where you can sample wines from small family wineries and enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery. The young wines start maturing in autumn, making it an excellent time for a visit.
  5. Village Exploration: Cypriot villages are incredibly authentic, each with its own unique specialty, from silver jewelry and lace to almonds and rose products. Visit during their annual festivals to immerse yourself in local traditions and savor regional gastronomic delights.
  6. Archaeological Parks: Save visits to ancient cities for autumn when the weather is more comfortable for exploring without the oppressive heat. Don’t miss the Roman floor mosaics in archaeological parks like Kourion, near Limassol.
  7. Water Activities: Try banana boat rides, water skiing, or catamaran sailing in the still-warm waters of September and October.
  8. Water Parks and Attractions: Early autumn remains warm enough to enjoy water parks in Ayia Napa, Paphos, and Limassol. Ayia Napa also boasts a large amusement park.
  9. Nightlife: Ayia Napa offer vibrant nightlife even in the first two months of autumn, with discos and bars staying open late.

AUTUMN FESTIVALS IN CYPRUS

Autumn in Cyprus is a season of vibrant festivals:

  • Limassol Wine Festival (Oct 8 – 15): Enjoy local crafts, music, and Cypriot wines in Limassol’s central park.
  • Aphrodite Opera Festival (first weekend in September): This traditional event in Paphos features world-class opera performances.
  • Exaltation of the Holy Cross (September 14): A significant holiday dedicated to St. Helena Equal-to-the-Apostles and the acquisition of the True Cross, celebrated with zeal in Cyprus
  • Cyprus Independence Day (October 1): Island-wide concerts and festivities mark this national holiday.
  • Ohi Day (October 28): Cyprus commemorates Greeks and Cypriots who participated in World War II with concerts and parades.
  • Medieval Festival in Agia Napa (October 7 – 15)

AUTUMN ACCOMMODATION PRICES

By mid-October, airfare and coastal rental prices in Cyprus typically drop, so you can take advantage of this. You can check pricing specials here.

AUTUMN DELICACIES

Autumn in Cyprus offers an abundance of fresh, delicious fruits, including figs, pomegranates, strawberries (from April until June), opuntia (cactus fruits), grapes, and citrus fruits. Explore local markets and indulge in these delectable treats, some of which are available straight from the tree.

NOVEMBER IN CYPRUS

November ushers in cooler temperatures, more clouds, occasional rains, and increased moisture. Daytime temperatures hover around +20°…+22°C, with nighttime temperatures dropping to +13°…+14°C. While days can be sunny, evenings require sweaters or sweatshirts. November also marks the onset of windy weather, affecting indoor comfort. At Seafront Protaras all of our Cyprus Villas are equipped with central heating for your comfort.

THINGS TO DO IN NOVEMBER

  • Sunbathing remains possible, and beach loungers are often accessible in mid-November, with transparent wind partitions in Protaras to shield you from the breeze.
  • Savor Cypriot cuisine in local taverns, explore the picturesque cliffs and enjoy a glass of Zivania or Commandaria.
  • Take advantage of shopping deals as prices decrease with fewer tourists.
  • Enjoy mountain hikes, as the snow has yet to fall, and the air is fresh, albeit cooler.
  • Windsurfers can catch waves in November, making it exciting for water sports enthusiasts.
  • The beauty of Cyprus is it’s year round cozy weather.

TOP RESORTS IN NOVEMBER

  • Ayia Napa remains the warmest resort, offering water activities well into early November.
  • Although transitioning to off-season, Protaras still has open bars and restaurants, with pleasant temperatures around +17°C to +22°C during the day and +22°C in the sea.

PACKING FOR AUTUMN AND NOVEMBER

  • Pack a few blouses and a light jacket for cooler evenings in September and October.
  • Remember sunscreen and sunglasses, especially in November when the sun can still be intense.
  • An umbrella, waterproof shoes, and additional outerwear are advisable for November.
  • Warm clothes are essential for November evenings, as central heating is uncommon.

Cyprus is a year-round destination that offers its charms in every season. Autumn, especially in September and early October, presents an excellent opportunity to experience the island’s beauty with favorable prices and pleasant weather. Take the chance to explore Cyprus in this enchanting season.

As the winter season unfolds in Famagusta, the culinary scene remains vibrant and inviting. Whether you’re a guest at Seafront Protaras or a local food enthusiast, there’s a plethora of dining options to explore in the area. Here’s your guide to the best restaurants open during the winter period.

Protaras

  1. Yiasemi: Open from 11:00 to 23:00, Yiasemi serves delightful meals until December 17, resuming on February 20, 2024.
  2. Folio: A cozy spot available from Thursday to Sunday, 18:00-23:00, until the end of November and reopening in February.
  3. Vangelis: Relish a variety of dishes from 12:00-22:00, Tuesday to Saturday, and enjoy Sunday lunches from 12:00-17:00.
  4. Raviolis Italian Restaurant: Indulge in Italian cuisine every day from 17:30-23:30.

Pernera Area

  1. La Cultura del Gusto: Open Tuesday-Sunday from 18:00-23:00.
  2. Blue Spice: Offering meals every day from 10:00-21:30.
  3. Mojito Bar: Open Monday-Friday 12:00-21:00, weekends 09:30-21:30. Check their Facebook page or Google for the latest schedule.
  4. Tipsy Turtle: Available Monday to Friday 11:00-02:00, Saturday 10:00-21:00 (drinks till 02:00), and Sunday 12:30-18:00 (open for drinks till 02:00).

Kapparis Area

  1. Sashiko (Asian): Enjoy Asian cuisine from 13:00-23:00, Tuesday-Sunday.
  2. Just Italian: Open every day from 13:00 -22:30 (closed from 16:00-17:30).
  3. Mambo’s: Available from 9:00-24:00 (closed all of January and half of February, reopening on February 12, 2024).
  4. Pig & Whistle Bar: With live music on Saturdays, open from 9:00-24:00.
  5. Zeyn (Lebanese Restaurant): Savor Lebanese flavors from 17:00-23:00, Tuesday-Sunday.
  6. Matu: Open every day from 9:00-24:00.
  7. Kalifi: A day-time choice, available from 8:00-17:00 pm daily.

Paralimni

  1. Senso: Open 8:00-12:00 every day, extending till 21:30-22:00 on Sundays.
  2. Maccadam: Enjoy all day from 9:00-01:30 midnight daily.
  3. Ttapis: Available from 18:00-23:00, and on Sunday with live music from 13:00-17:00 (kitchen open 13:00-15:30).
  4. The Loop: Open from 8:00-17:00 every day.

Agia Napa

  1. Reb Ruby Asian: Open 12:30-22:30 daily.
  2. Vassos Fish Tavern: Available from 9:00-22:30 on business days and weekends from 9:00-23:00.
  3. Bella Italia: Serving from 12:00-23:00.
  4. Ocean Basket: Open daily from 12:00-22:00.
  5. Jello: A late-night spot, open from 9:00-01:00 midnight daily.
  6. Little Panda Chinese & Sushi: Open 13:00-23:00 all November (December schedule TBD).
  7. Isaak Fish Tavern: Available from 12:00 till 22:00 daily.
  8. Taipei Town: Serving from 13:00-23:30 daily.
  9. Hungry Horse: Open 12:00-22:00, closed from December 20 to January 20 and every Tuesday.
  10. Limanaki: Available from 7:00-00:30 daily.
  11. Central Cafe: Open 10:00-22:00 daily.
  12. Sesoula Kalamaki: Serving from 12:00-22:00 daily, closed from December 3-25.
  13. Alya All Day Cafe: Open 9:00-22:00 daily.
  14. Liquid Cafe: Available from 9:00-02:00
  15. midnight daily. 15. Fish House: Delight in seafood from 12:00-21:00 daily, Sundays till 20:00.
  16. The Courtyard Bar and PRIVATE DINING IGLOO at Napa Suites Hotel: Enjoy evenings from 19:00-22:00 daily.
  17. L’Atelier Robuchon: Experience fine dining Wednesday to Saturday from 18:30-22:30, with live music on Sundays from 11:00 till 3-4 pm.
  18. Le deli Robuchon: Open Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday 9:00-17:00, and Friday and Saturday from 9:00-19:00.

Sotira

  1. Mousikos: Open 18:00-22:00, closed on Sundays and for the Christmas holidays from December 17 to January 10, 2024.
  2. Old Simos Tavern: Serving from 18:00-23:00 every day, closed on Mondays.

With this comprehensive guide, your culinary journey in Famagusta during the winter months promises to be a delightful exploration of flavors and experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for local Cypriot delicacies, international cuisine, or just a cozy spot for a drink, these restaurants offer something for everyone. Bon appétit!