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Should You Visit Cyprus in November? Here’s the Honest Answer


Are you thinking of visiting Cyprus in November but aren’t sure if it’s a good idea?

Travelling in Europe in November can be a bit hit or miss, but having just returned from a wonderful 4 days in Cyprus in November, I’m here to tell you that this is a fantastic time to visit and well worth looking into.

I’d even go so far as to say that Cyprus in November is the perfect choice, as it combines gorgeous Mediterranean sunshine with bags of festive cheer (yes, Cyprus can be the perfect place for your Christmas holidays!).

beach in limassol, cyprus
One of the beaches in Limassol in November


In this blog post, I’ll dive into all of the reasons why visiting Cyprus in November is a great choice, from the generous package holiday deals available to the festive attractions, mild weather, and almost total absence of crowds.

Are you ready?

Then let’s get into it.


Should You Visit Cyprus in November or Save It for Summer? Here’s the Honest Answer


Weather in Cyprus in November


I’m sure that the biggest question on your lips is what to expect from the weather in Cyprus in November, so I’ll dive right in.

Cyprus has 340 sunny days annually, making it a year-round destination with consistently high chances of sunshine. 


Daytime temperatures in November can reach a maximum of 24°C (75°F) in the coastal areas, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C-22°C (59°-72°F)

During the evening, it becomes quite a bit cooler, with night time temperatures dropping to around 10°C (50°F), so be sure to pack some layers and bring a light jacket.

limassol promenade
Limassol promenade in November


There is minimal rainfall in Cyprus in November, with an average of just 4 days of rain throughout the month, often manifesting as brief showers rather than continuous downpours.

You can expect around 7 hours of sunshine a day, with gentle breezes and a moderate UV index.


The sea temperature in November remains relatively mild, at about 22°C (72°F). This isn’t freezing by any means, but it’s also not the nice warm dip that you may be hoping for!

Overall, the weather in Cyprus in November is not beach weather (I didn’t see a single person sunbathing during my time in Cyprus), but it’s the perfect climate for activities such as hiking, biking, or exploring Cyprus’ many archaeological ruins, which become almost impossible during the sweltering summer months.

limassol cyprus in november
The sunshine in Cyprus in November


Reasons to visit Cyprus in November


Escape the crowds


If you’re anything like me, you hate overcrowded destinations.

Overtourism is a real problem, and by visiting Cyprus in November, you won’t be contributing to it (yay!).

Not only that, but by visiting in the off-season, you’ll get to see a much more authentic side of the island. Rather than hordes of tourists clamouring for the perfect photo, you’ll see actual locals going about their lives.

lania in november
The village of Lania


While some Mediterranean destinations turn into ghost towns in winter, Cyprus is full of people who live and work here all year round.

I stayed in Limassol, which had plenty of people around. Nicosia is also a lively city to visit in November (although there are no beaches here).


Cyprus Christmas Villages


The most magical thing about visiting Cyprus in November or December is getting to experience the Christmas Villages.

Each year, eight communities across Cyprus transform into magical winter wonderlands with twinkling lights, local artisans selling handicrafts (look out for copper goods, clay pottery, and embroidery), tavernas offering special holiday menus, and displays of traditional song and dance.

Cyprus Christmas Villages
The Cyprus Christmas Villages are magical


Sip some Commanderia, Cyprus’ most famous dessert wine, snack on roasted chestnuts, and perhaps even join a village tour or workshop. The workshops are all free of charge and include things like basket weaving, silversmithing, mosaic making, and even Commanderia-making!

You can find more information about the handicraft workshops here.

In 2025, the Christmas Villages ran from 22 November until January 6, so check out the official website for 2026 dates.

 

mosaic workshop lania
Taking part in a mosaics workshop in Lania!
Cyprus Christmas Villages
Gorgeous pork at the Fikardou Christmas Village


Where to find the Cyprus Christmas Villages


There are eight villages that take part in this tradition. Some of them change in order to make way for new villages, but most of them remain the same.

I visited a few of them during my visit, and I have to say that Fikardou was one of the most magical places I’ve ever been. The whole village is made up of abandoned stone houses resembling caves, and the artisans actually set up inside them to peddle their wares – I’ve never been somewhere that felt so authentically medieval before!


The Cyprus Christmas Villages 2025 were:

  • Agros
  • Deryneia
  • Kakopetria
  • Kalopanagiotis
  • Kyperounta
  • Lefkara
  • Statos-Agios Fotios
  • Fikardou


Outdoor activities


I touched on this earlier, but November is the perfect time to go hiking, explore archaeological sites, and enjoy other sports and outdoor activities in Cyprus.

The weather in summertime can reach temperatures of over 37°C (99°F), making it almost impossible to do anything besides lie on the beach or cool down in the hotel pool.

Archeological Site of Kourion
The Archeological Site of Kourion is much more pleasant in the cooler months!


From the UNESCO archaeological sites of Paphos to the ample hiking opportunities (the coastal paths of the Akamas Peninsula and the pine-clad Troodos Mountains are particularly beautiful) and stunning natural landscapes, Cyprus has a lot to offer for the outdoorsy traveller.

Archeological Site of Kourion
The Archeological Site of Kourion


Wine harvest


For many Cypriot wineries, November is harvest season, making it the perfect time to indulge!

Dozens of wineries offer vineyard tours and tasting opportunities, and trust me when I say that Cypriot wine is exceptional! Whether you’re a total novice or a seasoned wine enthusiast, I highly recommend booking a wine tour on your trip to Cyprus.

During my visit, I visited Ktima Gerolemo in Omodos for a wine tasting, and it was one of the highlights of the trip.

wine tasting in cyprus
Cypriot wine – delicious!


Affordable package holiday deals


Travelling in low season is the best way to score cheap travel deals. Many hotels lower their prices during these months, and you can also snag some great package holiday deals.

Jet2holidays have plenty of Cyprus packages (I travelled with them for this trip), including lots of flights from Manchester airport.

Before I travelled with Jet2holidays, I didn’t think I was a package holiday kinda gal, but after travelling with them on several trips and being wowed every time, I’m a convert.

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Cypriot food


Regular readers of this blog will know that I LOVE food, and Cypriot food is no exception.

While you would be forgiven for assuming Cypriot food works best in the summer (think grilled seafood, Greek salads, and juicy olives), there are also many hearty Cypriot dishes that are perfect for when the weather is a little cooler.


Picture creamy halloumi, skewers of grilled meat, rich stews (stifado), and my personal favourite, kleftiko, or slow-roasted lamb.

These comforting foods are perfect for autumn and winter, especially when served as part of a huge meze that almost makes the table legs buckle under its weight.


souvlaki
Hearty grilled meats – perfect in all seasons!
lamb
The lamb in Cyprus is divine


Christmas in Cyprus also brings traditional festive desserts.

Keep an eye out for kourabiedes, which are little shortbread biscuits made with butter and toasted almonds, and melomakarona which are crumbly cookies flavoured with orange, cinnamon, walnuts, and lots of honey.

christmas cookies in cyprus
Christmas cookies in Cyprus


Cats of Cyprus


Okay, so this has nothing to do with the month of November, but I couldn’t write an article about reasons to visit Cyprus without including the obvious – cats!

If you’re a cat lover, Cyprus is the dream destination for you.

Every city, town, and village is home to tonnes of beautiful stray cats that are almost all super friendly! You can tell that the street cats in Cyprus are well-cared for, with locals leaving out food and water, and there are even beds and kennels dotted around!

cats of cyprus
The cats in Cyprus are the best


While the Cypriot government don’t actively vaccinate stray cats, there are many animal welfare groups that vaccinate and spay/neuter them.

If you ask me, cats are a very worthy reason to make visiting Cyprus top of your priority list!


Where to stay in Cyprus in November


I stayed in Limassol during my visit to Cyprus, and even in November, it was buzzing.

When we went to the Old Town to experience the nightlife, the bars were full (of locals, no less!), and the promenade was bustling with people jogging, walking their dogs, and enjoying their evening stroll.

Limassol is only a 45-minute drive from both Larnaca and Paphos airports (Jet2 have regular flights to Paphos), making it convenient to get to, and it was a great spot to explore the Christmas Villages and Troodos mountains.

grandresort leonardo limassol
My room at the GrandResort by Leonardo Hotels, Limassol
GrandResort by Leonardo Hotels, Limassol
The only negative was that the pool wasn’t heated!


I actually stayed in two different areas of Limassol – the NYX Hotel Limassol, which was in the heart of the Old Town and a stone’s throw from the beach and marina, and The GrandResort Limited Edition by Leonardo Hotels, in the exclusive Amathus area (about 11km from the city centre).

While both hotels were faultless, I much preferred being in the city centre because it allowed us to experience Limassol like the locals do, although if you like bougie resort towns, the Amathus district might be more up your street.

GrandResort by Leonardo Hotels, Limassol
GrandResort by Leonardo Hotels, Limassol


Getting around Cyprus in November


Public transport in Cyprus


While we had a private driver during our Cyprus visit, I did ask our guide about public transport in Cyprus, and she told me that the bus network (there are no trains in Cyprus) is robust and well-developed, making travelling around the island simple.

Of course, if you’re visiting Cyprus in winter, you should expect modified schedules. You can find bus routes, timetables, and fare information on this website.


Hiring a car in Cyprus


Cyprus is a small island, but there are countless hidden corners and sleepy villages to explore, so if you’re able to, I would recommend hiring a car for the duration of your trip.

QEEQ is a great website to find affordable car rentals all over the world, including Cyprus.

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Cyprus in November | Final Thoughts


If you love winter sun, gorgeous landscapes, delectable cuisine, and festive vibes, you’ll love Cyprus in November.

It’s the perfect time to get a feel for the real Cyprus, beyond the beaches and the 18-30s party crowd.


I fell head over heels in love with Cyprus on this trip, and would absolutely visit at this time of year again.

As always, if you have any questions, then please let me know in the comments section and I’ll do my best to help!

Until next time,

XOXO


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Rome in Winter: A Guide to the Eternal City in the Off-Season



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Disclaimer: I visited Cyprus on a press trip with Jet2holidays. All opinions are my own. There are affiliate links on this page.

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