Climate & Weather in Cyprus
Cyprus boasts one of the warmest climates in the Mediterranean, with more than 340 sunny days per year. The weather is a major attraction for expats seeking to escape northern European winters.
Annual Overview
| Season | Months | Temperature | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mar-May | 15-25°C | Mild, wildflowers bloom |
| Summer | Jun-Aug | 30-37°C | Hot, dry, very sunny |
| Autumn | Sep-Nov | 20-28°C | Warm, pleasant |
| Winter | Dec-Feb | 10-18°C | Mild, occasional rain |
Summer (June-August)
- Coastal temperatures: 30-35°C daytime, 25-28°C night
- Inland (Nicosia): Can reach 37°C+ (hotter than coast)
- Rainfall: Essentially zero (0mm)
- Sunshine: 12+ hours per day
- Sea temperature: 25-28°C (excellent for swimming)
What to expect:
- Air conditioning essential
- Outdoor activity best early morning or evening
- Beaches busy but not overcrowded
- Dining outdoors in evening popular
Winter (December-February)
- Coastal temperatures: 15-18°C day, 8-12°C night
- Rainfall: 60% of annual rain falls now
- Troodos Mountains: Snow for skiing
- Sunshine: Still 5-6 hours daily
What to expect:
- Heating needed in homes (many not well-insulated)
- Rain gear useful
- Some restaurants/bars may close for off-season
- Great time for hiking and exploring
Regional Variations
Nicosia (inland):
- Hotter in summer (37°C+)
- Colder in winter (5°C possible at night)
- Less humidity
Limassol/Larnaca (coast):
- Sea breeze moderates summer heat
- Mild winters
- More humidity
Paphos (west coast):
- Slightly cooler summers
- More wind
- Good year-round
Troodos Mountains:
- Significantly cooler (5-10°C less than coast)
- Snow in winter (January-March)
- Skiing at Mount Olympus
Sea Temperature
| Month | Temperature |
|---|---|
| January-March | 16-18°C |
| April-May | 18-22°C |
| June-October | 24-28°C |
| November-December | 20-23°C |
Swimming season typically May-November.
Practical Implications
Summer:
- Utility bills spike (air conditioning)
- Budget €150-300/month extra for cooling
- Schedule outdoor exercise early morning
- Drink plenty of water
- Sun protection essential (UV is strong)
Winter:
- Some homes lack central heating
- Space heaters and air conditioning heating mode used
- Heating costs €50-150/month
- Occasional power outages during storms
Climate for Expats
Cyprus weather is ideal if you:
- Love sunshine and beach lifestyle
- Don't mind very hot summers
- Prefer mild winters to cold/snow
- Want year-round outdoor activities
Consider alternatives if you:
- Can't tolerate heat above 35°C
- Prefer distinct four seasons
- Need winter snow (except mountain visits)
Pro Tips
- •Summer heat is intense - air conditioning is essential, not optional
- •Budget extra €150-300/month for summer cooling costs
- •Coastal cities are cooler than inland Nicosia
- •Best months for outdoor activity: April-May and September-October
- •Troodos Mountains offer escape from summer heat and winter skiing
Have questions about climate & weather in Cyprus?