Cyprus is the third-largest island in the Mediterranean, located south of Turkey and west of Syria and Lebanon. This island nation is geographically situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, giving it a unique blend of cultural and historical influences. Cyprus covers an area of 9,251 square kilometers and is characterized by diverse landscapes that include rugged coastlines, fertile plains, and mountainous terrain. The Troodos Mountains, which dominate the southwestern part of the island, and the Kyrenia Mountain range in the north are notable geographical features. The island’s central Mesaoria plain is where most of the country’s agricultural activities take place.
Cyprus has a typical Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild, rainy winters. The coastal regions tend to experience more moderate temperatures compared to the interior, where summers can be extremely hot. Precipitation is primarily concentrated in the winter months, with summers being almost completely dry. The Troodos Mountains experience cooler temperatures throughout the year and receive snowfall in winter, making them an attractive destination for skiing and winter activities.
Cyprus Weather by Month
January
General Overview
- Average temperature: 7°C to 17°C (45°F to 63°F)
- Rainfall: Highest rainfall of the year, especially in the mountains
January is the coldest month in Cyprus, with cool temperatures and significant rainfall, particularly in the Troodos Mountains. Coastal cities like Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos are mild but can experience occasional showers. The island’s mountainous regions receive snow, making it the peak of the winter sports season. Despite the rain, January is generally a mild winter month, with plenty of sunshine between showers.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions (Limassol, Paphos, Larnaca): Mild with some rain, temperatures between 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Cold with snow, temperatures between 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F)
- Inland regions (Nicosia): Cool with rain, temperatures between 7°C to 15°C (45°F to 59°F)
January is ideal for travelers looking to experience the cooler side of Cyprus, with winter sports available in the Troodos Mountains.
February
General Overview
- Average temperature: 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F)
- Rainfall: Decreasing rainfall but still common
February remains part of the winter season in Cyprus, with cooler temperatures and occasional rain showers. The coastal areas are milder, while the Troodos Mountains continue to experience snow, although less than in January. Rainfall starts to decrease toward the end of the month, signaling the approach of spring. The countryside begins to bloom, making it an attractive time for nature lovers.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions: Mild with some rain, temperatures between 9°C to 18°C (48°F to 64°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Cold with lingering snow, temperatures between 1°C to 9°C (34°F to 48°F)
- Inland regions: Cool with rain, temperatures between 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F)
February is still a good time for winter sports in the mountains and a great month for those who prefer cooler weather with fewer crowds.
March
General Overview
- Average temperature: 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
- Rainfall: Rain starts to taper off, particularly in the latter half of the month
March is the start of spring in Cyprus, with warmer temperatures and decreasing rainfall. The coastal regions become more pleasant, with sunny days becoming more frequent. The Troodos Mountains still have some snow in early March, but by the end of the month, it begins to melt, marking the end of the winter sports season. Wildflowers start to bloom across the countryside, making this a beautiful time to explore the island’s natural landscapes.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions: Warm with decreasing rain, temperatures between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Cool with melting snow, temperatures between 3°C to 12°C (37°F to 54°F)
- Inland regions: Mild with occasional rain, temperatures between 9°C to 18°C (48°F to 64°F)
March is ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the island’s natural beauty as the landscape transforms into lush greenery with blooming flowers.
April
General Overview
- Average temperature: 13°C to 24°C (55°F to 75°F)
- Rainfall: Significantly less rainfall, mostly dry and sunny
April is the full onset of spring in Cyprus, with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. The coastal cities are perfect for outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and even beach visits as the sea begins to warm up. The Troodos Mountains are snow-free by now, and the countryside is green and vibrant. April is also one of the best months to explore Cyprus’s archaeological sites and historical landmarks, as the weather is ideal for long days of exploration.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions: Warm and sunny, with temperatures between 13°C to 24°C (55°F to 75°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Mild with cool nights, temperatures between 6°C to 16°C (43°F to 61°F)
- Inland regions: Warm and dry, temperatures between 12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F)
April is perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing, as the weather is comfortable and the island’s flora is at its peak.
May
General Overview
- Average temperature: 16°C to 28°C (61°F to 82°F)
- Rainfall: Dry season begins, with very little rain
May marks the beginning of the summer season in Cyprus, with warm to hot temperatures and almost no rain. The coastal regions are particularly appealing for beachgoers, as the sea is now warm enough for swimming. The island is bathed in sunshine, and the days are longer, making it ideal for exploring both the beaches and the inland areas. The Troodos Mountains offer cooler temperatures and are great for hiking.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions: Warm to hot and sunny, with temperatures between 16°C to 28°C (61°F to 82°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Pleasant and cool, with temperatures between 10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F)
- Inland regions: Warm and dry, with temperatures between 15°C to 27°C (59°F to 81°F)
May is one of the best months to visit Cyprus for those who want to enjoy both beach activities and outdoor adventures in the mountains.
June
General Overview
- Average temperature: 20°C to 31°C (68°F to 88°F)
- Rainfall: Dry and sunny, perfect for beach vacations
June is the beginning of the hot summer in Cyprus, with long, sunny days and no rain. Temperatures continue to rise, particularly inland, but the coastal areas remain comfortable thanks to the sea breeze. The beaches are in full swing, with many tourists arriving to enjoy the warm Mediterranean waters. The Troodos Mountains are also a popular destination for those looking to escape the heat and enjoy hiking in cooler conditions.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions: Hot and sunny, with temperatures between 20°C to 31°C (68°F to 88°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Warm but cooler than the coast, with temperatures between 14°C to 25°C (57°F to 77°F)
- Inland regions: Hot and dry, with temperatures between 19°C to 30°C (66°F to 86°F)
June is ideal for beach vacations, water sports, and outdoor activities, but visitors should be prepared for hot temperatures, especially inland.
July
General Overview
- Average temperature: 23°C to 34°C (73°F to 93°F)
- Rainfall: Very dry and hot, especially in the interior
July is one of the hottest months in Cyprus, with temperatures soaring, particularly inland. The coastal areas remain more pleasant due to the sea breeze, but they can still get quite hot during the midday hours. The island experiences no rainfall, making it ideal for sunbathers and water sports enthusiasts. The Troodos Mountains remain cooler and are a great escape from the heat.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions: Very hot and dry, with temperatures between 23°C to 34°C (73°F to 93°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Warm and cooler than the coast, with temperatures between 17°C to 28°C (63°F to 82°F)
- Inland regions: Extremely hot, with temperatures between 22°C to 33°C (72°F to 91°F)
July is perfect for beach lovers and those seeking sunshine, but it’s advisable to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day.
August
General Overview
- Average temperature: 24°C to 35°C (75°F to 95°F)
- Rainfall: Peak of the summer heat, with no rainfall
August is the hottest month in Cyprus, with scorching temperatures across the island, particularly inland. The coastal areas are slightly cooler but still very hot, making this a prime time for beach activities and water sports. The sea is at its warmest, providing ideal conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The Troodos Mountains continue to offer respite from the heat with their cooler temperatures.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions: Hot and dry, with temperatures between 24°C to 35°C (75°F to 95°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Warm and comfortable, with temperatures between 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F)
- Inland regions: Extremely hot, with temperatures between 23°C to 34°C (73°F to 93°F)
August is the peak of the summer season, ideal for beach vacations, though travelers should be cautious of the extreme heat, particularly inland.
September
General Overview
- Average temperature: 21°C to 32°C (70°F to 90°F)
- Rainfall: Still mostly dry, but temperatures begin to cool slightly
September marks the beginning of autumn in Cyprus, though the weather remains warm and dry. Temperatures begin to drop slightly, especially toward the end of the month, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities. The sea remains warm, and the beaches are still popular, though crowds begin to thin as the peak summer season ends. The Troodos Mountains continue to offer cooler conditions, ideal for hiking and exploring.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions: Warm and sunny, with temperatures between 21°C to 32°C (70°F to 90°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Pleasant and cool, with temperatures between 14°C to 26°C (57°F to 79°F)
- Inland regions: Warm but less intense, with temperatures between 20°C to 31°C (68°F to 88°F)
September is an excellent time to visit Cyprus, with fewer tourists, warm seas, and more manageable temperatures for exploring both the coast and the interior.
October
General Overview
- Average temperature: 17°C to 28°C (63°F to 82°F)
- Rainfall: Start of the rainy season, but still mostly dry and sunny
October is the beginning of the transition into the wetter months, though the first half of the month remains mostly dry and warm. Temperatures continue to drop, making the weather very pleasant for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and even beach visits. The sea is still warm, but rainfall increases toward the end of the month, particularly in the mountains and inland areas.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions: Warm with occasional rain, temperatures between 17°C to 28°C (63°F to 82°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Cool and more humid, with temperatures between 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F)
- Inland regions: Mild with increasing rain, temperatures between 16°C to 27°C (61°F to 81°F)
October is ideal for visitors who prefer fewer crowds, milder temperatures, and pleasant weather for outdoor activities, though the chance of rain increases toward the end of the month.
November
General Overview
- Average temperature: 13°C to 22°C (55°F to 72°F)
- Rainfall: Rain becomes more frequent, especially inland and in the mountains
November marks the start of the rainy season in Cyprus, with cooler temperatures and more frequent rain showers. The coastal regions remain relatively mild, though rain is more common as the month progresses. The Troodos Mountains begin to cool significantly, and the first snowfall can occur toward the end of the month. The beaches are no longer ideal for swimming, but the countryside is lush and green, making it a good time for hiking and exploring nature.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions: Mild with frequent rain, temperatures between 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Cold with possible snowfall, temperatures between 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F)
- Inland regions: Cool with rain, temperatures between 12°C to 20°C (54°F to 68°F)
November is a great time for hiking, exploring Cyprus’s historical sites, and enjoying the island’s lush landscapes, though travelers should be prepared for rain.
December
General Overview
- Average temperature: 9°C to 18°C (48°F to 64°F)
- Rainfall: Wet and cool, especially in the mountains and inland areas
December is part of the winter season in Cyprus, with cool temperatures and frequent rainfall. The coastal areas remain mild, though rainy, while the Troodos Mountains experience cold temperatures and regular snowfall, making it the beginning of the skiing season. The inland regions are also cool and wet, with occasional cold snaps. Despite the rain, Cyprus still enjoys sunny intervals, making it a pleasant winter destination compared to colder European countries.
Regional Differences
- Coastal regions: Cool with rain, temperatures between 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F)
- Troodos Mountains: Cold with snow, temperatures between 1°C to 10°C (34°F to 50°F)
- Inland regions: Cool and rainy, temperatures between 9°C to 16°C (48°F to 61°F)
December is a great month for winter sports in the Troodos Mountains and for exploring the coastal regions without the summer crowds, though travelers should be prepared for rain.
Summary of Cyprus’s Climate by Region
Coastal Regions (Limassol, Paphos, Larnaca)
- Best months: May to October (warm and dry)
- Wettest months: November to February (rainy and cooler)
- Hottest months: July and August (very hot)
Troodos Mountains
- Best months: April to June (mild temperatures, great for hiking)
- Winter months: December to February (cold with snow, great for skiing)
- Wettest months: November to February (rain and snow)
Inland Regions (Nicosia)
- Best months: April to June, September to October (pleasant temperatures)
- Wettest months: November to February (rainy and cooler)
- Hottest months: July and August (extremely hot)
Cyprus has a Mediterranean climate, with long, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. The best time to visit Cyprus depends on your preferences, whether it’s for beach holidays, exploring historical sites, or enjoying winter sports in the Troodos Mountains. The island’s diverse geography offers year-round activities, from summer beach trips to winter skiing.