Cyprus is an island known for its beautiful beaches, blue skies and reliable sunny weather. With over 300 days of sunshine annually, the weather is one of the main draws for people moving to Cyprus. But there’s more to Cyprus’ climate than sunshine and heat, as we’ve looked at below.
Understanding Cyprus’ Seasons
Cyprus experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. While the climate is fairly consistent in Cyprus, it has slight variations depending on where you are on the island.
Summer
Summer in Cyprus is long and hot, running from June to September, with temperatures during the day ranging from 30°C to 40°C in most parts of the island, especially in inland areas. Coastal areas tend to be a bit cooler due to the sea breeze, with temperatures averaging around 25°C to 30°C. Summer is the perfect time for beach lovers, with the waters being ideal for swimming and plenty of sunshine to enjoy outdoor activities. However, the heat can be draining, especially if you’re moving to Cyprus from the UK, so it’s important to stay hydrated.
Autumn
From October to November, it’s autumn in Cyprus, which brings more pleasant temperatures, with average highs of around 20°C to 25°C. The weather remains warm, especially in October, but the heat of summer starts to fade, making it a great time for hiking, exploring and enjoying the outdoors without the extreme heat. Rainfall begins to increase slightly in November, and the landscape becomes lush and green, making it one of the best times to visit Cyprus if you’re looking for mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
Winter
Winter in Cyprus – which runs from December to February – is mild compared to many other European countries, though it can still get chilly. Coastal cities like Limassol, Paphos and Larnaca have daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C, while inland areas can drop to 5°C to 10°C during the day. Though it’s rare to see severe weather, some rainfall is common, particularly in December and January. This is the low season for tourism, so it’s a peaceful time to explore the island.
Spring
Spring is another ideal time to visit or move to Cyprus, with the weather transitioning from mild winter conditions to warm and sunny days. Running from March to May, the average temperatures in spring range from 18°C to 24°C, making it comfortable for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling and sightseeing. By May, temperatures begin to rise, signaling the arrival of summer. Spring is also when the island is most vibrant, making it one of the most picturesque times to be in Cyprus.
6 Things to Expect from Cyprus’ Climate
There are a lot of differences between the UK and Cyprus, but the weather definitely stands out as being one of the most obvious. Here are six things you can expect from Cyprus’ climate.
1. Sunshine Almost All Year Round
Cyprus boasts one of the sunniest climates in Europe, with more than 300 sunny days each year, making it the perfect place to spend a lot of time outdoors.
2. Warm Winters
While winters are mild, they can still be chilly, especially if you’re in the mountains. Coastal areas tend to stay relatively mild and pleasant, and you’re unlikely to experience temperatures anywhere near as cold as they can be in the UK.
3. A Coastal Breeze
As Cyprus is an island, there’s a definite coastal breeze. The sea breeze is a welcome relief during the hot summer months, especially along the coast.
4. Hot Summers
Summer temperatures can be extreme in some areas, so it’s important to plan for heat and stay cool. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to reach 40°C or even higher in some areas.
5. Occasional Rain in Winter
While winters are generally dry in Cyprus, occasional rain is expected, mostly between December and February. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that moving to Cyprus means saying goodbye to the odd rainy day.
6. Mountain Snow
If you’re near the Troodos Mountains, you can enjoy snow and winter sports in the colder months. This might surprise you, considering Cyprus is known for its sunshine and warmth.
The Best Time to Visit Cyprus
The best time to visit Cyprus will depend on what you’re wanting out of your time on the island. For most visitors, spring and autumn are the best times to visit Cyprus. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists and a chance to experience the island’s natural beauty in full bloom and greenery. If you prefer the heat, summer is the time to visit, but be prepared for the intense heat and potential crowds. Winter can be great for a quiet getaway and for those who want to experience the island at a more relaxed pace.
Preparing for Cyprus’ Climate as an Expat
When moving to Cyprus as an expat, there are a few things you should do to ensure that you’re ready for the climate. It’s a lot warmer in Cyprus and the heat can be a shock compared to what you’re used to in the UK.
Clothing
Cyprus’ hot summers mean lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, as well as sun protection like hats, sunglasses and sun cream. In winter, pack light jackets for coastal areas, but bring warmer layers if you’re heading to the mountains.
Air Conditioning
With high summer temperatures, air conditioning in your home and workplace will be important once you’ve moved to Cyprus. Most homes, apartments and offices have air conditioning, but it’s always a good idea to check this beforehand.
Hydration
As you might expect, hydration is key when you’re living somewhere hot like Cyprus. The hot summers can be draining, so always carry a water bottle with you, especially if you’re hiking, heading to the beach or spending a lot of time outdoors.
Planning Your Move to Cyprus
There’s a lot that goes into planning a move to Cyprus – from selling your house to letting everyone know that you’re relocating – but one of the most important steps is finding an international removals company. At United International Removals, we’re here to ensure that your belongings arrive safely and on time, ready for your new life in Cyprus. With our expertise, you can focus on settling into your new life, whilst leaving the logistics of moving your belongings to the experts, ensuring a stress-free move. Contact us to find out more.